Pictures of Widnes

About Widnes

Widnes is perfectly situated to explore the estuary of the famous River Mersey, historic Liverpool with its rich seafaring heritage and nearby Warrington where there is a museum recalling much of the history of the region.

There is much that is Victorian about Widnes, this can be seen in the splendid public library building and the park named after a great Queen and Empress. The park offer pleasant green spaces, a lake with wildfowl and there is a lofty Cenotaph to the those who died in the 20th century World Wars.

Of its recent history Widnes can claim to be the birthplace of the giant I.C.I Chemical Company, started by Sir Alfred Mond, it is also the place where both Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy appeared in theatre separately before they each left for distant shores and later met up in America to form one of the greatest film comedy duo's of all time. The "fab four" played at the Queens theatre before they became famous and Freddie Mercury, who went on to become the star of the great "Queen" band, played at the Wade Deacon Grammar School for girls in the 1960's whilst he was fronting an all boys band called Wreckage!

There is much that is historic about Widnes, it has had many famous son's and daughter's and is proud of its place in the history of Cheshire. There are several ancient churches to explore, and despite urban encroachment there remains pleasant countryside to wander in.

Visitors to the town will find good shopping facilities, a variety of old and modern pubs, restaurants serving the cuisines of many countries, and plenty of entertainment. The town's promenade offers good views of the sweep of the Mersey river and its bridges.