Top reasons to visit Wigan
- Outdoor Family Adventures: Wigan offers a variety of outdoor activities, including visits to urban parks and recreation centres, ideal for families.
- Rich Cultural Scene: Experience the historic Wigan Pier and enjoy performances at the charming Wigan Little Theatre.
- Local Rugby Culture: Attend a thrilling rugby league match to immerse yourself in Wigan's vibrant sporting tradition.
- Welcoming Neighbourhoods: Discover friendly local communities and delightful accommodation options, perfect for relaxation after exploring.
- Scenic Leisure Centre: Enjoy recreational activities and wellness pursuits at the lively leisure centre, catering to all ages.
Find great hotels near Wigan
Discover a variety of accommodation options in Wigan, from modern hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to all types of travellers. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly stays or LGBTQIA-friendly environments, Wigan's hospitality is designed to ensure a pleasant experience. With ideal amenities for business travellers and attractive last-minute deals, you’re sure to find the perfect base for your visit, including options like the renowned Wrightington Hotel.
- ibis budget Manchester Salford Quays: Situated 24km from Wigan, ibis budget Manchester Salford Quays offers an affordable and pet-friendly lodging option. This budget-friendly hotel caters to those looking for convenience without sacrificing comfort. The property’s pet policy allows certain pets onsite, making it a welcoming choice for animal lovers. Guests can enjoy essential amenities while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant stay for both you and your furry companions.
- Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central: Located 27km from Wigan, the 4-star Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This hotel is ideal for business travellers seeking an eco-certified environment. With its commitment to sustainability, the hotel provides a modern setting that aligns with eco-conscious values. The contemporary design and efficient facilities cater to corporate needs, ensuring guests can focus on work while enjoying a comfortable stay in a vibrant city.
- The Midland - Manchester: Also situated 27km from Wigan, The Midland - Manchester is a 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This establishment combines business travel with a spa-themed experience, making it an exceptional choice for those looking to unwind after a busy day. The hotel features a comprehensive spa and pool service, offering various treatments including massages and facials. This eco-certified property allows guests to indulge in relaxation while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.
Where to stay in and around Wigan
Wigan offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for every traveller. Explore the vibrant Wigan Centre, where friendly locals and family-friendly attractions abound. For a relaxing stay, consider the charming neighbourhoods nearby, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Don't miss the stunning city views, and if you're planning a special occasion, Wigan boasts lovely wedding venues that cater to all budgets, ensuring a memorable visit to this welcoming town.
- Standish: Nestled in the Wigan area, Standish is a charming village that offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. The village sees a peak in visitors during the warm months from July to September, drawing those keen on sports and recreation. Standish is home to an array of venues such as golf courses and recreation centres, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy active pursuits. Nearby attractions include a theme park, beach, and stadium, providing ample opportunities for fun and exploration.
- Ashton in Makerfield: Just a stone's throw from Wigan, Ashton in Makerfield is a vibrant neighbourhood that thrives on its adventurous spirit. With visitor numbers peaking in April and the summer months from July to August, this area is perfect for sports enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. Ashton boasts excellent facilities, including golf courses and recreation centres, catering to active visitors. Notable attractions nearby include a sports facility stadium, a racetrack, and a national park, making it a fantastic base for those looking to explore both urban and natural landscapes.
- Blackrod: Located approximately 6km from Wigan, Blackrod is a picturesque village that invites travellers seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. The village experiences a peak in visitor numbers during the summer months of July and September to October, offering a range of activities in its recreation parks and adventure facilities. Blackrod is also close to captivating landmarks such as a national park, sports facility stadium, and a marina, ensuring a memorable getaway for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Things to do near Wigan
Shopping
In Wigan, you can explore the local treasures at Wigan Market, where you'll find unique gifts and artisanal products. If you're up for a drive, visit the larger retail parks, such as the Robin Park Retail and Leisure Park, offering a wider range of high street brands.
Recreation
Wigan's Haigh Woodland Park offers tranquil walks through ancient woodlands, serene lakes, and picturesque gardens, ideal for relaxation. For a holistic experience, visit the Wigan Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in yoga sessions and therapeutic treatments to rejuvenate your mind and body.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Oulton Park Circuit, located 40km from Wigan, where you can immerse yourself in the excitement of high-speed events. For a different kind of thrill, head to Otterspool Adventure Centre, 29km away, and tackle the exhilarating zipline ropes course amidst beautiful outdoor scenery.
Nightlife
Enjoy a vibrant night at The Swinley on Wigan Lane, where you can indulge in a variety of beers and cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, head to The Old Courts on Crawford Street, featuring eclectic events and local performances that add to Wigan's unique nightlife charm.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Wigan
For a budget-friendly trip to Wigan, consider visiting between January to February or August, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel around one month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, particularly on Mondays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and hotel type, including eco-friendly options. Additionally, consider booking a package for flights and activities to save even more. Take advantage of local public transport options for affordable travel around the town.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Wigan are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Wigan is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Wigan is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Wigan is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Wigan with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Wigan
Wigan is perfect for outdoor family adventures, offering a blend of culture and leisure. Key attractions include the historic Wigan Pier, the vibrant leisure centre, and the charming Wigan Little Theatre. Urban parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and exploration. For accommodation, consider nearby Liverpool hotels to enhance your stay.
- Doffcocker Lodge: Located 11km from Wigan, Doffcocker Lodge is a serene nature reserve offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere. The friendly locals and budget-friendly activities enhance its cultural vibe, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and birdwatching amidst natural beauty.
- Knowsley Hall: This historic house, situated 19km away, is steeped in rich history and offers a glimpse into British heritage. With its stunning architecture and cultural significance, Knowsley Hall is a wonderful place to explore and appreciate the elegance of past eras.
- Wigan Pier: Right in Wigan, this iconic jetty is known for its lively atmosphere and cultural significance. Surrounded by friendly locals, Wigan Pier offers budget-friendly attractions and is a great spot to immerse yourself in the local heritage while enjoying scenic views.
Best time to go to Wigan
The best time to visit Wigan can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Wigan falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Wigan falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Wigan
For your visit to Wigan, the major airport options include MANchester Airport (MAN), located 31km away, with nearby hotels such as Kimpton Clocktower, Oddfellows on the Park, and The Lowry Hotel, all offering various transportation services to the airport. Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is 74km away, with excellent guesthouses like The Grafton and Timble Inn nearby. Birmingham Airport (BHX) is 135km from Wigan, featuring hotels like Hampton Manor and Genting Hotel & Spa, providing easy access to the airport. Each location ensures comfortable accommodations and convenient transport links for your journey.