Suburban and rural gems in the North West - suggestions please

Because Reasons it looks like my annual birthday Euro jaunt is off so I'm making do with a few days pubbing in England. Probably Manchester based as I'm not trusting booking trains in advance and the Megabus will save me. I'm after recommendations for suburban/rural gems in the North West.

Looking to burn time travelling during the day else I'll just spend 4 days getting needlessly wazzocked in town centres. Quality over quantity is what I'm aiming for...

Suggestions?

This one is reported as long-term closed on WhatPub, but on the Heritage newsletter it was said that a new tenant is being sought. If it's open it's well worth the effort of getting there.

This one is a bit of a train ride from Manchester, but if they're running it's a tremendous journey and with a great pub at the end (well, a 25 minute walk from the station).

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Originally Posted by sheffield hatter

This one is reported as long-term closed on WhatPub, but on the Heritage newsletter it was said that a new tenant is being sought. If it's open it's well worth the effort of getting there.

This one is a bit of a train ride from Manchester, but if they're running it's a tremendous journey and with a great pub at the end (well, a 25 minute walk from the station).

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What station is that Will..? I don't see one within that distance...

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Originally Posted by trainman

What station is that Will..? I don't see one within that distance...

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It's Foxfield, doesn't show up on the interactive map until you blow it right up.

If you are travelling about by train, don't forget the Plusbus ticket which is usually great value. For example the Accrington/Blackburn one is only £2.50 and covers Great Harwood and other interesting places.