Festive Rochdale 2024

We’ve wrapped up all the magic of Christmas in Rochdale and put it right under the tree for you!

Explore the charming indie boutiques of the Pennines, soak up the festive vibes at Heywood’s market stalls, and shop ‘til you drop on the glittering Riverside high street. Plus, don’t miss the spectacular events lighting up Middleton Arena – there’s something for everyone to enjoy this December.

Read on to discover the best spots in the borough to visit this year for Christmas gifts, clothing, food and drink, and festive events. Additional locations across the borough will be added to this page throughout the month - check back regularly for updates!

Discover local eateries in:

Rochdale

The Royal Toby

The perfect blend of modernity and tradition, the Royal Toby Hotel & Restaurant is set in a historical manor house, and is dripping with Victorian grandeur. With a lovely a la carte menu and festivities throughout the holiday season, you can dine, celebrate, and book your stay to make a night of it!

Follow their Instagram at @TheRoyalToby and get in touch at their website to book your spot at one of their festive events.

The Oxford

Set at the foot of the Pennines, this family pub run by the McNeeneys has served hearty food, fine wines and real ales for over ten years. The food is top-shelf and the atmosphere is filled with charm, but what makes the Oxford stand out is its Christmas market. With live music, ‘over the top hot chocolates’, and mouth-watering food and drink you won’t be able to pass up, this Christmas market is one with community and holiday spirit in mind.

To find out more about this lovely spot, follow them on Instagram at @theoxfordrochdale and visit their website

The Baum

Good food, good drinks, and a great atmosphere is what you can expect at The Baum pub. Tucked away on Toad Lane, this gem is a lovely spot to book a table and dig into something special from their Christmas menu.

Follow The Baum on Facebook @BaumRochdale and on Instagram @BaumRochdale and pay a visit to their website for their menus and to book your table!

Heywood

Bella Sera

If traditional Italian is your thing, look no further than Bella Sera for an unforgettable meal. Located on Rochdale Road, Heywood, this award-winning family restaurant boasts the brilliant Chef Mondo, who was head chef of Don Giovanni for five years and previously worked at San Carlo.

Their Christmas menu certainly isn’t one to be scoffed at - follow their Instagram @bellasera_restaurant or head to their website to find out more!

Venus Lounge

Venus Lounge is, according to their Facebook page, Heywood’s finest Indian Restaurant and Bar. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a family meal, some drinks with friends, or just an evening of great food and a friendly atmosphere this holiday season, look no further!

Follow Venus Lounge Heywood on Facebook @VenusLoungeHeywood and on Instagram @venus_lounge_ or pay them a visit in person by putting OL10 4NN into your sat nav!

Middleton

The Olde Boar’s Head

The oldest original public house in England, The Olde Boar’s Head was built in 1632 and is as charming as it is welcoming. If you’re looking for homemade food, amazing atmosphere and great people, look no further this festive season!

Follow The Old Boar’s Head on Facebook @TheOldeBoarsHead and on Instagram @theoldeboarshead, and visit their website by clicking here.

The Pennines

Cedar Tree

Nestled on a charming cobbled road in Milnrow, the award-winning (and dog friendly!) Cedar Tree Bar and Grill is a family-owned restaurant and bar with 20 years in the business. Offering home-cooked food, a hearty Christmas menu and live music for the festive season and New Year, it’s well worth spending an evening at Cedar Tree for a great evening out.

Follow Cedar Bar and Grill on Instagram @cedar_tree_bar_and_grill and visit their website.

Lake Lounge Restaurant and Rooms

Situated at the iconic Hollingworth Lake, the Lake Lounge has transitioned through time to become the iconic tapas and grill restaurant, bar, and self-catering accommodation that it is today. With a great festive menu and a myriad of live music and performance to look forward to, you’re in for a treat.

Follow Lake Lounge on Instagram @lakeloungeboro and visit their website for all the details.

