Liverpool may be famous for its Mersey Beat and its connection to The Beatles, but it's the borough of Halton, part of Liverpool City Region, that has perhaps some of the most iconic musical moments of all time, from legendary Spike Island to being the current home of the annual Creamfields Festival in Daresbury.

One iconic gig. Many moments in music history.

35 years ago, on 27 May 1990, thousands gathered at Spike Island for what would become one of the most legendary live performances in British music history. A moment that defined a generation. The Stone Roses turned Spike Island into the centre of the universe. And fittingly, Pulp's brand new single 'Spike Island'— a tribute to that mythical day — crystallises how we're still feeling the ripples today.

To mark the 35th anniversary, Visit Halton has delved into the archives and alongside founding member of legendry hit factory Stock Aiken and Waterman's - Peter Waterman OBE to explore more of the borough's musical masterpieces and why Runcorn, Widnes and Daresbury are firm favourites from artists around the globe.

Waterman has worked with many famous musicians throughout his career and as no stranger to Halton, follow him as he takes you on an exploration of the borough's musical legacy that uncovers the beat of the towns.

First stop on his tuneful trail is Spike Island, a man-made island between the Sankey Canal and the estuary of the Mersey. Back in 1990 on the 27th of May, Indie legends The Stone Roses, led by locals Ian Brown and John Squire, held a concert here. Still to this date, it is known as one of the most famous concerts that defined a generation. This event was immortalised in its very own film. Now a Green Flag award-winning parkland with items of industrial archaeological interest and a canal, on the Trans Pennine Trail, it is the perfect space to wander and reflect. 

For big-seater stadium gigs, there's the DCBL Stadium, home to the Widnes Vikings with many world-famous stars gracing the stage here including Elton John and Bryan Adams to name just a few. Time it right, and you could get to hear a different kind of music in the form of Widnes Vikings fan chant – “Who's that team we call the chemics, who's that team we all adore, they're the boys in black & white, and they play with all their might!” 

One event that needs no introduction is Creamfields, one of the largest dance-music festivals featuring world-class DJ's and live acts from all over the country, all set on the Daresbury Estate. The multi-award-winning multistage festival is renowned for delivering unbeatable line-ups featuring over 300 of the world's biggest electronic artists.

Just a short trip across the water is Runcorn and the award-winning Brindley Theatre, this 400-seater auditorium has seen many famous names grace its stage including Lulu, UK's 1969 Eurovision Winner. The Brindley is also undergoing a huge transformation with an enhanced extension set create an even bigger noise of the cultural circuit.

Check out the film here and the music guide you as you explore Halton's diverse musical landscape before sharing your own.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, Halton Borough Council are planning a music trail from Widnes station to Runcorn, incorporating two town centres and are inviting residents and visitors to share their Halton musical Highlights. From indie gigs to acoustic marvels, share your unique beats that define the Borough. Head to Visit Halton's Instagram or Facebook and share your memories and moments.

For the latest information on events and to explore more of all Halton has to offer, visit https://visithalton.co.uk/

Contact Info: Alexis@viv-id.co.uk or suzie@viv-id.co.uk for interview opportunities, fam visits, itineraries and further information.

About Visit Halton

Commissioned by Halton Borough Council, funded by Strategic Investment Fund (2022-2025) and UKSPF (2025-2026), Visit Halton promotes the borough as an exciting destination which can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

Halton unites 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.

Key ambassadors such as Pete Waterman OBE are helping to bring the project to life, such as the short video on the music trail of Halton, which is key and provides a legacy following Liverpool hosting the Eurovision this year and Halton has lots of musical highlights.