Walkden

Walkden is thought to date back until the 13th century and was at one time a centre for coal mining and textile manufacturing. It is home to the Blackleach Country Park and the restored Ellesmere Monument, which was first erected in the town centre 1868 and later moved to at St Paul's Church yard. The monument is dedicated to Lady Harriet, Countess of Ellesmere, who set up schools, Sunday schools and clubs in Walkden, many of which still stand.