Royton | About the Area

Royton is a town within the metropolitan borough of Oldham, in Greater Manchester. The first records of the town of Royton dates back to 1212, although there is evidence to suggest that Royton may have existed during the Bronze Age. The town lies by the source of the River Irk and at the foothills of the Pennies.

Farming was the main industry of this area, supplemented by handloom woollen weaving. In 1764 Royton was the first town to build a powered cotton mill, which was situated at Thorp and is one of the first in the world introduce the ‘factory system’.

During the industrial revolution saw the introduction of textile manufacturing, which brought on a process of unplanned urbanisation to the area. By the 19th Century, Royton was a recognised Mill Town, with nearly 40 mills in its catchments area and employing nearly 80% of the population. Foreign imports of cotton goods saw the decline of the cotton mills during the 20th century and Royton’s last mill closed in 1998.

Only a few mills are left standing today, the majority are used as distribution centres. Royton’s population still remains steady despite the economic downturn. This is because of constant housing redevelopment programmes in forced to improve housing conditions within the area. Recently Royton has seen the introduction of a large retail park and business park, which is home to firms such as the bed company, Slumberland. This has provided extra much needed employment to the area.

Transport links
A671 runs through Royton and links with Oldham, Rochdale, Burnley and the village of Worston.

Closely linked to the M62 at Junction 21 and 20 by the A663 and A627

Rail
There is no railway station in Royton

Nearest stations are Derker and Shaw, which offer services between Rochdale and Manchester via the Oldham Loop Line

Bus
There is no actual bus station in Royton but there are several bus stops around the town.

The route is managed by First Manchester

Providers include First Manchester and Bluebird

Services to Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester, Middleton, Oldham, Rochdale, Shaw and Stalybridge, and certain roads in Royton.

Local Services
Details of local services in Royton

Library
Royton Library
Rochdale Road
Royton
Oldham
OL2 6QJ
0161 770 3087

Police
Royton Police Station Police
Radcliffe St
Royton
Oldham
OL2 6RB
0161 872 5050

Hospital
The Royal Oldham Hospital
Rochdale Road
Oldham
OL1 2JH
0161 624 0420