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History & Heritage
Discover Cheshire's Rich History and Heritage
Cheshire's cultural and industrial heritage is rich and varied. Visit some of the UK's most fascinating working museums and discover why Cheshire is synonymous with many industries including salt, silk and cotton.
Delve into the areas' rich history and visit a variety of heritage attractions in Cheshire. Anderton Boat Lift is a great place to visit to see something a little different. Built by Edwin Clark in 1875 to lift cargo boats the 50 feet in the air from the River Weaver to the Trent & Mersey Canal.
Head off to Ellesmere Port and the National Waterways Museum. With its stunning location on the banks of the Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal, extensive in - door displays, boat trips and historic buildings, the Museum makes a great place to visit in Cheshire.
Chester Cathedral is many things to many people: a vibrant community of worship, an ancient abbey, an archaeological treasure, a cultural hub and a centre of musical excellence. The refectory Cafe 1092 is also a lovely place to indulge in a delicious traditional afternoon tea.
Take a trip to Lion Salt Works, one of Cheshire's newest heritage attractions, which gives a fascinating and fresh insight into the story of salt, brought to life with fun, interactive and imaginative educational exhibits.
Discover 2000 years of history in Chester as you take a walk along the oldest, longest and most complete city walls in Britain, discover Chester's Roman heritage with a Roman Tour, a trip to the Grosvenor Museum or visit to the Roman Amphitheatre, the largest in Britain.
History & Heritage Articles
Anderton Boat Lift, the world’s first major commercial boat lift, celebrated its 150th anniversary in style this weekend (July 26/27) with a fabulous free Victorian Fair, organised by the Canal & River Trust charity.
The beloved ‘CHESTER’ letters installation is returning to Chester Cathedral gardens following a special refurbishment to mark the 10th anniversary of the Chester Heritage Festival.
This October half term, Chester is transforming into an arena of ancient warriors and modern champions as the city celebrates its rich Roman heritage with an action-packed series of gladiator-themed events.
Nestled in the south of the county – close to the border of Staffordshire and Shropshire sits the thriving market town of Nantwich.
History & Heritage Businesses
Cafe 1092 in the Refectory
Cafe 1092 in the Refectory is located within the nearly thousand year old Chester Cathedral.
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum brings science alive for visitors of all ages!
Jodrell Bank
Jodrell Bank is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the iconic Lovell Telescope, the UK's largest radio telescope
Alice's Parlour
Step through the looking glass and into a world where sense takes a nap and wonder runs the show.
History & Heritage Businesses
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Stretton Watermill
Step back in time and visit one of the country’s best preserved demonstration water-powered corn mills in beautiful rural Cheshire.
Combermere Abbey Weddings
Set in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, Combermere Abbey is a wedding and events venue where history, romance, and natural beauty come together.
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum brings science alive for visitors of all ages!
Port Sunlight
Explore Port Sunlight, one of the finest industrial worker villages in the world and a great day out no matter the season.
Tatton Park
The estate spans over 1,000 acres of parkland, featuring an elegant mansion, 50 acres of beautiful gardens, a working farm, and much more.
Lion Salt Works
The Lion Salt Works is a restored historic open-pan salt-making site, in the village of Marston, close to Northwich.
The North Wing Bed & Breakfast at Combermere Abbey
Luxurious and unique, a stay at The North Wing Bed & Breakfast is a truly unforgettable experience, creating wonderful memories to be cherished for years to come.
Lyme - National Trust
Nestling on the edge of Cheshire and the Peak District, Lyme was once home to the Legh family and, in its heyday a great sporting estate.
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Unmissable History & Heritage Events
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Chester Festival of Ideas
Dates: 2nd Jul - 5th Jul 2026
The award-winning, four-day annual festival is returning in the summer for the third time, after proving a success with thousands of visitors enjoying its near-to-100 events held each year since its launch.
Chester Heritage Festival
Dates: 23rd May - 7th Jun 2026
There's something for everyone, from those keen to explore our city's enchanting past to families seeking a free, engaging day out that sparks the imagination.
Gladiators of Britain
Dates: 20th Sept - 25th Jan 2026
A partnership exhibition with The British Museum and Colchester and Ipswich Museums.
Vintage & Victory Weekend at the Farm
Dates: 13th Jun - 14th Jun 2026
Step back in time and celebrate all that was great from the 1940s & 50s!
History & Heritage Offers
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Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
If you would like to become a supporter of the museum you can have the opportunity to get more involved with the work of the “home of the town’s history”.
Crewe Heritage Centre - Become A Member Today
Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
The Crewe Heritage Centre began life as part of the Crewe Heritage Festival in 1987, founded as a joint venture between Crewe & Nantwich Borough Council and British Rail.
Congleton Museum - Become a Friend of Congleton…
Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
Expiry Date: 31st Dec 2026
Donations come in all shapes and sizes. Why not become a Friend of Congleton Museum, and receive lots of member exclusive benefits such as regular newsletters and members only events.
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens - Become a member
Expiry Date: 25th Oct 2026
Expiry Date: 25th Oct 2026
Members do not need to book in advance and are welcome to just turn up on the day.
History & Heritage Trails
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Eastgate Street Row South
This elegant Row is as much for strolling as for shopping. No retail opportunity has been missed, from the handsome shops to the glass-and-wood booths and the stallboards. You’ll also discover a legendary department store, Browns of Chester…
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This sequence of Rows have seen their ups and downs, and your route will follow suit from street level to first floor. Pass through a once-notorious corner haunted by criminals and nip down an alley for a fine view of Chester’s cathedral…
An ancient marketplace, a sandstone cross smashed up by the Roundheads, and one of Britain’s finest examples of Tudor Revival architecture – this Row will reveal to you more than its fair share of history.
Watergate Street Row South
Glimpses of the past continue to reveal themselves along the road that once led to Chester’s port.
History & Heritage Experiences
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Chester Cathedral Tower Tour
Once at the top (125 feet high), take in the view encompassing of one city, two countries and five counties!
£14.00 From price per person
The Noose of Samuel Burrows Tour
Walk in the footsteps of Chester's notorious Georgian Hangman on this exclusive Tour with the author of The Noose of Samuel Burrows.
£12.00 From price per person
Half Hour City Cruises
This tranquil half-hour cruise long the River Dee departs from The Groves.
£9.50 From price per person
Two Hour Iron Bridge Cruise
Step aboard the Mark Twain or the Lady Diana for a two-hour cruise that’s a real treat.
£18.00 From price per person