subject: Stop By Warrington For Shopping And More [print this page] Stop By Warrington For Shopping And More Stop By Warrington For Shopping And More
Warrington - Cheshire has been used as a major crossing point on the River Mersey ever since it was founded by the ancient Romans. The Middle Ages brought textile and tool production and it was established at that time as a market town. The areas around the town and the serene waterway have retained their rural charm despite the industrial boon.
Shopping is plentiful in Warrington and it ranks among the biggest retail centers in northwest England. The Golden Square shopping mall is a particular favorite for its relaxing ambiance and wide variety of retailers gathered in one convenient location. Another large mall stands on the site that used to be occupied by the Cockhedge Textile Mill. Others prefer browsing the large indoor market. Sanky, Horsemarket, Bridge and Buttermarket Streets mark the heart of the shopping district. Visitors are welcomed by the elaborate Market Gate precisely where these four streets come together.
In 1870, the Warrington Borough Council bought the building that serves today as Town Hall. The structure was built in 1750 for merchant Thomas Patten and was then called Bank Hall. In 1873, the sprawling grounds were opened as the first public park. A little more than two decades later, iron railings and an opulent set of gates replaced the wall that once marked its perimeter.
The oldest British museum is found on Bold Street at the Museum and Art Gallery. It was opened in 1857 at the current location. The upper floor houses 19th and 20th century watercolors, prints and oil while the lower level receives various traveling exhibitions throughout the year and displays work crafted by local artisans.
For even more culture, take a stroll through Palmyra Square to Parr Hall, and the lone professional concert hall in town. Their Cavaille-Coll organ is one of the finest examples of such an instrument in existence that has been kept in its original configuration. Twice now, plans have been introduced to relocate it but local support groups and a petition to Parliament have succeeded, so far, in keeping the organ where it has been since it was purchased in 1925 from Ketton Hall.
Places of worship have resided on the site of St. Elphin's Church since around 650 and the oldest parts of the current structure have their roots in the 14th century. Built in 1354 by Sir William Boteler, the crypt and chancel survive to this day. Damage during the Civil War forced builders to reconstruct the nave and tower. Major reconstruction of the parish church took place from 1859 to 1967.
Spend some time in Warrington for the shopping, the scenery and a step back in time.
