Oldham Histories Festival returns with impressive line-up

The exciting line-up has everything from guided tours through the streets, including a ghost tour towards the end of September, to the life and works of inventors, artists and influential people from our borough. 

Oldham Histories Festival kicks off on September 9 and finishes on October 1 with most being free for the public to attend though some events must be booked in advance.

Bookings can be made by calling 0161 770 4654 or by emailing archives@oldham.gov.uk

Let's take a look at some of the notable events to put in the calendar.

Friday, September 9

Oldham Parish Church, 10am-2pm

The church, which was built in 1830 and is a Grade II listed building, is inviting members of the public to take a peak at its crypts, vaults and exhibition of Oldhamers killed in the Spanish Civil War.

If you can't make it on the Friday, it's open again the next day at the same time.

St Chad's Church, 10am-5pm

This landmark has been a place of worship since 1215AD and even has its own depiction of Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'.

The church will be open for all from Friday through to Sunday.

Oldham Lyceum, 11am-12pm

Take a guided tour through one of Oldham's most iconic buildings.

You have to book in advance for this one.

Guided walk with Hollinwood Canal Society, 1pm

Ever wondered about the history of the Hollinwood Canal?

Meet outside the cafe at Daisy Nook Country Park to learn all about the historically important role this canal has played.

If you miss it, you can also attend the walk on Saturday at the same time.

Saturday, September 10

Ferranti's invention collections, 10-2pm

There will be a drop-in session at Oldham Local Studies and Archives for locals to find out more about one of the most important electrical engineering firms of the 20th century.

Oldham Microscopical and Natural History Society, 10am-4pm

This open day showcases the marvellous invention of the microscope and highlights the significant contribution of inventors in the North West.

There's also a chance to see some flies, fungus and other items in Gallery Oldham's natural history collection.

Booking is essential for this one as tours start from 10.30am at Gallery Oldham.

Tour the clock rooms of St Thomas' Church, 10.30am-2.30pm

Celebrate the 150th anniversary of St Thomas' Church in Moorside by coming to see this unique tour of its tower, bell and clock rooms.

Guided walk on Union Street, 11am-12pm

Union Street is one of Oldham's most famous streets - so come and find out all about it by meeting at the Peace Garden to participate in this guided walk.

Roman fort excavations, Castleshaw, 2pm

Want to learn about the two Roman forts and the latest excavations from 2014, 2016 and 2017?

Meet at the car park at Waterworks Road next to Castleshaw Outdoor Education Centre.

Monday, September 12

Cemetery Records – 2-3.30pm

Find out more about cemetery records in Oldham by going down to Oldham Local Studies and Archives on Union Street.

Illustrated talk about pre-Victorian Sholver, 7pm

There will be an illustrated talk hosted by Moorside and District Historical Society at St Thomas’ Church, Glebe Lane.

Tuesday September 13

Oldham Edge walk, 10.30am–12pm

Take a hike down memory lane by walking the Oldham Edge Walk.

Meet at the White House, Henshaw Street, to participate.

Astounding inventions: Len Gabriels, 2-3pm

Find out about the life of Len Gabriels who invented the hang-glider in his garage.

This is at Oldham Local Studies and Archives, 84 Union Street, and booking is essential.

The Tudor Bed: It’s Authenticity, Saddleworth, 7.30pm

Attend this talk by Adam Bowett hosted by Saddleworth Historical Society which looks at the discovery of the Tudor royal bed.

Go to Saddleworth Museum High Street in Uppermill for this one.

Thursday September 15

Tour war graves at Greenacres Cemetery 1-2pm

A guided tour around the cemetery’s World War One graves.

Meet at the cemetery entrance.

Saturday September 17

The Old Road through Oldham, 11am–12.30pm

Join Jeremy Sutcliffe for a walk following an ancient medieval route.

Meet at Oldham Loucal Studies and Archives on Union Street, and book in advance.

Sunday September 18

George Street Chapel tours, 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm

Join a tour around this Grade II listed chapel, built in 1815 by parishioners, many of whom worked as hatters and in the local mills.

You’ll need to book ahead for this tour.

Monday September 19

Oldham Coliseum Tours, 11am and 2pm

Take a guided tour through this unique theatre space which is said to be haunted.

It’s on Fairbottom Street, and booking is essential.

Transforming Oldham Library, 2-3pm

Come and see this presentation by Tilbury Douglas, the contractors involved in transforming the library at the Education Space, Gallery Oldham.

Thursday September 22

Oldham Railways Walk: Mumps to Alexandra Park 10.30-12

Enjoy this walk led by Stephen Darlington, exploring the history of Oldham’s railways.

You need to book for this one too and meeting is held at the Oldham Local Studies and Archives.

Friday September 23

Holy Trinity Church, Waterhead, Heritage Weekend.

Come and get dressed up and enjoy some guided tours with quizzes and various family-friendly activities at this church in Waterhead.

The festivities begin on Friday and will take place all weekend.

Swaminarayan Temple, Copster Hill Road, 10am-12pm

Don’t miss the opportunity to come and see inside this Hindu temple.

If you miss it, it's also open Saturday, October 1.

Tuesday September 27

Clem Beckett: Motor Cycle Legend and War Hero, 1pm

Enjoy a talk by Rob Hargreaves who wrote a book about the Oldham motorcycle legend, Clem Beckett.

The talk will be at the Performance Space, Oldham Library.

Thursday September 29

Oldham Town Centre Ghost Walk

Towards the end of September, take part in this spooky walk and uncover some ghostly goings-on in Oldham.

Meet at The Old Museum, Greaves Street, to take part.