2024 marks the Golden Anniversary of the borough of Halton, officially formed on April 1, 1974, uniting the two towns Widnes and Runcorn on either side of the River Mersey, 10 miles upstream from Liverpool. 

The name of the district was inspired by the ancient Barony of Halton which had owned land on both sides of the river with the iconic Silver Jubilee Bridge linking the two towns which share a common heritage. Widnes was regarded as the birthplace of the chemical industry and its development spread to Runcorn in the 19th century. This backstory inspires a fascinating and proven formula for visitors and residents to discover old and new; surprising, unforgettable and Instagrammable moments.  

Rob Sanderson Thomas, Chief Executive Officer, Norton Priory Museum and Gardens, Chair of Marketing Halton says, “Whilst it's a landscape of waterways, pathways and built environments that have played a pivotal role in the past what is more exciting is how it has carved out today's culture for residents and visitors alike.” 

Today, Halton is a place where you can take a selfie with the Childe of Hale giant, a legendary figure in English folklore, be captivated at the Church of All Saints in Daresbury by a very beautiful stained glass window that features the characters from Alice in Wonderland, pose with pictures on Norton Priory Sculpture Trail includes bronze sculptures of a family of purple pigs, which are located in the Walled Garden orchard, step on stage where Gary Barlow, one of the biggest names in British music, took his first steps to stardom at Halton Royal British Legion Club. And if you are up for some outdoor fun, hike around a lighthouse and explore Paul McCartney's favourite 'childhood' beach, the Oglet. 

Rob Sanderson Thomas, continues “50 quirky things showcases the perfect formula for where visitors can embark on a journey of scientific exploration at The Catalyst, witness show-stopping performances at The Brindley Theatre, immerse themselves in the world of literary greats such as Alice in Wonderland at the Lewis Carroll Centre and not forgetting musical masterpieces including one of the most legendary concerts ever held in the UK, the iconic Stone Roses Gig at Spike Island.” 

Just a hop, skip, jump, pedal or whistle from Liverpool City Centre, Liverpool John Lennon Airport and West Coast Main Line stations getting to Halton could not be easier. 

By Car 

With Free Parking and several charge points across the borough driving is a convenient choice. 

By Rail 

Runcorn railway station lies on the Liverpool branch of the West Coast Main Line/Crewe-Liverpool Lime Street line via Runcorn and Liverpool South Parkway between Acton Bridge/Crewe and Liverpool South Parkway and is managed by Avanti West Coast. There are regular services to Liverpool Lime Street, Crewe, London Euston, Birmingham New Street and Chester. 

Widnes railway station offers regular services from Norwich, Warrington, and Liverpool Lime Street. It is also a notable attraction, as it is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II listed building. It is also widely believed to be the station where Paul Simon composed the song "Homeward Bound". 

From Liverpool  

Walk/Cycle 

Following the TransPennine Trail route option from the centre of Liverpool, you will pass through some of the city's most famous landmarks. You will travel down Penny Lane, known for its association with The Beatles, and through the beautiful Victorian parks of Princes and Sefton. On to Pier Head, where you can catch a ferry to explore the Mersey River. Leaving Liverpool, you will pass through Halewood Country Park and the charming village of Hale, complete with thatched cottages and cosy country pubs, to reach Pickering's Pasture Country Park, which opens with dramatic views of the Mersey Estuary and is recognised as a European Ramsar site for its wildlife importance. 

Bus / Train 

Arriva Northwest operates buses from Liverpool ONE Bus Station. Alternatively, you can take the train from Lime Street to Runcorn or Widnes. 

For interview opportunities, FAM visit, itineraries, and further information contact planning@viv-id.co.uk  

https://visithalton.co.uk/50-things/ 

***PRESS CALL*** 

The media and interested parties are invited to attend the official launch of Halton's 50th Anniversary at 

Norton Priory Museum and Gardens 

Tudor Rd, Windmill Hill, Runcorn WA7 1SX 

on Thursday 25th January 2024  

In addition to a photocall and interview opportunities with Council Members and leading tourism influencers, there will be an opportunity to view Luke Jerram's Gaia display that is being hosted from 9th January until the 29th January. 

This event is strictly by invitation only, to secure your spaces on the guest list, please contact planning@viv-id.co.uk. Upon expression of interest, further information and timings will be shared, and individual media requests can be considered and where possible catered for.