Bolton

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Bolton is a town in Greater Manchester, England. Historically part of Lancashire, Bolton is surrounded by several smaller towns and villages which together form the Metropolitan Borough of Bolton. The town is located close to the West Pennine Moors and is 10 miles northwest of Manchester.

History

Bolton's history dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period. The name Bolton is derived from the Old English words "bōthl" and "tūn," meaning a settlement with a dwelling. The town grew significantly during the Industrial Revolution due to its thriving textile industry, particularly cotton spinning and weaving. By the 19th century, Bolton was one of the largest and most productive cotton-spinning centers in the world.

Geography

Bolton is situated in the northwest of England, within the Greater Manchester metropolitan county. The town is located near the West Pennine Moors, providing a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The River Croal and River Irwell flow through the area.

Economy

Historically, Bolton's economy was dominated by the textile industry, but it has since diversified. Today, the town has a mixed economy with sectors such as retail, manufacturing, and services. The Middlebrook Retail Park is one of the largest retail parks in the UK and a significant employer in the area.

Culture

Bolton has a rich cultural heritage with several museums, theaters, and galleries. The Bolton Museum and Art Gallery houses collections of local history, art, and archaeology. The Octagon Theatre is a prominent venue for performing arts in the town.

Education

Bolton is home to several educational institutions, including Bolton School, one of the oldest schools in the country, and the University of Bolton, which offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Transport

Bolton is well-connected by road and rail. The Bolton Interchange provides access to local and national rail services, while the M61 motorway links the town to the national motorway network. Public transport within the town is primarily provided by buses.

Sports

Bolton is known for its sports teams, particularly Bolton Wanderers F.C., a professional football club that plays at the University of Bolton Stadium. The town also has facilities for other sports, including cricket, rugby, and athletics.

Notable People

Several notable individuals hail from Bolton, including Fred Dibnah, a famous steeplejack and television personality, and Amir Khan, a professional boxer and former world champion.

Twin Towns

Bolton is twinned with several towns around the world, including Le Mans in France and Paderborn in Germany.

See Also

• Greater Manchester
• Lancashire
• Industrial Revolution
• Textile industry