Smithills Hall with Fish and Chip Lunch

Smithills Hall and Fish & Chips (Bolton)

 

Smithills Hall (Bolton)

Smithills Hall is a Grade I listed manor house rich with history, intrigue, and centuries-old character. Set against the stunning backdrop of the West Pennine Moors, it stands as one of the North West’s oldest and best-preserved historic homes—offering a captivating glimpse into England’s past.

A visit to Smithills Hall is a journey back through more than 600 years of English history. This Grade I listed manor house, rich with intrigue and centuries-old character, stands proudly against the stunning backdrop of the West Pennine Moors. As one of the North West’s oldest and best-preserved historic homes, it offers visitors a captivating glimpse into England’s medieval and Tudor past.

 

Olympus Fish & Chips Restaurant – Bolton’s Award-Winning Classic

Nestled in the heart of Bolton, Olympus Fish & Chips Restaurant is an acclaimed, award-winning destination for lovers of traditional British fish & chips. Celebrated for its freshly prepared haddock and cod, perfectly crisp batter, and golden hand-cut chips, Olympus combines classic seaside flavours with premium quality and exceptional service. With multiple regional and national accolades to its name, a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and a menu that caters to the whole family.

 

Itinerary

Morning: Arrival and Exploration - Begin your day by arriving at Smithills Hall in the late morning, allowing time to soak in the peaceful surroundings. The picturesque countryside and woodland paths provide the perfect introduction to the site. Start your visit with a self-guided tour of the hall. Wander through beautifully preserved rooms, including the Great Hall, solar, and chapel, each filled with period furnishings and fascinating stories. Learn about former residents, political intrigue, and the hall’s role during the English Civil War. The atmospheric architecture, timber beams, and stone fireplaces bring history vividly to life.

Gardens and Grounds - After exploring indoors, step outside to enjoy the surrounding gardens and estate. Stroll through landscaped lawns, orchard areas, and woodland trails. The views towards the moors are particularly impressive and ideal for photography.

Nature lovers can look out for local wildlife, while history enthusiasts may enjoy discovering hidden corners and old boundary walls that reflect the estate’s long heritage.

Courtyard Café or Picnic - Take a break at the on-site café, which offers light meals, cakes, and refreshments in a relaxed historic setting, surrounded by fresh air and scenic views.

Museum, Trails, and Activities - In the afternoon, visit the museum rooms to learn more about daily life in past centuries and the restoration of the hall. Interactive displays and exhibits make the experience engaging for all ages.

 

Depart in the late afternoon feeling enriched by a day filled with history, nature, and culture. After exploring this amazing hall, jump on board for a lovely Fish and Chip late Lunch at the award winning Olympus Fish & Chips Restaurant, Bolton.

 

Prices

> Adults £38.00

> Seniors £36.00

 

What's Included?

Executive Return Coach Travel

*Free Entry to Smithills Hall*

Fish & Chips (Meal) at Olympus Restaurant

 

Joining Points

Route Code B

07:30 – Weoley Castle

07:32 – Selly Oak

07:36 – Bournville

07:40 – Cotteridge

07:44 – Bunbury Road

07:50 – Northfield

07:56 – Longbridge

08:02 – Rubery Great Park

08:10 – Kitwell

08:12 – Woodgate Service Station

08:14 – Kent Road, Manor Vets

08:16 – Kent Road, Stag & Three Horseshoes

08:22 – Blackheath

08:30 – Halesowen

See 'Pick-up Points' above for map of exact pick-up locations and timings.

 

Estimated Timings for the Day

Departs Last Pick-up Point: Halesowen @ 08:30

Estimated Journey Time by Coach: Approx. 2 hours (101 miles) *Excludes comfort breaks and any traffic delays*

Comfort Break? YES  (both ways)                                                                                                                

Destination 1 ETA: 11:00-11:15 (Smithills Hall)

Coach Drop-Off & Pick-Up Point: Smithills Hall, Smithills Dean Road, Bolton, Greater Manchester BL1 7NP

Time at Destination 1: Approx. 3 hours                                                          

Departure Time: 14:00-14:15                                                                                                                       

Estimated Journey Time by Coach:  Approx. 15 minutes (3 miles) *Excludes any traffic delays*

Destination 2 ETA: 14:30 (Olympus Restaurant)

Coach Drop-Off & Pick-Up Point:  Olympus Fish & Chip Restaurant, 35-41 Great Moor St, Bolton BL1 1SW

Time at Destination 2: Approx. 1.5 hours      

Return Departure Time: 16:00-16:15

Estimated Drop-off Window: 18:45 – 19:45

 

**Please note that all timings suggested are approximate and intended as a guide only. Journey times may vary due to passenger loading, traffic conditions, roadworks, weather, or any other unforeseen circumstances outside of our control. Your driver will confirm timings on the day and keep passengers updated throughout the excursion**

 

Return Drop-Off Information

Please note that the return drop-off order is determined by the driver on the day to ensure all passengers are safely returned while remaining within legal driver’s hours regulations. Typically, when returning from the South – Rubery Great Market is the first drop-off and Halesowen is the last Drop-off. When returning from the North – Blackheath/Halesowen are the first drop-offs and Rubery Great Park is the last drop off. The driver will let you know the drop-off order on the return journey.

 

Images supplied by Smithills Hall,with thanks.

Smithills Hall (Bolton Council Website) Friends of Smithills Hall Olympus Restaurant Website