The Waterside

Your home away from home, the Waterside offers a relaxed dining experience, provided by a passionate and friendly team. Their range of menus cater to all, whether you’re looking for drink with friends or a festive family meal. With three different areas to dine, relax and celebrate in, you’ll come back to the Waterside again and again.

Follow The Waterside on Instagram @TheWatersideLittleborough and on Facebook @TheWatersideRestaurant or take a look at what they have to offer on their website.

Shop local for great fashion in:

Rochdale

Rochdale Riverside

Rochdale Riverside has everything you need for a fantastic day out, from popular high-street brands like H&M and River Island to dining favourites like Pionero Lounge and Tribez, along with favourites like Reel Cinema and Puttstars for entertainment. This Christmas season, Rochdale Riverside is bursting with festive cheer! Enjoy a mulled wine at the first ever Riverside Christmas Markets, visit Santa’s Grotto, and drop by Santa’s Post Office to post your letters. Plus, beloved characters like Anna, Elsa, and the Grinch will be spreading holiday magic throughout December.

Keep up with everything Rochdale Riverside by following their socials @RochdaleRiverside on Instagram and Facebook, or heading to their website for all the details.

Philip Buckley Menswear

When you’re looking for top-quality menswear, from casual outfits to suit hire and bespoke tailoring, Philip Buckley Menswear is the place to be. Pick up a stylish and fitted gift for the man in your life that will last for years to come and make a memorable gift this holiday season.

Head online to the Philip Buckley Menswear website, and follow the store on socials @BuckleyMenswear on Instagram and Facebook.

Okeechobee Ladies Boutique

Discover your style at Okeechobee Ladies Boutique. With a friendly atmosphere and great quality products, they believe that style and sophistication should not come at an excessive cost. They excel at building long-lasting relationships with their customers, and always strive to go above and beyond. For a great gift for the lady in your life that loves fashion, look no further.

Follow Okeechobee on Instagram @okeechobeeboutique and on Facebook @Okeechobeeladiesboutique

Hope

In 1959, Denis Hope opened the door of his Rochdale store to the fashion conscious of the North West. Now in the hands of Denis’s son Michael, the business has continued to grow and soar. Selecting collections from the leady contemporary and classic labels in the worlds of both menswear and womenswear, Hope ensures you will always find something you feel great wearing.

To learn about all things Hope, head to their website and follow them on socials – they’re on Instagram @Hope_Norden and @HopeMenswear_Norden and on Facebook @denishopemenswear.

Heywood

Lily May Boutique

Lily May Boutique offers fresh and affordable ladies fashion, with new stock every week. Formed in 2015 by Wendy and her daughter-in-law Jemma, the business was named after both their grandmothers. Since 2017, it has been helmed by Wendy’s friend Caz, and is just as friendly and welcoming as it has always been. At Lily May Boutique, your seasonal shopping can be something to enjoy among friends, no matter who you’re shopping for.

Follow Lily May Boutique on Facebook @LilyMayBoutique.

The Thread Shed

Shop ‘til you drop at The Thread Shed, nestled in Heywood Market. Open every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, it’s your go-to spot for stylish and comfortable fashion at fantastic prices. Their glowing reviews over on Instagram are a testament to how much they value each and every customer—why not stop by and see for yourself?

Follow The Thread Shed on Instagram @The_Thread_Shed and on Facebook @TheThreadShedManchester and visit their website.

Hung Upp Clothing

Hung Upp Clothing began as a dream shared by friends, growing from the back of their car to a garage, to four local market stalls and now to their very own shop. Amy, Sarah and Stacey do their best to cater for each and every customer they get, and the support of their community has helped them to achieve their goals

Follow Hung Upp Clothing on Instagram @hunguppclothing and on Facebook @HungUpp2020 and visit their website to find out how to pay them a visit!

The Pennines

Violet Flamingo

Lindsey James set up Violet Flamingo at Ebor Studio, Littleborough, in the heart of the recession. Since taking the plunge, her vintage-inspired bespoke clothing has been worn at The Queen’s Garden Party and by Jamilla Paul competition models. She adores unconventional fashion and will go out of her way to ensure her clients get top-notch quality. Anything you can think of, she can make! If you’re looking to treat someone (or even yourself) to a special Christmas gift, you won’t get much more special than this.

