Top 10 Places to Visit in North West England
Are you planning a visit to the North West of England?
Consisting of the counties of Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire and Greater Manchester there are not only fantastic cities to visit but also areas of outstanding natural beauty to explore. So whether you are in search of lakes, mountains and natural landscapes or the buzz of city life you will find what you are looking for in the North West.
1. Lake District
One of the most popular destinations for visitors to the UK is the beautiful Lake District.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017 the area is popular with walkers as well as those in search of stunning scenery, quaint villages, a wonderful literary heritage and landscapes more closely associated with Switzerland than England.
2. Beatles Tour
If you are a Beatles fan then make sure to visit Liverpool’s waterfront to snuggle up to the statue of the Fab Four. Unveiled in 2015 the statue and was donated by the famous Cavern Club where the Beatles were first discovered.
3. Blackpool
You can’t miss the iconic Blackpool tower when you arrive in town. Inspired by the famous Eiffel Tower Blackpool’s version was opened in 1894.
Inside the tower, you will find a circus, a dungeon and a pretty spectacular view of the town. The main attraction is however the Blackpool Tower Ballroom which is one of the most beautiful in the world. It is here that the famous TV show “Strictly Come Dancing” holds one round of competitions every year.
Blackpool also has one of the best theme parks in the country, Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
4. Albert Dock Liverpool
Yes, we are back in Liverpool! The city was one of the largest trading ports in the world and the docks and Grade 1 listed buildings that surround it are now UNESCO World Heritage-listed.
If you visit the docks you will find a wide selection of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops as well as some excellent museums.
If you enjoy art head to the Tate Liverpool. Beatles fans will love “The Beatles Story.”
For those with an interest in history head to the Slavery Museum and the Merseyside Maritime Museum.
5. Crosby Beach
This is an absolutely fantastic sight and highly recommended if you enjoy art.
Take the train from Liverpool to Crosby Beach to see sculptor Anthony Gormley’s famous art installation.
Consisting of 100 life-size case iron identical figures placed along a 1 1/2 mile stretch of beach, and facing out to sea, Another Place is truly a sight to behold.
6. Settle to Carlisle train journey and cross the Ribblehead Viaduct
Described as one of the most scenic train journeys in the UK the Settle to Carlisle route travels 73 miles through the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines.
Passing through 14 tunnels and over 20 viaducts including the Ribblehead viaduct in North Yorkshire this is one train journey any rail travel lover has to do when in the UK.
Of course, the best way to actually see the viaduct is to drive close to it, park the car and walk.
7. Take a tour of the football grounds (Liverpool & Manchester)
If you are a football fan taking a tour of one of these famous grounds will no doubt be on your bucket list?
Make sure to book ahead if you want to join a tour.
8. Manchester’s Northern Quarter
Full of bars, restaurants, vintage shops and street art the Northern Quarter in Manchester is the hip and happening side of the city.
The Northern Quarter is the place to head for a night out if you are staying in Manchester.
During the day head for some of the city’s museums. Popular choices include the Science and Industry Museum or the Imperial War Museum North.
9. Little Moreton Hall or Arley Hall Gardens
This beautiful Tudor half-timbered manor house is located in Cheshire. For those with an interest in Tudor England, this will be the perfect day out.
Owned by the National Trust this is a super summer destination with beautiful gardens as well as the hall to enjoy. Don’t miss a cup of tea and a cake at the tearooms.
Arley Hall is located in the heart of Cheshire and has some of the most beautiful gardens in England. With lots on around the year, this is the perfect destination for families. Arley Hall is dog friendly too with dogs on leads welcome on the grounds.
10. Chester
Chester is the perfect destination for a weekend break. The city has bags of character and historical interest.
In particular make time to visit the “Rows” – a shopping district comprised of 2 level arcades and Tudor buildings. The city walls are pretty neat too and date back to Roman times.
Have you been to England before? If so, we would love to hear in the comments below!
Other England Related Guides
Be sure to check out our other exciting guides related to England:
Top 10 Places to visit in England
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