The Rochdale Friends of Bielefeld - Town Twinning between Rochdale and Bielefeld, Germany

The Friends of Bielefeld is a voluntary group dedicated to celebrating and strengthening the long-standing relationship between Rochdale and its German twin town, Bielefeld.

The partnership began in 1953 when Alderman Crowder, Chair of Rochdale Education Committee, and Mr Robinson from the Education Department visited Bielefeld to develop youth exchanges. Over the following decades, many Rochdale residents visited Bielefeld and hosted German young people in their homes, creating lasting memories and friendships. The group would be delighted to hear from anyone who took part in these exchanges.

Numerous exchanges have taken place over the years, including visits by youth groups, Rochdale Swimming Club in 1966, and a 1975 exchange hosted by members of Thrum Hall Methodist Church. In 1969/70, the twinning associations “Rochdale Friends of Bielefeld” and “Freunde von Rochdale” were formally established. Since then, reciprocal visits have continued on a regular basis, alternating between the two towns.

Most recently, Bielefeld visitors spent a week in Rochdale in September 2025, and in September 2026 Rochdale members enjoyed a five-day visit to Bielefeld with their hosts. The Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale also joined the visit.

Today, the group welcomes new members of all ages and backgrounds who are interested in British-German friendship, cultural exchange and international understanding.

Timings

Saturday 19 September:

1030-1530

Sunday 20 September:

1030-1400

Location & directions

4-6 St Mary's Gate, Rochdale, Greater Manchester, OL16 1DZ

Directions:

The Friends of Bielefeld exhibition will take place within the Church of St Mary in the Baum, Rochdale.

Contact on day:

Barry Hobson

Telephone number:

+447724135099

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Limited free parking is available in the church grounds via a gate accessible from St Mary's Gate. Blue Badge parking is also available on St Mary's Gate. Alternative parking is available in the Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre or at Reed Hill car park (OL16 1DX) which is accessed from Hunters Lane. There is also a car park off St Mary's Gate facing the church and visitors can then use the pedestrian crossing to cross the dual carriageway safely.

Additional information

The Church wardens will be on hand on the 19th and 20th of September and will also provided tours and more information about the church. Refreshments will be available on both days and any donations towards the upkeep of the church would be most welcome.

Max number of people:

60

Estimated duration:

45 minute(s)

Back to results