Dobcross

Dobcross is a village within the Metropolitan Borough of Oldham, in Greater Manchester, England. It is situated in the upper part of the Tame Valley, in the Pennines, approximately 4 miles east of Oldham and 10 miles north-east of Manchester. The village has a history rooted in agriculture and later, textile manufacturing.

Historically, Dobcross was part of Saddleworth parish and its economy was closely tied to the wool trade. Over time, cotton mills were established, though the village retained a more rural character than some of its industrial neighbours. The landscape surrounding Dobcross is characterized by moorland and dramatic valleys, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.

The village itself features a mix of traditional stone cottages and more modern housing. A notable landmark is the Dobcross Band Club, which has a long-standing connection to brass band music, a tradition strongly associated with the Saddleworth area. The village also has a parish church and a primary school.

Dobcross is served by local bus routes connecting it to surrounding villages like Uppermill and Greenfield, and the larger town of Oldham. The M62 motorway is accessible nearby, providing road links to major cities. The White Rose pub, featured in the opening credits of the TV series *The Famous Five*, is located in Dobcross, adding a touch of popular culture recognition to the village. The community is generally considered close-knit, with local events and activities contributing to its village feel.