Culture, family-friendly days out and standout experiences as Culture 26 celebrations continue

This May, Halton’s cultural calendar comes into focus, with a programme of events that reflect the borough’s creativity, heritage and sense of place as part of Culture 26. From live music, inclusive Pride performances and creative experiences, this month highlights the diverse ways culture is shared and celebrated across Halton. With the return of the Beyond The Tracks Music Trains, to scenic boat trips along the Bridgewater Canal, Plant Hunters’ Fair at Norton Priory and the reopening of Victoria Park Butterfly House for spring and summer. We’ve rounded up some of the key events and experiences to help you make the most of what’s on in Halton this May.

Re-Opening of Victoria Park Butterfly House

Monday 4th May | 11am – 2pm | Free

It’s almost time! After a few months of planting, painting and careful preparation, volunteers are putting the final touches in place ahead of the reopening of the Victoria Park Butterfly House & Garden.

On Monday 4^th May celebrate the return of the tropical butterflies, with a free family-friendly event featuring activities for all ages, special guests and a tombola.

Buskers of The World Unite at Victoria Park

Sunday 10th May | 1pm – 3pm | Free

Head to the Victoria Park Bandstand to celebrate the official launch of Halton’s Music 26 programme. This relaxed outdoor event brings live performances from Greg Oldfield, Matt McGurty, ZBB Choir and more, showcasing the talent that shapes Halton’s vibrant music scene in the heart of the park.

Words for Wellbeing Writing Group

Tuesday 12th & Sunday 17th May | 7:15pm | From £10

Take some time out for yourself at Words for Wellbeing, a gentle and welcoming writing group designed to help you slow down, reflect and reconnect your words. This small monthly gathering offers a relaxed space to explore writing for personal expression and self-understanding; no experience is needed, and there’s no pressure to share.

Guided by local counsellor and writer Janie, sessions use poems, prompts and creative invitations to encourage reflection at your own pace with curiosity, creativity and a willingness to explore.

Spaces are limited – book your place now and enjoy a creative evening focused on wellbeing and self-expression.

Amazing Animals at The Brindley

Sunday 17th May | 1pm & 4:30pm

If you love animals, you’ll love this fun-filled family show, dedicated to celebrating all creatures great and small. Amazing Animals is the original spectacle where your favourite animals appear right before your eyes, with absolutely NO LIVE ANIMALS.

Packed with music, comedy and incredible animal effects, it’s the perfect family experience for all ages, from toddlers to grown-ups alike.

Book your tickets now and enjoy a truly unforgettable animal adventure

Cabaret Pride LGBTQ+ Scratch Night

Friday 22nd May | 7:30pm | The Brindley | £8 | 16+

Discover bold new voices and never-seen-before performances at Cabaret Pride, a vibrant LGBTQ+ scratch night celebrating Pride and talent Made in Halton.

This one-night cabaret brings together local artists and performers for a chance to share work they’re developing or are deeply passionate about, in front of a live audience. With acts ranging from spoken word and poetry to dance, comedy, music and performance art. Expect an energetic evening where creativity takes the stage and audiences get a first look at ideas in progress, in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Performers include members of local communities, groups and organisations including, of Cultivate Halton, Pride in Halton, GLOW by VibeUK, Andrew Curphey Theatre Company, VML and is supported by Mooncup Theatre, Northwest HIV Support CIC and Transformation Northwest CIC. The night champions community, collaboration and expression with all profits shared between performers.

Book your ticket now and be a part of an exciting night celebrating Pride, talent and creativity Made in Halton

Unlock Runcorn Cruises along the Canal

Saturday 2nd & Tuesday 26th May | Prices + Times Vary

Unlock Runcorn cruises are returning this spring, offering a relaxed and indulgent way to experience the borough from the water. Kicking off the season on Saturday 2nd May, Cream Tea Cruises will glide along the historic Bridgewater Canal, pairing a delicious homemade cream tea with scenic views of Halton.

Later in the month, on 26th May, boats will cruise between Top Locks and Norton Priory, and Phoenix Park and Preston Brook, offering a fresh perspective on Halton and the chance to discover local heritage from the water

Spaces are limited – enjoy Halton’s historic waterways by securing your place before they’re gone

Return of Music Trains

Thursday 28th | Runcorn – Chester

Live music meets travel once again in Halton, as Music Trains roll back onto the rails this May half-term. Travellers with a standard rail ticket between Runcorn and Chester can enjoy a free live concert onboard.

