This September it’s your chance to go round some of the most historic and beautiful buildings and transport Bolton has to offer. Some of these are usually closed or charge so it’s a once in a year chance to see them first hand.

Bolton Steam Museum has lovingly restored 25 steam engines and 2 of these are very rare steam engines that are around 170 years old. The engines will be running in steam and so is a chance to see how the railways used to operate. The volunteers at the museum regularly restore engines that have lay deserted for years. You can see these on Saturday 14^th September and Sunday 15^th September between 10am and 4pm. The steam museum is on Mornington Road.

Hall I’th Wood are opening its doors on Saturday 14^th September between 1pm and 3pm. You can go on a tour of this quaint building on your own or with a family. It was built in the 16^th Century and is famous across the region.

The Georgian Grade 2 listed Holy Trinity Church in Horwich is having its open day on Saturday 14^th September between 10am and 4pm. Go on a guided tour of this magnificent building and see some parish records, the bell tower, parish records and the huge churchyard.

The Bark Street Chapel is an important church to Bolton. It was built in 1856. Explore this splendid building on Saturday 14^th September between 11am and 4pm and Sunday 15^th September between 11.45am and 1pm.

St Stephen’s and All Martyrs Church is one of 2 churches that Edmund Sharpe built in a pot or terracotta style. It was built in the middle of the 19^th century with influences from Gothic architecture. Children can join the activity table whilst adults tour this picturesque building. Browse the log books containing hundreds of names, stained glass windows, wooden model of the church’s original tower, ancient photographs, organ casing and terracotta pew ends. Come and have a tour of this building between 10am and 4pm on Saturday 14^th September and 12pm and 4pm on Sunday 15^th September.

You’ll have to pre book a tour of the secret power plant on Friday 13^th September between 10am and 12pm and 2pm and 4pm. You can do so by calling 01204 374222.

This hidden power plant is on the Raikes Lane Industrial Estate. Amazingly it creates enough power for up to 7,000 households. You will see how the waste is reused and changed into electricity. See the thermal recovery facility and help your understanding of recycling in Bolton. Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult.