unusual places to visit lancashire

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15 Best Places to Visit in Lancashire

In northwest England, Lancashire is where you break free from the conurbations into beautiful countryside.

The landscapes can vary between green arable farms and pasture near the coast, and the wild and romantic moors and fells of the West Pennines and Forest of Bowland.

There’s great variety in the kind of towns you can call in on, ranging from raucous seaside resorts like Blackpool to former centres of industry such as Burnley.

And in-between you’ll uncover an abundance of adorable villages and historic market towns.

Lancashire is also a county of unembellished warming food like the Lancashire hotpot and savoury pies, and of course real ale.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Lancashire :

1. Lancaster

Although just a little city and easy to traverse on foot, Lancaster’s historic ties to the British throne (Queen Elizabeth II is the Duke of Lancaster) makes it an exciting place to explore.

It’s also very attractive, with lots of proud Georgian houses from the 1700s, particularly around the castle and on the banks of the Lune River.

And as for that castle, it’s one of the region’s most treasured historic monuments, suffused with almost a thousand years of tales and intrigue.

Go in for a tour, but don’t neglect the Lancashire City Museum, the Lancaster Canal or the haunting Ashton Memorial high on a hilltop in Williamson Park.

2. Blackpool

The coastal town of Blackpool is pretty much the model for an English seaside resort and is one of the country’s most beloved domestic holiday destinations.

A fixture since 1894, and one of the things that helped put the town on the map, is the 158-metre-high Blackpool Tower.

It was inspired by the Eiffel Tower, and has an observation deck  140 metres up and a glorious Victorian ballroom.

The sandy beaches were cleaned up in the 1980s and Blackpool South Beach meets the exacting Blue Flag standards for hygiene.

There’s way more in Blackpool than we can list here, but the Pleasure Beach amusement park and the Illuminations lights festival in the autumn months are extra incentive to come.

3. Garstang

An adorable market town, Garstang was mentioned in the 11th-century Domesday book and has a weekly market that has been running since 1310. Just west of the Forest of Bowland, this is prime walking country.

Set a course for the ruins of Greenhaigh Castle on elevated ground over Garstang.

There isn’t a great deal remaining of this sandstone building, but the decayed remnants have their own fragile beauty.

Up here there’s a great perspective of the town and countryside, while the Lancaster Canal crosses the town and runs all the way to Kendal.

Hire a longboat or walk the towpath for to experience Lancashire’s wild moorland and fells at a lighter gradient.

4. Lytham St Annes

A conurbation of two coastal towns a few miles down the coast from Blackpool, Lytham St Annes is an ideal antidote to its glitzier neighbour.

Amusements and theatre shows are replaced by more tranquil forms of enjoyment: The marshes on the Ribble Estuary and 80 hectares of sand dunes in the resort provide a wintering habitat for more than 100,000 migratory birds.

Golf is the sport of choice, and there are four courses, including the Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, which has hosted the prestigious Open Championship, the oldest of the four majors.

St Annes is the seaside destination and is an understated Victorian resort, with a pier, gigantic beach and loads of period character.

As a textile town in the 19th and 20th centuries, Burnley is a good place to delve a bit deeper into industrial times in Lancashire.

The atmospheric Weavers’ Triangle, with its workers’ houses and cotton mills on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, is permeated with this history and you’ll get enthusiastic insights about these times at the visitors centre.

There’s a more refined side to Burnley too, at Towneley Hall a sublime Elizabethan manor house in sprawling grounds and with a museum containing everything from traditional local furniture to pre-Raphaelite paintings.

Burnley FC meanwhile is the overachieving local team, playing in the Premier League at Turf Moor one of the top flight’s last traditional grounds.

Crossing the river Calder with a stark majesty is the Whalley Viaduct, a titanic railway bridge built in the 1840s, 21 metres high and comprising 7,000,000 bricks.

Go to view the spectral ruins of Whalley Abbey.

This Cistercian monastery was founded in the 13th century but was divided up after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, The church and most of the monastic buildings were pulled down, but the dormitory is still there and is still used as a catholic place of worship.

The Northwest Gatehouse is also mostly intact and has Grade-I listing.

You’re in the scenic Ribble Valley in Whalley, and can hike up through woodland and pasture to the nearby Whalley Nab for a satisfying panorama of the village.

The story of the city of Preston is one echoed throughout the northwest: A small market town that grew rich and large from the cotton mills in the 1800s.

This era was when Preston’s most imposing landmarks were created.

Take the gothic revival Church of St Walburge, which has the tallest spire of any non-cathedral church in the country.

Or there’s the classical purpose-built Harris Museum, with paintings by Lucien Freud and Stanley Spence, and the excellent Discover Preston section, guiding you through the city’s and region’s past back to prehistoric times.

Rolling down to the north bank of the Ribble River are the joyous Avenham and Miller Parks, with a Japanese Garden and a grand stairway dominated by a statue of Edward Smith-Stanley, the MP for Preston and three-times the country’s Prime Minister.

8. Morecambe

A seaside town in the scenic bay of the same name, Morecambe means huge sandy beaches, kite-flying, chippies, ice cream parlours and the many other simple joys of a British coastal destination.

One fabulous sight to take in is the breathtaking MIdland Hotel, an art deco masterwork built in 1933 and recently brought back to life.

Morecambe has several cultural connections, as the playwright Alan Bennett based some of his works in the town.

And if you have a thing for British comedy you’ll appreciate the statue of the performer Eric Morecambe, who is fondly remembered for the Morecambe and Wise double act in the 1970s.

One of Lancashire’s cotton towns, Chorley’s skyline was a crowd of chimneys until the last decades of the 20th century, while the nearby collieries closed in the 1980s.

The Industrial Revolution brought sudden growth to Chorley, but it had been an important town for centuries, with a market that goes back to the 15th century.

Come to browse the stalls on Tuesdays and try a freshly-baked Chorley cake, shortcrust pastry with a currant filling.

Astley Hall is owned by the town and is a sublime 17th century country house with a walled garden.

And for fresh air, the sandstone peak of Rivington Pike climbs to 363 metres and is an amazing vantage point for the barren but enchanting moorland around the Rivington Reservoir.

10. Poulton-le-Fylde

It may be that you’d prefer a more placid and rural setting to retreat to during your trip to Blackpool.

The pretty market town of Poulton-le-Fylde is ten minutes away and has a centre protected as a conservation area.

At least 15 buildings in this little town have been listed, and some, like the Golden Ball pub, have been regional landmarks for as long as anyone can remember.

Poulton is in an agricultural area, far from the coalfields and so was unaffected during the Industrial Revolution.

Salad and vegetables are grown in the local countryside and sold at Monday’s weekly market.

And while you’re on Market Square, look for the medieval whipping post and stocks, still in place though thankfully they haven’t been used recently!

Neighboured by tall hills, Darwen is a good shout for an outdoor holiday, with bike trails, footpaths and bridleways into the West Pennine Moors.

The scenery is windswept and barren, but has an untamed appeal.

These moors weren’t always accessible to the public, and that’s the story behind the Jubilee Tower.

At the crest of the 372-metre Darwen Hill, this landmark was created to commemorate Victoria’s jubilee in 1897, but also to celebrate the reopening of historic rights of way, which had been blocked off by private landowners for much of the late-19th century.

Up here drink in the vistas of Blackpool, the Isle of Man and Morecambe Bay.

Also spend some time in the town, visiting the Victorian Market Hall, which has 130 stalls overflowing with great local produce.

12. Blackburn

A large town between Preston and Burnley, Blackburn is well-known for its historic cotton-weaving industry.

This dates further back than in other towns in the county as Blackburn was settled by Flemish migrants who brought the trade with them in the 1300s.

The Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery, established in 1874, has curated a lot of this heritage, including the awesome Japanese Print Collection, as well as medieval manuscripts, fine arts and Egyptology collections.

The other big claim to fame is the football team Blackburn Rovers, who won the Premier League in 1995. They are the bitter rivals of Burnley but currently languish in the second tier of English football.

13. Ormskirk

On Thursdays and Saturdays, the pedestrianised centre of Ormskirk bustles with shoppers at a market that got its charter in 1286. And the moment you see it you’ll know that the 12th-century Church of St.

Peter and Paul is a bit of oddity: This is one of only three in Britain to have both a western tower and a spire.

What’s inside is just as intriguing, as the church is the burial place of several Earls of Derby.

Thomas Stanley changed sides in the Battle of Bosworth, accelerating Richard III’s defeat and death, while the royalist James Stanley was beheaded at the end of the Civil War.

His head and body were buried in separate caskets.

14. Carnforth

A small town in northern Lancashire and close to the boundary with Cumbria, Carnforth’s reputation as a “railway town” was enshrined in 1945 when the classic movie Brief Encounter was shot at Carnforth Station by David Lean.

You can go into the Heritage Centre to see reconstructed sets and artefacts from the steam age.

You could also catch a steam train to Scarborough on the West Coast Line heritage railway, and get the luxury cream tea treatment in first class.

