website: http:
www.merciatouristboard.org.uk
24 hour
Hotline Tel: +44(0) 845 868 2810 or +44(0)207 183 4978
Fax : +44(0)
845 862 1954Click
here to
contact us
THE DOOMSDAY BOOK
Facebook is
suing a company called Teachbook , which operates
a social networking site for teachers, apparently because it has "book"
in its name and "competes" with Facebook. Teachbook is described as "a
professional community for teachers". Sounds like a threat to
Facebook's existence doesn't it?
Well we know of a book that predates Facebook and tells us all about Cheshire .
Yes "The Doomsdaybook! The Domesday Book was commissioned in December
1085 by William the Conqueror, who invaded England in 1066. The first
draft was completed in August 1086 and contained records for 13,418
settlements in the English counties south of the rivers Ribble and Tees
(the border with Scotland at the time). Read about Cheshire in
The Doomsday Book
Welcome to Mercia. Press Control+B to Bookmark this
site
for later reference.
The
Comprehensive
Website for the Ancient English Kingdom of Mercia
Mercia, sometimes spelled Mierce , was one of the
kingdoms
of the Anglo-Saxon heptarchy, in what is now the Midlands region of
England,
with its heart in the Trent valley and its tributary streams. This site
shows places of Interest &
Events in Cheshire.
I'm Sammy, Your Webmistress.
THE
MERCIA TOURIST BOARD Our
Group has
generated
over 380 million visits to our sites since 1999,
and
this is your
opportunity
to
participate in the success.Join
up
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UK Children now on
par with 3rd world starving.
A damning indictment of the
UK's dismissal of their obligations to its own children as
well as its vulnerable disabled. Whilst children in the UK are
plunged into poverty and near starvation, the
UK government pretends to be 'saving the 3rd world' from
starvation and injustice. The ultimate and
cruel hypocrisy of today's Britain as one of the
world's richest economies, we join the USA in hiding the
truth of what really is happening. We too have soup kitchens, and
church charities providing food for hungry families, 200 of them within
60 miles of where I live.. Save the
world's children dismiss your own. The UK gave
£80m to Africa recently, that was to buy influence away from
China. Madness, and completely immoral.
In the 30’s and 40’s, we fought for
children’s right to adequate nutrition in the UK. Our campaigning was a
success: the Education Act of 1944 made it compulsory that all schools
in the UK provide milk to children under the age of 18. We continue
fight for children in the UK today by supporting some of the most
vulnerable children and families. Right now, 1.6 million children live
in severe poverty in the UK. Our programmes make sure children living
in poverty get off to the best possible start in education, and we’re
making sure they get the essentials they need - a hot meal, blankets, a
warm bed.
The Angles
came here for a visit 1515 years ago and liked it so much
they have stayed.
According
to sources such as the History of Bede, after the invasion of
Britannia, the Angles split up and founded the kingdoms of the Nord
Angelnen (Northumbria), Ost Angelnen (East Anglia), and the Mittlere
Angelnen (Mercia). Confirmation is afforded by English and Danish
traditions relating to two kings named Wermund and Offa of Angel, from
whom the Mercian royal family claimed descent and whose exploits are
connected with Angeln, Schleswig, and Rendsburg. Danish tradition has
preserved record of two governors of Schleswig, father and son, in
their service, Frowinus (Freawine) and Wigo (Wig), from whom the royal
family of Wessex claimed descent. During the 5th century, the Anglii
invaded Great Britain, after which time their name does not recur on
the continent except in the title of Suevi Angili.
Our Group has
generated over 380 million visits to our sites since 1999, and this is
your opportunity to
participate in the success. Join
up with these
leading UK advertising
sites to maximise your website's viewing in Britain.
Cheshire
Cheshire
(or,
archaically, the County of Chester). The county town,
and
the location of the county council, is the city of Chester, although
Cheshire's
largest town in terms of size and population is Warrington. Other major
towns
include Congleton, Crewe, Ellesmere Port, Runcorn, Macclesfield,
Northwich,
and Wilmslow The county is bordered by Merseyside and Greater
Manchester
to the north, Derbyshire to the east, Staffordshire and Shropshire to
the
south, Flintshire and Wrexham in Wales to the west. The ceremonial county has an
overall
area of 2,343 square kilometres and has a population of approximately
993,200.The
county is mostly rural with a number of small towns and villages that
support
an agricultural industry. It is historically famous for the production
of
Cheshire cheese, salt, bulk chemicals and the weaving of silk.Domesday Book was recorded as a larger county than it is
today.
It included two hundreds which later became part of Wales:
Atiscross and Exestan. The area in between the Mersey and Ribble (referred to in the Domesday Book as
"Inter
Ripam et Mersham") formed part of the returns for Cheshire. Although some have taken this to mean
that,
at this time, south Lancashire was part of Cheshire, more exhaustive research indicates that
the
boundary between Cheshire and what was to become Lancashire remained
the
river Mersey.With minor
variations
in spelling across sources, the complete list of hundreds of Cheshire at this time are: Atiscross, Bochelau, Chester, Dudestan, Exestan, Hamestan, Middlewich, Riseton, Roelau, Tunendune, Warmundestrou .
In
1182
the land north of the
Mersey became
administered as part of the
new county of Lancashire, thus resolving any uncertainty about the
county
in which the land "Inter Ripam et Mersham" was.. Over the years the ten hundreds
consolidated
and changed names to leave just seven — Broxton, Bucklow, Eddisbury, Macclesfield, Nantwich, Northwich, and Wirral. Through the Local
Government
Act 1972 which came into effect in 1974, some areas in the north west
became
part of the metropolitan counties of Greater Manchester and Merseyside.
Stockport
(previously a county borough), Hyde, Dukinfield and Stalybridge in the
north-east became part of Greater Manchester. Much of the Wirral
Peninsula in the north-west,
including the county boroughs of Birkenhead and Wallasey, joined
Merseyside.
At the same time the Tintwistle Rural District was transferred to
Derbyshire.
The area of Lancashire south of the Merseyside/Greater Manchester area,
including
Widnes and the county borough of Warrington was added to the new
non-metropolitan
county of Cheshire .Halton and Warrington became unitary authorities
independent of Cheshire County Council on 1 April 1998, but remain part
of Cheshire for
ceremonial purposes, as well as fire and policing .
Great British Heritage Pass
- Visit Britain with the Great British Heritage Pass - the best of
British sightseeing and historic Britain for UK visitors. Get free
entry to almost 600 British heritage tourist attractions around
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
CHESHIRE
ATTRACTIONS
CHESHIRE ATTRACTIONS
PICTURE
ADDRESS & WEBSITE
Tel/Fax
Adlington
Hall
The Cheshire Manor Home of the Leghs
since
1315. The Great Hall was built between 1450 and 1505, the Elizabethan
“Black and White” in 1581 and the Georgian South Front in 1757. The
Great Hall houses
a ‘Father’ Bernard Smith organ played by Handel.Garden features
include
a maze, rose garden, penstemon garden and the Father Tiber Water
Garden,
and a wilderness with follies, including a Chinese Bridge, Temple for
Diana,
T’lng House and Shell Cottage.
Dramatic
red
sandstone escarpment, with impressive views. Fine
views
across Cheshire towards the Peak District - Lovely walks through oak
and beech
woodlands - Copper mining heritage since prehistoric and Roman times -
'Site
of Special Scientific Interest' for its unique geology
Alexander’s
Jazz
Theatre is a leading North West venue for jazz, blues and rock
artists.
It is also the main venue for the annual Chester Jazz and Blues
Festival.
Saturdays bring a variety of alternative comedy to Chester for
Alexander’s
famed comedy nights. Alexander’s is all about ambience and the joy
of
being “close” to the performance. You can also combine an evenings
music
with an evening meal. Please enquire when booking your tickets.
Anderton
Boat
Lift
The Anderton Boat Lift was the world’s first boat
lift
and is currently the only one within the UK. It was built in 1875 and
is
known as the “Cathedral of the Canals” due to its importance as one of
the greatest monuments of the engineering marvels of the canal age. The
lift
has now been fully restored to working order. Visitors can see how the
lift
is controlled inside the exhibition area and take a boat trip through
the
lift.
A garden
to
charm and delight, surrounded by lush parkland, the award winning
gardens
feature the magnificent double herbaceous border, the unique ilex
columns,
topiary and tree avenues, collections of shrub roses, rhododenrums,
azaleas
and herbaceous plants. Open from 31st March to 29th Sept, closed
Mondays,
11am - 5pm. The hall, very much a family home, is open Tuesday’s and
Sunday’s
only from noon. There is a restaurant, gift shop, and picnic area and
plant
nursery. We have disabled facilities and dogs are welcome.
