Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chorley, England, to Stockport, England

If you're planning a road trip from Chorley, England, to Stockport, England, you're in for a treat. This approximately 26-mile drive takes approximately 40 minutes via the M61 and the M60. While this may be a short trip, the route does offer some unique and unexpected places to visit. If you're looking to take a break during your journey, you won't be disappointed. Here are five places you must visit while driving from Chorley to Stockport.

Halfway Point: Salford, XGM

Before we get started with our list, let's mention the halfway point. After approximately 12 miles, you will reach Salford, XGM. This is a historic city with many must-visit attractions, including the infamous Salford Lads Club, which was featured in the music video of The Smiths' song "Stop Me." Additionally, Salford now boasts MediaCityUK, where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the UK's most popular television programs. Whether you're into architecture or history, Salford is an excellent place to visit.

1. The Vale Royal Abbey Arms

If you're looking to grab a bite to eat, stop by the Vale Royal Abbey Arms. This pub is located in a historic abbey dating back to the thirteenth century. The abbey has had an exciting history, including being home to a king's mistress and surviving a fire. The Vale Royal Abbey Arms offers traditional pub meals, and the Sunday roast is particularly good. Stop here for some hearty food, a pint of beer, and some history.

2. The Bleeding Wolf

The Bleeding Wolf is a historic pub with an interesting name and an even more interesting history. It was named after the local legend of the Bleeding Wolf, which tells the story of a wolf who was wrecking havoc in the area until it was killed by a group of men. And, to make things spookier, the pub is built on the site of an old hanging tree. The Bleeding Wolf is not only an interesting place because of its history and name but also serves some fantastic food. Their signature dish is a Bleeding Burger, made with a 7-ounce burger, topped with bacon, black pudding, and a Staffordshire cheese sauce.

3. The Black Cat Traditional Sweet Shop

The Black Cat Traditional Sweet Shop will take you back in time with its old-fashioned style and a vast selection of sweets. From traditional fudge to old-fashioned candies, this little shop has it all. If you're a fan of Penny Sweets, you can fill a bag with your favorites or try something new. This is a great place to stop and pick up some snacks for your drive or for when you reach your destination.

4. The Prosecco Pot Gin Bar

The Prosecco Pot Gin Bar is the perfect stop for anyone looking for a relaxing drink and a quick bite to eat. This lovely bar has an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy some fresh air and a glass of Prosecco or a gin and tonic. The menu has a great selection of dishes, including light bites and sharing platters. If you're in the mood for something sweet, try their homemade scones with clotted cream and jam.

5. The Real Thai Pie Company

The Real Thai Pie Company is a unique combination of both British and Thai food. This bakery serves savory pies with Thai flavors. The pies are made with British meat and Thai spices, and the result is a mouth-watering combination. They have a great selection of pies to choose from, such as pork and lemongrass, chicken and tamarind, and beef and chili jam. This is not something you'll find anywhere else, so be sure to stop here for an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

If you're planning a road trip between Chorley and Stockport, these unexpected places are a must-visit. From the historical pubs with unique names to the traditional sweet shop and the Prosecco Pot Gin Bar, there's something for everyone on the Chorley-Stockport route. The Real Thai Pie Company offers a taste of both British and Thai flavors, making for a memorable experience. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on this exciting journey – you won't regret it!