Carnforth is a town for walkers, who can climb Warton Crag, a steep limestone hill, which has a breeding site for peregrine falcons.

15. Heysham

On Morecambe Bay, Heysham is the a ferry-port with traffic to and from Ireland and the Isle of Man.

But there are lots of little things to hold your attention.

High above Morcambe Bay are the atmospheric ruins of St Patrick’s Chapel, a Grade I-listed building from the 8th century.

What makes this site so unusual is the presence of six tombs that were carved directly from the rock in the 1000s.

Heysham is the only site in the UK with two functioning power stations, and you may as well embrace them: If you’re curious about nuclear energy then the EDF centre offers pre-booked tours.

They’ll kit you out with safety gear like a hi-vis jacket, hardhat and safety glasses, and take you round the reactor, cooling systems and turbines.

15 Best Places to Visit in Lancashire:

• Lytham St Annes
• Poulton-le-Fylde

Hidden in plain sight: Unusual and unique landmarks you may not have noticed in Lancashire

Lancashire is home to many hidden gems - and some aren't actually so hidden

• 11:05, 25 JAN 2020

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Lancashire is a very busy and bustling place, so it's easy to miss things as we all go about our days.

You may be surprised to know that the county actually has many hidden secrets.

In fact, many of them aren't hidden at all - but they might not exactly make the tourism brochures.

The region is host to some amazing wonders which may pass you by without you even realising.

But fear not, we've made sure you'll never miss them again with this guide to the unique and unusual things hidden in plain sight in Lancashire.

Some are landmarks, others are monuments and some might come as a complete surprise.

Take a look at some of the lesser-known but equally important things you can discover in and around Lancashire.

Miley Tunnel

Work is well underway with the new Adelphi Quarter in Preston.

But what many people don't know is that underneath the key part of the city centre lies the Miley tunnel.

Some think it's 'haunted', with the 862-yard tunnel being built in 1840 as part of the Preston and Longridge Railway and setting the scene of numerous ghost stories.

By 1930, buses were proving to be a more popular form of public transport and the line closed to the public.

It continued to be used for the transportation of goods before finally closing in 1980 - and it still exists today.

You may have noticed the brick wall in between Ships and Giggles and UCLan's C&T building on Fylde Road. Below here is where the Miley Tunnel lies.

Abandoned Orphanage

As you're passing by, Theatre Street in the heart of Preston looks like any other ordinary street.

But if you look closely, nestled at the bottom of the road lies an abandoned orphanage, St Joseph's.

The orphanage was opened in 1872 and St Joseph's Hospital for the Sick Poor followed five years later.

Years of uncertainty have surrounded the site, which has attracted vandals and urban explorers, and developers who have shown interest have not had the specialist knowledge to restore it.

In 2016 the orphanage was included in the Victorian Society’s Top 10 list of endangered Victorian buildings.

Now, the building is set to be converted into new homes and gardens , led by Czero Developments.

Martyrs Memorial

Outside the 1844 Restaurant and Bar in Preston city centre (formerly the Corn Exchange) you may notice some iconic statues standing in front of the door.

The figures are tributes to the four cotton workers who were shot during The Preston Strike and Lune Street Riot in August 1842.

The statues stand in a memorial square and it is a historic feature in the city.

Comedy Carpet, Blackpool

Take a stroll down Blackpool's Promenade and you will find a resort icon.

Every step brings a new giggle on the Comedy Carpet which sits in the shadow of Blackpool Tower.

It's one of the largest pieces of public art ever commissioned in the UK.

A total of 850 writers and comedians are represented on the Comedy Carpet - with letters ranging in size from a few centimetres to almost a metre tall so that the laughs can be enjoyed from all sides and from both close up and at height from the Tower.

Camelot Theme Park now lies in ruins but it still remains as one of Lancashire's unique landmarks.

The once much-loved attraction, in Chorley, closed in 2012 after being open for nearly 30 years.

The 140-acre site has fallen into disrepair since its closure and has become ever popular with urban explorers.

Unique imagery has been captured by urban explorers who have entered the former family resort.

Southport Pier

It may just look like an ordinary pier, but Southport Pier is actually more unique than you may know.

It is in fact the oldest iron pier in the country.

Not only that but Southport Pier is the second longest pier in Great Britain, spanning a length of 1,108m.

The pier is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II listed building, first listed on 18 August 1975.

Darwen Peregrine Falcon Installation

Residents of Darwen will be well aware of the controversial falcon in revamped Darwen Market Square.

However those from further afield may not be aware of the statue that was created within £1.5 million regeneration scheme.

The sculpture, designed and created by renowned artist Liam Hopkins, who has work showcased in galleries around the world, has been made using woven copper and has an impressive five-metre wing span.

Some like it, others not so much.

Look out for it next time you're in the area.

Singing Ringing Tree Burnley

The Singing Ringing Tree - the iconic wind powered sound sculpture set in the landscape of the Pennine hill range.

Designed by architects Mike Tonkin and Anna Liu of Tonkin Liu, the three-metre tall construction is one of Lancashire's most unique landmarks.

It's a bit out of the way, so if you've not visited it before, it's certainly one to take note of.

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Top Things to Do in Lancashire, England

Places to visit in lancashire, explore popular experiences, popular cities in lancashire.

Ways to tour Lancashire

The Brontes, Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre

The Blackpool Tower Circus Admission Ticket

Walking tour of Lancaster - Execution Slavery Industry

3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

SEA LIFE Blackpool Admission Ticket

The Blackpool Tower Eye Admission Ticket

Motorcycle Trials Bike Experience Day

Scavenger Hunt in Blackpool by Operation City Quest

Friday & Saturday night comedy club entry

Madame Tussauds Blackpool Admission Ticket

Top attractions in lancashire.

Walking Tours

Shows, Concerts & Sports

Tours & Sightseeing

What travellers are saying

• Blackpool Zoo
• Blackpool Tramway
• The Blackpool Tower
• Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary
• Blackpool Tower Ballroom
• The Bee Centre
• Wild Discovery
• Clip 'n Climb Blackpool
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• Natterjack Alpacas
• Queen Street Mill Textile Museum

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lancashire

Things to do in lancashire, explore popular experiences, popular cities in lancashire.

Ways to tour Lancashire

The Brontes, Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre

The Blackpool Tower Circus Admission Ticket

Walking tour of Lancaster - Execution Slavery Industry

3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

SEA LIFE Blackpool Admission Ticket

The Blackpool Tower Eye Admission Ticket

Motorcycle Trials Bike Experience Day

Scavenger Hunt in Blackpool by Operation City Quest

Friday & Saturday night comedy club entry

Madame Tussauds Blackpool Admission Ticket

Top attractions in lancashire.

Walking Tours

Shows, Concerts & Sports

Tours & Sightseeing

What travellers are saying

• Blackpool Zoo
• Blackpool Tramway
• The Blackpool Tower
• Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary
• Blackpool Tower Ballroom
• The Bee Centre
• Wild Discovery
• Clip 'n Climb Blackpool
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• Natterjack Alpacas
• Queen Street Mill Textile Museum

Top Things to Do in Lancashire, England - Lancashire Must-See Attractions

Things to do in lancashire, explore popular experiences, popular cities in lancashire.

Ways to tour Lancashire

The Brontes, Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre

The Blackpool Tower Circus Admission Ticket

Walking tour of Lancaster - Execution Slavery Industry

3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

SEA LIFE Blackpool Admission Ticket

The Blackpool Tower Eye Admission Ticket

Motorcycle Trials Bike Experience Day

Scavenger Hunt in Blackpool by Operation City Quest

Friday & Saturday night comedy club entry

Madame Tussauds Blackpool Admission Ticket

Top attractions in lancashire.

Walking Tours

Shows, Concerts & Sports

Tours & Sightseeing

What travellers are saying

• Blackpool Zoo
• Blackpool Tramway
• The Blackpool Tower
• Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary
• Blackpool Tower Ballroom
• The Bee Centre
• Wild Discovery
• Clip 'n Climb Blackpool
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• Natterjack Alpacas
• Queen Street Mill Textile Museum

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From forestland to coastline and rollercoasters to ruins, Lancashire is a diverse melting pot of historic monuments, family-friendly events, seaside resorts and bustling nightlife. So if you’re looking for unique places to stay then a holiday rental in Lancashire could be the perfect choice. At one end of the scale you have Blackpool – famous or infamous depending on your point of view but always vibrant and memorable. Don’t miss the vertiginous Blackpool Tower or the UK’s tallest rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. On the other hand you have the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a 312 square mile stretch of countryside which encompasses moorland, mountains and pre-historic villages. Whether you’re camping, glamping or luxuriating in a country house, this is an exceptional setting for a proper getaway. Click  here  to see all our holiday rentals in England.

