Booming and breathtaking Burnley’s best by bus

Burnley is a fun-packed town full of character, charm, and surprises. Located in the heart of Lancashire, it is a place where rich history meets breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant community spirit weaves through every street. Whether you’re drawn by its industrial heritage, natural beauty, or thriving culture, Burnley offers something for everyone. What’s more, it’s the heartbeat of a brilliant. award winning, bus network provided by Transdev’s The Burnley Bus Company, serving the town, as well as with fab and frequent direct links from Yorkshire, across Lancashire, including Blackburn, Nelson, Colne, Accrington, Preston and many more fascinating places and scenic journeys. The view from the bus window on many routes is spectacular and also invigorating, with such a wealth of different styles of architecture and fascinating historical features. This is a right Lancashire hotpot of super bus journeys!

Burnley has a rich history dating back to medieval times. It emerged as a small agricultural settlement, growing around its parish church, St. Peter’s, built in the 13th century. During the Industrial Revolution, Burnley transformed into a thriving centre for the textile industry, especially cotton weaving, earning global recognition as a leading producer of cotton cloth. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal and an expanding railway network facilitated its industrial boom, linking it to larger markets.

The town’s economic prominence declined in the 20th century as the textile industry faced global competition and mechanization. Despite this, Burnley retained its community spirit and adapted, shifting towards engineering and service industries, set against a backdrop of beautiful Lancastrian scenery.

A jewel in Burnley’s crown is Towneley Hall, a stunning historic house set in 445 acres of parkland. This stately home, once the residence of the Towneley family, is now a museum and art gallery filled with treasures. From period furniture and fine art to exhibitions showcasing the area’s history, Towneley Hall is a cultural hub that captivates visitors. The surrounding parkland, with its woodland trails, gardens, and picnic spots, is perfect for a leisurely day out with family and friends. There’s a fab coffee shop here too – check out the tasty treats, such as the Belgian hot chocolate and sumptuous crepes!

Burnley is also known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Singing Ringing Tree, an award-winning sculpture that overlooks the town from the moors. Made of galvanized steel pipes, this unique structure produces eerie, melodic sounds as the wind blows through it. The Singing Ringing Tree is not only a symbol of Burnley’s artistic spirit but also a fantastic spot for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Speaking of the countryside, Burnley is a gateway to some of Lancashire’s most beautiful landscapes. The Pennine hills provide a stunning backdrop to the town, offering countless opportunities for walking, cycling, and exploring. One highlight is the Burnley Way, a 40-mile circular trail that takes you through picturesque villages, rolling hills, and serene waterways. Cliviger Gorge and Hurstwood Reservoir are other scenic spots that showcase the area’s natural beauty, making Burnley a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

In the heart of the town, Burnley Market is a vibrant hub of activity. This award-winning market is the perfect place to sample local produce, discover unique crafts, and soak up the lively, ecclectic atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for fresh Lancashire delicacies, quirky antiques, or a friendly chat with the stallholders, Burnley Market is a testament to the town’s community spirit and entrepreneurial flair.

Burnley’s food scene offers a variety of flavours to suit every palate. For traditional Lancashire fare, The Kettledrum Inn is a local favourite, serving hearty dishes in a cosy setting. If you’re craving something more exotic, Aroma Asian Restaurant delivers a delicious fusion of Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine. Burnley also boasts a thriving café culture, with spots like Bellissimo Coffee and Bistro offering a welcoming atmosphere for a relaxing coffee or brunch.

When it comes to nightlife, Burnley knows how to entertain. The Mechanics Theatre hosts a range of events, from live music and comedy to drama and dance, ensuring there’s always something happening in town. For those who enjoy a good pint, Burnley’s pubs are brimming with character. The Crooked Billet and The Bridge Bier Huis are just two of the town’s beloved watering holes, offering a warm welcome and a selection of local ales.

Burnley’s sporting prowess is most famously represented by Burnley Football Club, affectionately known as the Clarets. Established in 1882, the club has a proud history and passionate fanbase. Turf Moor, Burnley FC’s home ground, is more than just a stadium—it’s a symbol of the town’s unity and pride and it’s steeped in character. The team spent some time recently in the Premier League and under the stewardship of smart-dressing, experienced boss Scott Parker, they are battling it out towards the top of the Championship, sizing up a quick return. They recently beat arch local rivals Blackburn Rovers at their Ewood Park stadium in a feisty encounter!

Burnley is also a hub for grassroots sports, with facilities and clubs catering to everything from cricket and rugby to athletics and cycling. Burnley Cricket Club play in the grounds of the football stadium at Turf Moor and are in the famous Lancashire League – which has for decades showcased local talent and overseas stars! Meanwhile, the surrounding countryside provides a natural playground for runners, hikers, and cyclists, with events like the Pennine Lancashire 10K drawing participants from far and wide.

Burnley is a town of quirky facts and hidden gems. Did you know it has the longest continuous stretch of canal in the UK without locks? Known as the Straight Mile, this engineering marvel is a highlight of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, providing a serene setting for boat trips and walks. Another curious fact is that Burnley’s Queen Street Mill is the world’s last surviving steam-powered weaving shed, a living reminder of the town’s industrial heritage.

Festivals and events play a big part in Burnley’s cultural calendar. The Burnley Canal Festival, for example, celebrates the town’s waterways with boat trips, live music, and family-friendly activities. Similarly, the Burnley Literary Festival brings together authors, poets, and readers for a celebration of words and ideas, highlighting the town’s creative energy.

Burnley’s ability to blend history, culture, and community is what makes it so special. Whether you’re drawn by its industrial heritage, captivated by its natural beauty, or inspired by its artistic spirit, Burnley invites you to explore, discover, and feel at home. This is an energetic town that wears its heart on its sleeve—a place where tradition meets innovation, and where every corner has a story to tell and a real buzz!

As you stroll through its streets, hike its hills, or cheer for its team, Burnley reveals itself as more than just a destination. It’s a town with a soul, a welcoming spirit, and a sense of pride that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit, resplendent in quirks, character and the friendliness of the locals. To plan your fab trip on the brilliant Burnley Bus Company, check out…

https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/the-burnley-bus-company/services/