Ramsbottom

Ramsbottom is a small town in the North West of England. The town's name is derived from an Old English phrase meaning "valley of the ram", as Ramsbottom is prettily situated in a deep valley amongst the West Pennine Moors, on the bank of the River Irwell. The Irwell Sculpture Trail runs through the towns, villages and walks along the river and the town's 'Tilted Vase' by sculptor Edward Allington, is located in Ramsbottom's Market Place as Ramsbottom's contributing piece. Nuttall Park is a focal point of the town, which hosts regular fun fairs and family events, along with facilities for bowls, tennis and football. It is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike.

There are number of historical sites of interest to be discovered in the valley, including several of Bronze Age burial sites around Ramsbottom and the local area, the most significant being Whitelow Cairn, the artefacts of which are now on display in Bury Museum. Evidence demonstrates, however, that humans have dwelt in Ramsbottom since prehistory, in what is believed to have been a densely wooded area that was over-forested by the early Anglo-Saxons until the middle-ages. 

The Peel Tower Monument to Sir Robert Peel, is another, more striking landmark of the area, which stands high on Holcombe Hill to be visible for miles along the valley. A former British Prime Minister, Sir Robert Peel is best remembered as the founder of the modern police force. He was born in neighbouring Bury.