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
See unusual sculptures in Grizedale Forest
Discover the unexpected, the quirky, the confounding and the confusing in Grizedale Forest with a whole host of art inspired by the landscape.
Location: Windermere, Cumbria
Take in 'Swallows and Amazons' landscapes on a relaxing cruise
Take a trip around the landscape used in the film ‘Swallows and Amazons’ and discover what inspired Arthur Ransome to write his famous book.
Location: Derwentwater, Cumbria
August festivals: Kendal Calling
Kendal Calling is the most fun you can have in the countryside with fields full of activities and attractions.
Location: Penrith, Cumbria
Take a walk round Cumbria with Jennings Adventure Ale Trails
Stunning scenery, cosy accommodation, good food and real ale are all on offer with Jennings Adventure Ales trails in the Lake District.
Location: Ambleside, Cumbria
Discover Lowther Castle & Gardens
Of the many treasures waiting to be discovered in the Lake District, Lowther Castle is a particular gem.
Location: Penrith, Cumbria
Explore world-famous gardens at Levens Hall
Discover the Elizabethan house and world-famous gardens, a place of discovery, a place to drink in its rich history, a place that all ages enjoy.
Location: Kendal, Cumbria
Experience a stunning Lakeland waterfall walk
Don’t miss a trip to the Taylor Gill Force to see fabulous streams and waterfalls set against a backdrop of stunning scenery.
Location: Keswick, Cumbria
Banish the autumn blues in a 13th century retreat fit for a queen
As the nights draw in, make yourself at home in a 13th century royal retreat that is anything but old and stuffy.
Location: Penrith, Cumbria
Cosy up in a private hot tub on a romantic retreat
Treat your loved one and yourself to a new level of luxury with your very own hot tub suite at Applegarth Villa, nestled in the heart of Windermere.
Location: Windermere, Cumbria
Explore the picturesque Lake District on an activity holiday
If you're looking for a heart-bumping adventure weekend, then a trip to the Lake District is a must. Adrenaline junkies sign up here...
Location: Borrowdale, Cumbria
Coast to Coast Cycling
A challenging route from the Irish Sea to the North Sea.
Location: Whitehaven / Whitby
Discover a medieval house at a Cumbrian gateway
An imposing Cumbrian castle boasting an award-winning rock garden.
Location: Kendal, Cumbria
Explore the Lake District
Discover the 200 fells, pikes and dales of the Lakes in a vintage camper van.
Location: Cumbria
Hunt for the witches in the woods of Pendle
Embark on the interactive Pendle Sculpture Trail, and find the witches ceramic plaques in an atmospheric woodland setting.
Location: Pendle, Lancashire
Bird watching in St Bees
The largest seabird colony on the west coast of England is at St Bees Head.
Location: St Bees, Cumbria
May events: Celebrate nature at Keswick Mountain Festival
Enjoy outdoor activities, world class speakers, sporting events, camping, and live music at this unique festival in the heart of the Lake District.
Location: Keswick, Cumbria
Take a walk with the wildlife in the Lake District
Keep your eyes peeled and cameras at the ready for some serious Cumbrian wildlife spotting.
Location: Lake District, Cumbria
Rainy Day Activities: Look into outer space at Jodrell Bank
Cutting-edge astronomy and interactive displays wow visitors to the Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, home of the magnificent Lovell Telescope.
Location: Macclesfield, Cheshire
Go horseriding in the Lake District
Saddle up for a two-day horseriding trek around the fells of the Lake District.
Location: Lake District, Cumbria
Enjoy a taste of Grasmere Gingerbread
Stock up on one of the Lake District’s most famous exports: Grasmere Gingerbread.
Location: Ambleside, Cumbria
Escape to the Lake District for a dog friendly weekend break
Head to Coniston in the Lake District for a multitude of dog friendly days out, including long walks, boat rides and lots of cake.
Location: Lake District, Cumbria