Follow Violet Flamingo on Instagram @violetflamingobespoke , on Facebook @violetflamingo, or visit the website.

Pretty Parade

Established online in April 2017, Pretty Parade broke into the physical retail space with their first brick and mortar store in November 2018, and have since expanded with their second store in July 2022. Stocking a number of exclusive brands from across the globe, they are inspired by Australian fashion and guarantee quality and affordability. Each piece is hand-selected by mum and daughter Caz and Mollie, and with their mission to make shopping fun, Pretty Parade will make your seasonal shopping a breeze.

Follow Pretty Parade on Instagram @prettyparadeboutique and on Facebook @PrettyParade1 and head over to their website to take a look at what they have to offer!

Find unique gifts in:

Rochdale

Reco Leather

Crafting sustainable style with eco-friendly leather alternatives, Reco Leather blends traditional techniques with contemporary design to create unique, high-quality products that tell a story. Offering a curated selection of handcrafted leather products, you can pick up a one-of-a-kind Christmas gift that will stand the test of time.

Follow Reco Leather on Instagram @recoleather or head to their website.

Heaven Scent

Established in 2017, Heaven Scent began as a family-run hobby at the kitchen table. With passion and dedication, they transformed that hobby into a thriving business, starting with a large stall at Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre before opening their very own shop on Baillie Street in 2020. Their love for what they do shines through in every product they create. From bath bombs and wax melts to hampers and gift sets, you’ll find plenty to impress your friends and family before the new year.

Follow Heaven Scent on Instagram @heavenscent_rochdale and on Facebook @sarahbleasdale8, or visit their website.

Heywood

Just Lovely Crafts

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Just Lovely Crafts at Heywood Market has you covered! From beautifully scented wax melts and handmade cards to relaxing bath treats, their personalised and handmade treasures are sure to make you the ultimate gift-giver this festive season.

Follow Just Lovely Crafts on Instagram @JustLovelyGifts1 and on Facebook @JustLovelyCrafts.

Phoenix Brewery

In 1982, founder Tony Allen opened Oak Brewery on an industrial estate in Ellesmere Port, moving nine years later after much success to a location more central to his trading area – Phoenix Brewery, Heywood! The Brewery was registered in 1874 and owns over 100 pubs in the local area, and the team proudly continue Tony’s legacy by brewing his classic beers, alongside innovative new brews. Their Crimble Festive Chocolate Stout is the perfect gift for beer lovers, and there’s always something happening on their socials!

Follow Phoenix Brewery on Instagram @phoenixbrewery and on Facebook by searching ‘Phoenix Brewery’, and head to their website for all the details.

The Pennines

The Funky Deer

Looking for a unique and sentimental gift for a loved one this season? The Funky Deer has you covered with their handcrafted creations for every occasion. Founded in 2019 while Sarah was on maternity leave with her second child, the business started with personalised letters to Santa and Christmas Wish bracelets. Since then, it’s blossomed into a treasure trove of thoughtful gifts, offering endless options to make your festive shopping extra special.

Follow The Funky Deer on Facebook @thefunkydeer and Instagram @thefunkydeer and visit their website.

Tarn Replenished Milnrow

Tucked away in Milnrow’s Albert Mill, Tarn Replenished is your go-to for eco-friendly refills, household essentials, and thoughtful gift options, including unique coffee blends and sweet treats! Dedicated to helping the community reduce waste and live more sustainably, their mission is especially meaningful during the festive season. And with all their products coming from small local suppliers, your purchase will support talented creatives and the local economy.

Follow Replenish on Instagram @replenishmilnrrow and on Facebook @replenishmilnrow.

