What & Where Is Rossendale?
Rossendale is a borough in the south-east of Lancashire, made up of the towns of Rawtenstall, Bacup, Whitworth, Edenfield and Haslingden, Helmshore, Crawshawbooth and Waterfoot; along with a collection of villages and hillside communities across the Rossendale Valley.
Located between Manchester, Burnley and the West Pennine Moors, Rossendale sits in one of Lancashire’s most distinctive landscapes — a mix of old mill towns, stone terraces, moorland, valleys and strong community identity. The area is also sometimes referred to as East Lancashire. Let’s explain why.
Rossendale is firmly part of historic Lancashire, and most locals proudly identify as Lancastrians. Administratively, it is one of Lancashire’s district councils, working alongside Lancashire County Council. For planning and services, Rossendale is often included in the East Lancashire grouping — though culturally it remains Lancashire through and through
Despite the name, East Lancashire isn’t a separate county or official boundary. It’s simply a useful way to describe the cluster of towns and boroughs on the eastern side of the county. Rossendale is commonly grouped with neighbours such as Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle, and sometimes Blackburn with Darwen for transport planning, business partnerships, health services and economic strategy.
For day-to-day life, though, Rossendale remains very much Rossendale — a distinct Lancashire valley with its own character, history and strong community identity. The “East Lancashire” label is mainly used by organisations, not residents, and simply helps describe our part of the county on a wider map.
Geographically, Rossendale is well connected:
- 30–40 minutes from Manchester
- Linked to Burnley and Blackburn via the M66/A56 corridor
- Bordering Bury, Hyndburn and Calderdale
This position gives Rossendale a unique blend of Lancashire heritage and Greater Manchester commuter links, with strong ties to the wider North West.
Towns & Villages of Rossendale
Rawtenstall
Rawtenstall
Rawtenstall
Rawtenstall is the largest town in Rossendale, known for its independent shops, café culture, and the well-loved Rawtenstall Market. It’s home to the famous East Lancashire Railway and offers a busy, welcoming atmosphere with plenty of local history.
Bacup
Rawtenstall
Rawtenstall
Bacup is one of the best-preserved mill towns in England, surrounded by dramatic moorland and rich Victorian heritage. The town is known for its strong community spirit, historic buildings, and cultural traditions such as the Britannia Coconutters.
Haslingden
Rawtenstall
Haslingden
Haslingden sits high in the hills and is known for its stunning views and walkways, including the iconic Haslingden Halo. The town has a proud industrial past and is popular for outdoor recreation, local food spots, and its growing mix of independent businesses.
Whitworth
Whitworth
Haslingden
Whitworth is a linear village stretching through a beautiful valley towards Rochdale, centred around Cowm Reservoir and peaceful rural scenery. It offers a friendly community feel, attractive walking routes, and a well-preserved heritage.
Waterfoot
Whitworth
Waterfoot
Waterfoot is a creative, characterful part of Rossendale, known for its arts scene, quirky independent shops, and the nearby Stacksteads and Glen Top countryside. It has a lively cultural community and a distinctive local identity.
Edenfield
Whitworth
Waterfoot
Edenfield is a village, with a strong traditional feel, sitting at the crossroads between Ramsbottom, Rawtenstall. It’s popular place to live with stunning views of the Peel Tower on Holcombe Moor, and is known for its welcoming pubs, village atmosphere, and scenic surroundings. .
A brief history of how Rossendale became a single borough
Before 1974, the Rossendale area was made up of several independent local government districts. These included the municipal boroughs of Bacup, Haslingden, and Rawtenstall, along with Whitworth Urban District and part of Ramsbottom Urban District. Each town managed its own services and governance separately.
This changed on 1 April 1974 with the creation of the modern Borough of Rossendale, formed under the Local Government Act 1972. The reform brought these neighbouring towns and districts together into a single borough, reflecting how closely linked the communities of the Rossendale Valley had become
Local Council Changes – What to Expect in 2026
Rossendale has existed in its current form since 1974, but Lancashire’s council structure is now being reviewed again. Several proposals have been submitted that could reshape how local government operates from 2026 onwards. Follow us for more updates when we relaunch this website in the coming weeks.