England is such a fascinating country, and because of that, there are some incredible locations to visit and experience. However, the northern areas are often overlooked, with plenty of people focusing on Southern spots and hot tourist locations. However, the North West of England has some incredible locations to explore. So if you were planning a weekend away trip then here are some of the top picks in the North West of England.
Weekend trips to the North West of England – Where to visit
The Lake District
One of the most well-known areas in the North West is the Lake District. A location that is full of vast lakes, incredible walks, and quaint villages ready for you to explore. Here you will find plenty to see and do. If you are a Beatrix Potter fan, then you will be able to explore a museum dedicated to Peter Rabbit and see the place where she lived. If you just want calm and quiet, then the walks and the scenery are simply incredible.
Blackpool
Blackpool has got to be another well-known area in the North West of England. The typical retro seaside resort with its vast beach, piers with plenty of entertainment, the Blackpool Tower, and the fabulous Pleasure Beach. You also have an incredible water park, and a lot of entertainment and things to do along the promenade and seafront. This is your typical English seaside resort, and while it might not be for everyone, Blackpool is certainly a memorable place for you to enjoy a weekend away.
Manchester
Manchester. The largest city in the North West and a fantastic one to visit. Nobody is as friendly as a Mancunian. The city of Manchester has so much to offer. There is a bustling city itself with plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants. There are fantastic museums on subjects from football to Science and Industry. There is not one, but two, famous football teams with two fabulous stadiums to explore. Outside of the city centre you also have Salford Quays and Media City where a lot of the UK tv production takes place. There is a lot to see and do in the city of Manchester, and it is certainly a great place for a weekend away.
Liverpool
Another fabulous city is Liverpool with a lot to rival Manchester in terms of things to do and places to see. Again you have incredible shops to explore and amazing bars and restaurants to enjoy. Liverpool also has the Albert Docks where you can experience incredible art exhibitions and displays. Liverpool is the home of The Beatles. So one of the highlights would be to attend the permanent Beatles exhibit or have a drink in the famous Cavern Club. Liverpool has a lot to offer and is a great location for a wonderful weekend away.
Chester
A great town to visit while in the North West is Chester. The city has a real medieval feel to it with the architecture, buildings, and walls. However, in Chester, you can enjoy the history as well as heading to the biggest Zoo in the North West. Just outside of Chester you have Ellesmere Port which is home to the big Designer Outlet. If you were hoping to grab a bargain or two then this is the place to do it. There really is a lot to see and do here and in the surrounding area, making it a perfect location and base for a few days away.
Lytham St Annes
Another seaside location to share is Lytham St Annes. It may be a little quieter than Blackpool and perhaps not as retro as you might expect but there is still a charm about the place. The beach is fresh and quiet, making it the perfect space to enjoy a walk or to relax by the sea on a warm day. There are plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants in the vicinity, and some of the arcades and entertainment you might expect at such a location. If you wanted a beach escape for a weekend but didn’t want the busyness of Blackpool, then this is the one to consider.
Other places in the North West worthwhile visiting
There are, of course, many places in the North West of England worthy of visiting and could be included as part of your weekend away in the area. Here are some of the other top locations to think about:
- Southport
- Pendle (Mostly because of Pendle Hill)
- Lancashire (There are many attractions such as Rivington Pike that make it a great place to visit)
- Penrith
- Morecombe
Hopefully, this has given you plenty of inspiration for some of the best places for you to enjoy a weekend away in the North West of England.
