Wigan Through History
Explore the fascinating journey of Wigan from Roman settlement to industrial powerhouse. Scroll through our comprehensive timeline to discover key moments that shaped this historic town.
Roman Settlement
Wigan was established as a Roman settlement called "Coccium" on the road between Chester and York.
Royal Charter
King Henry III granted Wigan a royal charter, establishing it as a market town with trading rights.
Medieval Town
John Leland described Wigan as having "one principal street going from east to west" with a parish church and market cross.
Grammar School Founded
Wigan Grammar School was established, becoming one of the oldest educational institutions in the region.
Industrial Revolution
The opening of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal transformed Wigan into a major industrial and mining center.
Railway Arrives
The Liverpool and Manchester Railway reached Wigan, connecting the town to major industrial centers.
Coal Mining Boom
Wigan became known as "Coalopolis" with over 1,000 pit shafts in the area, employing thousands of miners.
Wigan Pier Opens
The famous Wigan Pier opened as a wharf on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, later immortalized by George Orwell.
Orwell's Visit
George Orwell visited Wigan and wrote "The Road to Wigan Pier", documenting industrial life in the town.
Last Coal Mine Closes
Bickershaw Colliery, the last deep coal mine in the Wigan area, closed marking the end of an era.
Industrial Heritage
Wigan was at the heart of the Industrial Revolution with coal mining, cotton mills, and engineering works driving its growth.
Literary Fame
George Orwell's "The Road to Wigan Pier" brought international attention to the town's industrial conditions in the 1930s.
Famous Food
Wigan is famous for its culinary contributions including the Wigan kebab (pie between bread) and Uncle Joe's Mint Balls.
Culture & Heritage
Discover the unique cultural fabric that makes Wigan a truly special destination.
Rugby League Heartland
Wigan is world-famous for rugby league, with Wigan Warriors being one of the most successful clubs in the sport's history with multiple championships.
Local Cuisine
Experience traditional Wigan food including the famous Wigan kebab (meat pie between bread), and Uncle Joe's Mint Balls which have been made here since 1898.
Industrial Architecture
Wigan boasts remarkable Victorian industrial architecture, from the pier and canal warehouses to former cotton mills and mining structures.
World Records
Home to several world records including the world's largest meat pie (weighing over 5 tons) and the world's largest Uncle Joe's Mint Ball.
About Wigan
A historic market town with industrial heritage and northern charm
Leeds-Liverpool Canal
The historic canal runs through Wigan, offering scenic walks, boat trips, and connections to Wigan Pier. A beautiful waterway that shaped the town's history.
Industrial Heritage
From a Roman settlement to an industrial powerhouse, Wigan has a fascinating mining and manufacturing heritage that's waiting to be explored.
Food Heritage
Famous for its unique culinary creations including the Wigan kebab and Uncle Joe's Mint Balls, which have been produced here for over a century.
Sporting Town
Home to the world-famous Wigan Warriors rugby league team and Wigan Athletic Football Club, with a proud sporting tradition.
Getting Around Wigan
Navigate the town easily with these transportation options. Whether you prefer trains, buses, or walking, Wigan offers convenient ways to explore.
Train Services
Wigan has excellent rail connections with three stations: North Western, Wallgate, and Pemberton serving different destinations.
Main Connections: Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, Bolton
Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes to Manchester
Tip: Wigan North Western is the main station with fast services to major cities
Bus Services
The main bus network within Wigan and Greater Manchester is the Bee Network, while external cities can be reached with other bus operators.
Local Network: Bee Network (Greater Manchester)
Regional Operators: Arriva, Stagecoach for external routes
Tip: Bus station is conveniently located a short walk from the Grand Arcade shopping centre
Cycling & Walking
Extensive network of canal towpaths, parks, and dedicated cycle routes throughout the borough.
Canal Towpath: Leeds-Liverpool Canal offers scenic walking and cycling routes
Parks: Mesnes Park, Haigh Country Park, and many green spaces
Paths: Connected to National Cycle Network routes
Road Network
Excellent road connections via major motorways including the M6, M61, and M58.
Motorways: M6 (J25 & J26), M61, M58
Travel Times: 20 mins to Manchester, 30 mins to Liverpool
Parking: Several town center car parks with reasonable rates
Local Tips for Visitors
Make the most of your visit to Wigan with these insider tips from locals and experienced visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and summer for pleasant weather and outdoor activities along the canal. Autumn for beautiful park colors. Winter offers cozy pub visits and rugby matches.
Getting Around
The town center is very walkable. For longer distances, use the excellent bus network or trains. The canal towpath offers beautiful walking routes to nearby towns.
Must-Try Food
Don't leave without trying a Wigan kebab (pie between bread) and some Uncle Joe's Mint Balls. Traditional pubs offer excellent hearty meals and local ales.
Money Saving Tips
Many attractions are free including Mesnes Park, walking the canal towpath, and visiting Wigan Central Library. The Wigan museum is also free to attend.
Weather Preparedness
Even in summer, bring layers as the weather can change quickly. Waterproofs are wise year-round. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring.