Landscapes filled with lakes, estuaries buzzing with birdlife and revolutionary cities with sporting histories: the North West has something for everyone. Explore iconic cities that are as famous for their music scenes as their grand industrial buildings and museums. Hear The Beatles resonate from street corners in Liverpool and the Stone Roses and Oasis rock in fashionable Manchester. Switch off the sound in the Lake District as you retrace trails between ethereal peaks, fells and tarn lakes. Or head for the bright lights of the seaside under hedonistic Blackpool's blazing seafront illuminations. Welcome to a sports lovers' paradise with county crickets grounds, iconic horse races and Premiership football clubs to boot.
North West England
Take in the sea air on horseback
Experience a horse ride like no other with Cumbrian Heavy Horses.
Location: Whicham Valley, Cumbria
Tuck into a home cooked meal at The Kirkstile Inn
Enjoy a delicious menu made from the best Cumbrian produce, washed down with a pint of freshly brewed ale at the Kirkstile Inn in the heart of the North Lake District.
Location: Loweswater, Cumbria
Explore the bustling harbour at Maryport
Watch brightly-coloured trawlers unload the days’ catch, enjoy a bracing walk or coastal cycle, sample locally caught fish or go to a festival.
Location: Maryport, Cumbria
Build sandcastles and paddle in the sea at St Bees
Enjoy the picturesque sights of the red sandstone cliffs as you walk along St Bees's tranquil beach.
Location: St. Bees, Cumbria
Bird watching in St Bees
The largest seabird colony on the west coast of England is at St Bees Head.
Location: St Bees, Cumbria
Wander along the Whitehaven coastline
With the opening of the Whitehaven to Silecroft coastal path this summer, there’s more coastline than ever to explore.
Location: Whitehaven, Cumbria