10 Things to Do with an Elderly Parent in Warrington

Enjoying the local area together can be an enjoyable way for older people and their loved ones to spend quality time together. Warrington has plenty to offer for a fantastic day out, for people of all ages. Parks, gardens, shopping, and afternoon tea; there’s bound to be something for everyone.
Here are 10 ways to enjoy Warrington.

Take a Gentle Walk Through Walton Hall and Gardens

The former stately home of Lord and Lady Daresbury, Walton Hall has much to offer visitors of all ages. Acres of tranquil parkland steeped in history, with a children’s zoo to delight younger visitors, as well as beautiful picnic spots and woodland walks, mean that all the family will have a great day out. Walton Hall itself boasts unique antique furniture, oak-panelled surroundings, Victorian paintings and gilded ceilings; a must have fans of history and architecture.

Visit Warrington Museum and Art Gallery

Free admission awaits visitors to Warrington Museum and Art Gallery, while activities for the grandchildren in the school summer holidays mean everyone’s happy! Opened in 1848, Warrington houses one of the earliest local authority museums and the first public library in the country. In its current home since 1857, the building houses fascinating objects, beautiful works of art, permanent displays and changing exhibits. The Sky Garden on top of Golden Square’s car park is also well worth a visit.

Relax in the Peaceful Surroundings of Victoria Park

Victoria Park is a large, 67-acre park, housing sports fields, skatepark, pump track and children’s playground. The park also contains a 16^th century Georgian Manor house, meaning there is plenty to entertain family members of all ages. Victoria Park also connects across the area, from the River Mersey to the town centre. There are walks of various lengths and links to the Manchester Ship Canal. More recently the park has held large scale events and concerts, including the Physical Disability Rugby League World Cup.

Explore St Elphin’s Church in Warrington

St Elphin’s Church in Warrington is a Grade II listed building with a 281 ft. tower and spire. The present building grew from 14^th century beginnings, but there has been a church on the site since around 650AD. The church is currently open on Saturdays from 10am – 12noon, for a look around, a moment of quiet or to have a chat. Generations of worshippers have called it home, while the church team strive to serve the needs of their local community as well as possible.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at a Traditional Warrington Café

When nothing but afternoon tea will do, a traditional café can’t be beaten, and thankfully there are plenty of options in Warrington for you to choose from. Places such as The Grand in Bridge Street, Dark Side of the Spoon in Time Square, and The Red Telephone Box Tearoom in Warrington Road offer afternoon tea, as well as a selection of other treats. There are also many cafes and bars dotted throughout Warrington that offer exceptional sandwiches, cakes, and paninis that will satisfy anyone’s cravings.

Browse the Shops at Golden Square Shopping Centre

If your preference is going around the shops and hunting for a bargain, Golden Square Shopping Centre is a must visit! Boasting over 100 stores, offering brands, dining, and entertainment options, including high street favourites such as Boots, Costa Coffee, and H & M, there’s definitely something for visitors of all ages. Enjoy a day of shopping with the people you love, before settling down for an evening of dining and drinks.

Discover Local History at Warrington Transporter Bridge Area

The only rail transporter bridge in the world, Warrington Transporter Bridge is a fascinating piece of history. A Grade II* listed structural steel transporter bridge spanning the River Mersey, it is 30 feet/9 metres wide, and 76 feet/23 metres above high-water level. Commissioned in 1916, although out of use since about 1964, the bridge is a must-see for people fascinated by the area’s industrial past. With pleasant walks nearby, the whole family can enjoy the scenery.

Take a Stroll Along the Bridgewater Canal

Considered to be the first true canal in England and constructed over 250 years ago by the Duke of Bridgewater, the Bridgewater Canal was built at one level, without the use of locks. Whether you like being on the water, walking the towpath, or watching the world go by from a waterside pub, the whole family can relax by this regenerated canal. There are many other attractions along the canal’s route, such as Astley Green Colliery Museum and The Trafford Centre.

Spend Time at Sankey Valley Park

Sankey Valley Park follows a section of the St Helens Canal and Sankey Brook. Runners, cyclists, and dog walkers enjoy using the park which is open 24 hours a day and has many attractions for people of all ages. Its non-navigable canal, children’s play areas, wildlife paths, art and sculptures, picnic benches and angling, mean that families can all find plenty to do. There’s car parking too.

Visit Grappenhall Village for a Quiet Afternoon

Grappenhall Village is a historic village in the Borough of Warrington. If you’re looking for a slower-paced stroll around historic surroundings then Grappenhall is perfect. Mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, with the historic St Wilfrid’s Church existing from 1120, it’s suggested that Lewis Carroll may have been inspired by the carving of a grinning cat on the west face of the church tower before creating his Cheshire Cat. Several pubs exist in the village, so refreshment won’t be a problem. The nearby Grappenhall Heys Walled Garden dates from around 1830 and has been extensively restored. Free to access, the site also has a café and toilets.