Living in Oldham

Oldham has a strong sense of community, shaped by its industrial history and diverse neighbourhoods. The social atmosphere ranges from the bustling town centre to quieter, close-knit communities in the suburbs. Residents take pride in local traditions and enjoy numerous annual festivals, such as the Oldham Carnival, Christmas lights switch-on, and Diwali celebrations, which reflect the borough’s multicultural landscape.

The town benefits from regular markets, including the historic Tommyfield Market, which offers everything from fresh produce to local crafts. Several community centres and libraries hold regular clubs, support groups, and family activities. Additionally, Oldham’s proximity to country parks and the Peak District supports an active outdoor lifestyle, with walking, cycling, and community gardening particularly popular.

Overall, Oldham’s community life is inclusive and varied, offering opportunities for residents of all ages and backgrounds to connect and participate.

Safety in Oldham is a common concern for both new residents and locals. Like most large urban areas, crime rates in Oldham can vary between neighbourhoods. Areas close to the town centre and some residential districts experience moderate crime rates, particularly non-violent crime and anti-social behaviour. However, outlying districts such as Saddleworth, Greenacres, and Royton are perceived as safer, with fewer incidents reported.

Local policing initiatives, including community liaison officers and regular neighbourhood patrols, work in partnership with residents and local businesses to address safety issues. Oldham Council and Greater Manchester Police have prioritised regeneration projects in former industrial areas, focusing on improved lighting, CCTV, and community safety schemes.

As a whole, Oldham offers a safe environment, especially in family-oriented and suburban areas, with active neighbourhood groups helping foster an enhanced sense of security.

Parking in Oldham is generally manageable, with numerous on-street options and several council-run car parks in and around the town centre. Residential permit schemes operate in busy districts, particularly near Oldham Hospital and town centre shopping areas. Free and paid parking is available at most supermarkets and retail parks.

Congestion is typically moderate during peak hours, particularly along the A62 and around the town centre. The road network includes links to the M62 and M60, giving convenient access to Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, and beyond.

• Manchester – approx. 25 minutes via A62 or Metrolink
• Huddersfield – approx. 35 minutes via A62
• Ashton-under-Lyne – approx. 20 minutes via A627(M)
• Bury – approx. 25 minutes via M60

Oldham’s food and drink scene is a reflection of its multicultural population. The town centre offers a variety of restaurants and casual eateries, ranging from traditional British pubs like The White Hart and The Old Bill, to popular Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi restaurants on Yorkshire Street and Union Street.

For café culture, sites such as Molino Lounge and Kava Coffee House provide relaxed environments for brunch and light bites. The Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre is home to familiar chain restaurants and fast food venues.

Nightlife in Oldham is casual but lively, centred around local bars such as Liquid & Envy, trendy lounge bars, and live music venues including Whittles. The town is also known for its theatre scene, most notably the acclaimed Oldham Coliseum Theatre. For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, many countryside pubs in nearby villages offer cosy settings and scenic views.

School quality: Oldham boasts several high-performing primary and secondary schools, including outstanding-rated institutions.

Parks and green space: Alexandra Park, Tandle Hill Country Park, and Daisy Nook Country Park offer ample room for play and family walks.

Childcare: Numerous nurseries and childcare providers operate throughout Oldham, serving both town and suburban areas.

Safety: Family-oriented neighbourhoods such as Chadderton, Royton, and Saddleworth offer a strong sense of security and community spirit.

Family activities: Oldham Library, Gallery Oldham, play centres, and regular family-friendly events ensure plenty of choice for all ages.

Oldham’s setting on the edge of the Pennines makes it highly suitable for pet owners. The town offers numerous parks and open spaces – Alexandra Park, Tandle Hill, and Daisy Nook Country Park are popular for dog-walking and weekend walks. Nearby countryside and access to trails mean larger pets get plenty of exercise opportunities.

Local vets, such as Chadderton Veterinary Practice and Royton Veterinary Clinic, provide a high standard of care. Pet shops and grooming salons can be found throughout the borough, with many local cafés and pubs now actively welcoming dogs. Housing in Oldham is generally pet-friendly, especially in suburban and rural areas, though rental terms may vary.

On the whole, Oldham is regarded as a pet-loving place, with a strong outdoor culture and numerous amenities for animals and owners alike.

Oldham boasts strong transport links that make it highly accessible both locally and regionally. The Metrolink tram system is the backbone of public transit, providing direct services to Manchester city centre and beyond, with frequent stops in central Oldham at Oldham Central, Oldham King Street, and other local stations. Several bus companies operate throughout Oldham, with services to surrounding towns including Rochdale, Ashton-under-Lyne, and Saddleworth villages.

The A62 and A627(M) provide key road connections to Manchester, Rochdale, and Huddersfield. The nearby M62 and M60 motorways put Manchester Airport, Leeds, and Liverpool within easy driving reach. Although Oldham's own railway stations closed in the past, frequent tram and bus services ensure efficient alternative connections.

• Manchester city centre – approx. 25 minutes via Metrolink tram
• Leeds – approx. 50 minutes by car via M62
• Manchester Airport – approx. 35 minutes via M60/M56
• Huddersfield – approx. 35 minutes by car via A62
• Rochdale – approx. 20 minutes via Metrolink or A671

Education in Oldham is varied, with a range of both state and independent schools, as well as further and higher education opportunities. The town is known for investing in new school buildings and improving standards across the borough.

Primary Schools in Oldham:
- St. Hilda’s Church of England Primary School: This school is consistently rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted (last inspected 2022), recognised for its inclusive environment and academic performance.
- Lyndhurst Primary School: Rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2021), known for its strong community ties.
- Bare Trees Primary School: A large, multicultural school rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2020).
- Greenhill Primary School: Praised for its improvement in recent years, holding a 'Good' (2021) Ofsted report.

Secondary Schools in Oldham:
- The Blue Coat School: A highly regarded Church of England academy, rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted (2022), known across Manchester for academic excellence.
- Oldham Academy North: Rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2021), part of the E-ACT academy trust, known for its modern facilities.
- Leesbrook Community School: A fairly new school, rated 'Good' (2022), serving a diverse student population.
- Waterhead Academy: Undergoing improvements, rated 'Requires Improvement' (2022), but offering a wide curriculum.

Independent and Further Education:
- Hulme Grammar School: Prestigious independent school for boys and girls, offering education from primary up to sixth form.
- Oldham Sixth Form College: One of the largest sixth form colleges in the North West, offering a wide range of academic and vocational courses to over 2,000 students.
- Oldham College: Award-winning and well-respected local further education college, providing vocational qualifications and apprenticeships.

Higher Education:
- University Campus Oldham: As a part of the University of Huddersfield, it offers degree courses locally, making higher education accessible within Oldham.