North West England is a great place to travel to for a real sense of English culture and heritage. The people quickly welcome you, the countryside is wild, and the cities are buzzing with creativity. From Liverpool and its historic docks to the Lake District, you’re never short of things to do in the North West of England. Hike, mountain bike, climb in the West Pennines or head to a show in Manchester. Dine out in medieval Chester, or swim in the sea at Blackpool.
There is plenty to do in North West England all year long. During the festive season, Christmas markets pop up in cities and towns all over the region, and Blackpool hosts its famous illuminations. The countryside and beaches are at their best in the spring and summer, and Manchester’s world-famous Pride festival takes place every May (and is well worth a visit).
The cities and larger towns in North West England are well-appointed with public transport—some with trams, others with buses. Liverpool has a small underground metro service. There are buses to travel around the Lake District and more remote areas, or you might find a tour or rental car more convenient.
A few tips to keep in mind when visiting North West England: The food and local produce here is excellent—try as much local food as possible. Narrow your focus to a few key things; there is much to do in North West England, so planning is everything. Train travel at the night side of the cities can be unreliable, so consider that when planning your activities. It can be either cold and wet or warm and sunny at any time of the year—pack for unpredictable weather.
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The area of North West England encompasses several distinct regions, each with its own features. Cumbria has the Lake District, Lancashire has its canals and countryside, and the westernmost reaches of the North Yorkshire Moors has its wild nature. Cheshire has medieval beauty, and Merseyside has Liverpool.
...MoreIt’s hard to choose where the most scenic area of North West England is, but at the top of the list is the Lake District. The views along the beach at Lytham St Anne’s are also worth visiting, and the western parts of the Peak District are equally barren and beautiful.
...MoreManchester is the biggest city in North West England. The Greater Manchester metropolitan area is even bigger still, incorporating towns and villages around its circumference. Home to several galleries, museums, and a stunning Victorian library, it’s a cultural center and a shopping and dining hot spot.
...MoreSir Ian McKellen, famous for his role as Gandalf in Lord of the Rings, is from Burnley in North West England. Craig Charles and Elvis Costello are both from Liverpool, as are all of The Beatles. Filmmaker Mike Leigh is from Salford.
...MoreThere is so much to do in North West England for kids. Head to Blackpool Pleasure Beach for rollercoasters and seaside fun, or travel to the Peak District or Lake District to climb the trees at Go Ape. Visit kid-friendly museums in Manchester and Liverpool.
...MoreThe Lake District has already had a shout-out, but it really is one of the most beautiful areas of the countryside in North West England. Elsewhere, Cheshire has picturesque countryside for walking in, and the western parts of the Peak District and the North York Moors are also beautiful.
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