Black pudding throwing and egg rolling
Nestled on the edge of the West Pennine Moors, this friendly old mill town is a jewel in the crown of Greater Manchester and doesn't stint on scenery. There's also a wacky side to it. At Easter, the residents climb up Holcombe Hill for the annual egg-rolling contest, while the World Black Pudding Throwing Championships are held here every year.
Foodie heaven
Ramsbottom is known for its fantastic food and drink. Tapas bar Levanter serves up delicious Spanish cuisine, and you can sup craft beers to your heart's content at Irwell Works Brewery, situated on the site of the former ironworks. Try the Lancashire Stout and Mad Dogs and Englishmen pale ale. Various foodie events are also held in the town throughout the year, including the Chocolate Festival, where you can devour a variety of sweet treats.
Steam trains and skiing
A journey on the East Lancashire Railway transports you back to the halcyon days of rail travel, taking you through viaducts and tunnels across rolling countryside. Catch the train from Ramsbottom station to historic Rawtenstall, with its cobbled streets and dramatic landscapes. While there you can hit the slopes at Ski Rossendale, one of the best dry ski slope venues in the region, where you can enjoy snowboarding and snow tubing as well as ski. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Ramsbottom? Travelodge Bury Hotel is around 5 miles from the town, just off the M66. Another good option is Travelodge Bolton Central River Street Hotel.