Reminders of the past lie all around you in the Mersey Estuary. Few parts of Britain can boast such a range and quality of historic and archaeological interest, much of it stemming from the explosion of economic activity in the 19th century. Liverpool may be the focal point but both the Mersey itself and the complex local canal network were the focus of this astonishing commercial and industrial boom.

These waterways saw vast quantities of goods moving between ocean-going ships, canal boats and railway wagons. Everywhere you'll find fascinating reminders of this era that enrich the local landscape. With the decline in industry, changing commercial patterns and the rise in road, rail and air services, the former peace and quiet has been restored.

In recent times, efforts to re-develop and clean up the local environment have helped many waterways to become havens for boating enthusiasts, anglers, walkers and nature lovers.

Much of the legacy from the industrial era - from the mighty docklands of south Liverpool to waterways such as the Sankey Canal - has now been renovated and preserved for future generations to enjoy. The area's real gem has to be Liverpool's world-famous Albert Dock and the internationally-recognised waterfront.

You can admire the Albert Dock, Jesse Hartley's masterpiece, in all its original splendour then go on to visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum and discover how the Mersey has shaped Liverpool's fortunes down the years. Further aspects of the area's colourful history can be explored at other National Museums in Liverpool including the Walker Art Gallery and Lady Lever Gallery on the Wirral.

The wealth the river helped bring to the area is well illustrated by a stroll round the impressive architecture of Liverpool's city centre, acknowledged as one of the most distinguished in the country.

On the opposite shore the cluster of historic visitor attractions known as the Birkenhead Packet range from the ancient Birkenhead Priory, whose monks operated the original Mersey ferry service, to a restored tramway and the Giant Grasshopper beam engine.

Other fascinating attractions include the Boat Museum at Ellesmere Port, while the Catalyst Museum at Widnes offers hands-on fun finding out about the industrial processes which founded the fortunes of the area.

Further reminders of that industrial era include the Sankey Canal trail and park which takes in such historic features as the Earlestown Viaduct where England's first true canal was crossed by the world's first passenger railway.