Bury is a historical town located along the banks of River Irwell in the United Kingdom. It is also the capital of the Metropolitan Borough of Bury. It was established in the Industrial Revolution and was a popular destination for textile production. This enchanting town is famous for its open-air market and black pudding, a traditional cuisine native to the town. Sir Robert Peel, a native of Bury, was the prime minister of the United Kingdom twice from 1834 to 1835 and 1841 to 1846. The town is also a famous art and culture destination with several museums such as Bury Art Museum and The Fusilier Museum, all of which have collected, restored, preserved and exhibited Bury’s heritage over the years. Read this article to learn more about the best things to do in Bury, the UK.
1. Immerse yourself in nature at Burrs Country Park
Located right on the banks of the River Irwell, Burrs Country Park boasts 36 hectares (88.96 acres) of scenic countryside. Because of this, the place appeals the most to adventurers and nature lovers since they can find an extensive array of things to do. You can go on a hike, try your hand at fishing, and study the various species available in the habitats in the park. If you just want to relax, you can spread out a blanket and have a picnic with your loved ones.
Additionally, you can find many facilities at Burrs Country Park. There’s a playground for children, and when you get hungry, you can stop by the cafe. If you’re driving to this park, there’s free parking on the premises.
Burrs Country Park
Address: Woodhill Road, Bury, United Kingdom
Website: Burrs Country Park
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
2. Satisfy your sweet cravings by purchasing something from Mr Simms Sweet Shoppe
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Do you have a sweet tooth? Then, you don’t want to miss out on Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe in Bury.
Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe is one of the most popular candy franchises in the United Kingdom. The first branch opened in Leek in 2004, and since then, more shops have opened in various locations. When you step inside a Mr Simms store, you’ll be greeted by a wide variety of sweets and candies — both traditional and contemporary. Some of the best-selling products include Cherry Lips, Coldsfoot Rock, Cough Sweets, and Pear Drops. The store also sells its exclusive Mr Simms Handmade Chocolate Collection, which you should definitely try.
If you prefer to eat something less sugary, this shop’s got you covered. There’s a wide range of sugar-free sweets and chocolates to choose from.
Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shop
Address: 6 Union Arcade, Millgate Shopping Centre, Bury
Website: Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shop
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 5:00pm; Sun: 10:30am - 4:00pm
3. Visit Bury Parish Church
The Parish Church of St. Mary the Virgin located just a few minutes’ walk away from Millgate Shopping Centre is a historical gem perched on the periphery of downtown Bury, England. This church is a perfect destination worth visiting for many reasons. Marvel at the historical architectural wonder that includes spectacular Minton tiles on the floor, the pretty, carved stone pulpit, the 1800s-built pire, slate roofs, and the building itself, which is constructed from dressed stones. The church is rich in history as a former garrison. On Fridays, Bury Parish Church hosts classical lunchtime concerts that can be attended and enjoyed by everyone. The church welcomes everyone who wanted to appreciate history and have a quiet time with themselves.
Bury Parish Church
Address: The Rock, Bury BL9 0AH, United Kingdom
Website: Bury Parish Church
4. Learn about Bury's history at Bury Art Museum
If you want to properly understand the amazing history of Bury, all you need to do is to make your way to Bury Art Museum located on Moss Street. Nestled inside a historical Edwardian-era house, the museum boasts a wide range of important collections including the works of renowned international and local artists. Through the use of these artefacts and art, the museum showcases the true story of the town of Bury. On your visit, don’t forget to stop by Bury Art Shop where you may find that perfect souvenir you have been looking for to take back home with you.
Bury Art Museum
Address: Moss St, Bury BL9 0DR, United Kingdom
Website: Bury Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue-Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
5. Explore Fusilier Museum
Fusilier Museum was commissioned by the Duke of Kent on 25 September 2009 to celebrate the more-than-300-years of history of the Lancashire Fusiliers regiment. The museum showcases and exhibits things used by the Lancashire Fusiliers, including medals and uniforms worn by the regiment. Some of the members of the regiment got Victoria Cross awards, and their names and awards are exhibited at the museum. These were sergeant Harold John Colley, private John Lynn and second lieutenant John Schofield. Plan a visit to this museum and get to learn something new about the First World War.
Fusilier Museum
Address: Moss St, Bury BL9 0DF, United Kingdom
Website: Fusilier Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Adult: 6.95 GBP (8.35 USD); Children: 5.95 GBP (7.15 USD)
6. Immerse yourself in arts at The Met
Sometimes, all you may need to have an enjoyable day is a perfect dose of arts performed in a perfect venue. Find your way to The Met, an arts venue nestled in the Derby Hall along Market Street in downtown Bury, and immerse yourself in amazing theatre shows, different musical tunes, and thrilling stand-up comedy that will undoubtedly fill your day with unrivalled fun. At The Met, there is always something for everyone so don’t lock up yourself in your room — get out and get going towards this amazing art venue.
