Nightlife

Throughout the centuries, Bury has enjoyed a well-deserved reputation as a small center of arts and entertainment. The Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, is the oldest purpose-built theater in England. Its Georgian building has been lovingly and richly restored to its original grandeur. Programs include opera, dance, music, and drama from the best touring companies. Tickets are £8.50 to £35 and can be purchased at the box office (tel. 01284/769505; www.theatreroyal.org).

Stop by the 17th-century pub Dog and Partridge, 29 Crown St. (tel. 01284/764792), and see where the bar scenes from the BBC hit series Lovejoy were filmed while you sample one of the region's Greene King Ales. Also try wiggling your way into the Nutshell, corner of the Traverse and Abbeygate Street (tel. 01284/764867). This pub has been notoriously dubbed the smallest pub in all of England and is a favorite tourist stop. The Masons Arms, 14 Whiting St. (tel. 01284/753955), features more of a family atmosphere and welcomes children. Home-cooked food is served along with a standard selection of ales. There's a patio garden in use in summer.