Things to do in Bolton

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Top 10 attractions in Bolton

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No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Stretford

Old Trafford

7.5

4.4/5

463 reviews

Old Trafford is located in Manchester, England, and serves as the home ground for Manchester United, a traditional powerhouse in English football. It earned the nickname "Theatre of Dreams" from legendary footballer Bobby Charlton. The stadium opened in 1910, suffered damage from air raids during World War II, and was restored over several years before welcoming its home team back in 1949. As one of the UK's football stadiums, it can accommodate approximately 75,000 spectators and, like Wembley Stadium, is one of the six British stadiums certified by UEFA. It has also been dubbed the "Theatre of Dreams." Among the popular sports in Manchester, football is a significant part of the city's culture. Statistics show that the Greater Manchester area has one of the highest numbers of football clubs in the world, particularly with the long-standing dominance of Manchester United and the rise of the nouveau riche Manchester City. Every year, these two teams face off in highly anticipated matches on their respective home grounds. Over the decades, Manchester United, nicknamed the "Red Devils," has achieved countless honors and football legends, making it a classic representative of European football clubs. Old Trafford, as the home of Manchester United, has become a sacred place for many fans. Whenever Manchester United plays at home, Old Trafford is packed to the brim with supporters.

Stretford · 15.6km from Bolton

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No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Northern England

Etihad Stadium

8.1

4.7/5

216 reviews

Description Immerse yourself in the City story on the Manchester City Stadium Tour. Visit areas of the Etihad Stadium not usually available to the public with a professional guide and hear interesting stories. Immerse yourself in the City story on The Manchester City Stadium Tour, with exclusive access to the stadium for a behind-the-scenes experience. Using the latest technology, dreams come true as you and your loved ones sit and interact with a virtual Erling Haaland in the press conference room. Feel what it is like to be a player as you walk out of the glass players' tunnel to the sound of the Etihad Stadium crowd, sit in the seats in the dug-outs, and soak up the views of the stadium from pitch-side. Highlights · Behind the scenes:Understand how the players prepare for the big match in the First Team warm-up area · Home team dressing room:See what happens on matchdays in the Home Team dressing room, with an immersive audio-visual show · Walk out like a player:Feel what it's like to walk down the famous glass players' tunnel · Pitch-side:Get a full view of the stadium from the dug-outs and manager's seat · Post-match:Walk through one of our famous hospitality suites · Question time:Field questions with a virtual Erling Haaland in the Press Conference Room · VR experience 'Beyond the Blue Moon':Try out 'Beyond the Blue Moon' - an immersive virtual reality adventure. This thrilling digital experience offers a bold, futuristic journey through Manchester City's past, present, and future! *The experience is not permitted for children under 7. Children aged between 7-10 must be accompanied by an adult. Experience is subject to waiver. · Store Discount:10% discount at City Store on full priced items · Souvenirs:Optional add-on Souvenir Guidebook and Photobook More Information · Meeting point:The Manchester City Stadium Tour will commence from Entrance M at the Etihad Stadium. The entrance will be clearly signposted and staff will be available to direct you to the entrance · Arrival time: Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of your Stadium Tour · Getting here: If you are arriving by car, free parking is available on the Yellow Car Park (Postcode M11 3FF). Free parking is not available on matchdays. You can also travel to the Stadium via Metrolink · Baggage:Bags bigger than A4 are not permitted. The Manchester City Tour has no storage for baggage or suitcases · Tour routes may change:As the Etihad Stadium is a working stadium, we are unable to guarantee what you will see on any given day. Tour routes may have to be changed at short notice

Manchester · 18.3km from Bolton

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No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Manchester

The John Rylands Library

6.3

4.7/5

73 reviews

The John Rylands Library is a library that combines historical architectural features with academic research functions and is an important part of The University of Manchester Library. The building is characterized by its Neo-Gothic style, featuring pointed arches, intricate stone carvings, and a towering architectural silhouette on the exterior, while the interior boasts ornate reading spaces, stained-glass windows, sculptures, and exquisite metalwork. It is renowned for its precious special collections, which include ancient books, manuscripts, historical archives, early printed books, and documents related to famous figures, some of which hold significant documentary and research value. The library features exhibition spaces where the public can visit the interior, learn about the collections, and view precious documents and themed exhibitions from different periods.

