AM.

Start your day with a giant in the picturesque Hale Village. Home to cobbled streets, thatched cottages, and historic architecture, this charming village gives you a a glimpse into its rich past. Standing in the heart of Hale is a unique tribute to a local legend – the Childe of Hale. The statue commemorates the legend of the local figure, John Middleton, who came from the village of Hale, known to be the tallest man in history! According to legend, John stood at 9ft 3in tall and had to sleep with his feet sticking out of the windows of his cottage in Church End, Hale. If you have time, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks to Hale Lighthouse. An iconic landmark perched on a sandstone cliff overlooks the beaches and salt marsh of the picturesque coastline.

PM

After your morning in Hale Village, head back to Runcorn to Norton Priory Museum & Gardens. Once home to a medieval church, it is now the most excavated monastic sites in Europe. Take in the ruins showing the layout of the medieval buildings and be wowed by the 12^th century Undercroft with its beautiful vaulted ceiling, this site has over 900 years of stories to inspire. Discover fascinating facts and objects in the museum and wonder in the woodland and walled gardens with secret summer houses, a stream glade and sculptures. There is also a great cafe to enjoy a hot drink or a bite to eat with a delicious freshly cooked menu.

Stop off in Runcorn old town to see the Silver Jubilee Bridge linking Widnes and Runcorn. This has become one of Halton’s most recognisable landmarks spanning over 330metres you can’t miss it!

From one bridge to another, marvel at the Runcorn Railway Bridge, connecting stories from past to present. This bridge crosses the River Mersey at Runcorn Gap between Runcorn and Widnes. Recorded in the national heritage list for England as a Grade II listed building, at the time of its completion it was the longest of its type.

Whilst in Runcorn enjoy the view at Halton Castle. Perched on top of Halton Hill, this viewpoint may only exist as ruins, but it has expansive views with a story rich in heritage behind it. This grade 1 listed castle provides you the 360 views of the Mersey, Cheshire Plains and surrounding area, take a break at the top so you can take it all in.

Depending on how much time you have, why not embark on one of our Heritage Walks.

Walks to complete in a day

Lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure through Halton’s past and present.

Bridges, Bobbies, Boats, and a Bustling Town: Runcorn Old Town 

Runcorn Old Town is a charming blend of ancient and modern. Take a stroll along the Bridgewater Canal Towpath, explore the vibrant Promenade, and listen to the echoes of the past in this storied inland port town. Don’t forget to check out the Brindley Theatre, a cultural gem built on the site of a former soap works, offering performances that light up the town’s thriving arts scene.

TIME: Approximately 30 minutes

DISTANCE: 2km approx

Thatch-Hamlet, Famous Giant, and a 45ft Lighthouse: Hale 

Hale’s charm rivals that of popular hamlets in the Cotswolds and Yorkshire Dales. Stroll from the village to Hale Head Lighthouse, soaking up breathtaking views of the Mersey and the lush Cheshire hills. Perfect for filling your social media feeds with beautiful snapshots.

TIME: Approximately 70 minutes

DISTANCE: 5km approx

Tree-Lined Walkways, a Tower, and a Miniature Train: Runcorn Town Park 

For those who crave the great outdoors, Runcorn Town Park is the largest park in the borough, offering a delightful escape into nature. Recently revamped to be more accessible, the park is dotted with picnic spots, historical landmarks, and abundant wildlife. Climb to the iconic Water Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the meadows and woodlands or hop on the miniature train for a fun ride through this verdant paradise.

TIME: Approximately 40 minutes

DISTANCE: 3.5km approx

Science, Industry, Stone Roses and Promenade Strolls: West Bank

As you stand at West Bank today it is hard to imagine how it, Spike Island and the Sankey Canal all played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution. The areas location and waterways made it the perfect place to pioneer copper, soap and chemicals production. Look out over the river views to the modern gateway bridge while discovering hints of Halton’s past.

TIME: Approximately 40 minutes

DISTANCE: 3km approx

Zeppelins, Red Admirals, A War Hero and a Hit Record: Victoria Park

A small pocket of Widnes filled with so much history and significance, from the station to one of the town’s oldest parks. This area has plenty of tales to tell, inspiring world-famous musicians and immortalised a Victoria Cross awardee. Pick up the trail at the station musical myths are naming as the birthplace for a global hit single, and head towards Victoria park with its open space, butterfly house plus so much more. It’s time to make some tracks.

TIME: Approximately 35 minutes

DISTANCE: 2.5km approx

A Mad Hatter, Enchanting Woodlands and Famous Footsteps: Daresbury

Discover the small, charming village of Daresbury, you’ll feel a world away in this wonderland waiting to be explored. Take a stroll around the birthplace of one of the world’s best loved writers, Lewis Carroll. You’ll be inspired by the idyllic surroundings, let the curiosity take charge and explore.

TIME: Approximately 2 hours

DISTANCE: 8km approx