Altrincham was
established
as a market town in 1290, though most medieval communities were based
around
agriculture rather than trade. The historic market in Altrincham,
established
800 years ago, continues today. The town continued to grow, but
prosperity
came with the completion of the Altrincham section of the Bridgewater
Canal
in 1776, and the completion of the railway in 1849, precipitating the
arrival
of industry to the town, as well as its growth as a commuter town.
Broadheath
developed as an industrial area due to its location near the canal and
railway.Today,
the town encompasses many smaller villages and the grounds of Dunham
Massey
Hall—formerly the home of the Earl of Stamford—a tourist attraction
with three
Grade I Listed Buildings and a deer park. Altrincham is also the home
of
Altrincham F.C. and Manchester Phoenix, an elite ice hockey club.
Standing majestically on sheer,
rocky
crags, Beeston Castle has perhaps the most stunning views from any
castle
in England. Its history stretches back over 4,000 years, to when it was
a
Bronze Age hill fort. The huge castle was built from 1226 and soon
became
a royal stronghold, only falling centuries later during the English
Civil
War. Inspired by what he had heard when knights returned from the Holy
Land
in the early thirteenth Century, Earl Ranulf of Chester had set about
building
himself this virtually impregnable castle.
Beeston,
Cheshire
CW6 9TX
Phone:
+44
(0)1829 260464
Blakemere Craft Centre
Over 30 shops, set around
charming
Edwardian stables. Huge selection of unusual items from soft
furnishings
to ladies fashions and handmade chocolates to fine art and prints.
Numerous
craft shops – watch craftsmen at work. Our new Tropical Garden Centre
offers an extensive range of cold hardy tropical plants with expert and
friendly advice. Plus Aquatic and Falconry Centre with bird of prey
flying displays
and fantastic aviaries. Also craft activities, Children’s Playbarn and
outdoor adventure play park for children upto 10 years. Excellent
restaurant and
coffee shop. Now open 7 days a week 10am - 5pm.
At
Blue
Planet Aquarium, the largest aquarium anywhere in the UK, you’re
guaranteed
to see more types of shark than anywhere else in Britain. And they are
BIG!
We’ve got more than 10 different species from around the world
including
our famous sand tiger sharks! At the heart of your ultimate underwater
adventure
is Aquatunnel, one of the longest in the world at 70m long with a
moving
walkway and everywhere you look, you’ll find a shark looming overhead.
You
can also swim with sharks - see web site for details!
At the National
Waterways
Museum Ellesmere Port we bring Britain's canal history to life.
Explore
the former canal port and experience life aboard our collection of
canal and
river boats.Discover the stories of the people who worked on our canals
and
rivers through interactive displays, film and audio recordings.And step
back
in time at the dock workers’ cottages and see how people lived from the
1840s
to the 1950s.Designed by Thomas Telford under the direction of William
Jessop,
this was a working canal port until the 1950s. The scheme of locks,
docks
and warehouses together with the pump and engine room which provided
the
power for boats and cranes, blacksmiths forge and stables vividly
recreate
what life was like at the turn of the century.
Bollin
Valley
Partnership
The Bollin rises in the Pennines and flows through Macclesfield,
Wilmslow,
and Bowden and eventually into Manchester ship canal, about 30 miles
from
its source. The Bollin Valley Partnership manages over 100 miles of
waymarked
footpaths; several picnic sites, a Country Park and Aviation-viewing
Park.
It works with landowners and individuals to improve the local
countryside
– for wildlife and people – and the rangers run an annual activity
programme.
County
Offices,
Chapel Lane,
Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 1PU
Bramall Hall is a superb example of a
'Cheshire
Black and White' timber framed manor house, with origins dating back to
Medieval
England. The property is lovingly cared for and presents the visitor
with
a marvellous historic record spanning six centures. Journeying through
the
house will give you a glimpse into Bramall Hall's fascinating history -
beautiful
Tudor rooms with spectacular plaster ceilings, a wonderful 16th century
embroidered table carpet and wall paintings, plus many fine examples of
architecture,
furniture and paintings from different periods. The house is set in 70
acres
of beautiful parkland which has been landscaped in the style of
Capability
Brown. The park features two lakes, woodland walks, gardens and a
toddlers
play area.Open : Winter Sat-Sun 1200-1600 Easter-September
Mon-Sat
1300-1700 Sun 1100-1700 October-January Tues-Sat 1300-1600
Woodbank Hall, Woodbank
Park,
Offerton, Stockport, SK7 3NX, Greater Manchester
Bunbury is a
pleasant village
with many old cottages and narrow winding lanes. The village life in
Bunbury,
focuses around its pubs, shops and the magnificent 13th-century St
Boniface
Church, located in the upper village. The church has a monument to Sir
George
Beeston who, at the age of 89, commanded the Dreadnought in the battle
against
the Spanish Armada.Bunbury is also the home to Bunbury Watermill, a
restored
19th-century watermill and working museum.The village is an ideal
starting
point to discover Cheshire’s canals, the Middlewich branch, the
Llangollen
Canal and the Shropshire Union Canal.A mile to the north you negotiate
the
two wide-beamed staircase locks, well known in canal cruising circles.
The
Shropshire Union Canal continuing south passes through quaint towns and
villages,
beautiful tree-lined cuttings and embankments. As part of the Four
Counties
Ring this is a wonderful way to see Cheshire and its surrounds from a
different
view.
Capersthorne Hall Capesthorne Hall is where the Bromley-Davenports and
their
ancestors have lived since Domesday times. It contains a variety of
treasures
including fine paintings, furniture, marbles and Greek vases. It lies
in
gardens and parkland extending over 100 acres.
Castle Park Arts Centre is
housed
in converted stables with an outstanding clock tower. The clock was
supplied
to Joseph Stubs in 1853 and still keeps accurate time. The entrance
gates
to the courtyard are in remembrance of the Wright sisters of Castle
Park.
The Arts Centre is run by volunteers as a charitable trust and holds
many
exhibitions and displays throughout the year as well as providing
meeting
space for local clubs and societies. Local services and handmade goods
can
also be found within the courtyard.
The proposal for Castle Park
Gardens
was made by The Round Table in 1986. The land adjacent to the Arts
Centre
had become derelict and was transformed into the gardens and park that
exist
today. The overriding consideration was to provide easy access and so
hard
surfaced paths were included. The park has an extensive range of trees
and
flowers. As well as the gardens, Castle Park has a large children’s
play
area with everything from climbing frames to swings and slides and
tennis and bowling facilities.
Fluin
Lane,
Frodsham, Cheshire
Catalyst
Catalyst focuses on chemistry
and
its history. There is a glass lift fo the observatory overlooking the
Mersey
and Spike Island waterside park, and a 100+ hands-on exhibits. Melt a
crystal,
take your temperature on our huge thermometer or use touch screen
computers!
Four galleries include Scientrific with huge bubble machine and
EcoQuest
with bridge building. Café, shop and special events during
school holidays.
Admire this beautifully restored
14th
Centruy Chapel which is set in the heart of Chadkirk Country Estate.
Relax
and cherish the peace and tranquillity inside the chapel. Learn about
the
history of this fantastic chapel and its association through legend
with the
7th century missionary Saint Chad, or just relax and enjoy the
refreshments
and then take a walk through delightful woodland and along the scenic
Peak
Forest Canal to Etherow Park
Cheshire and Chester Archives and Local Studies
Service
The Service collects and
preserves historical
records relating to both the ancient and modern county of Cheshire, the
diocese
and the city of Chester. It makes the records available for study free
of
charge by members of the public. It also provides a records management
service
for Cheshire County Council and houses the Local Studies Library. In
addition,
the service is responsible for delivering the archives and local
studies
service for Warrington and Halton boroughs and includes the management
of
the manuscript collection housed at Warrington Library.
Visit the Cheshire Military
Museum
to discover 300 years of history following a £500,000
refurbishment
in 2001. The museum houses fascinating displays and collections
relating
to the Cheshire Regiment, the Cheshire Yeomanry, The 3rd Carabiners,
5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards and Eaton Hall Officer Cadet
school. There is something for all the family including hands-on
exhibits and a first world
war trench. The museum is open every day 10am to 5pm. Last admission
4.30pm.
Cheshire Oaks is a shop-a-holics heaven, with 140
shops
offering discounts of up to 50%. And there's more than just shopping!
Our
younger visitors will love our safety-approved outdoor play area, while
the whole family can enjoy food from around the world in our themed
foodcourt.
Chester is
the
county town of Cheshire, and the lovely agricultural land of the county
surrounds
the city which is situated on the north bank of the River Dee. One of
the
oldest and most complete walled cities, Chester is one of the jewels in
Britain's
crown.Chester has been written about by many people, perhaps Samuel
Johnson
summed it up most succinctly when he wrote to Boswell in 1779, "Chester
pleases
my fancy more than any town I ever saw". Many people feel the same
today,
for what you find is a city full of history, with truly stunning
architecture.
