Lying 7 miles south-east of Manchester, the town of Stockport can trace its history back to the foundation of a castle in the area in the late twelfth century and the granting of a borough charter around 1220. The town grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution but the earlier town is still visible in the narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings in the market area of the town centre. Stockport was famous from the sixteenth century for the production of hemp and rope, and became a centre for hat-making and the silk industry. During the nineteenth century it was at the heart of cotton manufacturing and today the rich and varied history of the town can be seen in its unique hatting museum, underground Second World War shelters, art deco cinema and theatre and regenerated former industrial buildings. A-Z of Stockport delves into the history of this historic town, revealing interesting and significant moments in the story of Stockport. It highlights well-known landmarks, famous residents and digs beneath the surface to uncover some of the lesser-known facts about Stockport and its hidden gems. This A-Z tour of Stockport's history is fully illustrated and will appeal to all those with an interest in this fascinating town in Greater Manchester.