The 50 Best Things to Do in North West England

22 October 2024

Explore the North West

From vibrant cities to stunning landscapes, North West England offers an incredible array of experiences for every type of traveller. Whether you're planning a family adventure, romantic getaway, or cultural expedition, our comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best of this diverse region.

Macdonald Hotels make the ideal base for any North West trip with locations throughout the region.

Cheshire

1. Cheshire & Chester

Cheshire captivates visitors with its distinctive black and white architecture, Roman heritage, and picturesque countryside. From the historic city of Chester to its charming market towns, this county offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and modern attractions.

Things to do in Cheshire

  • Chester Zoo - Embark on a wildlife adventure at one of the world's leading zoos, home to over 35,000 animals in innovative, naturalistic habitats.
  • Chester Cathedral - Explore this magnificent medieval abbey turned cathedral, featuring unique architectural elements from Norman to Gothic periods and beautiful stained glass windows.
  • Delamere Forest - Discover Cheshire's largest woodland area, offering 972 hectares of mixed deciduous and evergreen forest with cycling trails, walking paths, and a Go Ape treetop adventure course.
  • The Rows - Experience shopping history in these unique covered walkways, featuring two tiers of shops that form the only example of such architecture in the world.
  • Chester Racecourse - Visit the oldest racecourse still in operation in England, known as the Roodee, hosting exciting race days and events throughout the season.

Stay at: One of three distinctive hotels in Cheshire. The New Blossoms Hotel puts you in the heart of Chester's historic centre, perfect for exploring The Rows and Cathedral. For a relaxing spa break, choose Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, set in 27 acres of woodland just 15 minutes from Chester. Golf enthusiasts will love Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa, featuring three golf courses including a Championship course, plus extensive spa facilities.

Tudor Buildings at New Blossoms, Chester

Merseyside

2. Liverpool

Liverpool's rich musical heritage, stunning waterfront, and warm welcome make it one of the UK's most captivating cities. The combination of centuries of maritime history with contemporary cultural attractions, creates an unforgettable urban experience.

Things to do in Liverpool

  • The Beatles Story - Immerse yourself in the world's largest permanent exhibition dedicated to the Fab Four, featuring authentic memorabilia and interactive displays that bring the band's journey to life.
  • Liverpool Cathedral - Marvel at Britain's largest cathedral, where you can ascend the tower for breathtaking panoramic views across the city and Mersey River.
  • Royal Albert Dock - Explore this iconic waterfront complex housing museums, galleries, and restaurants within beautifully preserved Victorian architecture.
  • World Museum - Journey through space, time, and culture at this fascinating museum featuring everything from Egyptian mummies to a planetarium.
  • Sefton Park - Escape the urban buzz in this Victorian park's 235 acres of green space, complete with a stunning Palm House and picturesque boating lake.

Stay at: Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, a peaceful retreat set in 27 acres of woodland just 35 minutes from Liverpool. After exploring the city's vibrant attractions, unwind in the luxury spa featuring an 18-metre pool and thermal suite.

Sefton Park in Liverpool

Greater Manchester

3. Manchester

Manchester, the world's first industrial city, has reinvented itself as a vibrant cultural destination. This dynamic metropolis combines industrial heritage with cutting-edge arts, sports excellence, and innovative dining, creating an exciting urban experience.

Things to do in Manchester

  • Manchester Museum - Journey through time at this world-class institution housing everything from Egyptian mummies to rare specimens from the natural world, recently transformed by a £15 million renovation.
  • Manchester Art Gallery - Immerse yourself in outstanding fine art and contemporary exhibitions housed in a stunning Victorian building, featuring works from the Pre-Raphaelites to modern British artists.
  • Old Trafford - Tour the legendary "Theatre of Dreams," home to Manchester United since 1910, exploring the museum, trophy room, and changing rooms of one of football's most famous venues.
  • Afflecks - Navigate this iconic emporium of independent traders, offering everything from vintage fashion to alternative crafts across four eclectic floors in the Northern Quarter.
  • John Rylands Library - Marvel at this neo-Gothic masterpiece housing one of the world's finest collections of rare books and manuscripts, including the oldest known piece of the New Testament.

Stay at: Macdonald Kilhey Court Hotel, a Victorian mansion just 40 minutes from Manchester city centre. Set in 11 acres of landscaped gardens, it provides a peaceful retreat while keeping you within easy reach of Manchester's vibrant attractions.

