Situated in the heart of the North West, Bolton can be seen as one of the hidden gems of the region.

Here’s why you should think about visiting Bolton.

1. Bolton is probably best known for it’s football team, Bolton Wanderers. With a proud history going back decades, and now a well established Premier League team, and have managed to attract some well known players over the years.

2. Middlebrook Retail Park is a fantastic shopping complex, at the Reebok Stadium, where Bolton Wanderers play. With many household names having large stores, as well as local businesses, you’re bound to find everything you need. Why bother going anywhere else?

3. Bolton is also well known for its entertainment venues. The Octagon Theatre hosts many plays, whilst comedy at the Albert Halls is legendary. Perhaps you’d prefer to take in a concert at the Reebok Stadium?

4. As Bolton lies just 20 mins from Manchester city centre, it offers the best of both worlds. You can be at one of Manchester’s business centres, or commercial districts, or even watch another sporting event in the heart of Manchester in just a few minutes. As you can stay at a Bolton hotel, you don’t need to pay the inflated prices that come with accommodation in a larger city.

5. Although Manchester might be better known for music, the Soundhouse is proving to be a popular venue for live music in Bolton, and is the place to go if you enjoy watching bands, or are hoping to discover the next new band before the rest of the world does. Why not see if you can arrange for your band to play in Bolton?

6. Like many large towns and cities, Bolton has a convenient and impressive cinema complex. If you’re ever stuck for something to do, why not watch one of the latest blockbuster movies without having to go into Manchester?

7. Although not a coastal location by any means, Bolton is a popular choice of venue for those who want to learn to scuba dive, and get their PADI Qualification. Thanks to reduced overheads, it can be much cheaper and convenient than learning to dive in a big city. Why not get qualified before your holiday, and save both time and money?

8. Bolton has produced many household names in the entertainment industry, including Peter Kay, Vernon Kay, Patrick McGuiness, Dave Spikey, Sara Cox and Mark Radcliffe, as well as boxer Amir Khan. Danny from McFly, and Celebrity Chef, Paul Heathcote. Perhaps there’s something in the water here, but if you want to become famous, why not spend some time in Bolton?

9. The University of Bolton, has over 11 000 students, and provides exceptional education across a wide range of subjects. If you want Manchester on the doorstep, but without the associated expense of having to live and study there, then the University of Bolton could be the right place for you.

10. Bolton is easy to get to, from the M6 and the M62, so no matter whether you’re coming here for the football, or a conference for work, you’ll have no problem, and it’ll be easier than you thought. Once you’ve been once, you’ll find plenty more to bring you back again too!

Now you know more about Bolton, and what there is to see and do here, what’s stopping you from coming to an away match, or holding your next conference or exhibition here?