Activities

Spike Island is an artificial island between the River Mersey and the Sankey Canal, created when the canal was extended in 1833.  It was once at the centre of the British chemical industry but is now a tranquil wildlife haven and home to a large and ever-increasing swan population.  The footpaths around the island form part of the Trans Pennine Trail, ideal for walking or biking. 

An interactive science and discovery museum offering great learning opportunities about the chemical industry.

Liverpool is home to countless museums and art galleries – from local history, maritime history and, of course, being the hometown of The Beatles. 

This well-renowned and challenging 18-hole course is gently undulating with no hills or gradients, perfect for golfers of all ages and abilities, and sensitively designed with thousands of trees and wildlife habitats created.

Get up close and personal with animals including lions, monkeys and rhinos, alongside plenty of other family entertainment with amusement rides and a mini steam powered lakeside train.

A green oasis with a rare Tudor house at its heart, surrounded by beautiful gardens, woodland and glorious views over the River Mersey. Dating from 1530, Speke Hall houses a collection of over 200 pieces of ancient carved oak furniture and early examples of William Morris wallpapers.

An impressive country house dating back to the early 16^th century, famed for its sprawling estate, landscaped gardens and deer park.

This group of listed Grade 11 farm buildings and a walled garden is a great day out for the whole family, perfect for exploring the Pendle area either on foot or by car. Activities include a wander around the Walled Garden and ambling through Bluebell Wood.

Discover the fascinating true story of the Pendle Witches in stone.  The Pendle Sculpture Trail has 10 ceramic plaques with unique symbols that represent each of the Pendle people hanged 400 years ago in the biggest witchcraft trial in England. Find the plaques in a treasure trail style quiz with several mythical creatures dotted throughout providing helpful clues. 

A magnificent neo-classical country house with beautifully restored 18th-century interiors, set in 650 acres of rolling parkland.

Situated along the River Irwell covering an area of 36 hectares of scenic countryside, Burrs Country Park features various wildlife habitats and offers a great day out. The park is home to a range of activities, including walking, fishing, picnicking, bird watching and nature study.

A collection of vintage vehicles including buses, steam rollers and trams, with hands-on interactive exhibits explaining the development of transport in the North West.

Travel through the picturesque Irwell Vale along the unique East Lancashire Railway, calling at quaint towns and villages where you'll find plenty to see and do.

Jumbles Country Park is popular with locals and visitors alike, thanks to its accessible walking routes, resident wildlife and tranquil surroundings. The reservoir is a popular walking route and is used for an array of outdoor activities, including water sports and a sailing club.

Dating as far back as Pre-Christian times. Turton Tower offers a wonderful family-friendly day out.

Popular with hikers, Hail Storm Hill – also known as Cowpe Moss – is located at the highest point in Rossendale.

Established by a local woman from Ramsbottom, Bleakholt is now one of the largest sanctuaries in the UK, and home to over 450 animals. Meet the animals – from horses, donkeys and cows to sheep and goats – and time your visit with one of their family fun days, or pop into the shop and cafe during your visit.

Extending over 33 miles through Salford, Bury and Rossendale, this is the largest sculpture route in the UK, connecting local heritage, the landscape and communities. The trail also links a host of cultural attractions from art galleries and museums to the East Lancashire Railway.

Steeped in history, a visit to Gawthorpe Hall and gardens will transport you to an era from our illustrious industrial past. Built between 1600 and 1605, Gawthorpe Hall was the family seat of the Shuttleworth family for over 300 years.

One of Cheshire's hidden gems, Norton Priory Museum & Gardens has plenty of things to see and do.  Spanning 900 years, it's the most excavated monastic site in Europe. The museum is home to thousands of objects from Tudor shoes to the incredible medieval statue of St Christopher.

The former home and gardens of Lord and Lady Daresbury, Walton Home and Gardens is a popular destination, set within acres of tranquil and idyllic parkland.