Local Area
The matchday experience doesn’t need to last just 80 minutes at the DW Stadium… there is plenty to do before and after the game, both in and around Wigan and the ground.
Situated in the heart of England’s north west, Wigan is a popular and vibrant destination. Visitors to the town will discover picturesque countryside, popular visitor attractions, events, festivals, heritage, culture and much more. From coach parties to independent travellers, Wigan extends a warm welcome to all visitors.
The Wigan area is two-thirds countryside, dotted with pretty townships and small villages and with a scenic network of canals and waterways. There are also a range of attractions in and around the town, along with various hotels, bars and restaurants.
Other popular locations – all just a short commute away – include Liverpool, Manchester, Southport and Blackpool.
Local Attractions
Wigan Town Centre
Located a 15-minute walk from the DW Stadium, Wigan town centre has a vast assortment of restaurants and bars along with an array of shops.
The Grand Arcade shopping centre, located in the heart of the town, is among the finest in the north west following considerable redevelopment and renovation.
Popular restaurants and bars in the town centre include Franco’s, Gallimore’s, Red Door Bistro, the Fat Olive (Swinley), Casino De Cuba and Revolution Bar, as well as various fast-food restaurants.
Robin Retail Park
The DW Stadium is situated opposite Robin Retail Park, which offers plenty of destinations for enjoyment before the action gets underway.
The Retail Park has a plethora of shops and places to grab a bite to each such as Nando’s, Pizza Hut, the Red Robin Pub, Burger King, Subway, Taco Bell, KFC and Costa. Empire Cinema is also located just across from the DW Stadium, as is Robin Park Leisure Centre.
Haigh Hall & Country Park
Currently undergoing a major refurbishment, Haigh Hall is set in 250-acres of picturesque park and woodland, with magnificent views across the Douglas Valley to the Welsh Hills. Haigh Country Park and Haigh Hall are wonderful places to visit.
The grand Georgian building is surrounded by miles of woodland trails, small lakes and streams, and features a variety of wildlife. Add children’s play areas, an art and craft gallery and a year round programme of events, and you get a memorable family day out.
Wigan Pier
Set in an eight and a half-acre site, and on the banks of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, lies the iconic Wigan Pier which remains one of the town’s best-known locations.
Experience the deafening noise of the cotton spinning machines within the Machinery Hall, which act as a reminder of the difficult conditions endured by the employees of Trencherfield Mill. In stark contrast to the noise of the Machinery Hall is the eloquent working of the Trencherfield Mill Engine – the world’s largest original working steam engine.
Museum of Wigan Life
The Museum of Wigan Life, which holds more than 30,000 objects relating to life in Wigan Borough, past and present, includes collections of fine art, archaeology, social history, natural history, coins, decorative art and industrial history.
Situated on Library Street in Wigan town centre, the popular museum tells the story of local people through everyday objects like Roman pottery or 16th century pewter ware. The museum holds everything from 19th century Blackpool holiday souvenirs to a German helmet from the First World War.
Additions to display artworks at the museum include work by J L Isherwood, Theodore Major and Harry Walder.
Night Time Activities
After a day visiting Wigan’s many hidden talents, and cheering on the Warriors, Wigan provides a host of pubs, bars and night clubs for you to enjoy. Popular spots include Revolution Bar, Wigan Central and the Moon Under Water public house.
The town also hosts Hollywood Bowl bowling – Wigan’s premier bowling alley – which has 28 lanes, an American themed diner, and an impressive VIP area which is open seven days a week till late.
Additional activities also include Wigan Roller Rink – the north west’s premier indoor roller skating destination – and Three Sisters Racetrack driving experience, which is just a short drive from the DW Stadium.
The Arts Exchange
The Arts Exchange is the best way to discover all the arts activities and opportunities taking place in the Wigan area. The organisation, who are members of the Arts Exchange, covers everything from writing, publishing, media and IT, graphics, photography, visual arts, performance, theatre, and all forms of music and dance.
Many groups run classes, courses, and stage regular performances. For the latest information on the Arts Exchange visit their website HERE
Hotels
Various hotels including The Premier Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Wrightington Country Club, which are all situated just a short ride away from the stadium, providing ideal locations to reflect on your day’s activities and retire for a good night’s sleep!
Further Information
For further information visit the following websites:
- North West Tourist Board HERE
- Visit Manchester HERE
- Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust HERE
