There's a debate about where Ramsbottom (sometimes called Rammy, Rambo or Tup's Arse) gets its name. Some say it means "rams valley" from Old English ramm (ram) and botm (valley). I prefer the interpretation "The bottom of the valley where the wild garlic (called Ramson) grows". It's half way along the East Lancashire Railway, which runs from Heywood (near Bury) to Rawtenstall. Ramsbottom is the home of the "Readers Restaurant of the Year" in the 2009 "Good Food Guide" which, appropriately enough, is called Ramsons.
On the second Sunday in the month it's Ramsbottom Farmer's market, although I think I prefer Rossendale which is the week before.
There's a nice guide to Ramsbottom here, which also covers events like the World Black Pudding Throwing Championships which takes place in September. There are quite a few good food shops in Ramsbottom, which I'll cover in subsequent posts.
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