The industrial legacy of St Helens can be seen in all aspects of the town’s modern offerings, from museums dedicated to preserving the industrial heritage to converted warehouses now housing quirky bars and restaurants. We’ve pulled together the top picks for you to plan your visit to St Helens so you can discover its vibrant culture and learn more about its fascinating history.
Discover the art of glassmaking
St Helens is famous for its legacy of glassmaking, harking back to the days of the Industrial Revolution. Pilkington Glass still operates in the town today, and one of their former factories now houses the World of Glass, showcasing their collections through the years. Perhaps most surprising about the museum is the subterranean tunnels of the world’s first regenerative glass furnace which form part of the museum’s exhibits. Visit the Glass Roots Gallery to get an understanding of the history of glass, dating back to the ancient Egyptians! There are glassmaking demonstrations daily, and you can make your own bauble on a glassblowing course.
Hitch a ride at the Transport Museum
The North West Museum of Road Transport is set in the St Helens Corporation Bus Depot, which dates back to 1881 and was restored in the 2000s to its former glory. The museum houses a large collection of historic buses from across Merseyside and Cheshire, including both single and double-deckers all in their original liveries. There are plenty of other vehicles too – a 1950s fire engine and some cool classic cars add to this extensive collection of historic motors. On their running days you can even hop on board one of the buses for a heritage trip around St Helens!
Visit the old blacksmith’s forge at The Smithy
The Smithy Heritage Centre is located just outside St Helens in the village of Eccleston. The blacksmith’s workshop has been there for at least 200 years, and played a core part in keeping the horses shod for the local community. The blacksmith was also responsible for making and repairing tools and farm machinery, as well as helping the wheelwright making wheels for wagons and coffin biers. The Heritage Centre now houses a collection of various blacksmithing and wheelwright tools, as well as various exhibitions on the history of Eccleston and the smithy.
Enjoy a day of racing at Haydock Park
Known for tight turns, fast ground and long galloping straights, Haydock Park is a perfect day out for fans of horse racing. This heady course which favours pure speed over technical tactics is a favourite amongst jockeys and fans alike. Meets are held throughout the racing season, with other big events like music festivals and concerts often taking place here too.
Catch a show at the Theatre Royal
More than 100 years old, the modern exterior of the Theatre Royal belies its historic interior. Hosting regular high-profile shows, comedians, pantos and musicals, be sure to check out the events calendar to see what’s on during your visit. If you’re around during the school holidays, take your kids to see the science demonstrations adapted from books and TV shows.
Dream a Dream at the Dream
Located on the site of the former Sutton Manor Colliery, the magnificent alabaster sculpture ‘Dream’ was unveiled in 2009 by its creator, Jaume Plensa. Weighing in at over 500 tonnes, this 20 metre-high monolith depicts the head of a young girl deep in meditation. The sculpture was created in consultation with ex-miners, with the aim of reflecting the aspirations of the community to look forward from the mining past and inspire future generations with hope.
Wonder at the spectacular of St Mary’s Church
The awe-inspiring hulk of St Mary’s Church is testament to St Helens’ strong Catholic paSt Built in 1924 to house the ever-growing Catholic population, the church is ornately decorated throughout, combining Gothic revival and Byzantine styles for an eclectic mix. The formidable 40m high tower houses a 47-bell carillon, and is topped off by the copper crossing dome. Polished granite columns and high vaulted ceilings will take your breath away while you learn about this incredible building.
Uncover the past at Sutton Manor
The old Sutton Manor Colliery was closed in 1991 when British Coal decided that the pit was losing too much money. The site lay abandoned, its enormous slag heaps and left-over machinery the only pointers to its paSt In 2001 the Forestry Commission leased the site from St Helens Council and spearheaded their ambitious ‘Wasteland to Woodland’ operation, which saw over 50 thousand young trees planted on the site. Now thriving with wildlife, sweeping wildflower meadows, and woodland trails, Sutton Manor still provides glimpses into its history. Keep an eye out for the original wrought iron gates of the National Coal Board, and the themed benches dotted around the site which were designed by the children of Sutton Manor Primary School. Climb to the top of the old spoil heap to the Dream statue, and gaze out upon miles of stunning views in all directions.
Pay homage to rugby at St Helens RFC
Proudly home to one of the most successful Rugby League teams in the country, St Helens RFC is a must-visit destination for any rugby fan. The Saints now play at the contemporary Langtree Park, opened in 2011 and capable of holding 18,000 spectators. Catch a home fixture and get your pre-game on in one of several stadium bars.
Delve deep into the Lavender fields at Inglenook Farm
Between May and July the heady aroma of lavender fills the air at Inglenook Farm. Located just south of St Helens near Rainhill, Inglenook is famous for the vibrant purple fields which call this place home. Of course, there’s plenty to see and do outside of lavender season too – the farm is home to several boutique shops, including the Dog Barn and the Vintage Bike Stable. There is also a farm shop selling produce from the farm and locally sourced goods, as well as the Cherry Orchard Tearooms where you can enjoy a spot of tea, great breakfasts, cakes and much more. If you can, try and visit on the second Sunday of the month, when the farm hosts an artisan market!
Try a photography workshop at Wild Arena
Founded in 2003 by a group of photographers, the Wild Arena was set up to provide workshops and tours with passionate and experienced instructors guiding you through every step of wildlife photography. Based at Knowsley Safari Park, Wild Arena houses some of its own animals or offers you the chance to get up close and personal with the safari animals. They also run trips across the UK and overseas for magical experiences through the lens.
More things to do in St Helens
Things to do with kids
St Helens is packed with activities and spaces to keep the kids entertained, and we have picked out our favourites to make your visit as stress-free as possible!
