Nantwich

Nantwich lies on the River Weaver in South Cheshire and was, thanks to its saline springs, an important salt-producing centre from Roman times until the late Middle Ages. Today a natural brine, open-air swimming pool that is open during the summer months, recalls the town’s salty past.

Nantwich was largely destroyed by a widespread fire in 1583 and was rebuilt, meaning that today there are plenty of fine old Elizabethan buildings, the best examples being in Welsh Row.

The town’s main visitor attraction is Stapely Water Garden, which welcomes 1.5 million people each year. As well as being recognised as the world’s largest water garden it is home to the National Collection of waterlilies and boasts all kinds of plant and wildlife including palms, exotic plants, Cotton Top Tamerin monkeys, piranhas, coral reef fish, macaws and koi carp.