About Rossendale
Rossendale is a borough in Lancashire, North West England, comprising the towns of Rawtenstall, Bacup, Haslingden and Whitworth, together with their surrounding villages and communities.
Geography
Rossendale lies within the South Pennines, where the valleys of the River Irwell and its tributaries cut through surrounding hills and moorland. Its landscape is characterised by steep valley sides, upland farmland and settlements concentrated along the valley floors.
History
Rossendale developed from a rural wool-producing area into an important centre of textile manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution. Cotton mills expanded along the Irwell Valley during the nineteenth century, while felt-making and the manufacture of shoes and slippers became particularly important in Waterfoot and Bacup.
Rossendale Today
Rossendale Today documents contemporary life across the borough, including local businesses, community projects, developments and events. It also brings together selected stories from Rawtenstall, Bacup, Haslingden and Whitworth, providing a wider view of life across Rossendale.
Communities, Villages & Businesses
Rossendale is home to a wide range of villages, communities and local businesses. From Waterfoot and Crawshawbooth to Helmshore, Edenfield and Stacksteads, each contributes to the borough’s identity through its people, places and enterprises.
