Discover Winsford, Cheshire

Winsford is a town within the unitary authority Cheshire West and Chester, in Cheshire, England. It is located on the River Weaver, and has a population of around 33,000 people (2012 estimate).

Winsford, Cheshire, England: Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gladstone_Street,_Winsford_-_geograph.org.uk_-_192807.jpg
Author: michael ely


The origin of Winsford goes back to 1280, when a charter was granted to form a new town near the Vale Royal Abbey of Darnhall. The charter provided for a market to be held there, and the town of Winsford developed around it.

Winsford was just a small village until the 18th century, when the River Weaver was canalized to improve navigation. This enabled barges carrying china clay to pass through from Cornwall to the potteries in north Staffordshire. At the same time, it allowed the salt mining industry around the River Weaver to develop. By 1897, Winsford had become the biggest producer of salt in Britain. Much of it was conveyed to the Port of Runcorn for further distribution.

Winsford today comprises two neighborhoods, Over on the west side of the River Weaver, and Wharton on the east. The town is still a major producer of salt, particularly rock salt. The town has developed with modern amenities including a number of supermarkets (Asda, Aldi, Morrisons and Tesco), and chain restaurants (Subway, McDonald's) and other outlets.

St Chad's Church in Over Square, Winsford: Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:St_Chad%27s_Church,_Over_2.jpg
Author: Peter I. Vardy

Visiting Winsford

If coming from Manchester, take the M56 motorway to Junction 9, then continue on the M6 motorway. at Junction 18, head west on the A54 road, pass Middlewich to reach Winsford.

Places of Interest in Winsford

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