Helmshore is a charming village nestled in the heart of Rossendale. With a rich history, beautiful scenery and a friendly community, it’s no surprise that it has become an increasingly popular place to call home. In this area guide, we will take a closer look at what makes Helmshore so special and why you should consider it as your next home.
History of Helmshore
Helmshore has a fascinating history dating back to the 13th century. The village was once home to a thriving textile museum, with mills and factories lining the banks of the River Ogden. The Helmshore Textile Museum is a great place to visit to learn more about the large textile industry of Helmshore. Many of these historic buildings have been converted into residential properties, giving the village a unique character and charm.
Outdoor Recreation
Helshore is surrounded by beautiful countryside, providing endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The village is located on the West Pennine Moors with picturesque hiking trails and cycle routes offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The nearby Cowpe Lowe and Musbury Heights are popular spots for walking, picnicking and enjoying the scenery. We also recommend a walk up the famous Tor to get a great view of the beautiful village.
Local Amenities
Despite its rural location, Helmshore has a range of local amenities that cater to residents’ daily needs. The village has a post office, pharmacy, and a number of small shops selling locally produced goods including the beloved Nearys, run by a local family. For those looking to do their weekly shopping, a Tesco supermarket is just a short drive away. For a spot of retail shopping, Rawtenstall is only a 10-minute drive away with plenty of boutique shops, and Bury The Rock is only 20 minutes away with all the high street stores. There are also several schools in the Helmshore area, making it an excellent choice to live for families.
Places To Visit In Helmshore:
- Helmshore Textile Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the textile industry in Lancashire and provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the workers who laboured in the mills of the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can see working machinery, watch demonstrations of traditional textile processes and learn about the social history of the area.
- The Cotton House: The Cotton House serves delicious food, from Sunday Roast to burgers and even oysters! Delicious, refreshing cocktails are also served at the bar, and you can choose to sit in the conservatory, watching the river go by.
- The Irwell Sculpture Trail: This 22-mile-long runs from Salford to Bacup and passes through Helmshore. The trail features a number of unique and interesting sculptures, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.
- Musbury Tor: This hilltop offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for walkers and hikers. The hilltop is also home to a number of prehistoric burial mounds, adding to its historical significance.
- The Rossendale Way: This 42-mile-long circular route takes in some of the most stunning scenery in the area, including Helmshore. The trail is well-signposted and offers a range of walking options to suit all abilities.
Community
One of the things that makes Helmshore such a special place to live is its strong sense of community. The village has a number of active community groups, including the Helmshore and Haslingden Community Partnership, which hosts a range of events throughout the year, including an annual Christmas market and summer festival.
Transport
Helmshore is well connected to the surrounding area, with good transport links to nearby towns and cities. The village is just a short drive from the M66 motorway providing easy access to Manchester and Blackburn, and beyond. The local bus service also provides regular connections to nearby towns and cities.
In conclusion, Helsmshore is a beautiful village with a rich history, stunning scenery, and a close-knit community. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to call home or a base from which to explore the countryside, Helmshore has something for everyone. With its great amenities beautiful location and strong sense of community, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to make Helmshore their home.