Manchester · 16km from Bolton

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No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Manchester

Chinatown

5.9

4.6/5

220 reviews

Chinatown is located in the city center of Manchester, England, United Kingdom, and is an urban neighborhood with distinct Chinese cultural characteristics. The neighborhood is compact and connected to the city center's commercial districts and cultural facilities, with main streets including Faulkner Street and George Street. It brings together Chinese restaurants, Asian-style eateries, grocery stores, bakeries, and various specialty shops, serving both local residents and tourists who come to dine and experience the diverse culture. Integrating daily commerce, dining, and cultural experiences, it serves as a window into the diverse urban life of Manchester.

Manchester · 16.5km from Bolton

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No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Manchester

National Football Museum

5.8

4.6/5

114 reviews

The National Football Museum is located near Cathedral Gardens and is a museum dedicated to the sport of football. Through historical artifacts, jerseys, trophies, video footage, and interactive experiences, the museum showcases the history of football, the rules of the game, major tournaments, and the sport's impact on society and popular culture. It features several themed exhibition galleries. The ground floor exhibition area displays items such as football trophies and the Mini car once used by George Best, and hosts special exhibitions and events; the match-themed gallery houses iconic items such as early football rule documents and the FA Cup trophy; while the interactive gallery features experiences like penalty challenges, passing and shooting drills, and also includes an exploration space suitable for children. Other exhibitions focus on football personalities, fan culture, and the role of football in social life.

Manchester · 15.9km from Bolton

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Manchester United

5.5

1.0/5

1 reviews

Manchester United Football Club, located in Manchester, England, is a holy place in the hearts of football fans. It has the famous Old Trafford Stadium, which is one of the important stadiums in the Premier League. Visitors can buy tickets in advance on Manchester United's official website and visit the stadium, including the Changing room, media center and rostrum, to gain an in-depth understanding of the team's daily operations and glorious history. There is also a museum in the stadium, which displays Manchester United's trophies, player stories and historical photos, making people feel as if they are in the passionate years of football. In addition, the fan shop is also a place not to be missed, where you can buy various Manchester United Souvenir and take this football passion home. Manchester United Football Club not only provides a rich football cultural experience, but also a vibrant and passionate tourist destination, attracting football fans from all over the world to visit.

Stretford · 15.6km from Bolton

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No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Manchester

Manchester City Council

5.3

4.5/5

117 reviews

Manchester City Council is a representative local public building and serves as an important office space for the city council. It was designed by architect Alfred Waterhouse and features the Victorian Gothic Revival style. The entire building is characterized by its light-colored stone facade, pointed arched windows, intricate carvings, and a towering clock tower. Its solemn and elegant appearance showcases the distinct features of Gothic Revival architecture. The exterior walls are decorated with multiple groups of sculptures, and figures such as historical personalities and Saint George can be seen above the entrance. The interior originally housed a grand hall, ceremonial spaces, council meeting rooms, and various office areas. The Manchester Murals in the hall depict themes related to the city's development, while the mosaic floors, stained glass, and decorative details also reflect exquisite craftsmanship.

Manchester · 16.3km from Bolton

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No. 13 of Best Things to Do in Northern England

The University of Manchester

5.4

4.8/5

104 reviews

The University of Manchester is located in the city of Manchester, England, United Kingdom, and is a comprehensive university primarily dedicated to teaching, research, and innovation. It is mainly distributed along Oxford Road, south of the city center, and features a diverse range of architectural styles, including historic Victorian-era buildings as well as modern teaching buildings, laboratories, and research facilities. It houses teaching and research spaces for disciplines such as biology, medicine and health, humanities, and science and engineering, creating a university environment that integrates learning, research, and campus life. It is closely connected to the city blocks, with dining options, shops, public transportation, and various cultural facilities nearby. Strolling through the area, you can observe architectural styles from different eras and experience the rich academic atmosphere and urban life.

