Join us as we honour the grand opening of the original Bolton Market Hall on 19 December 1855 – a landmark Victorian building once described as “the largest covered market in the kingdom.”
When: Friday 19th December
Time: 10am – 4pm
Location: Market Place, Bolton
From its vast cast-iron and glass interior to its role in bringing shopping under one roof for the town’s growing population, it was built to be a symbol of civic pride, modernity and community.
As part of the celebrations, we’re delighted to be collaborating with Creatives Now, who will be hosting a workshop on the mall throughout the day. Visitors are invited to take part in playful, hands-on activities from drawing and making to future-visioning prompts and public opinion boards, all designed to explore memories of Market Place and imagine what it could be in years to come. Family-friendly, creative and open to all!
Creatives Now also launch their Belonging in Bolton exhibition to the public on 20th December, adding an exciting cultural dimension to the anniversary weekend.
We’ll also mark the Market Hall’s heritage with 100 celebratory cupcakes, alongside the unveiling of a restored model of the centre, offering a rare glimpse into how the building has evolved over 170 years.
Come and celebrate with us, it’s not just a birthday, it’s a story of Bolton’s heart and history.
© Bolton Council. From the collections of Bolton Library and Museum Service
