Colin Crosby Heritage Tours

Warrington

Warrington is a busy town in Cheshire, on the River Mersey and 16 miles from Liverpool. There are also locks here on the Manchester Ship Canal.

The Romans had a ford across the Mersey in the vicinity.

St. Elphin`s Church was founded in the 7th century, and parts of the present building date from the 14th century. The fine spire is 19th century, and rises to 281 feet.

Holy Trinity was constructed in the 18th century, probably by James Gibbs.

The Town Hall is a fine Georgian house, designed by James Gibbs, which was once the home of the Patten family. The cast iron gates were made at Ironbridge in 1860, and were originally intended for Sandringham.

The Barley Mow, in the Market Place, with its fine carved woodwork, dates from 1561.

A statue of Oliver Cromwell stands by the bridge. He lodged in Warrington after his victory at the Battle of Preston.

In 1848, Warrington became the first town to have a Public Library supported by the rates.

Both Independent and Primitive Methodism originated in Warrington, as did the total abstinence movement in 1830.

John Howard was living in Warrington when he wrote his book on penal reform.

Persons born in Warrington include Rick Astley, singer; Chris Evans, broadcaster; and Neil Fairbrother, England cricketer.

Two IRA bombs devastated Warrington town centre in 1993, killing two boys and injuring more than fifty others

Blue Badge Guide Colin Crosby is available to lead Guided Walks around Warrington for groups.