Rochdale Town Hall
Rochdale Town Hall
4.5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Rochdale's fabulous Grade-I Victorian Gothic town hall is renowned worldwide for its unique and detailed architecture. The building was opened on 27th September 1871 by George Leach Ashworth, then Mayor of Rochdale at a cost of around £150,000. In March 2024, it re-opened following a four year renovation project.
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The area
Address
How to get there
- Rochdale Town Centre • 8 min walk
- Rochdale Railway Station • 10 min walk
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Restaurants
297 within 3 miles
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84 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Chris W14 contributionsGreat ExperienceWe visited on the opening day after refurbishment. The town hall has been fantastically restored keeping the original design and features yet bringing it up to date. I would advise anyone who is interested in arcitectural designans artisan work to visit because it has to be one of the uk's top buildings. The staff are absolutely brilliant - friendly and helpful.What a lovely review! Thank you, Chris.Written April 30, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten March 4, 2024
- FormidableladyRochdale, United Kingdom14 contributionsA Grand Gem of Architectural Majesty: Rochdale Town Hall - a must see!After an extensive 4 year, 20 million pound restoration it reopened at the beginning of March. Having long admired the building and not having been inside for many years I couldn’t wait to see it in all its glory. Before entering I have to mention the fabulous landscaping. Plentiful open paved areas link seamlessly to the memorial gardens. I can imagine lots of future cultural celebrations and family events being held here. Then as you approach, the Town Hall's imposing Victorian Gothic facade immediately captures your eye. Its towering spire, intricate carvings, and majestic clock tower command attention, inviting visitors to step into a realm of history and grandeur. My daughter and I were greeted in reception by a lovely informative lady who gave us lots of interesting facts about the history of the building, the exhibitions, the beautiful Minton floor tiles and what to see. We began in the Great Hall, with its soaring ceilings adorned with delicate plasterwork, and its magnificent staircase, crafted from the finest materials. This served as a fitting prelude to the treasures that lay beyond. Throughout the building, every room and corridor tells a story, each ornament and decoration a testament to the craftsmanship of yesteryears. From the opulent Council Chamber to the serene elegance of the Mayor's Parlour, every space is imbued with a sense of history and significance. There is rich collection of artwork and artifacts. The stained glass windows, depicting scenes from Rochdale's past, bathe the interiors in a kaleidoscope of colors, while the meticulously preserved furnishings offer a glimpse into the lives of generations past. Rochdale Town Hall is more than just a building; it is a living testament to the ingenuity, creativity, and spirit of its inhabitants. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply someone seeking inspiration, a visit to this magnificent edifice is an experience not to be missed. I must once again pay tribute to the staff who were all exceptional and really made our visit outstanding. I will definitely be returning especially when the new dining space opens in May.Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten March 12, 2024
- Tricia SRochdale, United Kingdom39 contributionsAn amazing gem in the centre of RochdaleThe newly restored Town Hall is open to the public for free with friendly volunteer guides. The ground floor consists of a local history room and the old Council Chamber and Mayor's Meeting Room. There is also a stylish restaurant due to open in May. On the first floor there is a pop up cafe selling lovely cakes etc and the amazing Great Hall which has a fresco wall, stained glass windows and carved panels. The staircase is fabulous with the stained glass windows and the Bright Suite is available for functions. A must to visit.Thank you for your recommendation. We're glad you enjoyed your visit.Written April 30, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Traveled with friendsWritten March 22, 2024
- Alison B29 contributionsBrilliant tourBooked a tour on the town Hall tour. 12 friends went who used to work there. The tour was brilliant and the person who took the tour was named Dave and was very informative. He reeled off names and dates and told us funny stories and everyone really enjoyed it. We were really surprised in the transformation especially our old offices and the difference now. Well worth it and a shout out to Dave who took the tour.We are so glad that you enjoyed your return visit.Written April 30, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Traveled with friendsWritten April 20, 2024
- FyingKiwiChristchurch, New Zealand1,131 contributionsWOW!You cannot avoid going “WOW!” at the very sight of its exterior and emphasizing this even further when inside. It has been dubbed by some as thew “Palace of Rochdale”, and it is very easy to see why. It is an absolute must visit for both its history and architecture.Thank you so much for your lovely review.Written April 30, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 26, 2024
- Jonathan W13 contributionsGreat restoration of an historic and significant building with very friendly and knowledgeable guides on hand.Superb restoration of a historic building, representing a real pride in the community, its history and it's role going forward. It's too easy to dismiss Victorian endeavour and the Empire but this building really demonstrates civic pride and a quality of construction which have long since been lost in many places. Cafe isn't cheap but the quality is very good and since there's no admission fee it was pretty much the only cost involved in the visit. Very knowledgeable and friendly guides on hand to explain the significance of many of the building's features.We're so glad you enjoyed your visit, thank you for your nice review.Written May 21, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Traveled soloWritten May 4, 2024
