Stockport Through Time: An Audio Tour

Trace Stockport’s evolution over the centuries from a Victorian village to an industrial town on the outskirts of Manchester. On this self-guided audio tour, I’ll take you on a journey through Stockport’s captivating history. You’ll find out the story behind Stockport’s famous viaduct, and what role the rivers around the town played in its development. As you’ll soon learn, each landmark offers its own insight into Stockport’s heritage. Our tour starts at Stockport Train Station. As you make your way through the town’s centre to River Goyt, I’ll show you traces of its industrial revolution. We’ll see key historical sites along the way too, including Robinsons Brewery, the members-only Liberal Reform Club, and the Stockport Lads Club, a sports and recreational centre that’s been around since the late 1800s. Our tour ends at the Market Hall, from where you’ll be able to see the site where Stockport Castle stood guard from the 1100s, on what used to be a 30-foot cliffs.

1. 1

   Stockport Central Library

   Pass by

   Pass this civic building that serves as a gateway to Stockport's documented history and community resources. Discover how the library anchors the town center and provides a starting point for exploring the area's rich heritage.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Explore this unique museum showcasing equipment and stories from Stockport's once-thriving hat-making industry. Marvel at the machinery and learn how this trade shaped the town's identity and employed thousands of workers.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   Stand in this historic square dominated by the statue of Richard Cobden, the only statue in Stockport. Discover why this Victorian reformer and free trade advocate earned such prominent recognition in the town.

4. 4

   The Plaza

   Pass by

   Marvel at this stunning Art Deco theatre, one of Britain's finest examples of 1930s cinema architecture. Experience the glamorous facade that transported Stockport residents into a world of entertainment during the golden age of cinema.

5. 5

   Stockport Air Raid Shelters

   Pass by

   Descend into the extensive underground tunnel system where thousands of residents sought refuge during World War II bombing raids. Explore these atmospheric shelters and relive the fear and resilience of wartime Stockport.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Pass by

   Walk through this ancient church featuring a roughly 700-year-old chancel that predates much of the surrounding town. Discover centuries of worship and community life preserved within these medieval walls.

7. 7

   Stockport Garrick Theatre

   Pass by

   Pass this historic venue housed in a converted old mill, where industrial heritage meets performing arts. Experience how Stockport transformed its industrial buildings into cultural spaces for the community.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   Pass by

   Marvel at this impressive 16th-century timber-framed townhouse standing proudly among modern development. Explore one of Stockport's finest Tudor buildings that survived centuries of urban change.

9. 9

   Robinsons Brewery

   Pass by

   Stroll past this historic brewery that has been producing beer in Stockport since 1838. Discover how this family-run business became an integral part of the town's industrial and social fabric.

10. 10

    The Arden Arms Pub Stockport

    Pass by

    Pass this beautiful historic pub where Elizabeth Raffald, the famous 18th-century cookery writer, penned one of her influential recipe books. Enjoy the atmospheric setting where culinary history was made in Georgian Stockport.

11. 11

    Stop 11

    Pass by

    Walk alongside this river that powered Stockport's mills and fuelled the town's industrial revolution. Experience how the waterway shaped the landscape and drove economic development for centuries.

12. 12

    Stop 12

    Pass by

    Explore this Victorian market building offering views toward the site where Stockport Castle once stood guard from the 1100s atop 30-foot cliffs. Discover how this location has served as a commercial hub connecting past and present.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.