Manchester · 17.9km from Bolton

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Middlebrook Retail & Leisure Park

4

Middlebrook Retail & Leisure Park is located in Horwich, Bolton District, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom. As a key local shopping and leisure complex, it occupies a strategic transportation hub, making it easily accessible for visitors from surrounding towns. This complex integrates retail, dining, and entertainment, offering a diverse range of leisure options for families and young people. The complex features large chain supermarkets, fashion brand stores, and specialty shops for electronics and home goods, catering to the shopping needs of various consumers. Beyond its retail facilities, the park is also known for its wide array of leisure and entertainment activities. The park houses a cinema, a bowling alley, and a variety of dining options ranging from fast food to specialty restaurants, offering visitors an all-day experience. The park is well-planned with spacious pedestrian areas, comfortable green spaces, and rest areas, making the shopping and entertainment experience even more enjoyable.

Horwich · 7.3km from Bolton

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No. 7 of Best Things to Do in Manchester

Manchester Cathedral

4.8

4.3/5

67 reviews

Located at a corner of Exchange Square, Manchester Cathedral is a tranquil oasis in the city center. Its main body is a medieval building in the Perpendicular Gothic style, originally built in the early 15th century. It was renovated and expanded during the Victorian era, and bombed during the war in the 20th century. The Manchester government spent a long time restoring and rebuilding it, and the cathedral is now listed as a Grade I listed building in the United Kingdom. The cathedral nave has six bays, and the area between the altar and the choir is filled with exquisite medieval wood carvings, reflecting a tangible sense of time and space through the cool tones characteristic of the northern United Kingdom. Like many Gothic cathedrals, it also has beautiful stained glass windows, allowing natural light from the high latitude to shine through freely, making it appear even more solemn. In addition, the medieval bridge, which dates back to 1421, is also a major highlight of Manchester Cathedral and is open to the public for free. The bridge is now protected and managed by the Manchester Cathedral visitor center, and its main entrance is on Cateaton Street.

Manchester · 15.9km from Bolton

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Experiences you can't miss in Bolton

Featured Day tours in Bolton

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Ghost Bus Tour of York

4.5/5

· 625 reviews· 40 booked

Duration: 60–75 mins

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

FromDKK 182.71

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North Wales Day Tour: Conwy Castle + Snowdonia + Chester|Comfortable minibus with admission ticket included

5.0/5

· 2 reviews· 48 booked

Duration: 8 hrs

English

Free cancellation

77 travellers saved

FromDKK 707.83

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Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Chester with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems

4.9/5

· 77 reviews

Duration: 2 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

50 consecutive positive reviews

FromDKK 136.4

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Peak District National Park and Derbyshire day tour|Comfortable minivan|Manchester round-trip

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 7.7 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromDKK 528.38

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Skipton: 1-Hour Canal Cruise

4.6/5

· 201 reviews

Duration: 1 hr

English

Free cancellation

Book now for tomorrow

90.5% of travelers recommend

FromDKK 89.72

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Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour and Museum Access

4.9/5

· 72 reviews

Duration: 1.5 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

72 consecutive positive reviews

FromDKK 224.21

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Liverpool: Heritage, History & Culture Guided Walking Tour

4.9/5

· 22 reviews

Duration: 135 mins

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

22 consecutive positive reviews

FromDKK 206.27

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Beyond the bassline: A cultural music and food journey in Manchester

Duration: 3.7 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromDKK 529.38

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Featured Outdoor & sports in Bolton

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White Water Rafting Experience in River Dee in Llangollen

5.0/5

· 39 reviews

Duration: 150 mins

English

Free cancellation

39 consecutive positive reviews

FromDKK 593.64

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Llangollen: White Water Rafting Adventure

4.9/5

· 27 reviews

Duration: 3 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Book now for tomorrow

24 consecutive positive reviews

FromDKK 582.99

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From Liverpool: North Wales adventure sightseeing 1-day tour/admission ticket not included

Duration: 6.2 hrs

English

FromDKK 854.88

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From Manchester: Derbyshire and Peak District Day Trip

4.8/5

· 79 reviews

Duration: 8 hrs

Free cancellation

93.7% of travelers recommend

FromDKK 493.35

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Liverpool: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise & Train

4.8/5

· 11 reviews

Duration: 10 hrs

Free cancellation

FromDKK 672.71

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Llangollen: River Dee Whitewater Rafting Adventure

4.9/5

· 19 reviews

Duration: 2.5 hrs

Free cancellation

FromDKK 582.99

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Whitby & The North York Moors: Day Trip from York

