Trek back in time with new town centre trail for families 

The Oldham Time Trek is a free augmented reality adventure featuring 12 stops and hidden characters waiting to be discovered around the town centre. 

Families can step back in time and discover Oldham’s history by taking selfies with characters, reading stories, and solving mini puzzles. 

Along the way, visitors will step into the shoes of local hero Annie Kenney, spot elephant head carvings, and interact with charming animals. 

All you need is a mobile phone or a tablet that can scan QR codes.  Here’s how to take part: 

• View the 12 stops on the map at Oldham Time Trek Trail.  There’s no need to download anything or register.  You can check if your device reads QR codes by following the instructions at Help – Oldham Time Trek Trail before you set off. 

• Visit the stops in any order and on more than one day if you wish. 

• Allow 60-90 minutes to complete the trail in one go. 

• At each stop, look for the plaque or window sticker and scan the QR code with your smart device. 

• Collect a letter from each stop to solve a word puzzle and claim a free digital children’s prize and a special treat* from Waterstones on the ground floor inside The Spindles (whilst stocks last; during trading hours only). 

• Then don’t forget to tag us in your photos of the fun using #LoveOldham. 

The trail has been developed by Oldham Council, High Street Safari and Dare to Know Theatre, on behalf of the High Street Accelerator Partnership, with special contributions from Jeremy Sutcliffe, Secretary of the Oldham Area Civic Society. 

The trail will officially be available to take part from on Saturday 14 June and those interested are invited to a special guided tour of the trail with Jeremy Sutcliffe.  

Jeremy will bring to life the stories behind the town’s landmarks with a knowledgeable 60-minute tour where you can discover fascinating facts and hidden gems while taking part in the fun interactive activities.   

There will be two tours available, 10am and 1pm, departing from the Annie Kenny statue outside the Old Town Hall.  Spaces are free and there is no need to book; just turn up! 

It has been funded by UK Government’s High Street Accelerator Programme and will be available until at least June 2026. 

Councillor Peter Dean, Cabinet Member for Thriving Communities and Culture, said:  

“This trail brings Oldham’s proud past to life in a way the whole family can enjoy.  From suffragettes to circus animals, it’s packed with stories that have shaped our town.  

“It’s a fun and interactive way to get out, get walking, and see Oldham in a new light.  

“Why not make a day of it with a visit to Gallery Oldham or some local shopping along the way?” 

The new trail paves the way for the opening of the new archives centre inside Spindles and the Oldham Histories Festival and Heritage Open Days in September.   

Maggie Hughes, owner of Zutti on Yorkshire Street and Chair of the High Street Accelerator Partnership, said: 

“We’re delighted to be launching the free trail just in time for summer.  Families will love solving puzzles and posing for selfies whilst learning about the people and places that make Oldham’s high street so special.” 

To learn more or start the trail, go to Oldham Time Trek Trail.