Without a doubt, a cottage in Lancashire would be an ideal base for outdoor pursuits enthusiasts. The unspoilt countryside is heaven for ramblers, those who want more of a challenge can scale Pendle Hill, there are lots of places to fish and mountain bike, or you could explore the waterways by boat. If you’re more into culture and heritage then you will love discovering the numerous churches, museums, castles and mansions. And don’t forget to make time for some of the other destinations in the county – the university city of Lancaster, the coastal villages of Morecambe Bay, the market town of Clitheroe and the tiny yet significant hamlet of Dunsop Bridge would all make excellent locations for a holiday rental in Lancashire. Whatever sort of escape you’re after, this is an area that is well worth your time.

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Things to Do in Lancashire, England - Lancashire Attractions

Things to do in lancashire, explore popular experiences, popular cities in lancashire.

Ways to tour Lancashire

The Brontes, Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre

The Blackpool Tower Circus Admission Ticket

Walking tour of Lancaster - Execution Slavery Industry

3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

SEA LIFE Blackpool Admission Ticket

The Blackpool Tower Eye Admission Ticket

Motorcycle Trials Bike Experience Day

Scavenger Hunt in Blackpool by Operation City Quest

Friday & Saturday night comedy club entry

Madame Tussauds Blackpool Admission Ticket

Top attractions in lancashire.

Walking Tours

Shows, Concerts & Sports

Tours & Sightseeing

What travelers are saying

• Blackpool Zoo
• Blackpool Tramway
• The Blackpool Tower
• Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary
• Blackpool Tower Ballroom
• The Bee Centre
• Wild Discovery
• Clip 'n Climb Blackpool
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• Natterjack Alpacas
• Queen Street Mill Textile Museum

Chilling with Lucas

Family and Lifestyle Blog

Free days out in Lancashire, UK

I have previously written about accessible days out in Lancashire, so I thought I would also find some free days out in Lancashire for the family too as an easy reference point. If you are looking for things to do as a family, here are some free activities for all ages.

Free family days out in and around Lancashire

Fairhaven lake, lytham st annes.

Fairhaven Lake is situated between Lytham and St Anne’s, the saltwater lake is positioned directly on the coast next to Granny’s Bay and Stanner Bank. Facilities include a children’s play area, lake with boat hire, crazy golf, crown green bowling, skate park, tennis courts, a picnic area, Spitfire memorial, RSPB Ribble Discovery Centre and a cafe.

Lancaster City Museum

Discover more about the City of Lancaster, one of England’s Heritage Cities, from the pre-historic era, through to today. Their immersive galleries are packed with objects and stories. Visit the King’s Own Royal Regiment Museum, housed within the same building, and explore the history of this wonderful city and its people. It is free admission to the City Museum and King’s Own Royal Regiment Museum though donations are appreciated.

Clitheroe Castle

You are welcome to explore the castle and its surrounding area, free of charge, any day of the week. From the top of the castle, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the captivating and historic Ribble Valley landscape, making the ascent well worth it.

You can visit the award-winning Museum, which is situated in the previous Steward’s House. This building, built in the 18th century, was originally used to accommodate the Steward of Clitheroe Castle.

You will be taken on a journey spanning 350 million years of local history. Begin by exploring how the current landscape was formed and why the Ribble Valley is home to such diverse and unique wildlife. As you progress through the museum, you will be enthralled by the unfolding story of the Castle and the surrounding area. From showcasing the local industries and heroic figures to sharing folklore and legends, the museum offers a shared experience for all to enjoy with its exhibits, touchscreen animations, and sound points.

Haworth Art Gallery, Accrington

Haworth Art Gallery is Lancashire’s finest Arts and crafts house and garden. It was designed by the architect, Walter Brierley and houses the internationally important Tiffany Glass Museum, Accrington Art Gallery and artists studios in the former stables.

Experience beautiful artistry and craftsmanship, enjoy garden walks with stunning views and relax in the friendly atmosphere of an outstanding Arts and crafts home.

Happy Mount Park , Morecambe

Happy Mount Park is proud of its reputation as a traditional park for people of all ages. You can sit and relax or stroll in the attractive parkland setting. Visit the popular cafe, enjoy the delights from a varied menu, or partake in any of the park’s other attractions and activities. These include a train ride, splash park, play areas , adventure golf and trampolines.

Park View 4 U ,  Lytham

Park View 4 U is a charity based at the QEII Park View Playing Fields, Lytham. The park was established in 2003. Since then, the Charity has successfully raised funds to develop what was a boggy field into an award-winning park that provides facilities for three generational users. They have a bespoke Sand and Water Play area , Toddler and Teen Zones, BMX track, Skate ramps, Playfit equipment, Multi-Use Games Area, Amphitheatre, Football pitches, Woodland Walk and more.

Penny Farm, Blackpool

Penny Farm is located near Blackpool and is a great day out for all the family. They are open all year (on Wednesdays, Bank Holidays and weekends) and have a packed programme of events during the school holidays. Penny Farm is home to around 65 horses at any one time. Their volunteers will show you around and introduce you to the horses. Explore the farm with ‘Dale’s Trails’. You can choose from one of two routes around the farm and complete a fun activity trail. You will be able to see their horse and ponies relaxing in the fields and learn about our farm environment and the wild birds and animals who live here.

Worden Park , Leyland

As well as offering more than 60 hectares of meadows, woodlands and playing fields, the park also includes a range of attractions on its historic grounds. Ride on the model railway. The Leyland Society of Model Engineers provide free rides to the public, operating on Sundays, bank holidays and Tuesdays during school holidays (all weather dependent).

Try and find your way around the maze. This historic feature is open to the public at all times. Worden Park’s maze has the extra feature of having two entrances. One is the “real” entrance, and the other is false, leading only to dead ends in either direction. The playground is the largest in Leyland! It has 22 pieces of equipment for toddlers (ages 0-6); including swings, climbing frames, springy toys and a large sandpit complete with sand diggers. There are also 14 pieces of equipment for juniors (ages 7-12), including swings, a see-saw, climbing frames, slides, a rope climbing frame and a cableway.

Cuerden Valley , Bamber Bridge/Whittle le woods

Cuerden Valley in Bamber Bridge/Whittle le Woods is a great option for free days out in Lancashire. There are 650 acres to explore, discover and relax in. You can picnic, walk the dog, and let the children play in the river. Or explore the Pinetum, visit the walled orchard and experience the many valley and woodland walks. There is a cafe in the visitor centre and plenty of activities during school holidays.

Astley Park , Chorley

The park stretches over 43.75 hectares and offers families, friends, the young and the old a great day out. Walking from one side to the other, you will find several walkways leading to beautiful woodlands where you can spot the snowdrop trail or stumble amongst the summer flowers. As you venture further into the park, you will also find sports pitches, tennis courts and a bowling green, all available to use by the public. There are also some very exciting playgrounds, including the Royalist’s Retreat and toddler play areas which will keep your children entertained for hours. Next to the Royalist’s Retreat is a special Pets Corner introducing children to small fluffy animals, reptiles and birds.

Cedar Farm , Mawdesley

A small playground is suitable for younger children; it has swings, a wobbly bridge and a slide. A larger adventure playground was built as an integrated part of our animal farm. Here children can enjoy themselves, big or small; there are dens, wicker tepees and wooden tractors. Visit the goats, sheep and chickens on the farm. There are independent shops and cafes to explore too.

Brockholes Preston

Brockholes Nature Reserve is full of natural moments just waiting for you to discover. It’s a 250-acre nature reserve to explore. You can walk along the River Ribble, explore our ancient woodland and amble around our lakes. Hides, paths and viewing points are specifically designed to allow you to get closer to nature and wildlife without disturbing it. In addition, there is also our spectacular floating Visitor Village, which plays host to a lakeside restaurant and shop! There are also play areas for children of all ages.

Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre

A farmers market is a great idea when you’re looking for free days out in Lancashire. A shopping village of fresh local produce, a craft and gift centre, a licensed tea room, a leading Art Gallery and high-quality Butchers. There is plenty to look around, and you can participate in crafts at the crafty cafe.

Mere Sands Nature Reserve , Burscough

Nestled amongst the peaceful agricultural landscape of Rufford, Mere Sands Wood is a true wildlife haven. Spring and summer see new life bloom in the form of marsh orchids and broad buckler ferns while the air buzzes with dragonflies and birdsong. Keep your eyes peeled for species like bullfinches, tree sparrows, great spotted woodpeckers and even sparrowhawks as they fly to and from their nests in the woodland.

Autumn and winter mark the arrival of overwintering birds like charming teal, handsome pintail and comical shoveler. Over 170 bird species have been seen on the reserve, and 60 are known to have bred. But Mere Sands Wood isn’t just a birder’s paradise – mammal lovers will relish the opportunity to try and spot roe deer, stoats and foxes as they creep through the broadleaved and conifer woodland. A mature Scots pine plantation supports a small population of red squirrels, while water voles inhabit the ditches bordering the neighbouring arable land.