The Met
Address: Market St, Bury BL9 0BW, United Kingdom
Website: The Met
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 10am - 2pm; Fri: 12pm - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed on Mon, Thu & Sun)
7. Discover Heaton Park
Heaton Park covers more than 600 acres (242.8 hectares) of land which is home to a Grade-I-listed, historical 18th-century landmark, Heaton Hall. Heaton Hall was refurbished as a museum and an iconic venue for events. This amazing park is also home to several attractions that include the Heaton Park BT Tower, an amazing, 18-hole golf course, a farm with animals, a lake ideal for boating, a woodland, beautiful meadows, a Papal monument, and an adventure playground. The park also boasts its flat, green bowling pitch that was used for the 2002 Commonwealth Games. You will definitely be spoilt for choice at the park, but at the end of the day, you would have had a day full of fun.
Heaton Park
Address: Middleton Rd, Manchester M25 2SW, United Kingdom
Website: Heaton Park
8. Explore Bury Market
Anywhere in the world, markets are appreciated as places that bring within our easy reach the essentials of life — ranging from food to everything else like clothing. Just by visiting a local market, you would be in a position to learn something new about the local culture. So, make your way to Bury Market and buy something to appreciate the works of the locals. The open-air market operates on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and the market hall opens every day of the week except on Sundays. Come mingle with the locals in the hustle and bustle of the market and don’t forget to buy some fish for your dinner.
Bury Market
Address: Bury, UK
Website: Bury Market
9. Enjoy dining and unique brews at The Old Cannon Brewery
The Old Cannon Brewery is one of the two breweries in Bury. The brewpub offers cask ales throughout the year but also produces a variety of notable, seasonal brews during specific times of the year. Their popular products have unique names too, such as The Gunners’ Daughter, Powder Monkey, and Black Pig. So, expect to experience something remarkable at this brewery. Have you ever imagined staying overnight in a brewery? Well, at The Old Cannon Brewery, the option is yours. Their pub restaurant also offers uniquely delicious meals in a perfect dining atmosphere. An experience here is one to talk about for many days to come.
The Old Cannon Brewery
Address: 86 Cannon St, Bury Saint Edmunds IP33 1JR, United Kingdom
Website: The Old Cannon Brewery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 11pm; Sun: 9am - 10:30pm
10. Wine and dine at Pea Porridge
This Bury neighbourhood restaurant was established in October 2009 in the enchanting location formerly called the “Pea Porridge Green”. The restaurant is conveniently located in a peaceful and serene environment along Canon Street in the town of Bury. The charming restaurant boasts beautiful dining rooms and antique tables complete with unparalleled ambience and a homey feeling which sets a perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience. At Pea Porridge, they are passionate about cooking and offering you the best of flavours accompanied by a fine selection of best wines.
Pea Porridge
Address: 28-29 Cannon St, Bury Saint Edmunds IP33 1JR, United Kingdom
Website: Pea Porridge
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 6:30pm - 9pm; Thu: 12pm - 1:45pm, 6:30pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 1:45pm, 6:30pm - 9:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
11. Take a trip to Bury Castle
Bury Castle was a manor house constructed by Sir Thomas Pilkington in 1469. The manor is an iconic landmark and a monument in Bury that attracts several visitors throughout the seasons. The house is perched on top of a slope with River Irwell in the foreground as a way of defending it in the past. Bury Castle was discovered by amateur archaeologists in 1973 before being restored as an iconic landmark. It has remained open to the public since 2000. Visit the castle to fully appreciate and learn the rich history of Bury.
12. Visit Bury Transport Museum
Plan your day well and pay a visit to the Bury Transport Museum where, without a doubt, you will learn something new about the town of Bury and the surrounding areas. A visit here is a perfect journey back to the time of the industrial heritage of the northwest. The museum exhibits restored vehicles and ancient artefacts through which you can learn more about the means of transport in the early 20th century. The museum entry is free of charge.
Bury Transport Museum
Address: Castlecroft Goods Warehouse, Bolton St, Bury BL9 0EY, United Kingdom
Website: Bury Transport Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: Free
History in Bury
Bury is a town rich in important history. A visit to this town is a journey back in time — here, you will learn something new about the past ranging from religion, the two world wars, culture, to the means of transport in ancient times. This article provides a list of best things to do in Bury, United Kingdom.
History
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