- joanne w3 contributionsFabulous visit, extraordinary gothic Victorian buildingExcellent wow! An extraordinary building of architecture and history. Go and visit , you won’t be disappointed. Great volunteers and staff who can tell you some historical facts and stories of the town and people of Rochdale. Great to see something positive about the town. Great for a day out and lunch. Cafe fabulous cakes and coffee. A free outing open 10-4pm every day. Check website for room closures due to events.Thank you for your lovely review, very glad you enjoyed our coffee and cakes!Written May 21, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Traveled with friendsWritten May 10, 2024
- Keith SClitheroe, United Kingdom112 contributionsAn unknown treasure......Absolutely amazing building and all brought to life by George our excellent and knowledgeable guide. Rochdale says it is well known world wide.....it really isn't known of by most people in Manchester let alone world wide.......it is an international treasure so please do promote it vigorously and bring lots of visitors and money to Rochdale ! Agree with others cafe great and vg value Landscaping terrific What's not to like and what an incredible job everyone has done on the restoration.....Thank you for your fantastic review, Keith! Please spread the word about Rochdale Town Hall!Written July 4, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 14, 2024
- plrwManchester, United Kingdom14 contributionsWell worth a visit magnificant Victorian building beautifully restoredWe visited on a quiet weekday and did not have a guide. There are helpful staff and volunteers to provide information. The Great Staircase and the Great Hall are out of this world. The smaller mayoral rooms give a glimpse of life in Rochdale’s heyday. The cafe is in a room with comfortable seats and astrological ceiling. Afterwards we drove to Tandle Hill Park a few miles away. Very nice with a view point at top of short climb. A lovely dayWe're so glad you enjoyed your visit. Thank you for your lovely review.Written July 4, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 19, 2024
- JaneinRoyd4 contributionsCragg Vale History Group tripOur guide was Dave. He took us round the ‘highlights’ of the Town Hall. Our tour lasted just over an hour which was just right for our group. There’s still plenty to see for those who want to make a return trip. We finished in the Cafe!! Thanks Dave.We're glad you all enjoyed Dave's tour and we look forward to welcoming you on your next visit.Written July 4, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled with friendsWritten June 20, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
270 reviews
Excellent
186
Very good
64
Average
15
Poor
1
Terrible
4
Ludwik D
377 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
I stopped in Rochdale on my way to Bury and decided to photograph this famous town hall.
It was covered in scaffolding.
It was Saturday lunchtime and the area around it was like a ghost town, hardly anyone about. This is the town centre. Where is everyone?
The 15 minute walk from the train station to the town centre bus station was depressing.
Most of the shops were shut, closed down, boarded up.
The bright sparks were a few very colourful continental food shops, Polish and Romanian. Near this town hall we have a new modern bus station, shame about the lack of people and the few that were there were overweight chavs.
It was covered in scaffolding.
It was Saturday lunchtime and the area around it was like a ghost town, hardly anyone about. This is the town centre. Where is everyone?
The 15 minute walk from the train station to the town centre bus station was depressing.
Most of the shops were shut, closed down, boarded up.
The bright sparks were a few very colourful continental food shops, Polish and Romanian. Near this town hall we have a new modern bus station, shame about the lack of people and the few that were there were overweight chavs.
Written August 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Formidablelady
Rochdale, UK14 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
After an extensive 4 year, 20 million pound restoration it reopened at the beginning of March. Having long admired the building and not having been inside for many years I couldn’t wait to see it in all its glory. Before entering I have to mention the fabulous landscaping. Plentiful open paved areas link seamlessly to the memorial gardens. I can imagine lots of future cultural celebrations and family events being held here. Then as you approach, the Town Hall's imposing Victorian Gothic facade immediately captures your eye. Its towering spire, intricate carvings, and majestic clock tower command attention, inviting visitors to step into a realm of history and grandeur. My daughter and I were greeted in reception by a lovely informative lady who gave us lots of interesting facts about the history of the building, the exhibitions, the beautiful Minton floor tiles and what to see. We began in the Great Hall, with its soaring ceilings adorned with delicate plasterwork, and its magnificent staircase, crafted from the finest materials. This served as a fitting prelude to the treasures that lay beyond. Throughout the building, every room and corridor tells a story, each ornament and decoration a testament to the craftsmanship of yesteryears. From the opulent Council Chamber to the serene elegance of the Mayor's Parlour, every space is imbued with a sense of history and significance. There is rich collection of artwork and artifacts. The stained glass windows, depicting scenes from Rochdale's past, bathe the interiors in a kaleidoscope of colors, while the meticulously preserved furnishings offer a glimpse into the lives of generations past. Rochdale Town Hall is more than just a building; it is a living testament to the ingenuity, creativity, and spirit of its inhabitants. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply someone seeking inspiration, a visit to this magnificent edifice is an experience not to be missed. I must once again pay tribute to the staff who were all exceptional and really made our visit outstanding. I will definitely be returning especially when the new dining space opens in May.
