15th March 2009 - by Russ Heard
Ilkeston Tourist Information & Travel Guide
Ilkeston lies on the River Erewash and is the third largest
town within Derbyshire. Historically, Ilkeston has industries
in coal mining, lace making and iron handling, however in the
past few decades the relevance and importance of these
industries has declined. Ilkeston is situated closely to
Nottingham and is officially seen as being part of the
Nottingham Metropolitan area by the Office for National
Statistics.
For a cultural experience of the town you can visit the Erewash
Museum located on High Street that depicts the social history
of Ilkeston which opened in the 1980’s. The museum showcases a
variety of exhibitions some of which are permanent including
the Edwardian kitchen, wash house and exhibition of children’s
toys. Local artists regularly exhibit their artwork at The
Lally Gallery alongside exhibitions of history and crafts.
There are also events on for families however in some cases
children may have to be accompanied by an adult. Visitors can
take part in live demonstrations and there are ongoing displays
and entertainment filled programmes that take place all year
round and on bank holidays.
Scala Cinema is another attraction in Ilkeston which was built
in the early part of the 19th century and had the seating
capacity to hold 1000 people. In present day, it can seat just
over 400 visitors as its balcony is now closed. It is fully
furbished with Dolby surround sound and can also be used as a
children’s party venue This cinema has historical value as it
stands as one of the oldest operational purpose based cinemas
in all of England. Parking here is free on Sundays, every day
after 6pm and bank holiday Mondays.
Situated 2 miles from Ilkeston is The Bottlekiln, a Buttery
Café, card & gift shop that displays modern crafts and
galleries. Originally an old pottery house, The Bottlekiln is a
relaxing environment as the café offers home made cakes, fresh
coffee and much more. The gift shop has detailed one off gifts
including personalised cups and also has a range of home wares
for purchase. Also found here is a beautiful and tranquil
Japanese garden where visitors can sit back and enjoy the
view.
The arts and crafts gallery is located near the café, so it is
best to be here prior to or following lunch time, especially if
you would like to take your time and appreciate the brilliant
displays found in this gallery. The Bottlekiln also stocks
jewellery and has actually been a recipient of receiving an
award for ‘Best gift retailer of jewellery in UK 2008’
alongside becoming finalists for the ‘Best Independent Card
Retailer, Midlands & Wales 2008’. The Buttery café won
awards for ‘The BSA best beverage experience award 2007’.
If you are looking for places to dine out in Ilkeston, you will
find many pubs offering food and drink some of a traditional
original and some that are more stylish in their interior such
as Mail House on South Street. However, there are many fine
Italian, Chinese and Indian restaurants such as The Shah Jehan
Restaurant catering Indian cuisine, found on Awsworth
Road.
Source: http://articlesabroad.com
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