A city with excellent shops and restaurants, lively and vibrant, where
locals
and tourists alike delight in Chester's rich heritage. You will find historical legacies from almost every period in
Chester;
the Romans occupied the town in 79 AD and built their fortress (Castra
Devana),
named 'Deva' after the River Dee. Parts of the original Roman walls
still
remain and are now a pleasant walkway, with elevated views of the city.
In the
dark
ages, the Vikings landed in their long-ships and invaded Chester, but
in the
10th century the Norsemen were vanquished by the daughter of Alfred the
Great,
Aeth elflaeda, who for protection extended and strengthened the old
Roman
walls around the city. During the Anglo-Saxon period, Chester produced
coins
from its own mint, some still survive and are on display in the
Grosvenor
Museum. The pink stone church of St John the Baptist, built by the
Saxon king
Ethelred in 689, was rebuilt in Norman times, and although partly
ruined is
still an impressive example of Norman architecture.
When Chester
eventually
became a Norman stronghold, William the Conqueror founded Chester
Castle and
created the title 'Earl of Chester' for his nephew Hugh the Wolf. 'Earl
of
Chester' is a title still given to the eldest son of the reigning
monarch.
In the Middle Ages Chester was the most prosperous port in the north of
England,
with trading routes to Ireland, Scotland and parts of the continent.
Parts
of the old quay is still visible at Roodee Racecourse, which now
occupies
the old harbour site. The 'Rows', originally built in medieval times,
are
unique to Chester. Four streets meet at the Cross, where the town crier
welcomes visitors to the city. The Rows of magnificent old black and
white half-timbered,
galleried buildings, raised above street level are reached by flights
of
stone steps. Today they house shops, restaurants, little museums and
the occasional pub.
No
one
knew that Chester had an amphitheatre until 1929 when a large
curved
wall was discovered while a boiler room was being built underneath Dee
House.
Parts of the western entrance, outer and arena walls and the arena
itself were then unearthed. Angry protests at plans to build a road
straight across the site were successful and the road now curves around
the amphitheatre. Excavation work is ongoing at the site, which housed
another Roman building
before the amphitheatre was built in the first century AD.
Enjoy a relaxing
30 minute
cruise, journeying up river beneath the suspension bridge, Grosvenor
Park
and the Earls Eye, following the long sweep of the 'meadows'.
Delightful views
are seen of beautiful and interesting riverside properties and gardens.
Enjoy
commentary and a drink from the bar as you cruise along the river.
All cruises depart from the
Boating
Station
Souters Lane,
The Groves,
Chester,
CH1 1SD CHESTER
BOATS
WEBSITE
tel: 01244
325394 01244 325396
Chester Cathedral
Chester
Cathedral
is the most complete medieval monastic building still
standing
in the UK. It was founded as a Benedictine Monastery in 1092 and was
rededicated
as the Cathedral Church of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1542,
following
the dissolution of the monasteries. The Cathedral boasts splendid
stained
glass windows and brilliant sculptures and fabrics. The Bell Tower was
introduced
to the grounds under Dean Addleshaw in 1975. The present building
contains
material from every century since the tenth as the Cathedral grew out
of
three previous churches.
Chester Football
Club
were founded in 1885 as an amalgamation of Chester Rovers and Old
King's Scholars
and initially played their home games at Faulkner Street in the Hoole
area
of the city. For the first five years of their existence they only
played
friendlies until joining the Combination League in 1890. On June 1st
1931
Chester were elected to the Football League.
The Stadium,
Bumper's
Lane,
off Sealand Road, Chester
Chester History
and
Heritage
The history of the city and it's architecture . Chester History
&
Heritage is the first place to contact when you want to discover your
Chester
ancestors or find out about the history of Chester City and District.
Chester Library
features
elaborately moulded terracotta and red bricks. Its original home in St.
John
Street was demolished and this building was converted with the original
façade
retained. Philip Lockwood had built it in 1913 from a design for
coachbuilders
and the motor showroom of the Westminster Coach and Motor Car Works. It
then
housed an arts centre, which has sadly never been replaced. The
library,
town hall and Cathedral are within seconds of one another and make up
one
of the most stunning areas of the city.
Play the ultimate
sci-fi
Action adventure game for all ages. If you like "Star Wars" you'll love
the
laser zapping, adrenaline charged excitement as you battle for victory
in
the sci-fi battle zone of the future. This is no video game this is for
real!Open
daily 11am to 10pm
Chester Race
Company
is a dynamic and rapidly expanding organisation. The company’s vision
is
that it becomes synonymous in people’s psyche as a first option in
deciding what to do in their “leisure” time. The extensive “what’s on”
list is grown season on season with racing as its core product
offering. The Racecourse
now also offers: polo, horse show, concerts, fine dining, theatre box
office, the circus etc. In the medium term we continue to work towards
guaranteeing that all events that take place at Chester &
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourses are all organized to the same exacting
standards and provide visitors to the event of their choice with a 1st
class “experience
The Racecourse is situated in the
heart
of Chester supported by an extensive road and rail network.
The M53, M56, M6 and A483 are all in close proximity to Chester
providing
excellent links from Liverpool, Manchester, North Wales and the south
of England.
The Racecourse is signed from all the major routes into Chester on
racedays.For general enquiries, Email Chester Races,
or fax the racecourse on 01244 304648. CHESTER RACES CLICK
tel: 01244 304600
Chester Rows
The Rows form a
second
level of shops above those on street level and are the only known
examples
in the world although no one is sure why they were built in this way.
Some
original 13th century buildings have survived such as the Three Old
Arches
in Bridge Street but many are Victorian copies. The steps up to the
second
level are often steep but easier access to part of the rows on Bridge
Street
is via the Grosvenor Shopping Centre.
Chester Tours
The best way to discover Chester's 2000 years of
history.
10.15 every day from the Chester Visitor Centre or 10.30 from the
Tourist
Information Centre Town Hall.Tours include:
Ghosthunter Trail
Roman Soldiers Patrol
Secret Chester Tour
Christmas Tour
Ale Trail
Tudor Lady walk
Quiz tours
Literary Chester
Curious
Chester,
Myths and Legends
For further information, please
call
Heather Brennan,
Group ToursOrganiser or Email
Chester
Tours
or book on-line @
Chester Town
Hall
was completed in 1869 having taken five years to build. It is in the
Gothic
style of the late 13th century and was built by William Henry Lynn to
replace
the 17th century Exchange, which burnt down in 1862. Inspiration for
the design
came from the medieval Cloth Hall in Ypres, Belgium, the most
impressive commercial
building of medieval northern Europe. The town hall is one of the most
important
buildings in the heart of Chester and the thriving area around the town
hall
reflects this.
Northgate Street, Chester,
Cheshire CH1 2HJ
St.Peters Chester
St Peters Church stands at the centre of Chester behind the high cross.
It
is at the junction of the four main roads. Eastgate Street, Watergate
Street, Northgate Street and Bridge Street. St Peter's was founded in
A.D. 907 and is Chester's oldest church. It once had a large spire, the
exterior has been restored several times. The church is unusual because
of its square form. It is constructed out of local sandstone and stands
on top of the Roman headquarters
building. In A.D. 907 the church of St Peter and Paul was moved here by
Ethelfleda
from the site of St Werburgh's. In 1086 the church is referred to
'Templum
Sancti Petri' in the Domesday Book. Today the church contains a cafe
and
several points of interest including galleries made in the time of
Charles
I, Parts of a Fresco, Old Monuments. And a Quiet Room.
St.Peters Church,
The Cross
Chester Cheshire
CH1 1NP
Tel: 01244 313920
Chester
Treasure Hunt
No prior knowledge of Chester is
required as all clues are solved by observation. Both young and
old will be fascinated whilst getting out for a couple of hours seeing
the sites and solving the clues. Children will enjoy beating adults to
solve the clues! We even supply a map just in case you get
lost. The answers are at the back of the book so you can check
any unsolved ones before you leave.The hunt starts at the Town Hall,
Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2EF. From Chester or just visiting, you
will be surprised at how much you walk past without even noticing. We
so often walk around blinkered without appreciating the great features
which make our towns and cities fabulous. By following our hunt these
things will be highlighted rather than hidden away. Our Chester
treasure hunt packs contain all the necessary elements for you need
including maps, clues, answer sheet, and tips on how to get things
going.
Local
stockists of single hunts
Bookland
& Co. Ltd &
Chester History
& Heritage Centre,St Michael's Church,
Bridge Street Row, Chester, CH1 2HJ
Chester Walls
Chester is the only British city that retains the
full
circuit of its defensive walls. The complete route is around two miles
in
length and gives amazing views of the city and a unique insight into
Chester’s
Roman history.
Chester
Chester Zoo
Chester is the
UK’s largest
zoo - and you’ll need a full day to enjoy it. Here 5,000 animals live
in
spacious, near-natural surroundings, set in 80 acres of award-winning
gardens.
