Orwell's journey to Northern England

Orwell's journey to Northern England was motivated by his desire to investigate the social conditions faced by the working class. He began his trip by utilizing public transport and walking, arriving in Manchester where he had to find accommodation in a common lodging-house due to the timing of his arrival. The following day, he received a list of contacts from Richard Rees, which included trade union official Frank Meade. Meade recommended Wigan as a place to explore further. In Wigan, Orwell found himself staying in substandard lodgings above a tripe shop, which reflected the harsh living conditions prevalent in the area. During his time in Wigan, Orwell engaged in various activities to gain a deeper understanding of the local populace. He visited numerous homes to observe the living conditions of the residents and went down into the Bryn Hall coal mine to experience the working environment of miners firsthand. Additionally, he consulted public health records to gather data on the health issues affecting the community. This journey provided Orwell with critical insights into the struggles of the working class, which would later influence his writings and political views.