Manchester

4. Salford

Once the heart of industrial Manchester, Salford has transformed into a cutting-edge cultural destination. Centred around the redeveloped Quays, the city now stands as a testament to urban regeneration and cultural innovation.

Things to do in Salford

  • Salford Quays - Explore this restored waterfront district, home to MediaCityUK, numerous restaurants, and the iconic Imperial War Museum North with its striking Daniel Libeskind design.
  • The Lowry - Experience world-class theatre and art in this architecturally stunning complex, featuring two theatres, galleries showing L.S. Lowry's works, and contemporary exhibitions.
  • RHS Garden Bridgewater - Wander through Europe's largest gardening project, featuring 154 acres of stunning gardens including the spectacular Paradise Garden and Kitchen Garden.
  • Salford Museum & Art Gallery - Step back in time at Lark Hill Place, a recreated Victorian street, while exploring collections that tell the story of Salford's rich heritage.
  • Peel Park - Relax in one of Britain's first public parks, offering beautiful green spaces and regular events against the backdrop of the University of Salford.

Stay at: Macdonald Kilhey Court Hotel, located 30 minutes from Salford's MediaCityUK and The Quays. This Victorian hotel offers comfortable accommodation and beautiful grounds, perfect for those wanting to combine city exploration with countryside tranquillity.

Manchester

5. Wigan

Wigan, famous for its industrial heritage and warm community spirit, offers visitors a unique blend of historical attractions and contemporary entertainment. This proud Lancashire town maintains its traditional character while embracing modern leisure activities.

Things to do in Wigan

  • Wigan Pier - Discover the famous site immortalized by George Orwell, with a rich history in industrial Northern England.
  • Haigh Woodland Park - Explore 250 acres of historic woodland featuring adventure play areas, high ropes courses, and the magnificent Grade II listed Haigh Hall.
  • Fairy Glen - Escape to this enchanting wooded clough with its romantic waterfalls and rocky gorge, offering a peaceful retreat just outside the town centre.
  • Velocity Trampoline Park - Bounce into action at this modern entertainment facility offering wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses suitable for all ages.
  • Local Pubs and Restaurants - Sample Wigan's famous pies and traditional Lancashire cuisine in historic pubs and contemporary eateries, experiencing the town's renowned hospitality.

Stay at: Macdonald Kilhey Court Hotel, a stunning Victorian mansion in Wigan set within 11 acres of landscaped gardens. This local landmark offers comfortable rooms, extensive grounds, and serves as the perfect base for exploring Wigan's heritage and attractions.

Wigan

Lancashire

6. Preston

Preston, Lancashire's administrative capital, combines Victorian splendour with modern urban living. This historic city offers a rich tapestry of cultural attractions, natural spaces, and industrial heritage sites.

Things to do in Preston

  • Brockholes Nature Reserve - Explore this unique 250-acre reserve featuring the UK's first floating visitor village, with lakes, woods, and abundant wildlife.
  • Harris Museum - Discover an impressive collection of fine art, costume, and textiles housed in a stunning Grade I listed building in the heart of the city.
  • Avenham and Miller Parks - Wander through these connected Victorian parks, featuring a Japanese rock garden and scenic riverside walks.
  • Ribble Steam Railway - Journey back in time on heritage steam locomotives while exploring Preston's rich railway history through preserved engines and artifacts.
  • Lancashire Infantry Museum - Experience the proud military heritage of Lancashire's historic regiments through compelling exhibits and personal stories.

Stay at: Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel sits picturesquely on the banks of the River Ribble in Preston. Enjoy riverside dining while watching the sunset, with comfortable rooms providing the perfect base for exploring Preston's heritage sites and museums.

Museums in Preston

7. Blackpool

Blackpool stands as one of Britain's most loved seaside resorts, combining traditional seaside charm with modern entertainment. This vibrant coastal town has been entertaining visitors for over 200 years with its unique blend of family attractions and historic landmarks.

Things to do in Blackpool

  • Blackpool Tower - Scale this 518-foot landmark and experience the heart-stopping glass SkyWalk, magnificent ballroom dancing, and the oldest permanent circus ring in the world.
  • Pleasure Beach - Thrill-seek at one of the world's most celebrated amusement parks, featuring the UK's tallest roller coaster and over 125 rides and attractions.
  • Sandcastle Waterpark - Splash into fun at the UK's largest indoor waterpark, featuring 18 slides and attractions, including the world's longest indoor roller coaster waterslide.
  • Blackpool Zoo - Discover over 1,000 animals across 32 acres of parkland, including the new Project Elephant Base Camp, the UK's largest elephant facility.
  • Stanley Park - Unwind in this Grade II* listed park, offering 256 acres of Italian Gardens, boating lake, and art deco café set in award-winning landscapes.

