Reviving Heritage: How the Egyptian Room is Transforming Oldham's Food Scene

One of the most exciting developments in Greater Manchester’s food landscape is the recent recognition of The Egyptian Room, a newly renovated food hall located in Oldham's historic town centre. This vibrant venue has been shortlisted for the prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) North West Awards 2026, celebrating its remarkable transformation from an underutilized space into a culinary hotspot.

A Journey of Restoration

The Egyptian Room is set within a Grade-II listed former town hall, an 180-year-old building that had previously succumbed to neglect and pigeon infestations. Thanks to a painstaking restoration effort by BDP and HNA architects, fueled by local council funding, the building has experienced a renaissance. It now boasts original Victorian features, including striking circular columns adorned with hand-restored Egyptian-inspired tiling, providing a unique charm that blends history with modern culinary experiences.

A Culinary Hub on the Rise

Since its opening in November 2024, The Egyptian Room has quickly become a gathering place for food enthusiasts, featuring six diverse kitchens that cater to a variety of tastes. Traders include renowned local favorites such as Ply Pizza, the Cambodian restaurant Kambuja, and The Last Stop burger joint. Despite facing challenges in the hospitality sector, including rising operational costs and fluctuating foot traffic, businesses within the food hall are reportedly performing better than expected.

Community Pride and Future Aspirations

Local MP Jim McMahon expressed his pride in Oldham’s architectural heritage, highlighting the town's remarkable history and the potential for community pride it encompasses. Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, echoed these sentiments, explaining that The Egyptian Room's recognition by RIBA underscores the collaborative efforts in rejuvenating the town centre while honoring its legacy.

This acknowledgment serves not only as a testament to the hard work and vision invested in revitalizing Oldham but also as an inspiring beacon of hope for other towns and cities looking to celebrate their history while fostering new opportunities for economic growth. The Egyptian Room stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation, proving that with dedication and collaboration, great transformations are possible.