Set in the heart of Lancashire, England, Bygone Times is a one-of-a-kind shopping destination that transports visitors into a nostalgic world filled with antiques, collectables, and vintage treasures. This vast indoor emporium attracts visitors from all over the UK and beyond, not just for its impressive variety of goods but for the experience of stepping into another era. Whether you’re a serious collector, a casual browser, or simply someone intrigued by the charm of the past, learning where Bygone Times is and what it offers makes it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling through northern England.
Where Is Bygone Times Located?
Bygone Times is located in Eccleston, a village within the borough of Chorley in Lancashire, North West England. Specifically, the center can be found on Grove Mill, just off the B5250 road. This location places it conveniently near several major towns and transport links, making it accessible to visitors from cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Preston.
The full address is:
- Grove Mill, Grove Park, Eccleston
- Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 5TZ
- United Kingdom
Its location in a converted cotton mill gives it a uniquely authentic atmosphere, blending the industrial heritage of the North West with the charm of historic retail and memorabilia.
Nearby Cities and Access Points
- Chorley: The closest town, just a short drive northeast of Bygone Times.
- Preston: About 10 miles north, offering railway access and shopping centers.
- Wigan: Roughly 12 miles to the south, another urban center with transportation links.
- Manchester and Liverpool: Both cities are about an hour’s drive away.
How to Get to Bygone Times
Reaching Bygone Times is straightforward whether you’re traveling by car or public transport. Ample parking is available on-site for those driving. If you’re using a GPS or map app, entering the postcode PR7 5TZ will take you directly to the location.
For public transport users, the nearest train stations are in Chorley and Leyland. From these stations, local taxi services or bus routes can take you directly to Eccleston. Buses run regularly from Chorley town centre, and local signage makes it easy to find once you’re in the area.
What Is Bygone Times?
Bygone Times is a sprawling indoor shopping village made up of multiple floors and thousands of square feet of retail space. What sets it apart from ordinary shopping centers is its focus on the past offering a nostalgic blend of antiques, vintage goods, curiosities, and collectable items from different decades and centuries.
Vendors within the center set up individual stalls or mini-shops, each with its own theme and specialty. Items range from Edwardian furniture to retro toys, rare coins, military memorabilia, classic signage, kitchenware, books, records, jewelry, and even vintage clothing.
Popular Product Categories
- Antique furniture and décor
- Vinyl records and music memorabilia
- Classic toys and games
- Vintage clothing and accessories
- Military collectables and medals
- Homeware and kitchen items from past decades
Why Visit Bygone Times?
There are many reasons why Bygone Times has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It offers more than just a shopping experience it’s a journey through time. From history buffs to casual shoppers, the center offers something for everyone.
Step Back in Time
Walking through the aisles of Bygone Times feels like entering a museum where you can actually touch and purchase the exhibits. Whether it’s a 1960s jukebox or a Victorian-era sideboard, the range of eras represented here brings history to life in a tangible way.
Treasure Hunting for All Ages
Each visit can be different from the last. With hundreds of individual traders rotating stock regularly, you never know what you might find. That element of surprise is what makes it a favorite among return visitors. Children and adults alike enjoy browsing through the quirky and unexpected items on display.
Perfect for Collectors and Hobbyists
For serious collectors, Bygone Times is a goldmine. Many stalls specialize in niche items such as coins, stamps, comic books, film posters, and rare books. The traders are often enthusiasts themselves, and they’re happy to share information or stories about their collections.
Additional Amenities and Features
Bygone Times is more than just a place to shop. It’s been developed with visitor experience in mind, offering amenities that make it suitable for families, groups, and solo explorers alike.
On-site Café
After a few hours of browsing, visitors can take a break at the on-site café. The café offers traditional British fare including tea, cakes, sandwiches, and hot meals. Its old-fashioned ambiance fits perfectly with the surrounding shopping environment.
Accessible Layout
The facility is designed to be accessible for visitors with limited mobility. Wide corridors, elevators, and seating areas are available throughout the center.
Free Parking and Rest Areas
There’s ample parking on site, including designated spaces for disabled visitors. The large rest areas make it easy to take a breather before continuing your exploration.
Events and Special Attractions
Bygone Times often hosts special events throughout the year, such as vintage fairs, classic car shows, and themed weekends. These events draw larger crowds and usually include live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.
During holidays like Christmas and Easter, the center is decorated and sometimes features festive markets or appearances by costumed characters, making it a fun destination for seasonal outings.
Who Should Visit Bygone Times?
Bygone Times is suitable for a wide range of visitors. It’s ideal for:
- Antique collectors searching for rare finds
- Interior decorators seeking vintage pieces
- Families looking for an unusual weekend outing
- Tourists exploring the charm of rural Lancashire
- Anyone curious about the material culture of decades past
Tips for First-Time Visitors
If it’s your first visit to Bygone Times, here are some helpful tips to make the most of your experience:
- Set aside at least a few hours there’s a lot to see
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the large indoor space
- Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards
- Ask vendors if they are open to negotiation many are happy to haggle
- Check the website or call ahead for event schedules or holiday hours
Bygone Times is a hidden gem in Lancashire that offers a unique blend of shopping, history, and culture. Located in Eccleston near Chorley, this antique and vintage shopping center is a destination in its own right. Whether you’re searching for something specific, exploring on a nostalgic journey, or simply enjoying a day out, Bygone Times delivers a memorable experience. Its easy-to-reach location, massive variety of items, and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among locals and travelers alike. If you’re ever in the North West of England, be sure to stop by and take a walk through the past at Bygone Times.