Lymm

Although bronze age remains have been found it is unlikely that there was a settlement until the late 7th century's Anglo-Saxon forest clearing. It was part of the border area between the Danes and the Mercians up to 870 AD. Following this, Mercia had strong defensive forts from Mersey to Irwell. 

The farmsteads were part of an Anglo-Saxon village, comprising of open field systems and a manorial organisation. Lymm was part of Bucklow Hundred and the Shire of Chester. The first church was probably built around this time. 

In 1066, Lymm had two manors, Lymm Hall and Oughtrington. The de Lymm family owned the estates and lived at Lymm Hall until 1342 when it was passed on to the Domvilles through marriage. The south west of the parish was owned by the Booth family and became known as Lymm Booth. 

In the 1500s the local community was prosperous even though much of it was still agricultural. Society remained stable until the 16th century when big changes took place with the advent of industrial development. Quarries deepened the valleys; Slitten Brook owned the first mill; tanning, iron working and powder making also grew over the next 200 years. 

Then the Bridgewater canal arrived, cutting through the village centre. It helped the industrial growth in the 19th century, especially of the 'fustian cutting industry'. Workers cottages were built as well as larger houses and gardens for the owners of these industries. 

In the 1820s the need for water supplies grew due to rapid industrial growth. This led to the building of Lymm dam and the re-routing of the turnpike road (which is now the A56). Probably a first for Warrington as industry enhanced the surrounding countryside. 

Present day Lymm is a result of the changing needs of its inhabitants. Its landscape is its best feature with the stream, Lymm Dam and an abundance of trees. The village architecture dates from the 19th century with some exceptions. These include the late medieval cross. Lymm Hall and 18th century buildings are associated with the Manchester Ship Canal. 

Although the introduction of railways in 1853 opened access to Manchester and the arrival of the motorcar made it easier to commute to other towns and cities, Lymm failed to grow as an industrial town. There was no coal, the waterpower was lacking and it was too far from the Mersey. The upside of this was the area has kept its village charm and this led to it being a popular choice for people to live and visit. 

Lymm Hall
This is an early 17th century medieval site with a moat. Originally surrounded by parkland and large estates, it is still an attractive site with many trees surrounding it. 

Dane Bank House
One of Lymm's most important buildings was built in the 17th century. Parts of it still remain, but most of it is now Georgian. It has pleasant grounds, and old estate wall and an old barn to name but a few of its attractions. These also date from the 17th century. The growth in the 19th century led to many Victorian houses which also adds to the character of the village. 

Lymm Dam
In 1821-4 the steam was dammed for water and power for the industries. In the 1900s, avenues and bridges added to the character of it.