Living in Rochdale

Your guide to moving to Rochdale

Why Rochdale is a good place to live

Situated at the foothills of the Pennines and close to the Peak District National Park, Rochdale offers a unique blend of semi-rural and urban living, truly capturing the best of both worlds. Living in Rochdale provides excellent access to beautiful nature walks and cycle paths without compromising on modern amenities. The town is also incredibly well-connected with Manchester close by, thanks to a dedicated railway station and a vast bus and tram network. Proximity to major highways and Manchester Airport means that even greater connections are just minutes away. Furthermore, families will find a selection of 'Good' or 'Outstanding' schools, which adds to Rochdale's appeal for those considering moving to Rochdale.

What's Rochdale famous for?

Rochdale is famous for being the birthplace of the global cooperative movement, with the Rochdale Pioneers opening the first Co-op shop back in 1844. This rich history can be explored in more detail at the Rochdale Pioneers Museum, a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The town has also seen some famous faces, including the comedian Bill Oddie and actress Anna Friel. Rochdale's stunning Victorian Gothic Town Hall is an architectural gem and a notable landmark in the town. Additionally, with a vibrant blend of independent stores and high street retailers, Rochdale is becoming a well-known shopping destination in the region.

Things to do in Rochdale

Rochdale offers a variety of leisure options for locals and tourists alike. Its historical attractions, such as the Fusilier Museum and Rochdale Pioneers Museum, tell the town's story from various angles. If shopping is what you fancy, Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre and the regular open market will not disappoint. For those who love to enjoy nature, the lake at Hollingworth and Healey Dell Nature Reserve offer beautiful settings for leisurely walks or exciting water activities. Eating out in Rochdale also promises to please with a variety of dining and entertainment venues ranging from cosy country pubs to upscale restaurants.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.