Approved Local Courier in: Ashton-Under-Lyne

Ashton-under-Lyne, a market town in Greater Manchester, England, sits on the north bank of the River Tame, 6 miles east of Manchester. With a population of 45,198 in 2011, it has a rich history, showing evidence of Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Viking activity. The town’s name likely originates from “settlement by ash trees.” During the Middle Ages, it was a rural parish and township. The Industrial Revolution transformed Ashton into a bustling mill town, thanks to cotton trade. By the mid-19th century, it had become a significant industrial hub. While heavy industries declined in the mid-20th century, Ashton thrived as a commercial center, boasting one of the UK’s largest outdoor markets and modern shopping centers like Ashton Arcades. Recent developments include a new college campus, council offices, and improved transport links, making Ashton a vibrant town.