Littleborough is a village within the Metropolitan Borough of Rochdale, in Greater Manchester. It lies in the upper Roch Valley by the foothills of the South Pennines, 3 miles (4.8 kilometres) northeast of Rochdale and 12.6 miles (20.3 km) north-northeast of the city of Manchester. In 2001, Littleborough and its surrounding residential areas of Calderbrook, Shore and Smithy Bridge were noted as having a population of 13,807. When cotton was launched as a base to make cloths, Littleborough experienced an increase of families, primarily from the neighbouring county, the West Riding of Yorkshire. Affluent houses and estates were developed on the outskirts of the town. Coal mining, engineering ventures and increasingly sizeable textile mills resulted in Littleborough's population expansion and urbanisation, which caused its status as a mill town. During the mid-20th century, imports of more affordable foreign items contributed towards the steady deindustrialisation of Littleborough, but the business diversity of the town allowed it to keep off the ensuing economic depression, which was felt elsewhere in North West England. Littleborough's stone-built town centre is designated as a Conservation Area for its unique architectural qualities. The town also boasts good dining and leisure facilities, with Littleborough Rugby Union Football Club being made 'Club of the Year' at National Ruby Football Awards. For all your home upgrades, make certain to make use of reliable experts in Littleborough to make certain of quality.