The earliest mention of Birkenhead, on the Wirral Peninsula, was in the twelfth century when monks built a priory there and established a ferry crossing to Liverpool. In later centuries the town became famous for its shipbuilding industry, most notably with the Cammell Laird shipyard, and as a centre for trade with the docks. The town prospered during the Industrial Revolution and was the location for Britain's first street tramway. Joseph Paxton designed the Grade I listed Birkenhead Park, the first publicly funded one in the world, which served as the inspiration for many others including the famous Central Park in New York.
Join local author Ian Collard in Birkenhead History Tour as he guides readers on a fascinating walk through the town and its history. Along the route readers will be able to see how Birkenhead has changed during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. With the help of a handy location map, this pocket-sized guide explores some of the streets, buildings and landmarks, and discovers the well-known and hidden aspects of Birkenhead's social and industrial heritage.