Need some summer activity inspiration close to home? Look no further.
Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is one of the UK’s largest and most popular zoos, hosting over 35,000 animals across 128 acres. Families can enjoy various exhibits, including the Islands, where they can explore different ecosystems and see animals like tigers, orangutans, and exotic birds.
Chester Zoo is also a major wildlife charity, fighting wildlife extinction with a team of conservationists, scientists, educators, veterinary experts, botanists, wildlife managers, animal behaviourists, endocrinologists, and environmental policy influencers. They are making a vital contribution to tackling the global extinction crisis at a time when it’s needed most.
Tatton Park
Tatton Park in Knutsford is a historic estate featuring a neo-classical mansion, beautiful gardens, a deer park, and a working farm. Families can explore the extensive grounds, have picnics by the lake, and participate in special events and activities tailored for children.
For nearly 400 years, the estate was the property of the Egerton family until it was bequeathed to the National Trust in 1958. Now financed and maintained by Cheshire East Council, it is one of the most complete historic estates open to visitors. The 18th-century mansion sits amid a landscaped deer park and is opulently decorated, providing a fine setting for the Egerton family’s extensive collections. The theme of Victorian grandeur extends into the garden with its glasshouses, formal gardens, Italian and Japanese gardens.
With over 100 events each year, Tatton Park is one of the most popular family days out in the North West.
Delamere Forest
Delamere Forest is a shady oasis in the midst of the agricultural landscape of the Cheshire Plain. Within easy reach of both Manchester and Liverpool, it is a place to let off steam, escape the crowds, and find peace in the heart of the forest.
Accessible by its very own train station, you’ll find easy-going trails for all abilities, a hike to admire the view across to Liverpool’s famous skyline, orienteering courses for all abilities, or a bit of peace and quiet to watch the wildlife by the lake. Forest Holidays offer a selection of stunning forest cabins, perfect if you are looking to escape the everyday.
For a bird’s eye view of the forest, treat your group to an outdoor adventure at Go Ape. If heights aren’t your thing, they have bike hire available to enable you to hit the trails. Be sure to check out Delamere Forest Cafe for a wide range of delicious food and drinks.
Beeston Castle and Woodland Park
Beeston Castle is one of the most dramatic ruins in the English landscape. Built by Ranulf, 6th Earl of Chester, in the 1220s, the castle incorporates the banks and ditches of an Iron Age hillfort. Henry III seized the castle in 1237, and it remained in royal ownership until the 16th century. In the Civil War, it withstood a long siege in 1644–45 before being surrendered by the Royalists and partially demolished.
They host exciting events for families throughout the summer, including a Medieval Season and amazing Summer Explorer Quests.
Gulliver’s World Theme Park
Gulliver’s World guarantees one of the best family days out in the UK, with a fantastic selection of rides, attractions, and shows to see each day. From the wild rides in Western World to the thrilling rides of Smugglers Wharf, there is so much to experience. Designed for children aged 2–13, Gulliver’s Resort Warrington is a perfect family destination.
There are no additional theme park prices, and parking is completely free. Save big by booking theme park tickets at least two days in advance. Explore the fantastic accommodation options available at Warrington, including themed hotel suites, glamping tents, lodges, and cabins.
Blue Planet Aquarium
Dive into the captivating world of aquatic wonder at Blue Planet Aquarium. Explore a remarkable array of marine life, from graceful stingrays to captivating reptiles and majestic sharks. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the ocean’s inhabitants as you journey through their exhibits.
Looking for a unique birthday present for the junior explorer in your life? Why not give them the chance to get face to fin with some of the coolest creatures in the ocean? At Blue Planet Aquarium, they have special kid-sized scuba gear, allowing children to have an up-close experience with their amazing sharks. The underwater bridge platform ensures that junior dives take place at a safe depth of two metres.
Ness Botanic Gardens
Ness Botanic Gardens, winner of the ‘Sustainable Tourism Award’ at the 2017 Wirral Tourism Awards and at the 2014 Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards, covers some 64 acres and houses a living collection of 15,000 plants. It has also received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.
Ness is open all year round with seasonal flowers, shrubs, and trees, including Rhododendrons, Azaleas, a beautiful rock garden, enchanting Laburnum arch, and a spectacular herbaceous border. Events include guided tours and outdoor concerts, making it a must-visit attraction throughout the year. Don’t miss the Garden Kitchen Cafe for a light bite, meal, or sweet treat.
Anderton Boat Lift
The Anderton Boat Lift near Northwich is an impressive Victorian masterpiece. Families can take boat trips through the lift, learn about its history at the visitor centre, and enjoy the scenic riverside walks and picnic areas. It is one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Waterways’. The visitor centre, coffee shop, play area, and nearby Northwich Woodlands make for a great day out.
The Anderton Boat Lift not only lifts boats and barges 50ft from the River Weaver Navigation to the Trent & Mersey Canal, but it does it with ingenious and endearing character.
Lyme Park
This National Trust property near Disley features a stunning mansion, beautiful gardens, and a vast deer park. Families can explore the house, enjoy the outdoor play area, and embark on nature trails that offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The Timber Yard Cafe offers delicious hot and cold snacks, and a range of cakes, while the Refreshment Kiosk in the car park offers grab and go drinks and ice creams.
The Summer of Play will be running until 3 September, with weeks full of games and activities to try.
The Ice Cream Farm
Located near Tattenhall, The Ice Cream Farm is a paradise for ice cream lovers. It offers a wide range of flavours, an adventure play area, a mini golf course, and various farm animals, making it a delightful destination for families with young children. Each attraction is inclusive and interactive, inspiring your child’s imagination with unique play experiences.
Affordable, all-weather play is at the heart of The Ice Cream Farm visitor experience. Enjoy indoor and outdoor play, whatever the weather, from crazy golf to covered sand and water play, a zoom around Silvercone to a bounce on Marshmallow Mound.