Chester is regarded as one of Europe’s top zoos. Many rare and
endangered
creatures breed freely in large, open, near-natural enclosures. Chester
is
proud to be playing a part in a worldwide conservation programme
Extensive
ornamental
gardens dominated by romantic Gothic Castle, built in 1801
of
local sandstone. Beautiful Temple Water Garden, Rose Garden and many
mixed borders.The gardens at Cholmondeley Castle were originally
laid out when
the 1st Marquess of Cholmondeley built the castle between 1801 and
1804.
Located off the A49 Whitchurch to Tarporley road, the gardens have been
extensively replanted since the 1960's under the direction of Lady
Cholmondeley.The gardens and grounds feature many beautiful specimen
trees, herbaceous borders, shrubberies,
ponds and lakes with the highlight being the beautiful Temple Garden.
Careful
planting has ensured it is a garden for all seasons to enjoy
throughout
the year, with a wealth of plants, shrubs and bulbs. The grounds
also
contain a nature reserve and a rare breeds animal centre complete with
children's
corner. Visitor facilities include a tearoom, picnic area, gift and
plant
shop and a farm shop located just outside the main Castle entrance.
Please
note that the Castle is not open to the public.
Congleton is an
ancient
market charter town. It is also known as 'Bear Town' from an incident
during
Elizabethan times when bear baiting was a fashionable sport. Congleton
is
thought to have origins in Neolithic Times. The Chambered tomb,
known
as the Bridestones was probably built by Stone Age people. In the 18th
Century
Congleton was transformed by the introduction of silk manufacture.
Nowadays
light industry and engineering provide the major employment for the
town. Congleton has retained its medieval street plan and the Market
Cross which
once stood in the High Street, is now in the town’s park next to the
River
Dane.Nearby is Little Moreton Hall, the most outstanding
timber-framed,
moated house in Britain, and Rode Hall with its extensive gardens.
Congleton
also has a newly-designed museum, telling the history of the town.
A local histiory museum for
Congleton
and the surrounding area, with an education room and archive . room.
Displays
featuring four main areas of the town's history: prehistoric times,
including
a log boat found at Astbury; the English Civil War, featuring John
Bradshaw,
who signed the death warrant of Charles I; the heyday of the textile
industry;
the Second World War
Crewe did not come
to prominence
until the late 1830s, when the Grand Junction Railway (GJR) company
chose
it as the site for its locomotive works (known in the surrounding area
simply
as Crewe Works) and Crewe railway station. The town of Winsford,
situated
seven miles north of Crewe, rejected an earlier original building plan.
Subsequently
local landowners from neighbouring Nantwich (located four miles away)
prevented
the second choice plan to locate the building in their town.
When the GJR opened
its
station in fields near Crewe Hall in 1837, the population of Crewe (c.
1831),
the nearest Cheshire village, was just 70.A new town grew up, in the
parishes
of Monks Coppenhall and Church Coppenhall, alongside the increasingly
busy
station, with the population expanding to reach 40,000 by 1871. GJR
chief
engineer Joseph Locke helped lay out the town.[
The town has a large
park,
Queen's Park (laid out by engineer Francis Webb), the
land
for which was donated by the London and North (successor
to
the GJR). (Rumour has it that they did this to
prevent
the Great Western Railway from building a railway line
through
it but there is no evidence for this.The
railway provided
an endowment towards the building and upkeep of Christ Church. Until
1897
its vicar, non-conformist ministers and schoolteachers received
concessionary
passes, the school having been established in 1842. The company
provided
a doctor's surgery with a scheme of health insurance.
A gasworks was built
and
the works water supply was adapted to provide drinking water and a
public
baths. The railway also opened a cheese market in 1854 and
set up a printing works.Nevertheless,
the
dominance of the railway industry was such that times of recession
were
keenly felt market in 1854 and a clothing factory for John Compton who
provided
the company uniforms, while of McCorquodale
of Liverpool set up a printing works Nevertheless, the dominance
of
the railway industry was such that times of recession were keenly felt.
In
the
early 1830s Crewe was only a small hamlet with only a wayside
station
beside a turnpike road. However, in 1837 the village became the
junction of
three lines, the Manchester
&
Birmingham, the Great
Junction
and the Chester & Crew
In
1840
the Great
Junction
company purchased the Chester & Crewe Railway and large areas of
land
in Crewe. The company then moved its locomotive and carriage works from
Edge
Hill, Liverpool
to the town. For the next hundred and fifty years, an average of one
locomotive
a week was produced in Crewe. By 1843 the company had built 200 houses
for
its workers. ther
railway
companies built lines to Crewe: the North Staffordshire (1848), Great Western
(1863) and the Midland (1867).
The
original station was constructed in 1849 but was rebuilt eighteen
years
later with widened platforms and bays to accommodate the extra railway
lines
Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council,
Municipal Buildings,
Earle Street,
Crewe, Cheshire,
CW1 2BJ.
1877 - A
Football
Club is formed in Crewe, as a separate organisation from the successful
Crewe
Cricket Club. They take the name 'Alexandra' after Princess Alexandra. 1884
- Crewe Alexandra play their first ever match in the FA
Cup. 1892 - Crewe became one of the founder members of the
Second Division.
The Cross stands
at
the heart of Chester where Bridge, Northgate, Watergate and Eastgate
Streets
meet, and is an obvious meeting point. It was carved from local
sandstone
in the 15th century and was badly vandalised during the English Civil
War
in the 17th century. The Town Crier greets visitors here and religious
preachers
use the area to express their beliefs. If you are wondering where the
actual
cross is, study the ball that sits atop the monument! This part of the
city
also boasts the best view of the rows..
Watergate
Street,
Chester,
Cheshire CH1 2HS
Dagfields Craft and Antique Centre
With five giant
emporiums
stretching for over 40,000 square feet, Dagfields Craft and Antique
Centre,
just outside Nantwich, has it all in one location. Plenty of on site
parking
is provided free and with 200 dealers catering in everything from
bric-a-brac
to fine art, you won’t go home empty handed. An animal village for the
children,
twenty five craft workshops and a tea rooms and restaurant selling
delicious
homemade food, guarantee something for everyone and a great family day
out.
Delamere Forest Park
Delamere Forest Park is an enjoyable area for walkers, cyclists,
children
and the disabled alike. It has six waymarked paths starting at just
0.75 miles
and waymarked cycle routes of four and seven miles. Blakemere Moss, a
restoration
project of an area of wetland, is an excellent habitat for a huge
variety
of wildlife and is particularly popular with ornithologists. The forest
is
home to many species of butterfly, woodpecker and dragonfly amongst
many
others. It also features a visitor centre, shop, tearoom, railway,
three
picnic sites and five car parks.
Delamere, Northwich,
Cheshire CW8 2JD
Phone: +44 (0)1606 889792
Dewa
Roman
Experience
Deva is the Roman fortress built almost 2000
years ago
which now lies buried beneath the hustle and bustle of modern day
Chester.
Now you too can visit the Roman fortress of Deva - pronounced 'Dewa' in
Roman times. Touch the past yourself in our 'hands-on' studio. This
area has activities for everyone, which range from trying on a replica
suit of Roman armour, to
handling Roman pottery and animal bones.
Dorfold Hall
Dorfold Hall is a Jacobean country house built in 1616 for Ralph
Wilbraham.
It is the family home of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Roundell. It has
beautiful plaster
ceilings and oak panelling, as well as attractive woodland gardens and
summer
herbaceous borders. We are located 1 mile west of Nantwich, on the A534
Nantwich-Wrexham
road. Guided tours are available.
The Drumcroon policy is to give all young people,
irrespective
of age, their teachers and the Borough's communities access to the
range,
breadth and variety of the visual arts. Exhibitions by contemporary
makers
are organised to provide challenging opportunities which widen horizons
and
embrace change. To give further insight and understanding, the centre
provides
its visitors with opportunities to engage in related practical
activities.
Each exhibition is placed into a contextual framework by demonstrating
process
and excellence through resident artists and through the use of
secondary source
material which has the potential to range across time, place and
culture.
Dunham Massey
Dunham Massey is an early Geogian National Trust property with an
Edwardian
interior, situated in superb grounds with its own deer park, tree-lined
avenues
and ponds. The mansion is a few miles from Altrincham and contains
exceptional
collections of 18th-century walnut furniture, paintings and Huguenot
silver.
Within the estate there is also a Tudor mill, originally used for
grinding
corn but refitted as a sawmill c.1860 and now restored to working
order.
Guided tours of both the house and parklands may be enjoyed most days.
