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
Rainy Day Activities: Get hands on at the National Football Museum
Explore the world's largest football collection, learn about the history and culture of England's national sport and take part in other footy-related indoor activities at Manchester's National Football Museum.
Location: Manchester, Greater Manchester
Rainy Day Activities: Get spooked in the Blackpool Tower Dungeon
Tales of Lancashire's dark history and scary stories galore lay ready and waiting in Blackpool's spookiest indoor attraction, the Blackpool Tower Dungeon.
Location: Blackpool, Lancashire
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
Rainy Day Activities: Make a splash at Sandcastle Waterpark
The Sandcastle Waterpark is home to Masterblaster - the world’s longest indoor rollercoaster waterslide - and so much more to keep everyone entertained on a rainy day.
Location: Blackpool, Lancashire
Rainy Day Activities: Venture beneath the city on the Mersey Tunnel Tour
Take a sneak peak at the famous Queensway Mersey Tunnel - a unique indoor attraction close to Liverpool's bustling docks.
Location: Liverpool, Merseyside
Rainy Day Activities: Aim for a strike at All Star Lanes
Bowling, dining, cocktails and perhaps a touch of karaoke - a simple combination of indoor activities that guarantee a memorable boutique experience.
Location: Manchester, Greater Manchester