Althams goes back in time to celebrate 150 years of service

Althams Travel staff will be dressed in Victorian outfits and offer refreshments, games and events all week, starting from today.

Vanessa Thompson, assistant manager of the Bolton branch, said: “We’re going back 150 years of service and just want people to come and join us here in the celebration.

“All week, we have loads of offers. People can win £150, and we have lots of holiday deals. There’s never been a better time to book a trip”.

Althams Bolton staff in Victorian outfits (Image: Newsquest)

Abraham Altham, a tea merchant, first opened Althams in 1874 in Burnley. He rewarded loyal customers with trips to Blackpool for afternoon tea.

Three years later, he began to focus more on travel.

Michelle Green, Travel Advisor at Althams says: “He had a travel desk in all his shops where he’d sell train tickets and day trips”.

Althams hundreds of years ago (Image: Althams)

“As time went by, the grocery side of his store was not going so well.

“Towards the 1960s, all the Althams branches were converted into travel agencies”.

Tea and sandwiches on offer at Althams Bolton branch (Image: Newsquest)

Now, to celebrate the 150th anniversary, the Burnley branch is reenacting Altham’s coach rides.

Victoria said: “All our passengers are off to Blackpool on Victorian coaches run by our lovely staff”.

Branches in Farnworth and across the North West will also offer competitions, special events and vouchers.