- Take a trip to Knowsley Safari, where a five-mile drive through 550 acres of parkland will help you to spot some of the 750 animals who live here. There are several zones which house different animals, including antelope, deer, zebras and buffalo. Watch out for the cheeky olive baboons, known for causing mayhem with cars! If you don’t want to drive, you can opt to take the Baboon Bus for the entire safari drive. Once you’re finished in the park, head over the foot safari, where you can wander around to see the tigers, giraffes and even some sea lions.
- Milk a goat and feed the lambs at Acorn Farm, or snuggle up with a fluffy bunny before cuddling a cute duckling! There are also two outdoor play areas, a woodland walk, plant and farm shop and ice cream stall.
- Go Karting at Three Sisters Circuit, approximately 15 minutes drive from St Helens. This thrilling race circuit caters for ages 8-80+, and offers ‘arrive & drive’ sessions for kids and adults, as well as birthday parties and lessons.
- Explore the largest inland body of water in Merseyside at Carr Mill Dam. Walk along the lakeside trails, or try your hand at some powerboating before heading to the café for a cup of tea and an ice cream.
- Climb the adventure play area at Taylor Park, originally part of the Eccleston Hall Estate and now home to the scenic quarry gardens, play areas, a large lake and trails, and the Boathouse tea toom.
- Visit Sherdley Park, the largest in St Helens and situated to the south of the town centre in Sutton. Originally belonging to a local copper manufacturer, it was bought by St Helens Council as a recreation space for Sutton’s residents. Covering over 336 acres, there is plenty of room for the little ones to burn off some steam whilst you enjoy a lazy picnic overlooking the lake.
- If the weather’s bad – and let’s face it, we live in Great Britain – then head indoors to Playdays Café, where kids can climb, jump, hide and slide around the multi-level play equipment. There are separate areas for different age groups up to 12 years old.
- Watch the trains as they travel over the magnificent Sankey Viaduct, an 1830s railway viaduct comprising nine enormous round arches. The viaduct spans Sankey Brook and the disused Sankey Canal, with lots of trails and walks available from the Sankey Canal car park.
- Spot some wildlife at Clockface Colliery Country Park. Another park masking its past as a coal mine, Clockface is the perfect place to let off some steam, walk the dog or have a kickabout.
- Climb Billinge Hill to its summit tower for panoramic views from the highest point in Merseyside.
Best places to eat
A far cry from its industrial past, St Helens is now home to some fabulous contemporary bars and restaurants. But if you’re looking for something a bit more authentic, then the town is also famous for its traditional pies. We’ve put together our favourite places to eat and drink during your visit.
- Tuck into some tapas and cool off with a cerveza at La Casa Vieja, a long-standing family run restaurant loved by locals and visitors alike.
- Head Stateside at the 66 American Steakhouse, home to all things steak, including its legendary burgers. Try the spicy chicken wings or indulge in a classic milkshake if you still have room!
- Play some board games or do some arts and crafts whilst enjoying coffee and cake at Momo’s Café. Described as ‘the place your soul needs’, this incredibly warm and friendly café is the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon.
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Pear Tree Café, where good food, amazing cakes and light lunches are the name of the game.
- Pop in to Burchall’s for (allegedly!) the best pies in town. Producing incredible pork pies, Burchall’s is a real favourite amongst St Helens natives.
- Or head over to Pimbletts Bakery, also allegedly the best pie shop in town! From traditional steak & onion to a veggie cheese & onion, Pimbletts has an extensive menu of pies and pastries to enjoy.
- Pick up some traditional fish and chips at Tanan’s in the heart of the town. Consistently rated as the best fish and chips in St Helens, Tanan’s is the place to go for this most British of takeaways.
- Try something new at Colours, the restaurant owned and operated by St Helens College to teach their catering and hospitality students. Specialising in fine dining, Colours allows you to indulge in some top quality food whilst helping students to learn the secrets of their industry.
- Experience vegan cuisine at Phoenix Plant Based Eatery, serving up delicious vegan brunches and lunches, as well as sweet treats and fabulous coffee.
- Treat yourself to some incredible food at The Dean in the heart of St Helens. This Brasserie specialises in fresh, modern British flavours, showcasing seasonal ingredients with an ever-changing menu.
- Stop off at Limassol, a family run restaurant providing authentic Greek food with authentic Greek hospitality. With outstanding quality food and an extensive menu of both traditional and modern Greek dishes, this is a fantastic place to try something different.
- Top off your day at Thai Jaa, a wonderful Thai restaurant situated in the town centre. Run by Thai chefs, you will be enjoying some of the finest Thai cooking in Merseyside!
- Pull up a barstool and enjoy a pint at The Cricketers Arms. With an extensive list of ales and a CAMRA member to boot, The Cricketers is a great place to spend an evening with friends.
- Soak up the atmosphere at the Cinema Bar, a quirky bar in the centre of town. With an extensive gin menu, creative cocktails and craft ales, this friendly and unique bar is perfect for a pre (and post!) dinner tipple.
FAQs
How many parks are there in St Helens?
St Helens is known for its abundance of green space, making this town one of the best in the North West for open areas. There are over 56 separate play areas dotted around the town for children, so whether it's family fun or a walk with the dog, there’s a park for everyone.
Where can I walk around St Helens?
Due to the amount of green space around St Helens, there are numerous walks and trails which can be discovered. Our favourite walks include Carr Mill Damn, Billinge Hill and Sankey Valley Park. For longer distances, why not try the Trans Pennine Trail, where you can walk or cycle from coast to coast across northern England.
Are there any collieries in St Helens?
All the collieries in St Helens have now closed, with many of them being repurposed as public open spaces. You can still catch a glimpse of the mining history though, particularly at Sutton Manor Park, where the original gates for the National Coal Board still reside.