Duration: 8 hrs

Book now for tomorrow

FromDKK 649.46

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Featured City sightseeing in Bolton

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York City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus

3.8/5

· 4 reviews· 115 booked

English

Book now for tomorrow

FromDKK 123.68

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City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

4.5/5

· 258 reviews

Free cancellation

Book now for tomorrow

FromDKK 155.26

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York ghost bus tour in the UK - vintage bus + scary conductor performance + flexible cancellation

Duration: 75 mins

English

Free cancellation

FromDKK 152.52

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Mansfield Audio Tour: Echoes of Spires, Stones, and Stories

Duration: 1 hr

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

20% off

Limited-time sale

FromDKK 38.82DKK 48.53

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Liverpool Audio Tour: A Symphony of Sights and Sounds

Duration: 1.5 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

20% off

Limited-time sale

FromDKK 47.79DKK 59.74

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Wakefield Audio Tour: An Echo of History Tour

Duration: 1 hr

English

Free cancellation

Book now for today

20% off

Limited-time sale

FromDKK 38.82DKK 48.53

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Bolton Today's weatherPartly cloudy 7-10℃

Bolton weather for the next 2 days11/7: 6-11℃, 11/8: 5-10℃

Free things to do in Bolton

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What travellers say about Bolton

苏河家园18 June 2025

5.0

Our trip to England took us to Old Trafford in Manchester, the home ground of Manchester United Football Club. Rich in history and filled with statues of its star players, the stadium has witnessed countless glorious moments for the club and nurtured the deep emotions of its Red Devils fans. It's not just a holy ground for football, but also a dream destination for every football enthusiast.

Old Trafford

欣爸爸699514 September 2026

4.0

It's very convenient to take the tram to the Etihad Stadium. I arrived an hour early and they let me in. There were two guides who accompanied me throughout the tour, although they explained things in English. Overall, it was quite good!

Etihad Stadium

Nachtisch29 March 2026

5.0

If you love the retro, mysterious magic school style of Harry Potter, this is a must-visit. It's a classic Victorian Gothic building with exquisite stone carvings, stained glass windows, and soaring vaulted ceilings inside. Admission is free.

The John Rylands Library

_kelly•_•wong_21 August 2024

4.0

Went to Happy seasons restaurant and TSUJIRI in Manchester Chinatown with my mates after exams. Authentic Chinese cuisine with reasonable prices. The matcha sundae was also delicious. There are also many nice Asian restaurants around the area.

Chinatown

Jmstrvling20018 September 2024

5.0

I really enjoyed the interactive football games they had and there weee many floors filled with things to do. one bonus was that when you buy a ticket you get emailed a barcode and you can come back anytime within 1 year

National Football Museum

M30***9724 December 2019

5.0

The Town Hall is a great example of Victorian neo-Gothic architecture. Many areas of the building are not open to the public without a visitor pass. This is not a problem as passes are easily obtained from reception. Well worth a look.

Manchester City Council

EN the traveller2 September 2024

4.0

The University is located not too far from Chinatown, making this a nice day trip for those looking to checkout a UK university and have a nice meal after.

The University of Manchester

Gibral embul30 September 2023

5.0

Visited the cathedral with my partner for an ibiza classical evening. We both thoroughly enjoyed it! The lighting and sound system were amazing.The only faults I had with the place was that the toilets had no lighting around them ,but there were plenty of them though, so I wasn't queuing for long.

Manchester Cathedral

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Trip Moments in Bolton

“its a great experience.”

@_TI***dy · traintravel · 24 days ago

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Popular cities near Bolton

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Bolton?

Don't miss these attractions in Bolton: Old Trafford, Etihad Stadium, and The John Rylands Library. If you like Day tours, try Ghost Bus Tour of York. If you enjoy Outdoor & sports, try White Water Rafting Experience in River Dee in Llangollen.

What are the recommended tours and excursions in Bolton?

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Ghost Bus Tour of York, North Wales Day Tour: Conwy Castle + Snowdonia + Chester|Comfortable minibus with admission ticket included, and Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Chester with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

What's the typical cost of day tours and activities in Bolton?

As of 6 November 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Bolton is around DKK 89.72 – DKK 707.83. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

How can I contact Trip.com customer support?

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Can I change or cancel my booking?

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

How can I get discounted prices?

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.