St Helens is a historic borough with no shortage of heritage and sights to see.
Venturing just a few miles out from the town centre, you are treated to some beautiful views and villages. The ECHO took a look at some of the most attractive areas in and around St Helens.
Rainford
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If you head north west from St Helens for around 15 minutes, you'll find yourself in the small community of Rainford. As well as larger homes than much of the borough, with an average house price of £240,545, you will find scenic, open fields and great views.
For those feeling adventurous, a short drive from Rainford will take you to Crank Caverns. The caverns are the remains of the Rainford Delph Quarry.
Information in the St Helens local history archives states that sandstone quarrying began here as early as 1730.
Billinge
Home to Merseyside's highest point, Billinge Hill, this village offers long walks with scenic views. Greenslate Farm is a highlight attraction that families can visit for free.
You can expect to find three restaurants, bars and cafes in Billinge.
Eccleston
Dubbed the "giving community" by locals, Eccleston is a small township on the outskirts of St Helens with a real sense of togetherness. The area also boasts some incredible natural beauty, such as the popular Taylor Park.
It is the largest Victorian park in St Helens and features two large dams, with waterfront trails, wildlife and children's playgrounds. The park is on the grounds that used to be part of the Eccleston Hall estate.
It was opened in 1893 and was named after Samuel Taylor who donated the land to St Helens.
Rainhill
The large village was a forerunner in the Industrial Revolution, hosting The Rainhill Trials, an important competition for steam locomotives.
The village has a community feel with numerous voluntary organisations that provide social and cultural activities for residents.
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