East Gate Clock
The East Gate was considered the main entrance to the Roman Fortress of
Chester
and was therefore the most elaborate. It bears similarities to the
Kings
Gate at Caernarvon Castle, suggesting that it was built in the early
14th century. From the late 18th century bridges to expand the Walls
promenade replaced the four main medieval gates. The City Arms are
carved on the keystone facing Foregate Street and the Grosvenor Arms on
the keystone facing Eastgate Street. The clock was added to commemorate
Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
Eastgate Street,
Chester, Cheshire
Ellesmere Port Ellesmere Port is one of the largest
oil
refining centres in Britain and has other major industries including
vehicle
manufacture. It is here that the Shropshire Union Canal system joins
the
Manchester Ship Canal. The Boat Museum reflects the importance of the
canals
for trade. Ellesmere Port is also the home of Cheshire Oaks designer
outlet village, and the Coliseum retail and leisure park. The M53 and
M56 motorways pass close to the town centre.
Unit 22b McArthur Glen Outlet Village ,
Kinsey Road , Ellesmere Port
Cheshire CH65 9JJ
Frodsham Hill
The first known settlers of Frodsham were Anglo-Saxons. The name
possibly
derives from “ham”, a small village and “Frod”, the leader of this
group of
Saxons. It may also come from “the Ham on the Ford” over the local
river Weaver.
Frodsham is mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 commissioned by
William
the Conqueror. The war memorial that stands at the top of the hill is
visible
from almost everywhere in the town and many residents still fondly
remember
the helter-skelter that was demolished in 1977.
Frodsham,
Cheshire
Garden of Remembrance
The Garden of Remembrance was built to commemorate
the
residents of Altrincham who served in the armed forces during the First
World
War. It was later extended to honour those who served in Second. It is
situated
opposite St. Margaret's Church, and serves as a gentile place for
reflection
and a meeting place for memorial services. The memorial cross at the
centre
od the gardens was designed by George Faulkner Armitage, who presided
as
Mayor of Altrincham during the First World War.
Dunham Road,
Altrincham
Gawksworth Hall
Birthplace of Mary Fitton, who some believe to be the 'Dark Lady' of
Shakespeare's
sonnets. Gawsworth
Gawsworth,
SK11 9RN
tel: 01260 223456
Grosvenor Museum
Making history fun at this award-winning museum, discover Chester from
Roman
Fortress of Deva to the present day. View the city through the eyes of
artists,
admire the craft of local silversmiths, explore Cheshire’s wildlife,
and
see the town house where time stands still. With interactive,
computerised collections, keeper-guided video tours of galleries,
platform lifts to changing levels on ground floor, lively temporary
exhibitions and gift-packed museum shop, a museum with something for
everyone.
27 Grosvenor Street,
Chester,
Cheshire CH1 2DD
tel: 01244
402008 -
Fax: 01244 347587
Grosvenor Park
Richard, Second Marquis of Westminster, gave these 16 acres of land to
the
City. Landscape designer Mr Edward Kemp, architect of Crystal Palace
was paid
to lie out the park and many of the original features still remain
since opening
in 1867. The typically Victorian park boasts a park lodge, a black and
white
timbered building with statues representing William the Conqueror and
the
Norman Earls of Chester. Bedding displays are planted twice yearly and
the
Lime trees lining the main avenues are kept in pyramidal form,
fashionable in Victorian times.
Grosvenor Park, Union Street,
Chester, Cheshire CH1 1QQ
Gullivers World
From the moment you arrive at Gulliver’s you enter
another
world where your imagination can roam free. Gulliver’s Warrington is
nestled
within a beautiful park setting, where much of the fantasy is created
by
wonderful towering trees, and a beautiful lake forms the centrepiece of
the
park. Let us take you away from your daily worries and concerns into a
world
of wonder and fantasy, where anything is possible and your imagination
is inspired. From the tumbling and juggling fun of Circus World, mosey
on down
to High Noon in Western World, walk with dinosaurs in the prehistoric
Lost World, feel your knees tremble in Count’s Castle and shiver your
timbers
in Smugglers Wharf. Be courageous and bold in Adventure World and
splash
around in Water World. All the family can let their imaginations run
wild
and discover a world of fun together at Gulliver’s Warrington.
Old Hall, Warrington,
Cheshire WA5 9YZ
Getting to Gulliver's
World
is easy, if you are on the M62, simply exit at Junctions 8 or 9 and
follow
the signs to our door. If you are approaching us on the M6, exit at
Junction
21A on to the M62 towards Liverpool and then off the M62 at Junction 9. Email Gullivers
Theme Park
Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway
Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway was built in 1996 to commemorate the
centenary
of the Duke Of Westminster’s railway at nearby Eaton Hall. The 7
¼“
gauge railway runs on a ¼ mile track through the trees and
around
the ornamental lake. The railway also has two level crossings, a
station building which acts as a rain shelter and an engine shed to
house the steam and diesel trains. The railway is enjoyed by both
children and adults alike and has survived
many financial difficulties over its lifetime.
Grosvenor Park, Union
Street,
Chester, Cheshire CH1 1QQ
Hack Green Secret Nuclear
Bunker
A unique and exciting day out for all the family discovering history
that
you can see, hear and feel. Entering through the massive blast doors,
you’ll
be transported underground into the chilling world of Cheshire’s secret
nuclear
war HQ costing over £32 million. Explore the spooky headquarters.
Children
have bundles of fun following The Secret Spy Mouse Trail. We have
disabled
and mother and baby facilities.
Charming wooded and walled
garden. Woodland grounds with a delightful
walled
garden at their heart - Spectacular rhododendron and azalea displays -
Holly
collection of national repute - Attractive walks in surrounding
parkland,
with links to nearby Alderley Edge
Hat Works
“Hat Works” is the UK’s premier museum dedicated to the hatting
industry,
hats and headwear. Located in a former Victorian hat factory, Hat Works
has
3 floors of informative fun including guided tours of working millinery
machinery,
to reconstructed hatters cottage, office and shop plus a giant gallery
of
hats, family fun area, shop and café. A great day out for all
the
family.
Helsby Hill
Helsby Hill stands 120 metres above sea level looking out over the
marshes
and the Mersey. On a clear day the Liverpool skyline is visible with
the outlines
of the Anglican and Metropolitan Cathedrals standing out. Hjallr-by,
“the
village on the edge” was settled by the Vikings in the tenth century
AD.
There are various routes up the hill ranging from a steep drive almost
all
the way to the top and a climb straight up the cliff face that is not
for
the faint hearted!
Helsby,
Cheshire
Helsby Quarry
Formerly known as Mountskill Quarry, sandstone was extracted here from
the
early 1800s until the 1920s. The quarry had its own rail link which
took
the stone to Ince Pier and onto the barges bound for Liverpool. The
rock wall
and tunnel were formed during the Triassic period from river deposits
and
sand dunes. Rowan, silver birch and willow trees recolonised the
woodland
floor when the working life of the quarry ended. Tits, finches,
hedgehogs,
woodpeckers, dragonflies and bats can all be seen in the area.
Alvanley Road,
Helsby, Cheshire
Jodrell Bank Walk alongside the world famous Lovell
telescope
on our observational pathway, and you’ll find the answers to who, what,
why,
how and when? Take a journey to Mars, or see the solar system in our
3-D
theatre. Explore how trees help sustain the earth’s environment in our
Tree Planet exhibition within the award-winning Environmental Discovery
Centre.
See the changing seasons in the 35 acre arboretum, with national
collections
of Malus and Sorbus. Ideal place to start your tour of the Cheshire
countryside, either by foot or cycle.
Lower
Withington,
Near Macclesfield,
Cheshire SK11 9DL
Knutsford
is
said to derive its name from the Danish King Canute who supposedly
'forded'
the River Lily in 1016. The name Cunetesford appears in the
Domesday
Book (1086) and many names of Danish origin are found in
Knutsford.
The town’s first charter was granted in 1292 and its central position
in Cheshire
led to it becoming known as the 'Capital' of mid CheshireElizabeth
Gaskell,
the famous novelist spent most of her life and was married in
Knutsford. Her
novel 'Cranford' is set in Victorian Knutsford and the house where she
grew
up is situated on what is now Gaskell Avenue.Annual May Day
celebrations and
decorative ‘sanding’ of the pavements are unique to the town.
Knutsford Heritage
Centre provides a source of information on Knutsford's history and
serves
to keep its heritage alive.Knutsford receives an influx of visitors in
July
for the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park. Tatton Park which spans
2,000
acres, with 1,000 acres of deer park and 50 acres of gardens is
also
the venue for other spectacular events such as the Halle Fireworks and
Light
Spectacular. Delightful town with many buildings of architectural and
historic interest. A popular market and shopping centre for the
surrounding countryside,
Knutsford has a pretty and interesting main shopping street, King
Street.
The town has one of the oldest May Day celebrations in England.
Knutsford Heritage Centre opened in 1989,
built on
the site of a 17thC.timber framed building of which the present
building is
a reconstruction. The site later became a smithy. Excavated, rebuilt
and opened
by Macclesfield Groundwork Trust, the Centre was built utilising some
of
the original materials and is thus a valuable historical site in its
own right,
as well as a necessary asset to a historical town such as Knutsford.
