Location and coordinates are for the approximate centre of Atherton within this administrative area. Geographic features and populated places may cross administrative borders.
Gazetteer of the British Isles (Edinburgh: Bartholomew, 1887). John Bartholomew
Atherton, township and town with ry. sta., SW. Lancashire, 13 miles NW. of Manchester, 2426 ac., pop. 12,602; 1 Bank. It has cotton factories, collieries, and ironworks.