Formby Beach/Formby Point

Formby Beach is ideal for families, with a large car park (chargeable), picnic areas, and waymarked paths to the beach, dunes and woods. The high dunes afford excellent views across the Irish Sea, and on clear days after rain, even the mountains of Cumbria can be seen.

Beacon Country Park , Up Holland

Beacon Country Park consists of over 300 acres of rolling countryside spread across the slopes of Ashurst Beacon between Up Holland, Dalton and Skelmersdale. The site boasts flowing wildflower meadows, grassland, natural ponds and areas of semi-natural woodland. It commands majestic panoramic views across most of Lancashire, with viewpoints overlooking the Lancashire Plain to the west and the Pennine Hills to the east. An extensive path network means that everyone can explore the park, and there is plenty of space to walk, run, ride horses or bicycles, fly kites, or just get away from it all and relax.

Blackburn Museum

Open all year on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. As one of the first purpose-built free museums to open outside of London in 1874, Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery houses a rich and fascinating collection. You can find fine art, decorative art, Egyptology, coins, manuscripts, natural history, social history and South Asia. With over 1000 Japanese prints, 5000 examples of coins and money, 500 books and manuscripts and the largest icon collection outside London, you certainly won’t be short of things to see.

Pendle Sculpture Trail

Visit the Pendle Sculpture Trail in an atmospheric woodland setting.  Art, history and nature come together against the stunning backdrop of Pendle Hill. Four artists have created a unique and intriguing range of sculptures.  Their work is inspired by the history of the Lancashire witches, Pendle Witches of 1612 and the natural world in this wild and beautiful corner of Lancashire.

Smithy Farm , Preston

They have various animal attractions, including Alpacas and Goats, not forgetting the free-range hens you can feed. There is also a seating area for you to sit, relax and watch your children play on their toy tractors.

Yarrow Valley , Coppull

Chorley’s increasingly popular Yarrow Valley Country Park is a 700-acre facility. It includes a café and information centre built using Heritage Lottery funds. Yarrow Valley Country Park has been awarded Green Flag status. “Yarrow Rocks”, is a radical play space in which young people are encouraged to challenge themselves and take calculated risks. This includes a giant rope swing, natural climbing wall, rock stacks, storytellers throne, embankment slide and basket swing.

Greenlands Farm Village, Carnforth

Come and meet their animals – including pygmy goats, our Kune-Kune Pigs, reptiles, bunnies, guinea pigs, and lots more! Why not have a donkey ride, feed the lambs, play on the tractors and new go-karts, let off steam in the straw barn and then wander down the paddocks? There is mini-golf, shops and cafes. In the soft play, confident toddlers and children love their shark attack zip wire, wonderfully bumpy four-lane slide, aerial rope bridge, huge scramble net, and super squeezy rollers. They will also love the challenges and games set on our four stories.

Young toddlers and babies delight in their dedicated section. It features padded slides, steps, blocks, wobbly characters, shiny mirrors, fun puzzles and other equipment designed to promote agility, mental development, and, best of all, fun. The village is free to enter, but there is an admission price for the open farm and soft play.

Marton Mere, Blackpool

Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve is home to hundreds of species of wildlife. It is nationally recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, which is not bad considering it was once a part of the town’s rubbish tip! Visitors can enjoy the site, from dragonflies to orchids, via designated footpaths and bird hides. In the winter, you might just glimpse a long-eared owl!

Old Holly Farm , Garstang

This is a working dairy farm, but they also have many other animals for you to come and meet. The animals live in the inner courtyard and in the summer in the outdoor animal paddocks. You can meet donkeys, goats, alpacas, pigs, sheep, free-range chickens and rabbits. There is also a cafe and soft play. The farm is free to visit, but you pay for the soft play. The play barn has been specially designed to encourage your child’s development through play, with interactive elements throughout. The ground floor level is designed for babies, with the upper levels for stretching little legs.

Harris Museum , Preston

The UK’s first blended museum, art gallery & library. There is an abundance of exhibitions and plenty of activities during the school holidays. There is also a cafe and shop. As well as the Harris Museum is free to enter, and the activities are usually free to participate.

Shores Hey Farm, Burnley

Get to know the horses and ponies in their care and discover the work they do to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome equines in need. You may even be able to watch the Yard Team at work in their Indoor Arena. Let the kids loose in their Children’s Play Area, or stretch your legs on their Welly Walk.

Stanley Park, Blackpool

Stanley Park contains a fantastic range of facilities, including all-weather  pitches, football, rugby, an indoor sports centre, an outdoor sports arena, a golf course, a cricket ground, a model village, a national BMX race track, a skate park, tennis courts, flat and crown green bowling, historic art deco café, classic children’s playground suitable for 2 – 8-year-olds, timber adventure playground suitable for 8 – 14-year-olds, crazy golf, trampolines and boat hire.

The Weavers Triangle , Burnley

Take a trip back in time and visit their Victorian schoolroom, Edwardian bathroom and weaver’s dwelling. You can find out how cotton was made and have a go at weaving. There’s plenty for children as well – with a children’s corner, trails and quizzes and a wonderful working model fairground based on the old Burnley Fair. Display rooms house changing exhibitions of artwork, crafts and local history.

The Fairy Glen , Appley Bridge

Nestled on the side of Parbold Hill above the rural village of Appley Bridge, Fairy Glen has a tranquil, secluded atmosphere. The site follows Sprodley Brook which has, over time, cut down through the underlying sandstone to create the steep Fairy Glen valley with spectacular waterfalls and cliff faces. These features, interspersed within the ancient broadleaved woodland, make Fairy Glen one of the most picturesque woodlands in the borough. Designated as a Biological Heritage Site for its oak, birch, ash and alder, the site boasts a rich and mature woodland biodiversity. There is a wide variety of flora growing at the site and, depending on the season, the woodland floor may be covered with bluebells, wild garlic, ferns, and red campion.

Samlesbury Hall , Preston

A stately home, a haven for history lovers, where the past meets the present. Go on a witch tour. Visit the animals from the bees making honey, the hens, rabbits, goats, sheep and pigs. Just to the right of the animal area, nestled in the woods is their brilliant new playground.  You can climb in through the windows of the miniature Samlesbury Hall replica & climb the rope bridge to the Mayflower ship!  There is also a charming wooden trail. This trail has bridges, swings and lots of fun obstacles for the whole family to enjoy; a challenge for adults as well as children!

Avenham and Miller Parks , Preston

These parks are created from a natural amphitheatre. There’s also a Japanese Rock Garden with a wide variety of unusual ornamental plants and beautiful water features. Avenham Colonade, the splendid riverside Ribble Walk, The Belvedere and majestic Derby Walk are amongst a few of the features to be found. For children, there is also a play area for all ages.

Witton Park, Blackburn

Witton Country Park covers 480 acres of mixed woodland, grassland, and farmland. There’s a great play area, sports turf, athletics track, show field and cafe.

Barrowford Park , Pendle

Barrowford Park was first awarded a prestigious Green Flag in 2008, and has maintained its flag ever since. The park has a bowling green, war memorial, two children’s playgrounds, and outdoor fitness equipment.

In the heart of the park are a lake and a wetland area. The lake was once the original mill pond. The pond is populated with moorhen, ducks and coots.

Bold Venture Park, Darwin

Bold Venture park opened in 1889 and is both a historic and picturesque park. Lying in the valley of Bold Venture Brook, it connects Darwen town to the countryside of Darwen Tower, Jubilee Tower and beyond.

Brock Bottom, Preston

Located about ten miles north of Preston and on the very western edge of the Forest of Bowland. the picnic site and nature trail (sometimes mistakenly called ‘Brock Bottoms’) is a beauty spot along the river.

Much of the river is very shallow and perfect for paddling.  And if you head off along the paths, you eventually come to the mill ruins.   Built around 1790, the site housed about 20 cottages for the workers at the cotton spinning mill.

Cradshaw Castle Rocks

Situated on the sunny side of a scenic valley, this small natural gritstone outcrop gives many pleasant low-grade trad routes and is an ideal place to take beginners.

Corporation Park, Blackburn

Corporation Park is a traditional Victorian park close to the centre of Blackburn. English Heritage now registers the park as a park and garden of special historic interest. The park has many sports areas, including tennis courts, all-weather courts, multi-use game areas, a cycle track, playgrounds and bowling greens.

If you liked this post on free days out in Lancashire and are heading further afield, check out these free things to do in York and free places to visit in London posts.

Check out the Facebook page Lancashire Tots for events happening too.

June 27, 2017 at 2:31 pm

Wow that’s a long list!! Some great ideas here – we do go to Lancashire as part of short UK breaks so will be sure to look at this 🙂 x

June 27, 2017 at 6:38 pm

Great list. We don’t live too far from most of these. Love Formby sands, i’ve been going there since I was very little

June 27, 2017 at 8:09 pm

I been to lots but not all of these, will definitely give working through the rest of them a go. It’s always good to have somewhere new to try out!