The
Heritage Centre provides a source of information on Knutsford's history
and
serves to keep its heritage alive. It is also a focus of activity and
interest,
accessible to all and available to different organisations and aims.
Lady Heyes Craft and Antique
Restoration
Centre
The craft and antique centre was established at Lady Heyes in 1999 on
the
former site of a farm and watering hole. The treasures on offer include
wood
turning, painted furniture, hand made cabinets, textiles, lace making,
stained
glass, crystals, candles, greetings cards and many more! Many local
artists
display their work here amongst the many different units that range
from
Gregorian to Jacobean goods. Tearooms and hand made chocolates are also
on
offer and there is plenty of parking. The site also has excellent views
over Cheshire to Jodrell Bank and beyond.
The jewel in the crown of the
garden
village of Port Sunlight, housing the magnificent personal collection
of the
first Lord Leverhulme. It was built by the soap magnate and
philanthropist
in 1922 as the centre piece of his workers' residential village.The
gallery
includes Pre-Raphaelites, paintings by Turner and Constable, 18th
century
furniture alongside ceramics, Wedgwood, sculpture, tapestries, Chinese
art,
Greek and Roman antiquities, Masonic and Napoleonic memorabilia.
Lower Road
Port Sunlight Village
Wirral
CH62 5EQ
Cheshire
Little Moreton Hall
Little Moreton is regarded as the finest example of a timber-framed
moated
manor house in the country.
Scholar
Green
CW12 4SD
Tel:
01260
272018
Lion Salt Works
In 1986 the Lion Salt Works closed
after
the collapse of the West African salt market. It was purchased by Vale
Royal
Borough Council to prevent its demolition. A charitable trust has been
established
and a project is now underway to restore the site as a working
industrial
museum, demonstrating the production of salt by the ancient method of
open
pan evaporation.
Lomber
Hey
Farm
Farm/Butcher shop. Rare breeds & impressive outdoor murals Lomber Hey produce sausages, bacon,
puddings
and meat and have a farm shop and internet sales as well as coming to
Stafford
Farmers' Market.
Crewe's Lyceum Theatre, built in 1911 is
steeped
in history.During 1994 this Grade II
listed building
was substantially refurbished and today provides a wonderful venue, accessible to all, for that extra special evening. Alternatively, you may
choose
to enjoy one of the many afternoon performances, followed by either a
tasty
snack or a three course meal within the relaxing restaurant...
Once you enter into the auditorium the
original Edwardian
splendour remains.The beautiful carvings,
intimate
seating within the Boxes, the Upper Gallery, Circle, Stalls and
atmospheric
lighting all contribute towards the enjoyment of your evening.
Great estate with lavishly decorated house and
fine
gardens. A Tudor house transformed into a huge
Italianate
palace in the 18th century - Tranquil Victorian garden, with roses,
reflection
lake and sunken parterre - Vast medieval deer park, moorland and
woodland
estate to explore - Famous scene in Pride & Prejudice
(1995)
where Darcy emerges from a lake was filmed here - Adventure playground
and
lots of children's events throughout the year
Macclesfield became
the
centre of Britain's silk industry during the Industrial Revolution.
There
are many attractive Georgian mills, houses, inns, churches and chapels.
Cobbled
streets and quaint old buildings stand side-by-side with modern shops
and
three markets.The town is the western gateway to the Peak District,
with
many beautiful walks on its doorstep and stunning views of the
surrounding countryside. Nearby Teggs Nose and Macclesfield Forest
offer a break from
the town.Macclesfield Silk Museum charts the history of Macclesfield’s
silk
history. Here you can explore the wonders of a working silk
mill
as it was in the 1930s, discover how they made silk buttons in the
1600s
and try your hand at weaving, designing and printing.
Macclesfield Riverside Park
Between Macclesfield and Prestbury, 70 acres of the
River
Bollin flood plain and valley sides, forming a linear country park.
This
in turn, forms a link in the footpath route along the whole valley.
Woodland,
wetland, ponds and a wild flower meadow complement the grassland, which
is
managed with the help of a breeding herd of Longhorn cattle, a
registered
rare breed. The park has a car park, a visitor centre, toilets and
picnic
sites.Bring the whole family to explore and enjoy this pretty county
park
with woodland, wetland ponds and a wildflower meadow. Take the
A538
out of Macclesfield in order to visit the park. Admission is free.
Macclesfield Silk Museums
Silk from cocoon to loom, visit Macclesfield’s two award-winning silk
museums
where we have weavers in residence. The story is told through
audio-visual
programme with exhibitions, models and silk textiles and fashions. We
have
guided tours at Paradise Mill where we have 26 hand jacquard silk looms
that
have been restored. We have a unique silk gift shop, friendly coffee
shop
and provide special offers for group parties visiting the museums.
The Heritage Centre,
Roe Street,
Macclesfield SK11 6UT
Canal Cruise Adventure - With a 4 course meal.
Reaching
the parts of Chester other transport cannot reach. 70ft Restaurant
Boat, licensed
and centrally heated. Prices include 4-Course meal. Relax in the
Waterside
Mill Traditional Bar with the finest selection of Traditional Ales
in
Chester.
Millennium Festival Trail
The Chester Millennium Festival Trail is a route through the city
centre
that passes 40 of the most important buildings in terms of
architectural development.
It was laid down in 2000 and local people selected all the buildings.
More
than the obvious Roman architecture, the walk takes in a wide range of
styles
and demonstrate Chester’s important architectural heritage. Surprises
along
the way include the Odeon cinema, which is a great example of the art
deco
style. The tour is self guided with footpath markings.
Chester,
Cheshire
Mouldsworth Motor Museum
Over 60 cars, motorcycles and bicycles, plus automobile memorabilia.We are signposted off the A56 and A54 a century plus
of
motoring history and memorabilia,
housed in a famous 1930's Art Deco building and situated 6 miles east
of
Chester,
The Municipal
Buildings
are the offices of Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council. The
building,
which opened on 19th July 1905, was designed by the noted
Edwardian
Architect Henry T Hare (1861-1921).
Crewe first developed into a community when the
railways
were built in the 1830's and it was selected as the key junction for
the
lines serving the North West and North Wales. So great were the links
between Crewe and the railways, that the Railway Company took
responsibility for constructing the Town Hall and several other Council
buildings.
At the end of the
19th
century the former Crewe Borough Council was probably the only Council
in
the country that did not have its own Town Hall. It decided to
erect
its own headquarters, which is still known as the "Municipal Buildings"
and
not the Town Hall, and in May 1902 the Borough Surveyor was instructed
by
the Council to advertise a competition on a national basis for
architects
to submit plans, specifications and estimates for the new building with
a
first prize of £50.
The winning design of more than 40 submitted was
from
Henry T Hare. He always left his personal trademark, an etching of a
hare,
on all his buildings. This sign can be seen on the windows to the main
staircase
of the Municipal Buildings. The building now enjoys the status of a
Grade
II Listed Building.
Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council,
Municipal Buildings,
Earle Street,
Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 2BJ.
The picturesque and
historic
market town of Nantwich is set deep in the heart of the Cheshire
countryside.
For many years its fashionable shops, pubs, restaurants and places of
particular
historical interest have maintained its fine reputation.
The place name means Renowned Works - during the early Middle Ages
Nantwich
was the prime centre of England's salt industry. It is now one of
Cheshire's
most picturesque market towns, rich in black and white buildings. The
14th-century
parish church at the town centre, with a cruciform and vaulted
interior, is
one of the three great salt churches and probably the most beautiful
parish
church in Cheshire.The Churches Mansion is just one of the many fine
examples
of Tudor architecture to be found in a town that dates back hundreds of
years.
The fascinating history of one of Cheshire's
most
attractive and historic towns is brought to life by Nantwich Museum.
Located
in Pillory Street, at the heart of the town, the museum has main
galleries
telling the story of Nantwich through the ages - Roman salt making,
Tudor
Nantwich's Great Fire, the Civil War Battle of Nantwich (1644) and the
more
recent shoe and clothing industries. Beyond the galleries lie two
extensions.
The first with its cheese-making exhibition and useful Joseph Heler
meeting
room, is dedicated to demonstrating how the county's famous cheese has
traditionally
been made and sold around the floral market town of Nantwich. Next is
the
magnificent, prize-winning Millennium Gallery which provides the
perfect home
for a diverse programme of temporary exhibitions. With new facilities
available
to local community groups, Nantwich Museum is a vibrant hub of local
interest.
Enter through the door of Nantwich's former Victorian Jubilee library
and
discover our exciting museum for yourself.