Stay at: Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel, located just 25 minutes from Blackpool's famous attractions. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation and riverside dining, making it an ideal base for both families enjoying Blackpool's entertainment and couples seeking a quieter retreat.

Blackpool Tower at Night

8. Clitheroe

Nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley, Clitheroe combines medieval history with stunning natural landscapes and a thriving food scene. This charming market town, dominated by its historic castle, serves as the perfect base for exploring the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Things to do in Clitheroe

  • Clitheroe Castle - Explore one of the smallest Norman keeps in England, standing proudly on its limestone outcrop since the 12th century. The castle museum brings 350 million years of local history to life.
  • Forest of Bowland - Discover this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's 312 square miles of unspoiled countryside, featuring rare wildlife, hidden valleys, and some of England's finest walking trails. The area is also renowned for its dark skies, making it perfect for stargazing.
  • Holmes Mill - Experience this beautifully restored 19th-century textile mill, now home to a food hall, restaurant, and beer hall featuring one of the longest bars in Britain (just over 105 foot!). The mill showcases the best of Lancashire food and drink, with regular events and tastings.
  • Clitheroe Market - Immerse yourself in local life at this traditional market, operating since the Norman Conquest. Browse stalls selling fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, surrounded by independent shops and cafés.
  • Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail - Walk this unique trail featuring over 20 permanent artworks nestled within beautiful countryside. The sculptures reflect the area's rich heritage and natural beauty, creating an outdoor gallery that changes with the seasons.

Stay at: Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel, located just 25 minutes from Clitheroe. After exploring the Ribble Valley's natural beauty, return to enjoy dinner at the hotel's riverside restaurant while watching the sunset over the River Ribble.

River Ribble in autumn

The Lake District

9. Windermere

Windermere, England's largest natural lake and its surrounding town, has been enchanting visitors since the Victorian era. This gateway to the Lake District combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering year-round attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

Things to do in Windermere

  • Lake Windermere - Experience the majesty of England's largest lake through scenic cruises, water sports, or peaceful shoreline walks. The 10.5-mile-long lake offers everything from traditional steamers to kayaking adventures.
  • The World of Beatrix Potter - Step into the enchanting world of Peter Rabbit and friends at this immersive attraction, featuring life-sized recreations of beloved story scenes and a garden inspired by the author's tales.
  • Brockhole on Windermere - Explore this Lake District National Park Centre offering treetop treks, adventure playground, and peaceful gardens designed by Thomas Mawson, all set against stunning lake views.
  • Windermere Jetty Museum - Discover the lake's rich maritime heritage at this state-of-the-art museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of historic boats and offering interactive exhibits about lake conservation.
  • Orrest Head - Follow in Alfred Wainwright's footsteps on this accessible walk offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells – the perfect introduction to Lake District landscapes.

Stay at: Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, occupying a prime position on the shores of Lake Windermere. This historic hotel offers stunning lake views, a luxury spa with a 20-meter pool, and a private jetty. Its central location in Bowness makes it perfect for exploring the Lake District.

Lake Windermere

10. Ullswater

Often described as England's most beautiful lake, Ullswater combines dramatic mountain scenery with peaceful valleys. This glacially-formed water offers the perfect balance of adventure and tranquillity, surrounded by some of the Lake District's most impressive fells.

Things to do in Ullswater

  • Aira Force Waterfall - Experience the power and beauty of this 65-foot waterfall cascading through ancient woodland, following trails that have captivated visitors since Victorian times.
  • Ullswater Steamers - Cruise the serpentine lake aboard heritage vessels that have sailed these waters since 1859, connecting some of the area's most picturesque walking routes.
  • Pony Trekking - Explore the fells on horseback through established riding centres, offering experiences suitable for both beginners and experienced riders across stunning mountain terrain.
  • Sailing and Canoeing - Take to the water in various craft from the lake's multiple centres, with options ranging from peaceful paddling to exhilarating sailing experiences.
  • Ghyll Scrambling - Adventure through mountain streams and waterfalls with experienced guides, discovering hidden gorges and pools in this exciting Lake District activity.

Stay at: Macdonald Leeming House, an elegant retreat on the shores of Ullswater. Set in 22 acres of gardens leading down to the lake, this Grade II Listed Building offers refined accommodation and beautiful grounds, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure in the Lake District.

Ullswater