June 28, 2017 at 9:41 am

Some of these look great. I haven’t been up your way much but Chorley is one of my favourite places, it’s so beautiful!

June 28, 2017 at 11:44 am

Some of these places look absolutely fab! I’ve never been to Lancashire but looks like I need a trip ox

June 28, 2017 at 12:46 pm

I love this list and it’s great to find free days out to amuse the kids! Not everything has to break the bank

June 28, 2017 at 9:20 pm

What a great list. It’s so good to have a list of places that are fun to visit and are free too. Trips can get so expensive!

June 28, 2017 at 10:51 pm

I think we have been to every one on this list! With six of us a free day out is necessary!

June 29, 2017 at 6:15 am

Looks like there is lots to do in Lancashire for free!

June 29, 2017 at 8:24 pm

If we ever visited Lancashire we’d love to head to the Fairy Glen! Anything to do with fairies we love! A great list of free activities!

June 30, 2017 at 11:07 pm

I used to work at Greenlands farm village as a teenager, it’s a fab place for a day out! 😀

July 1, 2017 at 6:49 am

Some great ideas on here, we’re hoping to head up that way at the end of the summer so I’ve bookmarked this list!

July 1, 2017 at 10:32 am

We are moving up in to Lancashire next month, so I will bookmark this. I love formby!

July 1, 2017 at 8:23 pm

What a long list! Some of these places look really great.

July 1, 2017 at 10:48 pm

What a fab list you have put together I love posts like this. So many wonderful ideas for the summer holidays. The beauty of the free places as well are unlike the big theme parks these places usually arnt as busy as the massive theme parks in the holidays.

July 2, 2017 at 9:33 am

This is a great guide – I live in West Yorkshire so Lancashire isn’t too far to travel for me.

July 2, 2017 at 10:58 am

We are coming up to the Lake District in the summer holidays and want to explore as much as possible. Great tips 🙂

July 2, 2017 at 10:59 am

I have enjoyed visiting a few of those places in Blackpool on your list as a child.

July 2, 2017 at 1:55 pm

Thanks for this list I know now what I will do this summer.

July 2, 2017 at 7:55 pm

Great idea darling, I love helpful posts like this <3

July 2, 2017 at 9:25 pm

So many great ideas! Sadly, a bit too far for us to travel for a day out but perfect if we decide to have a holiday up there 🙂

July 3, 2017 at 10:16 pm

This is a useful list and one I will book mark when we go on holiday in that area.

July 5, 2017 at 7:29 pm

This is such a great idea – you can’t beat free days out. I live too far away, but this is such a fab resource. Kaz

July 10, 2017 at 10:20 pm

I’m Lancashire based as well and I know of a number of these! Love a good free day out 😀 Stephanie xx

July 15, 2017 at 9:12 pm

Looks like there is tonnes to do in your area – a perfect list for those who are approaching the summer holidays with dread!

September 19, 2021 at 4:54 pm

Thanks for all the recommendations! Time to get travelling!

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A very warm welcome to Lancashire!

VisitLancashire.com  offers a tantalising glimpse into a county of contrasting landscapes, with wide, open spaces, diverse heritage and plentiful food and drink, covering 3,075 km2 of England’s North West. 

You can sample our rich culture and heritage, take to our coast and hills for some much-needed fresh air fun (and some of the best outdoor activities around) or learn why we’re referred to as the food and drink county thanks to authentic local produce that’s second to none.

Relax, unwind and take your time exploring our fantastic county and enjoy a short break here, you’ll find an amazing variety of quality places to stay.

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There is something for everyone, with  countryside ,  canals , coast and towns. Enjoy stunning views, quiet lanes, rare wildlife and our famous  Lancashire coastline . There is the unique, wildlife rich  Morecambe Bay  in the north to the flat and fertile coastal plain around  Ormskirk  and the Ribble Estuary. 

The world-famous seaside town of  Blackpool  with its iconic Tower in the west to the undulating fells and moorland of the  Forest of Bowland  Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the famous  Pendle Hill  in the east, visitors to Lancashire are truly spoilt!

Please be responsible as you explore – remember to plan ahead and check opening times, pick up your litter, apply physical distancing and follow the countryside code.

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Lancashire Special Offers

Bar & Kitchen at The Whitaker

Kids eat free Children under 12 years. Available on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. One free children's meal with every paying adult, when buying a main meal or sandwich from menu. Great selection of meals for the littlest visitors to the museum. The menu iincludes fish and chips, Explorers’ Picnic, and mac and cheese. Ts & Cs apply.

Blackpool Tower Circus

Merlin Blackpool, operator of the seaside resort’s biggest attractions - Blackpool Tower Eye, Madame Tussauds Blackpool, Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse, SEA LIFE Blackpool, The Circus, Blackpool Ballroom, Blackpool Dungeon, and Peter Rabbit Explore and Play - is offering visitors savings of up to £57 per person with the new Pick ‘N’ Mix pass. 

Whether visitors are planning a day trip, weekend break, or week long holiday to Blackpool, they can guarantee fun for all the family, whatever the weather, by selecting from three pass options - one day, two days or seven days. During their trip, they can visit all eight attractions as many times as they wish over their designated time period. 

For further information and to purchase the new Pick ‘N’ Mix pass visit  https://www.theblackpooltower.com/pick-n-mix 

Boulevard Hotel

Experience more with free tickets for Pleasure Beach Resort

Pleasure Beach Resort eTicket included when booking any Thursday or Sunday night stay

Any guests* staying at Boulevard, where part of their stay includes a Thursday or Sunday night, will receive a FREE day eTicket to Pleasure Beach Resort for their entire party.

To take advantage of this great offer, simply add free park tickets to your reservation when making booking online directly with the hotel.

Terms and conditions apply -  

There are no limitations on the complimentary tickets, meaning guests can enjoy all the park’s world class rides such as Big One, ICON and the “best water ride in the world” Valhalla. They’ll also be able to visit the UK’s only Nickelodeon Land and meet their favourite characters including SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends from Bikini Bottom, as well as the PAW Patrol pups.

The offer is valid for stays on Thursday and Sunday nights at Boulevard between March and November 2024 when booked direct online, and is valid on Suites, Deluxe Rooms and Family Rooms. Room rates vary.

Park tickets must be taken on the Thursday or Friday for Thursday night bookings, or Sunday or Monday for Sunday night bookings. Guests are advised to check opening times as the park is closed on selected Mondays during the low season period (March and April, and September to November.)

*Not valid when booking through any third party websites or agents, valid for new reservations only.

Bowland Beer Hall

Drink It Dry. We know beer is at its best when it’s fresh.

So, every week, on New Beer Thursday we introduce 24 new beers to the bar. We hate to see good beer go to waste, so we invite you to come and help us Drink It Dry every Monday and Tuesday (excluding bank holidays), where you will have the chance to sample six of our beers for half price.

Terms and Conditions - Available every Monday & Tuesday, except Bank Holidays.

Farmers Arms

Fizz & Chips! 

Every Friday enjoy a premium fillet of fish, chips, and mushy peas alongside a glass of Prosecco for £22.50 Fish varies each week depending on market availability including Hake, Halibut, Lemon Sole amongst others.

Fell Urban Bistro

Corkage free Wednesday Free corkage to any guests ordering a minimum of two courses from a la carte menu. Guests can bring there own wine (wine only) and enjoy their meal without worrying about the cost of their drinks. Ts & Cs apply.

Fence Gate Lodge

Just the Two of Us

• Overnight stay in on our luxury rooms with a hearty breakfast in the morning

• A £50 dinner voucher to use in the Fence Gate Brasserie.

• Bottle of prosecco on arrival

The normal price £210.00

The exclusive price for Visit Lancashire is from £145.00. £20 supplement on Saturdays.

Gibbon Bridge Hotel

Indulge in the comfort of our rooms, tuck into a delicious dinner with a £30pp allowance included, and wake up to a hearty, freshly cooked breakfast each morning.

 1 night £200

2 nights £380

3 nights £540

Treat yourself, surprise a loved one, or escape for half-term/school holidays.

Offer available Sunday to Thursday during May, June and July.

Good Intent Gifts

10% off the Lancashire Gift Pack  Offer code: VisitLancs10  Discount valid until 31st December 2023. Additional delivery charges will apply to all orders. Discount can only be redeemed once per customer. All claims for short delivery or loss must be made within 48 hours of receipt of goods. Ts & Cs apply.

Hickory's Smokehouse Hutton

Two cocktails for £12.00 18:00 - 21:00 every Friday. So many delicious drinks to choose from including Pina Colada, Rhythm & Blues and you have to try the hard raspberry and mint lemonade. Ts & Cs apply

Hickory's Smokehouse Southport

Hickory's smokehouse thornton.

Purchase 5 pairs or more to qualify for:

• 15% off all footwear,
• Complimentary LANX socks and coloured laces with each pair purchased.
• Free shipping & free UK exchanges. 