Ness Botanic Gardens
Set on the banks of the River Dee, with breathtaking views across to
North
Wales. Ness Botanic Gardens boast international repute with seasonal
flowers,
shrubs and trees in particular Rhododendron and Azaleas, all at their
very
best. Facilities include a new visitor centre with Four Seasons
restaurant,
giftshop and plant sales, outdoor junior play area, trails and calender
of
special events including outdoor theatre.
15th-century mill beside a tranquil mill pool. Original
Victorian
water wheel is a unique tandem design. Mammoth 200 ton stone
roof
supported by a fine timber frame
Northwich in the heart of mid-Cheshire was in
Roman
times a military station, then became famous for salt mining during the
17th
and 18th Centuries, and boasts the country's only salt museum. Today
there
are many other important industries and the town is a centre for
shoppers
from the surrounding area, with a modern shopping centre and a number
of
black and white buildings.The unique recently restored Anderton Boat
Lift
on the northern outskirts of town.
Norton Priory Museum & Gardens
Ever wanted to experience 800 years of magical history amongst 38 acres
of
tranquil and beautiful gardens? Norton Priory in North Cheshire offers
all
of this and more! There are friendly free guides for pre-booked groups,
an
excellent new menu in our Refectory café and special events
throughout
the year. Free parking. Take junction 11 off the M56 and follow the
signs.
"ON THE AIR" On
The
Air Ltd.' is Britain's biggest specialist vintage technology
centre.
Director Steve Harris is a lifelong enthusiast with a background in
broadcasting,
who has a commitment to providing a professional, friendly service to
other enthusiasts.Situated
in
Hawarden,
close to Chester (U.K.), 'On The Air' has been supplying
vintage
radios, televisions, gramophones and telephones for over ten years.
Customers
range from private collectors to museums, exhibitions and film and
television
companies including the BBC and Granada LWT. Collectors world-wide have
turned
to 'On The Air' as their first source of European vintage technology,
and
many more have purchased items locally from dealers who receive regular
shipments
of quality pieces.
Oulton Park Race Circuit
320 acres of glorious Cheshire countryside proving spectacular car and
bike
racing from April to October including British Superbikes, British
Touring
Cars, Formula 3 and Family Fun Days. Free parking, restaurant, bar
facilities.
Experience the thrill for yourself with our racing, rally and early
drive
activities. Corporate and conference facilities, plus race day
hospitality.
Situated 2 miles off the A49 near Tarporley. Adults from £10,
children
go free for many events.
At this mill knowledgeable guides demonstrate the
intricate
processes of weaving. The mill contains 26 restored jacquard handlooms.
Exhibitions
and room sets illustrate life in Paradise Mill in the 1930s.
The story starts in 1840 when John
Tollemache bought
26,000 acres of land which included the villages of Peckforton and
Beeston.
The Tollemache family ancestral home was, and still is in Helmingham,
Suffolk
where Elizabeth 1 is said to have stayed in 1578. John
Tollemach’s
dream was to build on the top of the Peckforton Hills a fortified home
in
the style of a medieval castle and to this end work commenced in 1842
but
the magnitude of the project meant it was not completed until 1851.
Such a
unique and magnificent project has since been rewarded by English
Heritage
giving it the status of a Grade 1 Listed Building. The forest planted
soon
after the completion of the castle has since been awarded the status of
S.S.S.I
(Site of Special Scientific Importance). The Architect was Anthony
Salvin,
who was also responsible for various other castles around the country
in
the late 19th century. The design follows the Norman style of
architecture which prevailed in the time of Edward 1. It should be
emphasised that Peckforton
castle is not ‘pseudo’ or ‘mock’ but is a real castle built on the 15th
century
model and capable of being just as effective as a fortress of that time.
Peckforton
Castle
Hotel
Stone House Lane, Peckforton, Tarporley
Cheshire, CW6 9TN
Penny Farthing
Museum The
Penny
Farthing was invented in 1871 by James Starley. This charming
'museum'
is in reality a tearoom with the world's largest collection of Penny
Farthings
suspended from the ceiling. The adjoining Courtyard Coffee House is
themed
with Penny Farthing decorations. The courtyard is decked out with a
selection
of classic road signs humorously pointing the way to Lands End and John
o'Groats,
as well as a sign declaring free tea for all customers with Penny
Farthings.
Rear Of 92 King Street,
Knutsford,
Cheshire WA16 6EQ
Phone:
+44
(0)1565 653 974
Quarry
Bank
Mill and Styal Estate
One of Britain's greatest industrial heritage
sites,
including complete working cotton mill, restored Apprentice House, mill
workers'
village and country estate set in the valley of the River Bollin. The
most
powerful working waterwheel in Europe - Practical demonstrations
in
the mill - Discover the effects of the Industrial Revolution on how we
lived
and worked -Woodland and riverside walks provide a tranquil contrast
Redhouse Farm is
not
simply a farm, but a farm-based experience for the entire family. Their
tea
rooms offer an excellent variety of locally-produced rural delicacies.
The
farm shop offers an array of luxury items and specialist lines, from
farmhouse
sausage to liqueur yoghurts. The farm also operates a myriad of
seasonal
outdoor activities aimed at the entire family, the centrepiece of which
is their Maize Maze. They painstakingly plough and sculpt a field every
summer to create an epic and challenging maze.
Rivacre Valley Local Nature Reserve
Spring is a special time at Rivacre Valley Local
Nature
Reserve, when the woodlands are truly stunning. Carpets of bright
yellow celandines
and delicate white wood anemones are soon followed by bluebells,
filling
the air with their heady scent. Look out for the electric blue flash of
the
kingfisher hunting for eels along Rivacre Brook. Later in the year you
can
picnic in the colourful meadows, or if you're feeling energetic why not
have
a go at the orienteering course and really get to know the Reserve? There
is
a good network of paths around the Reserve and a busy programme of
special
events throughout the year. Call in at the Visitor Centre for details.
River Dee
The River Dee runs through Chester and provides an excellent backdrop
for
picnics. Rowing boats, motor boats and pedalos can be hired by the hour
to
allow visitors to explore the river for themselves. Cruises are also
offered
on larger boats. The wildlife can get rather boisterous though so keep
an
eye on those sandwiches! The main walk alongside the river has plenty
of
seating areas and a bandstand for summer performances. Entrances to the
Roman Gardens, the Walls and Grosvenor Park can be found along the
riverside.
The
Groves,
Chester,
Cheshire CH1 2HJ
Runcorn Located within the M62 and M56 corridors,
Runcorn in the Borough of Halton, has superb communication links by
road,
rail, sea and air to the rest of the UK, Europe and beyond. Runcorn
has
European Objective II Status. Support is, therefore, available for
companies
seeking to either expand or locate in Halton. The Tourism service
provides
a personal booking service for local theatres, shows and events,
including: The Brindley
in
Runcorn - Cheshire
Show - Creamfields event
which
takes place on Saturday 25th Agust 2007 (Bank holiday weekend) at
the Daresbury Estate in Halton.
Church Street , Runcorn ,
Cheshire WA7 1LX Halton's Tourist Information centre is at the heart
of
Runcorn, located within the Halton Direct Link building on Church
Street,
Runcorn. Email
Runcorn
Roman Gardens
The Roman Gardens were created in the 1950s to display the finely
carved
building fragments from the Roman legionary fortress of Deva. The
columns
were from the exercise hall of the Roman bathhouse (thermae) and
originally
stood 6ft tall to support the stonework. A hypocaust can also be seen
in the
gardens, which shows the advanced under floor heating system. The
bathhouse
would have contained a games room (basilica), sauna (sudatoria) and
bathing
halls and was built in AD 75.
Pepper
Street,
Chester, Cheshire
Rufus
Court
Reach us from Northgate Street or the City Walls;
Enjoy
our Wine Bar, Tea Shop or Mediterranean Restaurant; Visit our Jeweller,
Pottery,
Ethnic Craft Shop or Interior Furnisher. Any one of our
three
book shops will give you hours of browsing, one has an Art Gallery
and there is another Art Gallery opposite Alexander's Jazz
Theatre, where you can drink coffee or wine inside or out.
For more relaxation, have a massage in our hairdressers or a sauna in
the Spa Shop.
Off Northgate Street,
Chester
Tel:
01244
313400
St. John’s Church
St. John’s Church was the site of the first Cathedral in Chester. The
Eastern
chapels and transepts were abandoned after the dissolution in 1102 and
a
new East wall was built which left the ruins of the old East end
standing outside. This hugely reduced the size of the church meaning
the parishioners
had a much easier upkeep job. A coffin bearing the inscription “Dust to
Dust” which was found by the Sexton in the 19th Century is set into the
wall of
the ruins.
Union
Street,
Chester,
Cheshire CH1 1QQ
St. Margaret's Church
Saint Margaret of England, to whom this church is dedicated, was
a
Cistercian nun born in Hungary. She had an English mother who was
directly
related to Saint Thomas of Canterbury. Her Feastday is the 3rd of
February.
