Rawtenstall is a town in the Rossendale district of Lancashire, England. It is located in the valley of the River Irwell, about 17 miles north of Manchester. The town has a population of around 23,000 people. Historically, Rawtenstall was a small rural village, but during the 19th century, it developed into a thriving mill town with a number of cotton mills and other factories. The town's prosperity declined in the 20th century, but it has since undergone significant regeneration, with the development of a number of new housing estates and retail parks. Rawtenstall has a number of notable landmarks and attractions, including the East Lancashire Railway, which runs steam trains through the town, and the Rossendale Museum, which tells the story of the area's industrial heritage. The town also has a number of parks and green spaces, including the Whitaker Park and the St Mary's Gardens. Overall, Rawtenstall is a pleasant town with a rich history and a range of attractions and amenities to offer residents and visitors alike.