Runcorn is a town and industrial hub in the county of Cheshire, located in the northwest of England. It is situated on the southern bank of the River Mersey, and is part of the Liverpool City Region. Historically, Runcorn was a small market town, but its growth and development accelerated in the 19th and 20th centuries, largely due to the growth of the chemical and manufacturing industries in the area. Today, Runcorn is home to a number of large industrial sites, including the Runcorn Energy Recovery Facility and the Ineos chemical plant. In addition to its industrial importance, Runcorn is also home to a number of attractions and landmarks. These include the Norton Priory Museum and Gardens, the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre, and the Runcorn Transporter Bridge, which is one of only two operational transporter bridges in the United Kingdom. Runcorn is well connected to other parts of the country, with easy access to major road and rail networks. The town is also home to Runcorn station, which offers regular rail services to Liverpool, Manchester, and other destinations in the region.