The church itself is positioned opposite Altrincham's Garden of
Remembrance
- which commemorates the Altrincham locals who served in the armed
forces
during both World Wars. It is sitauted near the sleepy village of
Dunham,
a rich rural community.
Dunham Road,
Altrincham,
Cheshire WA14 4AQ
Phone:
+44
(0)161 928 1609
Salt Museum
Salt has been produced in Cheshire for over 2,000
years
and is now the only place in Britain where it is still produced on a
large
scale. The salt museum takes visitors on a journey through Cheshire’s
past,
the River Weaver and the story of people who worked and lived alongside
it
and explores some of the 14,000 uses of salt. Local salt proprietors
Thomas
Ward and John Brunner established the original museum and there has now
been
a salt museum in Northwich for over 100 years.
The Sandstone Trail
The Sandstone Trail follows the sandstone ridge from Frodsham to
Whitchurch.
The whole route is just over 30 miles long but can be walked as three
separate
sections. The trail is marked with finger posts and waymark discs and
allows
walkers to enjoy each town along the way. Starting at the new landmark
in
Frodsham the route passes Alvanley Cliff, through Delamere Park and
then into
Willington. The middle section gives excellent views of Peckforton and
Beeston
Castles. The final section links Bickerton Hill, Grindley Brook and
ends
in Whitchurch.
Main
Street,
Frodsham,
Cheshire WA6 7AF
Staircase House, Stockport
Staircase House is a beautifully restored
townhouse
situated in Stockport's historic market place. The house is famous for
its
rare cage newell staircase dating back to 1618. In the house you will
journey
through time from its humble beginnings as a medieval cruck framed
building
in 1460 to the splendour of the 17th century townhouse, and on to WWII.
Along
the way you will pass through period rooms in which fascinating stories
surrounding
the house unfold. The house is fully interactive and you are encouraged
to
touch the objects and furniture and try your hand at any activities on
offer.
Stapeley Water Gardens
Stapeley Water Gardens consists of a full service garden centre with
display
pools and water features, fish and pet departments. The Palms Tropical
Oasis
is a huge glasshouse where tropical birds, fish and wildlife are at
home amongst
the exotic flowering plants and cascading waters. There is also a
restaurant,
café and gift shop as well as our angling superstore. Visit our
amazing
animals such as baby blacktipped reef sharks and toco toucans.
Stockley Farm
Stockley Farm is a modern working organic dairy
farm.
It comprises 700 acres on the Arley Estate in the glorious Cheshire
countryside.
Visitors can watch a herd of 150 British Friesians being milked in one
of
the most modern computerised milking parlours in the country. Open from
the
end of March until early October.
Stockport
Situated close to the M60 motorway and A6 Stockport
lies
approximately 7 miles to the south east of Manchester and is part of
the
Manchester Metropolitan County with the Peak District National Park
within
easy reach. Being located on the River Mersey the town’s past history
shows
that it not only had a cotton-spinning industry but was a market town
as
well. Also, the importance of the railway centre is still evident by
the
railway viaduct built to carry the main line between London, Birmingham
and
Manchester which can be seen towering proudly over the town.
Nestling on the
corner
of Greek Street and Wellington Road South, The Art Gallery and War
Memorial
forms an integral part of Stockport’s Heritage.The exciting exhibition
and
events programme explores how the arts can be used as a vehicle for
social
cohesion.
They play in League Two, the fourth tier of the
English
football pyramid. They are nicknamed The Hatters,
although are
usually referred to by supporters simply as County. Formed
in
1883 as Heaton Norris Rovers F.C., shortly after they merged
with
a similarly named club, Heaton Norris F.C., and on 24 May 1890 changed
their
name to Stockport County F.C. to reflect Stockport becoming a
County
Borough. They joined
the Football League in 1900, and have competed in it continuously since
1905. Stockport County moved into their present home at the start
of the 1902-03 season
Edgeley
Park
Hardcastle Road
Edgeley Stockport
Cheshire SK3 9DD
Stockport Central
Library
is made up of three different sections, the Lending Library situated on
the
ground floor and the Local Heritage Library and the Information Library
situated
on the first floor. There is also a public meeting room in the
basement,
which may be hired. The building is accessible by stairs and by a
public
lift.
Visit this
fascinating
museum, one of the first purpose built museums in the country. It is
situated
in the beautiful surroundings of Vernon Park, which has been renovated
to
its original Victorian splendour.
Vernon
Park
Turncroft Lane
Offerton Stockport
SK1 4AR Cheshire
A small working
water
mill set in beautiful countryside only ten miles from Chester. Visitors
see
the two waterwheels driving the ancient wooden mill machinery and
turning
the millstones. The Miller demonstrates the whole skilled operation to
transform
grain into flour. Exhibition, small shop and picnic area nearby. Sign
posted
from the A534 between Broxton and Farndon.
The Tabley House Collection Tabley House is a gorgeous 18th Century Palladian house
designed
by John Carr of York. Originally intended to be the National Gallery of
British
Art by the 1st Lord de Tabley, it contains a splendid collection of
paintings.
These are now supplemented by a collection of furniture and memorabilia
from
the 17th to the 20th centuries. Famous guests of the past include JMW
Turner,
Henry Thompson and James Ward, whose works now adorn the walls. The
collection,
estate and house are now owned by the University of Manchester.
Tarporley
is an attractive town in the heart of Cheshire
and
was noted in Henry VIII's reign for having a long well-paved High
Street,
now equally attractive with good Georgian buildings and gabled houses.
The
medieval church of St Helen is 15th and 19th Century, and the Done
Recreation
Room in the churchyard dates from 1636, with the nearby oak-framed
Manor House
of 1585. It is not known when the first identifiable settlement
occurred at
Tarporley however there are nearby ancient hillforts at Eddisbury Hill
and
Maiden Castle.Tarporley was on the route used by many traders
travelling by
coach between London and Chester, and those dealing in salt, mined in
nearby
Nantwich.The village developed along the High Street in the 18th and
19th
Centuries with many hostelries to revive the weary traveller. The
development
of the Chester and Ellesmere Canal as part of the Shropshire Union
canal
system and the railway station at Beeston on the Chester and Crewe
Railway line further increased the number of travellers.
Tarporley
Parish
Council
Chartwood House
20 Nantwich Road
Taporley, Cheshire Email Tarpoley
Tatton Park Tatton Park contains a neo-classical mansion in the
historic
town of Knutsford, designed by Samuel Wyatt in 1791. The house itself
features
furniture by Gillows of Lancaster and paintings by Canaletto and
Anthony
Dyck. It is set in 1000 acres of beautiful parkland renowned for its
red
and fallow deer. The two massive lakes, Tatton Mere and Melchet Mere,
are
home to a wide variety of ducks and geese. The 50 acres of garden are
regarded
as the country’s finest, and include a Japanese Garden, Italian Garden,
Rose Garden and a maze
Walton Hall
&
Gardens An ideal place for
a
family day out, with extensive lawns, picnic areas, ornamental gardens,
woodland
trails, children's zoo, pitch and putt, crazy golf and bowls. Many
paths
are accessible to wheelchair users. The park offers a ranger service
and
a heritage centre provides visitors with information regarding natural
history, the history of the Walton Estate and Greenall family and Lewis
Carroll and his connections with Walton Hall. Walton Hall (not open to
the public) itself
is now available as a venue for civil ceremonies, private parties,
seminars
and conferences.
Warrington Warrington has
Pre-historic
and Roman origins. It was once the beer capital of Britain because so
much
beer was brewed here. Developed in the 18th and 19th Century as a
commercial
and industrial town. The Municipal Museum and Art Gallery contains
local history.
Warrington Bus Interchange , Warrington ,
Cheshire
WA1 1TF
West Park Museum
West Park Museum's Collections comprise a wide range of fine and
decorative
art material and objects relating to local history. This includes the
famous
Giant Panda. The paintings date from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Local
history displays include Law & Order and the life of Charles Roe,
an
18th century Macclesfield entrepreneur.
Charles Tunnicliffe (1901-1979), one of the country’s leading wild life
artists,
was born in Langley near Macclesfield. The museum has an extensive
collection
which illustrates all aspects of his work – etchings of wood cuts for
book
illustrations, watercolours and oil paintings with many examples of
local
scenes as well as intricate bird portraiture. The museums collection of
ancient
Egyptian antiquities was acquired by Marianne Brocklehurst during
visits
to Egypt between 1873-74, 1882-83, and 1890-91.
Wilmslow is a mainly residential town, but
maintains
an intimate village atmosphere and is set in the countryside close to
Cheshire's
boundary with Manchester. The town is popular as a home for commuters
travelling
to that city, and is a vibrant shopping area. Nearby Quarry Bank Mill,
an
authentic preserved 18th-century industrial community and Styal County
Park
offer secluded woodland surroundings. Lindow Common, where Lindow Man
was
discovered, is popular with naturalists.
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