Runcorn

An industrial town and cargo port, Runcorn in the county of Cheshire is on the River Mersey; a key location that has been a large part of its heritage and history. The first mention of Runcorn came in 916 when Princess Aethelfreda, daughter of King Alfred, came to inspect her new fort on the riverside and is said to have founded the town’s first church on the site where the parish church stands today. During the 12^th century, a stone castle was started and the Middle Ages brought prosperity to Runcorn; as history records a weekly market, two annual fairs and two windmills here. With the coming of the Civil War, the Parliamentarian army began to dismantle the castle and the stone blocks were likely used to build some of the 'Jacobean' houses in the area.

Runcorn is a busy town with all the amenities, cultural and visitor attractions, historic sites, shops, restaurants and pubs you would expect. The port here is a feature of life in Runcorn and has been since the end of the 18^th centur;y but the major historic landmark that visitors are interested in is Halton Castle, at the heart of the town on Halton Hill. Although only ruins today, the site offers outstanding views and the interior of the castle grounds is open to the public. Norton Priory museum is one of the best places to discover the full and fascinating history of Runcorn.

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