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
Experience life in a WWI trench at the Lancashire Museum
Tens of thousands of proud Lancastrians perished in the Great War, whose experiences in the trenches are brought to life at the Museum of Lancashire in Preston.
Location: Preston, Lancashire
Follow in the footsteps of filmmakers in Lancashire
For film fans visiting Lancashire for the first time can lead to a feeling of déjà vu... Lancashire is no stranger to the small or big screen.
Location: Lancashire
Explore the historic and lively city of Lancaster
Uncover Lancaster’s ancient and haunting history at its hilltop castle and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in one of England’s Heritage Cities.
Location: Lancaster, Lancashire
November events: Eyes on the sky for Light Up Lancaster
See the skies over Lancaster light up this autumn at the North’s biggest firework display.
Location: Lancaster, Lancashire
Explore Lancashire’s rich industrial history
From the largest collection of Tiffany Glass in Europe to the world’s last surviving steam powered mill, Lancashire museums offer a riveting day out.
Location: Lancashire
Journey to the centre of England
Head to the geographic centre of England, the Forest of Bowland, via pretty English villages, traditional pubs and film and literature locations.
Location: Ribble Valley, Lancashire
July events: Beat-Herder Festival
See big-name dance acts and eclectic live bands at a summer festival that brings the funk to the farmland for three days in July.
Location: Sawley, Lancashire