Botany Bay, Chorley

Botany Bay is an old mill which is basically filled to the brim with shops and stores. One floor in particular reminds us of a permanent car boot sale where odd bits and bats, which are new but are like craft and brick-a-brack stalls. There is also art to buy as well as bedding, candles, some toys and at Christmas upstairs has this fantastic Christmas shop where the whole floor is dedicated to christmas trees and decorations. There are two restaurants ie. cafes, which are really basic, not very exciting at all. They serve some odd looking butties and and some odd hot snacks. The last few times we've been for the day (and it does take a good few hours) we've not eaten at Botany Bay and gone to Puddletown Pirates play area after we've shopped and eaten the cafe food there. Yes, it's that bad. There is a Dr. Who exhibition opening at Botany Bay early this year to extend upon the tardis which is already there, so good for any Dr. Who fans in the family. The shops are more exciting for children, it's more like an exploration session than retail therapy. One comment is that toilets are so spread out. If you're potty training, which we were last time we went, it is an absolute disaster. Totally not what you need. It's a fun day out with lots of variety and you never know what bargains you'll find. We like it and it's worth a visit.