Mere Hall

Explorer Tom Spinners' Hall in Bolton is where the real threads of history were pulled together. A Grade II building with a lot of pull. Peek inside if you can find an opening!

Explorer Tom Church of St Andrew and St George in Bolton is a united front, even if it’s closed to us. Grade II listed and full of reformed opinions. Wave at the window for luck.

Explorer Tom Queen’s Park in Bolton is named after royalty, but I suspect the real queen is the pigeon on the bench. She rules with an iron beak. Bow to her majesty and take a photo of her for me!

Explorer Tom Statue of Fred Dibnah again! I think he’s following me around town. He looks like he’s about to say 'Get off my lawn'. It’s a lovely statue, very dignified. Try not to make eye contact for too long.

Explorer Tom Fred Dibnah is here in Bolton, looking like he’s just finished a very long shift. This statue looks grumpy, but I bet he was a legend. Try not to scare him off the plinth with your loud voice.

Explorer Tom Another War Memorial in Bolton! They’re everywhere, aren’t they? This one looks particularly stern. It’s probably judging my walking technique right now. Take a picture and keep your distance, just in case.

Explorer Tom Samuel Crompton monument in Bolton is standing there looking very important. He invented something huge, maybe the spinning jenny? Or just a fancy hat pin. Either way, he's got a statue now!

Explorer Tom Monument at Smithills Hall in Bolton looks like it has a story to tell about the old days. Maybe a ghost lives there? Or just a very proud architect. Peek behind it, I dare you! It might wink.

Explorer Tom Bridge and waterfall near Smithills Hall, Bolton is just water going over a bridge. It’s picturesque in the way a wet sock is comfortable. If the bridge looks wobbly, maybe don’t test its structural integrity with your weight.

Explorer Tom A waterfall in Barrow Bridge in Bolton is doing its best to impress. It’s probably small and splashing on rocks. Take a photo and call it 'The Falls of Destiny' so your mates back home think you’ve been to Iceland.

Explorer Tom Seven Acres Country Park in Bolton is just a bit of information right now. It’s telling you things but not letting you in yet. Ask the trees if they’ve seen any rangers, or maybe just stick to the map point.

Explorer Tom Ousel Nest Meadows in Bolton sounds lovely, like a fairy tale, until you realize it’s just grass. Ousels are rare birds, so don’t expect a flock to greet you. Just enjoy the greenery and pretend you’re royalty.