Chorley: 4 reasons to visit this traditional market town

1. A hall of treasures

Grade One listed Astley Hall was built in the 16th century but much of the notable architecture and design that survives today was added later.

The hall is noted for its impressive plasterwork and for having one of the world’s best surviving shovelboard tables.

Legend has it that Oliver Cromwell stayed at the hall during the Battle of Preston.

Recent renovations have removed plaster cladding on the outside walls and revealed the original brickwork.

The hall's interior reveals a treasure trove of opulent rooms, each with intricate woodwork, ornate plaster ceilings, and period furnishings.

Astley Hall is also celebrated for its remarkable art collection, presenting a diverse array of historical and contemporary artworks by renowned artists like Richard Ansdell and William Powell Frith.

The hall is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland and the café in the courtyard is particularly notable for its cakes.

Chapel Street, Chorley. Photo: Kirsty Thompson

2. Shopper’s delight

Chorley was given a market charter in the 15th century and the two markets are still popular – the covered market which is open four days a week and the Tuesday market which sees 100-or-so stalls line the streets.

The town was a thriving centre of the cotton industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries and in recent years millions of pounds have been spent on improving the town centre and the town’s transport links for shoppers, visitors and residents.

The railway and bus stations are close to the town centre which is also home to a mix of big name stores and smaller independent boutiques.

Chorley Little Theatre

3. Take centre stage

Chorley Little Theatre, in the heart of the town, has been entertaining audiences since 1910. It’s a delightfully intimate venue which has a varied programme of comedy, drama and music and also hosts a range of community events, workshops, and educational programmes.

Beyond the stage, the theatre itself is a sight to behold. Its charming façade and well-kept interior exude an old-world charm, transporting visitors back in time.

Chorley Cakes. Photo: Kirsty Thompson

4. Chorley’s sweet arts

Dating from the 18th century, Chorley cake is a symbol of the town’s culinary identity which has taken the town’s name around the world. Beneath the flaky, golden shortcrust pastry is a delightfully moist and flavourful currant filling.

And that’s not Chorley’s only sweet-toothed connection. Sir Henry Tate, the founder of the Tate Gallery, was born and raised here. Not only did he create the nation’s best known gallery, he also patented a method cutting sugar cubes in the 1870s.

This feature first appeared in Lancashire Life in August 2023.