Blackburn

Blackburn is a large town in Lancashire, England, and the administrative centre of the Borough of Blackburn with Darwen in the North West region. Located inland from the River Darwen, Blackburn has medieval origins as a market town and grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution as a cotton-spinning centre.

The name Blackburn is believed to derive from Old English elements meaning “black” and “stream,” reflecting a nearby watercourse. In the 19th century the town became one of Britain’s leading textile towns, housing numerous mills and a skilled workforce. The late 20th century saw a decline in traditional cotton manufacture, and the local economy diversified into services, logistics, and light manufacturing.

Landmarks and culture: Blackburn Cathedral, the seat of the Diocese of Blackburn since 1926, stands near the town centre. The Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery, housed in the former town hall, preserves local history and art. Victorian and Edwardian parks, notably Corporation Park, provide green space in the town. King George’s Hall is a major venue for concerts and events.

Education and transport: The town is served by Blackburn College, a large further education college, along with several primary and secondary schools. Blackburn is connected by rail to Manchester and Preston via Blackburn railway station, and lies near the M65 motorway, with bus services linking the wider region.

Sport: Blackburn Rovers Football Club, founded in 1875, is one of England’s oldest professional clubs. The club won the FA Cup three times in the 1880s and the Premier League in 1994–95, and plays at Ewood Park.