Other packages available for smaller orders, please see the LANX website for details.  After purchasing your footwear online please email us with your preference for the complimentary socks and shoe laces. The free shipping and exchanges is to 1 UK address. To book a fitting session at our Whalley Warehouse Shop, or to request more information please email the LANX team via  [email protected]

Offer Expiry Date - 01/01/2030 

Offer Code - PACKC

Madame Tussauds Blackpool

Park Hall Hotel & Spa

Celebrate Father’s Day in style by treating your dad to a sumptuous carvery feast! Join us on Sunday, 16th June, from 11.30 am to 4.30 pm and dive into a delicious array of meats and sides starting at just £24.95 per person. Plus, to make his day even more special, Dad gets a complimentary pint of beer on us! For the little ones, we’ve got a tasty deal too - kids aged 5-12 can enjoy their own two-course meal from £15.95, and kids under 5 eat for FREE!

Peter Rabbit™ Explore and Play

Riverside Holiday Park

Escape the hustle and bustle with our exclusive 25% off all midweek breaks across all parks and accommodation types… without any exclusions! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in luxury, enter code: ‘Midweek’ at check out

*This offer applies to new bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. This offer cannot be exchanged for a cash alternative and cannot be applied retrospectively. Harrison Holidays reserve the right to withdraw the offer at any time.*

Offer expires 31/12/2024

Offer code MIDWEEK

SEA LIFE Blackpool

Super Sundays. Bowling from £5.00 per game. Discounted drinks and special Sunday night menu.    From 18:00 every Sunday. Ts & Cs apply.

The Alma Inn

Brunch and Bottomless Bubbles  Available Friday - Sunday, 9:00 - 12:00  £25 per person Enjoy Bottomless Brunch at The Alma Inn. Select one item from our brunch menu and enjoy bottomless Prosecco, Mimosas, Peroni or coffee Omlette [GF] [V] Cheese and Herbs, Grilled Tomato and Watercress Smoked salmon [GFO] Toasted English Muffin and Scrambled Egg Breakfast muffin [GFO] Choice of two fillings; Bacon, Sausage, Egg [V], Tomato [VE], Mushroom [VE] Avacado [GFO] [VEO] Poached Eggs on Toasted Sourdough, Rocket and Chilli Flakes Eggs Benedict [GFO] Poached Eggs, Hollandaise, Toasted Muffin with choice of Smoked Salmon, Bacon, Spinach [V] or Avocado [V] Full English breakfast [GFO] Bacon, Cumberland Sausage, Free-Range Eggs, Black Pudding, Hash Brown, Grilled Tomato, Mushroom, Beans and Toast Full veggie breakfast [GFO] [VEO] Field Mushrooms, Avocado, Free-Range Eggs, Hash Brown, Grilled Tomato, Beans and Toast The offer entitles the guest to enjoy one hot item only from our a la carte brunch menu.  The offer allows for bottomless prosecco, mimosas (both served by the glass) Peroni and coffee. Responsible sale of alcohol applies at all times.

£25 per person Ts & Cs apply

The Bay Horse Worsthorne

Set menu offer Two course for £18 Three courses for £20 Available Monday to Thursday 12:00 - 21:00, running alongside the main menu. Ts & Cs apply.

The Blackpool Tower Ballroom

The Blackpool Tower Dungeon

The Blackpool Tower Eye and 4D Experience

The Fenwick

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Starting from £129 per couple

Book online http://www.fenwickarms.co.uk

Dinner includes £30 food allowance per person on food only. Upgrades available. Excludes any other promotion or discounts.

Offer subject to availability

Offer code FenwickArmsDinnerBedBreakfast

Expiry date 31/03/22

DINNER BED AND BREAKFAST RATE PREPAYMENT POLICY -A Credit Card is required to guarantee the reservation. No charges will be debited in advance except in the event of non- arrival or late cancellation. In either event the amount of your first night’s accommodation will be charged to your Credit Card. CANCELLATION POLICY -Cancellation policy is 24 hours prior to arrival by 12.00 noon DINNER ALLOWANCE -The allowance for dinner will be stated at the time of booking. The allowance can only be use to cover the cost of food for dinner on the night of your stay. The allowance only applies to the al a carte or specials menus and cannot be used on any other menus, including Festive Menus or Christmas Day. The allowance can be used as full or part payment and no change will be given. Any additional food costs must be covered by the guest. Drinks are to be paid for separately.

The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse

The Signature Grill House & Mallard Bar

The Spread Eagle

Chippy wednesday.

Celebrate hump day at the Spread Eagle with our famous Chippy Wednesday. Get a portion of Fish and Chips with mushy peas for just £7

Vista Italian Soul Bar & Kitchen

Fizz Fridays Two pizzas and a bottle of Prosecco £30.00. Ts & Cs apply

Windmill Animal Farm

Save 10% on tickets.  Discount code: RETURN10 at the checkout. Book online. Ts & Cs apply.

Owd Barn at Bispham

Afternoon Tea at Own Barn at Bispham 

Our rustic afternoon tea includes a selection of sandwiches, savouries, a cup of soup, a bucket of chips, a selection of cakes and mini triffle. Inclusive of a pot of tea or a cup of filter coffee. 

£15.00 per head - minimum two people. 

Menu is subject to change, booking is required 48hours in advance and any dietry requirements of intolerances must be mentioned upon booking. Bookings taken after 2pm (3pm on Sundays), £5 per head non-refundable / non transferable deposit. 

Gift vouchers available, see website for further information and full T&C's/

Lancashire Bloggin'

Live music returns to South Ribble!

Two live music events are coming to South Ribble over the next two months as Penwortham Live and Longton Live return.

Cuckoo Gin is coming to Highest Point!

Lancashire’s Brindle Distillery – home of the world-famous Cuckoo Gin – will be the main spirits provider for Highest Point festival.

Stay for longer and enjoy the bank holiday in Lancashire

The first of the two long weekends in May is upon us, and Lancashire has so much to offer to visitors and residents alike.

What's on this bank holiday weekend

Bank holiday weekend is here and there are so many exciting events happening in Lancashire. We've put together this handy list of some of the things taking place over this long weekend but for even more ideas and inspiration check out our events guide here.

Everybody's talking about Jamie at Blackpool Grand in 2025!

Blackpool & Fylde Light Opera Company say He’s My Boy as they announce they will be bringing the smash-hit musical EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE to Blackpool Grand Theatre from Wednesday 28 May to Saturday 31 May 2025!

Blackpool Comedy Festival returns in 2024

Following the incredible success of the launch of 2019’s ‘Blackpool Comedy Festival’, Winter Gardens Blackpool, Manford’s Comedy Club and Showtown Blackpool have today announced the festival will return to the home of British comedy in July 2024 with an all-star line-up.

Casting announced for the Dukes mad-cap adventure of Alice in Wonderland!

The Dukes award-winning outdoor walkabout theatre show returns to Lancaster’s Williamson Park this summer as the Dukes present their annual award winning production featuring a stellar cast of 6 actors.

Excitement builds as line up announced for 2024 Great British R&B Festival in Colne

The excitement is building for the 2024 Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival following the announcement of a spectacular line-up for this year's event, which takes place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend (23 rd - 25 th August 2024).

Celebrating 20 years: Garstang Walking Festival's Birthday Bash

Wyre Council invites you to join them to celebrate two decades of the Garstang Walking Festival this upcoming May bank holiday!

Lineup announced for Poulton-le-Fylde summer festival

A lineup of events to suit all ages and tastes has been announced for the first ever Spot On Festival.

Blackpool Grand Theatre May 2024 show listings

May 2024 - Blackpool Grand Theatre Show Listings 

The verdict is in... Twelve Angry Men is guilty of being a top class drama

Reginald Rose’s gripping courtroom thriller Twelve Angry Men is wowing audiences across the UK and will be in session at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Monday 29 April to Saturday 4 May packed full of famous names!

Leighton Hall sows seeds for inspiring 2024

History, it has been said, informs and inspires us to step more compassionately into the future.

Last 150 tickets remaining for the Preston Bank Holiday Weekender

Attention partygoers and music lovers - limited tickets now remain for the highly anticipated Preston Bank Holiday Weekender, on May 4th & 5th.

BBC RADIO 2 IN THE PARK 2024 TO LAND IN PRESTON

Radio 2’s flagship annual live music event, Radio 2 in the Park, will take place this year in Moor Park in Preston, Lancashire on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th September, as revealed this morning by Gaby Roslin on the Radio 2 Breakfast Show.

OAK FEST returns for 2024 as Kate Nash heads to Lancashire

Set against the stunning Lancashire backdrop, OAK FEST 24 is a best-value and vibrant festival for 2024, headlining platinum selling star Kate Nash

Happy Hounds Breakfast Club launched at Lancashire farm

In a move to diversify their offering, a Lancashire Rescue & Rehoming Centre for horses has launched the Happy Hounds Breakfast Club, a monthly gathering for dog lovers and their furry companions. World Horse Welfare is inviting local dog owners to join them on the first Sunday of every month from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm at their Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre, near Blackpool

Stay on the Lancashire Coast

With a massive 137 miles of coast to enjoy in Lancashire, it’s no wonder that so many people come to the region in search of some seaside fun.

