History & Heritage
Whilst Trafford is very young (established in 1974 as part of local government reorganization) the history of its diverse communities is ancient and rich. Two great family estates anchored opposite ends of the Borough. The de Trafford’s Estate was in Old Trafford but what was once a country estate is now covered by Trafford Park one of the world’s largest industrial estates. There is little left to see of the country estate but a small heritage centre celebrates the life of Trafford Park. On the edge of the Park lies what was the Port of Manchester Docks, instead of welcoming ships The Quays which straddles The Manchester Ship Canal now welcomes visitors at its entertainment leisure and cultural facilities.
It’s a different picture In the South on the Dunham Massey Estate where if it wasn’t for the cars you could imagine yourself stepping back in time. The estate including hall and gardens were gifted by the Lord Stamford the last resident to the National Trust in 1976. Nearby Warburton has Trafford’s oldest building, St Werburgh’s Church is one of only 27 surviving timber framed parish churches.
The Bridgewater Canal opened in 1761 links these 2 very different parts of the Borough and forms part of the “Cheshire Ring”. Don’t miss the incredible Barton Swing Aqueduct which carries the Bridgewater across the Ship Canal at Barton Upon Irwell.
If you’re tracing your family tree or are interested in finding out more about the history of Trafford you can find out more by visiting the
Local Studies centre in Sale.