Written March 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alison B
29 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
Booked a tour on the town Hall tour. 12 friends went who used to work there. The tour was brilliant and the person who took the tour was named Dave and was very informative. He reeled off names and dates and told us funny stories and everyone really enjoyed it. We were really surprised in the transformation especially our old offices and the difference now. Well worth it and a shout out to Dave who took the tour.
Written April 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so glad that you enjoyed your return visit.
Written April 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
noeleenf
Rochdale, UK244 contributions
Dec 2019 • Friends
Dec 2019 six couples booked a Christmas event, the Victorian Christmas Dinner Dance. Food excellent. Service high quality. Bar great service reasonable prices. DJ played brilliant tunes all night. All in all a fabulous night out for a very reasonable price. Bring on next years event.
Written February 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dave S
Oldham, England, United Kingdom27 contributions
Nov 2024 • Friends
Went with Oldham U3A Photography group. The town hall was recently renovated and looks superb. The Martlet restaurant is very classy too. Our tour guide was Dave Holland - very knowledgeable and entertaining. It is amazing to think that Rochdale was once a global leader in business. The stained glass windows and floor tiles tell the story of regional trading partners and the history of the textile industry.
Written November 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BDH62500
Oldham, UK8 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Amazing. Fabulous.
We visited the town hall with my partner and his father who struggles to walk very far.
We were met by a lovely lady called Carol. She took us on a guided tour, making sure there was a seat for my father in law to sit down in every room whilst she expertly explaining about this amazing building.
Carol who is a volunteer, went above and beyond to make sure we a very enjoyable visit. We also spoke to other staff who were also volunteers. They were all very friendly and helpful.
Well done Rochdale Town Hall. You have some really amazing people volunteering.
This building is really worth a visit.
We visited the town hall with my partner and his father who struggles to walk very far.
We were met by a lovely lady called Carol. She took us on a guided tour, making sure there was a seat for my father in law to sit down in every room whilst she expertly explaining about this amazing building.
Carol who is a volunteer, went above and beyond to make sure we a very enjoyable visit. We also spoke to other staff who were also volunteers. They were all very friendly and helpful.
Well done Rochdale Town Hall. You have some really amazing people volunteering.
This building is really worth a visit.
Written August 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carol and our other volunteers are amazing! Thank you for your lovely review.
Written September 9, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chris W
14 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
We visited on the opening day after refurbishment. The town hall has been fantastically restored keeping the original design and features yet bringing it up to date. I would advise anyone who is interested in arcitectural designans artisan work to visit because it has to be one of the uk's top buildings. The staff are absolutely brilliant - friendly and helpful.
Written March 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a lovely review! Thank you, Chris.
Written April 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tricia S
Rochdale, UK39 contributions
Mar 2024 • Friends
The newly restored Town Hall is open to the public for free with friendly volunteer guides. The ground floor consists of a local history room and the old Council Chamber and Mayor's Meeting Room. There is also a stylish restaurant due to open in May. On the first floor there is a pop up cafe selling lovely cakes etc and the amazing Great Hall which has a fresco wall, stained glass windows and carved panels. The staircase is fabulous with the stained glass windows and the Bright Suite is available for functions. A must to visit.
Written March 22, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your recommendation. We're glad you enjoyed your visit.
Written April 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
FyingKiwi
Christchurch, New Zealand1,131 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
You cannot avoid going “WOW!” at the very sight of its exterior and emphasizing this even further when inside. It has been dubbed by some as thew “Palace of Rochdale”, and it is very easy to see why. It is an absolute must visit for both its history and architecture.
Written April 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your lovely review.
Written April 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
joanne w
3 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
Excellent wow! An extraordinary building of architecture and history. Go and visit , you won’t be disappointed. Great volunteers and staff who can tell you some historical facts and stories of the town and people of Rochdale. Great to see something positive about the town. Great for a day out and lunch. Cafe fabulous cakes and coffee. A free outing open 10-4pm every day. Check website for room closures due to events.
Written May 10, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review, very glad you enjoyed our coffee and cakes!
Written May 21, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
are dogs allowed in the restaurant
Written November 24, 2024
Hi. Although I am not a person of specific diet needs. I was assured by the staff that if you advise them of your needs or allergies, that they will do their best to accommodate you.
You can down load their menu from their website, I hope this is of help to you.
Regards ajw570
Written October 13, 2019
When is the resturant open and do we to book also iam in a wheel chair thank you
Written May 1, 2018
We were seated without reservations. And I believe it’s only open for lunch although we were there late afternoon. I don’t recall any obstructions but I can’t be sure.
Written June 15, 2018
How could I see a cafe menu please, and opening times. Thanks
Written September 25, 2015
Hello Kay,
The best place to get information is rochdale.gov.uk/townhall. The cafe menu and opening times are under the 'Dine' section.
Thank you.
Written September 25, 2015
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