Festive events in:

Rochdale

Santa’s Grotto

This Christmas, Santa’s Village and Rochdale BID are bringing a truly magical Santa’s Grotto to Rochdale Riverside! Step into an authentically rustic grotto that feels just like the North Pole, complete with festive scents to set the mood. Santa will be waiting to welcome you and your family into his cosy front room, joined by his cheerful Head Elf to make the experience extra special. Little ones can share their wish lists, meet Santa, and take home a lovely gift.

Santa’s Grotto will be open on the following December dates: 7, 8, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, and 22. Book your little one’s spot at the website here!

Christmas Markets

Get ready for a magical time at the Riverside Christmas Market! With around 20-30 stalls each day in view of the giant Christmas tree and glittering lights, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the festive cheer. Discover unique gifts, handmade crafts, clothing and accessories, beautiful decorations, delicious street food and warm drinks as you shop and support local businesses this Christmas!

The Riverside Christmas Markets will be open on the following December dates:
Thursday 5th Dec – 4-8pm
Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th Dec – 10-4pm
Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th – 10-4pm
Friday 20th and Saturday 21st – 10-4pm

Click here to find out all the details about this wonderfully festive event.

Heywood

Heywood Sports Village Christmas Panto

Trio Entertainment return for this year’s magical Christmas pantomime Beauty & the Beast – a brand new enchanting family pantomime, starring Coronation Street‘s Steven Arnold and Bruce Jones.

In a tale that’s as old as time, it’s time to discover what it takes for true love to conquer all! The mysterious Beast imprisons Beauty in his enchanted castle. Can she escape with the help of her family and melt the Beast’s icy heart before it’s too late? Will the plan work before the last rose petal falls?

So join in the fun and boo the evil Gaston as he tries to win the heart of Beauty. Laugh out loud with the hilarious Loopy Louie le fool and Dame Polly Potts as we tell a tale as old as time, packed with songs, dance and lots of comedy.

Running from Saturday 14th December right up until Saturday 28th December at Heywood Sports Village. Get your ticket by clicking here.

You can also follow Heywood Sports Village on socials @HeywoodSportsVillage on Facebook.

Middleton

Middleton Arena Christmas Panto

This year, enjoy the enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty at Middleton Arena, running from 30th November to 30th December 2024. With inclusive performances, including sensory-friendly and BSL-signed options, this pantomime ensures everyone can join the festive fun. Tickets start at just £16.50, making it the perfect family outing for the holiday season! To get your ticket and find out more, click here.

You can also follow Middleton Arena @MiddletonArea on Instagram and @MiddletonArena on Facebook.

To see the full events guide for Middleton Arena, click here.

Art House Middleton

Art House Middleton is a community art space in Middleton, powered by the Culture Coop and in partnership with Middleton Cooperating. Running events, workshops and fun community sessions throughout the year, there’s always something to look forward to and the holiday season is no different.

Take a look at their Instagram page to see what Christmas festivities they have on @art.house.midd

Middleton Artisan Market Christmas Special

Expect a wonderful array of foodies, artisans, crafters and local producers In the event space by Middleton Gardens this year on 15th December. There’ll be live music and craft activities for little ones, making it the perfect place to complete you Christmas shopping as well as being a superb festive day out for the whole family.

For more information on this festive debut in Middleton town centre, head to the Independent Street website by clicking here.

The Pennines

Hollingworth Lake Activity Centre - Sail With Santa

Take a magical boat trip with Santa this Christmas aboard Hollingworth Lake’s Lady Katherine! Hop aboard Santa’s floating grotto, take a trip across beautiful Hollingworth Lake and post your Christmas list in the elf post box! All children will get to meet Santa and receive a gift, so wrap up warm!

Tickets are from £5 on the Your Trust website, get yours now by clicking here.

The Pennines

Hollingworth Lake Activity Centre - Sail With Santa

Take a magical boat trip with Santa this Christmas aboard Hollingworth Lake’s Lady Katherine! Hop aboard Santa’s floating grotto, take a trip across beautiful Hollingworth Lake and post your Christmas list in the elf post box! All children will get to meet Santa and receive a gift, so wrap up warm!

Tickets are from £5 on the Your Trust website, get yours now by clicking here.