These 12 fascinating old photos document many of the changes that have occurred in the borough as far back as the 1920s.
They depict general views of the town’s streets, transport systems and landmark buildings like the Keirby Hotel and Turf Moor.
Take a look at the photo gallery below, courtesy of Lancashire County Council, which are part of Keeping East Lancashire in the Picture. Volunteers are required for this two-year project, which will bring together thousands of people of different ages and backgrounds to make the amazing collections of historic photographs in their libraries more accessible, inclusive and sustainable.
The council is calling for 75 digitisation and research volunteers across four project hubs based in libraries in Burnley, Nelson, Colne and Accrington.
To apply to be a volunteer, contact [email protected] or 01772 533039 and for more information visit https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries-and-archives/archives-and-record-office/keeping-east-lancashire-in-the-picture/

5. Burnley from Healey Heights
View across Burnley taken from Healey Heights in 1981. Credit: Lancashire County Council. Photo: Lancashire County Council

6. Railway viaduct, Burnley
View of the railway viaduct from Burnley North and Stoneyholme in 1983. Credit: Lancashire County Council. Photo: Lancashire County Council

7. Cairo Mill and Old Whitfield, Burnley
View of Cairo Mill and the Old Whitfield area from Boat Horse Lane, Burnley in 1980. Credit: Lancashire County Council Photo: Lancashire County Council

8. Manchester Road, Burnley
Crowds gather in Manchester Road, Burnley, for the royal visit in 1955. Credit: Lancashire County Council Photo: Lancashire County Council