Packed with atmosphere and Halton pride, Music Trains promises an entertaining journey like no other, as new performers take to the carriage to celebrate the borough’s rich musical culture and heritage. A legacy connecting Halton to musical icons including The Beatles, The Stone Roses and Melanie C, who introduces the new Beyond The Tracks Music Trail. Included in the price of your ticket, enjoy live music as you travel, spend time exploring Chester’s history, or hop on the return train to Runcorn for another round of onboard entertainment.

Artists and train times are still under wraps, so be sure to follow @visithalton on social media to be the first to hear the latest announcements.

Plant Hunter’s Fair at Norton Priory

Sunday 31^st May | 10am – 4pm | £1 Entrance Fee

Feeling like you need to spruce up your home so it’s ready for summer? Discover something special at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at Norton Priory, where keen gardeners and plant enthusiasts can snap up affordable, unusual plants and garden accessories.

A wide range of specialist growers and family-run nurseries will be on hand, including RHS medallists, offering expert knowledge and a carefully curated selection of plants you won’t find on the high street. Growers include Pottertons Nursery, Primrose Bank and Freckles & Flora – with the full list available to view here.

Set beside the stunning 2.5 acre Georgian Walled Garden, the fair takes place in one of Halton’s most atmospheric historic settings. Norton Priory is home to the National Collection of Quince, which are scattered across the site with fruit and vegetable gardens, a beautiful rose walk and other hidden gems for visitors to find inside the Walled Gardens.

Entrance to the plant fair is £1 per person, but for a limited time make a full day out of it with a whole site ticket for only £9 (includes 1 Adult & 3 Children). Explore everything Norton Priory has to offer, from excavated medieval ruins and the striking St Christopher statue to peaceful woodland trails and beautiful gardens. It’s exceptional value for the perfect day out for families and gardeners.

Discounted whole site tickets are only available in advance – book your early bird tickets online

Widnes Market

Looking for more information about Culture 26; Made in Halton?

Check out our stall at Widnes Market, open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Mornings to ask questions about what culture and what Culture 26; Made in Halton is all about!

Frequently Asked Questions about Halton

What is Halton known for?

Halton is known for its industrial heritage, particularly its role in the UK’s chemical industry, as well as its historic landmarks, cultural festivals and natural green spaces. Today, it combines heritage attractions with a growing creative and cultural offer.

What heritage attractions are in Halton?

Halton is home to Norton Priory, one of the largest excavated monastic sites in Europe, featuring archaeological remains, museum galleries and historic gardens. The borough also includes historic villages and towns such as Runcorn, Widnes, Daresbury and Hale, industrial landmarks like Catalyst Science and Discovery Centre, the UK’s first and only chemical industry museum and sites connected to British royalty and literature.

What is Halton’s connection to Lewis Carroll?

Daresbury, a village in Halton, is the birthplace of Lewis Carroll, author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The local landscape and characters are widely believed to have influenced elements of his stories, including the Cheshire Cat.

Does Halton have royal history?

Yes. Henry Bolingbroke, later King Henry IV of England, lived at Halton Castle during his time as Baron of Halton. His residence there, and the castle’s history, place Halton firmly within an important chapter of medieval English history.

What major events take place in Halton?

Halton hosts the internationally recognised Creamfields Festival held in Daresbury; it is one of the world’s leading electronic music festivals. The borough also supports regular cultural events, art programmes and community-led festivals throughout the year.

How do I get to Halton?

Halton is only 10 miles away from Liverpool John Lennon Airport and is served by the West Coast Main Line and major National Motorway networks.

Runcorn Railway Station: Has direct services to London Euston, Birmingham, Liverpool and Chester.

Widnes Railway Station: Has regular services to Manchester, Warrington and Liverpool Lime Street.

Can visitors explore Halton on foot or by bike?

Yes. Halton has loads of walking and cycling routes to explore, including the Trans Pennine Trail, which passes through the borough. Visitors can also access canalside paths, nature reserves and heritage trails across the area.

Is parking available in Halton?

Free parking and EV charging points are available in locations across the borough, making Halton accessible for visitors travelling by car.

Where can I find things to do in Halton?

Visitors can explore local guides including:

• Taste of Halton: Discover the best places to eat and drink.
• RE:Wild: Explore the borough’s most beautiful green spaces and nature escapes.
• History & Culture: Learn more about Halton’s rich heritage.
• Culture 26: Learn more about Culture 26.
• Beyond The Tracks: Discover stories from Halton’s unexpected musical heritage

To stay up to date with the latest information follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @visithalton.