Tulips of Ashton Are Landing This Spring!
Ashton is about to get a whole lot brighter, the Tulips of Ashton Trail arrives Saturday, 14 March, and we’re so ready for it.
Nine oversized 6ft tulip sculptures will be popping up around the town centre and nearby spots, each one painted by brilliant local artists with help from community groups across Tameside. Every tulip has its own story, and the whole trail runs right through to Sunday 7 June.
The idea takes inspiration from Ashton’s tulip‑trading history and the long‑loved Tulip Sunday at Stamford Park — but with a fresh, colourful twist for 2026
What to Expect
- A fun, colourful route around Ashton Town Centre
- Sculptures created and decorated locally by artists, families, students, community groups and more
- A letter‑hunt challenge for all ages — collect the letters on each tulip, unscramble the mystery word, and complete the trail
- Free trail leaflets and activity sheets online and around town
- Perfect timing for Easter and May/June half‑term
Launch Day: Saturday 14 March, 11am–3pm
Ashton Town Centre will be buzzing with:
- Giant stilt‑walking butterflies
- Carnival dancers from the Great Garden Carnival
- Hands‑on crafts and creative activities for families
- Butterfly fancy dress
Where You’ll Find the Tulips
Look out for them at: Portland Basin, Ashton Old Baths, the Old Library and Archives, the Memorial Peace Garden, Ashton Library and Tameside One, Clarendon College, Stamford Street and St Michael’s Square.
Artists and Community Groups
Anne Louise Kershaw & Nico Ditch Community
Caroline Coates & OutLoud
Gordon Banks & Local History Forum
Helen Dodsworth & Portland Basin Community
Jojo Hayfron & St James' CofE Primary
Lizzie Rigby & Khush Amdid
Toubie Jack & Ashton Family Hub
Caroline Coates. Inspired by Ashton