Take a peep at Joe Orton's famous farce What The Butler Saw this May

You’d be crazy to miss Joe Orton’s magnificently manic farce WHAT THE BUTLER SAW at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 14 May to Saturday 18 May!

Lancashire Wildlife Trust Partners with The Big Give to Double Impact for Wet Willow Wildlife Project

The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside has announced its acceptance into the Green Match Fund with The Big Give.

Local lass Lizzie - Ready to make them laugh!

After winning a national comedy competition, local lass, Lizzie Norm returns to her home town to take part in the Lancaster Comedy Festival in a few weeks.

8 Dog-friendly beaches to visit this summer in Lancashire

There’s something wonderful about a trip to the beach in summer. Feeling the soft warm sand between your toes, the smell of the fresh sea air, and the taste of delicious ice cream, especially if you can bring your four-legged friend along too.

Although some of Lancashire’s beaches impose restrictions during the summer months, there are still plenty of great dog-friendly beaches waiting to be explored.

Help The Wildlife Trust find Lancashire's highest tree

There are ancient trees, tall trees and wide trees, but which is Lancashire’s highest tree?

Burnley prepares for May bank holiday music festival

Burnley is gearing up for a long weekend of music, dance and community spirit as the town prepares for the Burnley Live music festival next month.

imitating the dog's recreation of the gothic Classic Frankenstein comes to Lancaster

imitating the dog and Leeds Playhouse are set to bring a thrilling and moving new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s iconic Gothic tale, Frankenstein to the Dukes  in Lancaster from 24th - 27th April .

Art trail app goes live ahead of weekend launch

With just days to go before Blackpool’s biggest ever art trail, the app for Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool is now available and completely free to download.

A day in the life of a Lancashire Farmer

This week we celebrated National Farm Animals Day by collating videos of some of Lancashire’s cutest farmyard residents, from piglets to lambs, buffalo to goats.

Low ticket warning for the Preston Weekender

The Preston Bank Holiday Weekender has released its final wave of tickets, with early bird and general tickets having sold out!

Garden Rooms to Launch at Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms in Lancashire in July 2024

Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms, Chef Mark Birchall’s two Michelin-starred culinary destination in Aughton, Lancashire, is set to expand its accommodation offering with the launch of seven new Garden Rooms. 

Meet The Boy at The Back of The Class at The Grand this May

Onjali Q. Raúf’s famous tale of THE BOY AT THE BACK OF THE CLASS has been beautifully brought to life in a heartwarming new production from renowned writer Nick Ahad (BBC’s Better, Emmerdale , Glory ).

Save up to £57 per person with Merlin Blackpool

Easter holidays are here and with parents looking for cost-effective fun to keep their children entertained, the launch of Merlin Blackpool’s new Pick ‘N’ Mix pass couldn’t have come at a better time. 

Elmer sculptures revealed at preview event

The sculptures which will be on display across town as part of Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool have been revealed to the art trail’s sponsors and supporters.

Marvellous Madness awaits as the Dukes Outdoor Park Show returns!

The Dukes award-winning outdoor walkabout theatre show returns to Lancaster’s Williamson Park this summer as the Dukes present their annual award winning production

13 exciting events you can enjoy in Lancashire this spring

As we wave goodbye to the colder months, we say hello to everything that spring has to offer in Lancashire. Amongst the newborn lambs, blossoming trees and rejuvenated landscapes of this beautiful county, you can always find something to do especially in our great outdoors.

Highest Point tickets up for grabs in giant Easter egg hunt

Highest Point Festival tickets and goodies are up for grabs as part of a giant easter egg hunt.

Wander your way to Wanderland Wyre's exciting new family festival coming this summer!

Find an extravaganza of entertainment on your doorstep, with three individually themed fun-filled entertainment zones to explore, interactive workshops to take part in, a huge main stage with live music and performances from family favourite stars and even more!

What's on at Winter Gardens Blackpool this April

01 – 07 April The Junior Dance Competition – Running since 1957, the annual Blackpool Junior Dance festival returns to celebrate the talent in the junior dance ranks for 2024. Historically, over 3..

Matt Cardle to play Shakespeare in award winning musical & Juilet UK at the Winter Gardens Blackpool

The producers of the global sensation & JULIET are delighted to announce that multi-platinum selling recording artist and award-winning West End actor, Matt Cardle , will play the role of Shakespeare in the upcoming UK and Ireland tour.

Blackpool’s Hottest Shows make Grand savings this World Theatre Day

The Grand Theatre is celebrating World Theatre Day 2024 by launching an incredible ticket offer for some of BLACKPOOL’S HOTTEST SHOWS this season including Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch, Cluedo 2 and The Boy at The Back of The Class .

Have you HERD the elephant-astic news at Blackpool Zoo!?

The results of the latest round of super-sized pregnancy testing at Blackpool Zoo has revealed that two elephants are expecting (big) little bundles of joy.

Chorley arts festival, What’s Your Story Chorley? sees most successful year yet!

Residents and visitors flocked to the town centre on Saturday (23 March) for a celebration of creativity.

Children’s TV favourites Bing and Flop at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre

Bing and Flop from the multi-award winning animated children’s television series is at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre with a brand-new activity trail as part of ‘Bing’s Nature Explorers’ - a new joint event programme between WWT, the charity for wetlands and wildlife, and independent creative studio Acamar Films.

Sir David Attenborough arrives at Madame Tussauds Blackpool

Beloved national treasure, biologist and broadcaster, Sir David Attenborough, has been immortalised in wax at Madame Tussauds Blackpool.  

Lytham St Annes' newest place to explore is now open

Lytham St Annes’ newest place from which to eat, drink, sleep and explore is now open, as The Inn Collection Group proudly launched Offshore on St Annes South Promenade.

What's on at Blackpool Grand Theatre this April

Thinking of a trip to the theatre this April, check out what's on at Blackpool Grand Theatre below.

The Backlot Cinema & Diner officially opens in Blackpool

Today marks the grand opening of The Backlot Cinema & Diner, located in Houndshill Shopping Centre’s new extension. The unique destination promises to re-define the cinematic experience and bring the very best entertainment to the heart of the local community.

Big Family Day Out to return to Williamson Park

Lancaster’s Williamson Park will be taken over by Celtic rock, dinosaurs, owls and archery as part of this year’s Big Family Day Out.

Blackpool Unveils a Glittering New Tourism Season for 2024

A spectacular programme of shows, events and new attractions has been unveiled as Blackpool looks to cement its place as the UK’s most popular seaside destination.

3 favourite dark sky spots in Lancashire

Did you know Lancashire is home to some of the darkest skies in the country? We are incredibly lucky that it’s possible to see the Milky Way, meteors and even the Northern Lights - you just need to know where to look and how to best set your phone or camera up!

The award-winning Chorley Flower Show returns for a three-day extravaganza event this July!

The three-day show will take place from 26 - 28 of July at the beautiful Astley Park and promises to be a vibrant celebration of all things floral.

Blackpool Comedy Festival brings jubilation to July

Winter Gardens Blackpool is delighted to announce the return of the Blackpool Comedy Festival in partnership with several resort partners including Showtown and the Comedy Station

The award-winning An Inspector Calls will pay a Grand visit in 2025

Stephen Daldry ’s stunning production of JB Priestley’s gripping drama An Inspector Calls will visit Blackpool Grand Theatre for ONE WEEK ONLY in February 2025.

It's looking like a cracking Easter in Blackpool

Blackpool has lined up a whole basketful of Easter fun and entertainment as the 2024 tourism season springs into life.

Take a sneak peek inside the brand-new Holiday Inn Blackpool

With the Holiday Inn Blackpool opening its doors this May, RBH Hospitality Management has revealed brand new images of the new hotel and Marco’s New York Italian restaurant.   

Lancastrian presence increases as new look Offshore onboarded

Lytham St Annes’ seafront was lit up by The Inn Collection Group this weekend, as their latest pub with rooms, Offshore, debuted in the latter half of the coastal twin towns.

Activity trail featuring popular picture book character encourages children to learn outdoors

Popular character, Stick Man, based on the children’s picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, features in a new free activity trail officially launched at Ridgeway Farm, Blackpool on Friday 29th March 2024 , which will encourage children to get outdoors and explore the natural world.  

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen reveals Elmer Elaganza ahead of Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool

With one month to go until Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool, organisers Brian House Children’s Hospice has revealed one of the sculptures on the art trail.

A weekend of arts and culture for Northwestern Market Town

Poulton-le-Fylde will be filled with culture this June as a theatre, music, and dance festival comes to the town.

Enjoy all three of Nick Sharratt's 'Shark in the Park' books live on stage!

From the creative team behind The Hairy Maclary & Friends Show

Dinosaurs invade HAPPA this Easter

HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association) will be invaded by four legged beasts of a prehistoric variety this Easter half term.

