A guide to living in Runcorn

July 7, 2022 | Laura Whittle

Bringing together a rich industrial heritage, friendly community spirit and growing social scene, it’s easy to see why home-hunters are running to Runcorn.

Overlooked by the iconic Silver Jubilee Bridge, this lively urban town on the banks of the River Mersey has something for everyone. A major transport hub for the North West, Runcorn is perfectly positioned for easy access to the surrounding major cities such as Liverpool, Manchester, and Chester.

Meanwhile, the town itself has everything you could ever need, with a vibrant mix of hangouts on your doorstep. There are parks aplenty (from Runcorn Hill to Wigg Island), no shortage of places to shop (from the Old Town to Shopping City), a great selection of bars and restaurants, and some of the North West’s best entertainment at the award-winning Brindley Theatre.

And with Runcorn set to receive a £23m investment to revitalise the town centre even further, there’s never been a better time to move here.

So, if you’re thinking about living in Runcorn, here are some of our highlights.

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Cruise down the canal | Bridgewater Canal

The canal is 65km long and stretches from Runcorn to Leigh. It was built over 250 years ago by the Duke of Bridgewater and is considered to be the first true canal in England.

If canal cruises are what float your boat, you can hire one for a relaxing day out or even a weekend adventure.

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Stretch your legs | Runcorn Hill Park

Runcorn Hill Park comprises formal gardens, open playing fields, oak-birch woodland and many facilities including a band stand, bowling green, boating lake and tennis courts.

The park is open to everyone and is a great place to escape to whether you’re in the mood for a run, a relaxing yoga session or a picnic with friends.

Find at Highlands Road, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 4PT

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Coffee and a catch-up | The Bake House

The Bake House is an independent coffee shop and kitchen popular for its all-day breakfast, lunch, coffee and cocktails.

It’s the perfect place to catch up with a friend for brunch or treat your partner to a fun cocktail date.

Find at The Old Post Office, 2 Highlands Rd, Runcorn, WA7 4PR | www.thebakehousecheshire.com

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Let nature take over | Norton Priory Walled Gardens

Norton Priory Museum & Garden is situated on the edge of Runcorn and is one of Cheshire’s hidden gems. The museum displays thousands of objects discovered at the site, which tell it’s 900-year history and stories of the people who once lived there.

The museum is surrounded by tranquil woodland, and during the summer you can visit the beautiful 2.5-acre Georgian Walled Garden for a wholesome day out.

Find at Tudor Road, Manor Park, Runcorn, WA7 1SX | www.nortonpriory.org

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Shop till you drop eat cake | Saints & Sinners

Based in Runcorn Shopping City is the mouth-watering Saints & Sinners café-restaurant. Treat yourself to a delicious dessert after a busy day of shopping – because you deserve it!

Find at 114 River Walk, Shopping City, Runcorn, WA7 2BX

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Watch the sunset over the bridge | Silver Jubilee Bridge

Nothing beats a picture-perfect sunset, #NoFilter.

After the end of a long day at work, take some time out to watch the sunset over the Silver Jubilee Bridge with its stunning River Mersey backdrop.

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Play pool like a pro | The Lockdown Pub

Highly rated on TripAdvisor, The Lockdown Pub is a family run business serving delicious food & drink 7 days a week.

Enjoy a night of live music every Saturday or watch your favourite live sport with a refreshing cold pint before heading to the pool table for a game – there’s something for everyone at The Lockdown Pub!

Find at 45 Canal St, Runcorn, WA7 1SA | www.lockdownpubandkitchen.co.uk

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