Synonymous with the Lancashire textile industry Bolton is also an ancient town that predates its expansion due to cotton by many centuries. First settled during the Bronze Age by the time of the Civil War this was a Market Town supporting the surrounding villages. The town saw one of the bloodiest episodes of the war when James Stanley, Earl of Derby was brought back here by Cromwell's troops after the Royalists had been defeated. In a savage act of revenge for the massacre his army had brought on the town early in the troubles, Stanley was executed and his severed head and body, in separate caskets, were taken back to the family burial place at Ormskirk. Whilst in captivity in the town, Stanley was kept prisoner at Ye Olde Man and Scythe Inn which dating from 1251 is still standing in Churchgate today.

Dating back to the 14th century Smithills Hall is an impressive building that is situated on an easily defended hill. Owned from 1723 to 1801 by Joseph Byrom (any relation?). Brought by the Bolton Corporation in the late 1930's the hall has been beautifully restored and as well as seeing one of the oldest and best preserved fortified manor houses in the county, visitors can also wander along the hall's wooded nature trail.

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