Live music events set to return to South Ribble!

Two incredible weekends of music have been confirmed for South Ribble this year with the return of the popular ‘live’ events – back and bigger than ever before!

BLAST FEST Returns with 6 new pieces of work commissioned by the Dukes

Following on from last year's success, the Dukes are back with BLAST FEST, an annual celebration and snapshot of new work created by artists from or with a strong connection to our region.

Sustainable Luxury Getaways in Lancashire

Alongside the picturesque landscapes, historic charm and warm welcome you find in Lancashire, there is a growing range of fantastic eco-friendly options for those looking to getaway in a more earth friendly way.

Egg rolling tradition returns to Preston's Avenham and Miller Parks

Egg Rolling, an iconic Easter tradition spanning more than 150 years, is once again scheduled to take place at Avenham and Miller Parks in Preston on Easter Monday, 1 April from 11am - 4pm.

Red arrows to perform on both days of Blackpool Air Show 2024

The world-famous Red Arrows display team have confirmed they will return to Blackpool this summer to perform on both days of the annual Blackpool Air Show.

Dolly Parton comes to Blackpool Grand

The hilarious, high-kicking new musical Here You Come Again  – The New Dolly Parton Musical  rides into Blackpool Grand Theatre this November. Book your seats now before you miss out!

Cracking new Easter activities for kids at Barton Grange Garden Centre

There’s an egg-cellent choice of Easter-themed craft activities in store at Barton Grange Garden Centre this April.

Celebrating Grand women working in theatre for International Women's Day

Blackpool Grand Theatre is marking International Women’s Day 2024 by shining the spotlight on a whole host of inspiring women who have helped to bring incredible live theatre to the glorious Grand this year ! # InvestInWomen:AccelerateProgress

The Grand brings The Boy at The Back of The Class to life this World Book Day

Blackpool Grand Theatre helped local bookworms read their own way this World Book Day by bringing Onjali Q. Raúf’s much-loved tale The Boy at The Back of The Class to their school playground!

Celebrate World Book Day with one of Lancashire's Independent bookshops

World Book Day is here, and Lancashire has everything you need to celebrate right on its doorstep.

Put a spring in your step and see what wildlife you can spot in Lancashire

Spring has sprung in Lancashire, making it an ideal time to get out, enjoy the outside and see what wildlife you can spot in Lancashire’s great outdoor attractions.

Blackpool's First IMAX Screen has arrived in town

The Backlot Cinema & Diner’s IMAX screen has arrived in Blackpool. A grand reception, featuring showgirls, stilt walkers, and jugglers, took place on Blackpool's iconic comedy carpet today as the colossal IMAX screen made its journey from Canada to the heart of Blackpool

First Look Show images for Leeds playhouse and Imitating The Dog's Recreation of the Gothic classic Frankenstein

New visually captivating production images released by Leeds Playhouse and imitating the dog show the gothic beauty of their psychologically thrilling remake of Frankenstein

The Backlot Cinema & Diner announces opening date ahead of Easter holidays

The Backlot Cinema & Diner is thrilled to announce it will be opening its doors on 22nd March 2024. Located in Houndshill Shopping Centre’s new extension, the cinema & diner will bring the very best entertainment to the heart of the Blackpool community.

Winter Gardens Blackpool launches new membership scheme

Four-tier scheme launches at £12.50 offering priority on-sales, exclusive offers and events

WinterBloom 24: Colne Set To Light Up For Another Year

This Saturday the incredible Independent Street Artisan Market will return to town to bring a street food arena, handcrafted goods, handmade treats, and drinks. The parade starts from St John’s Church on Albert Road at 6pm and conclude at Colne Bus Station for the grand finale.

Lancashire Set-Jetting Film Itinerary: Morecambe, Lancaster and the surrounding areas

Morecambe has risen to TV fame over the last few years thanks to the ever-increasing popularity of hit ITV show, The Bay. But it’s not the only location in the area to have had it’s time on TV and cinema screens.

The start of summer 2023 saw Greatest Days, the Take That Musical, hit our big screens and we couldn’t have been more excited. Did you know that Lancashire has featured on many productions over the years, both on the silver screen and at home?

Lancashire TV Stars

Lancashire is no stranger to the big screen, with many cities, towns and villages being used as the backdrop in several big-name films and TV shows. From sci-fi series like Andor, which used Cleveleys beach front as the fictional seaside resort of Niamos, to A Brief Encounter, that was predominantly filmed at Carnforth Train Station, you’ll find may places in Lancashire right on your TV.

Crafty Vintage returns to Lancashire this Easter Weekend, promising fun for all ages

Crafty Vintage, the beloved celebration of artisanal craftsmanship and vintage treasures, is set to make a triumphant return to Lancashire this Easter Weekend.

What's on at Blackpool Grand Theatre this March

There's plenty on at Blackpool Grand Theatre this March, take a look at what's coming up below...

Wind in the Willows blows into Lancaster Park

Lancaster’s Williamson Park is the perfect setting for a fun, family friendly production of The Wind in the Willows this Easter.

Eating out on a budget

If you’re holidaying on a budget or looking for a value for money option for your meals out, then you’re in luck! Lancashire has plenty of options, whether you are looking for a quick lunch, tea for the family or snack between meals.

Award winning places to eat in Lancashire

If you are looking for somewhere special to eat out, why not take a visit to Lancashire. Home to many multi-award-winning restaurants, Lancashire has a great collection of fine dining opportunities ensuring delicious food, friendly service, and stunning settings.

Local talent to take centre stage at the Preston Weekender

Organisers of ‘The Preston Weekender’ have pledged their commitment to profiling local talent alongside established performers, across the event, which features acts from numerous genres.

Confessions of a Teletubby

Revelations, secrets and oodles of behind-the-scenes gossip from a global television phenomenon.

Blackpool Transport Celebrates Victory in Innovation and Resilience at the 2023 Lancashire Tourism Awards

The Fylde Coast transport operator were awarded the prestigious award at the 2023 Lancashire Tourism Awards on Tuesday 6 th  February.

John Godber's Bouncers is a Grand night out with an iconic comedy

Award-winning writer John Godber OBE is back at Blackpool Grand Theatre this month with his celebrated comedy tale Bouncers .

Get your name down quick for this gritty, must-see masterpiece or you’re not coming in!

Shania Twain announced as fifth and final headliner for TK Maxx Presents Lytham Festival

Global superstar, celebrated songwriter, style icon and the best-selling female country pop artist of all   time Shania Twain is the fifth and final headliner to be revealed for TK Maxx presents Lytham Festival 2024.

Only 2 days to go before Baylight'24

Excitement is mounting, and social media channels are buzzing with plans to make a splash at Baylight '24.

Tom Odell, Busted and Sam Ryder set for Highest Point 2024

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Tom Odell and legendary boy band Busted have been announced as the headliners of 2024’s Highest Point Festival.

Tickets are now on sale for Garstang Walking Festival as it marks two decades of outdoor adventures

Garstang Walking Festival is back for 2024 and tickets are on sale now!

A diamond year to discover Bowland

2024 marks 60 years since the designation of the Forest of Bowland as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and coincides with celebrating our new name as a National Landscape, making this a fantastic year to explore and enjoy this beautiful area.

Blackpool is back for February Half-term!

Blackpool is preparing to cast off the winter blues with a full programme of February half-term fun and entertainment.

Lancashire Tourism Award 2023 Winners

Tuesday night the Lancashire Tourism Awards returned as guests and businesses from across the county gathered to shine a light on Lancashire’s wonderful tourism and hospitality businesses. With a variety of awards up for grabs, it sure was a night to remember

DEAR EVAN HANSEN at Blackpool Grand!

The multi award-winning musical DEAR EVAN HANSEN  will make a very welcome stop at Blackpool Grand Theatre in 2025!

Gisburn Forest celebrates 25 years of The Gruffalo with an exciting forest adventure

Forestry England’s Gisburn Forest is thrilled to announce a year-long celebratory trail launching on 02 February to mark the 25 th anniversary of the award-winning picture book, “The Gruffalo”.

A tale of Elizabethan Love & Tragedy at Samlesbury Hall this Valentine's Season

Lancashire’s most haunted hall will celebrate the season of love this February with an art installation presenting the tragic tale of two 16 th century star-crossed lovers between February 1 st and 29 th 2024.

Wendi Peters to star as 'Mother Superior' in award-winning Sister Act the Musical

The producers of the award-winning production of SISTER ACT THE MUSICAL are delighted to announce that stage and screen star Wendi Peters will play ‘Mother Superior’ in the UK and Ireland tour, visiting Blackpool from Monday 15-20 July 2024.

Huge demand for Music in the Park 2024 tickets as VIP offer now sold out!

In an unprecedented show of support, Music in the Park 2024, South Ribble’s premier music event, announces all VIP tickets for the 80s and 90s music spectacular has completely sold out.

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