10 Activities in the North West for All Ages
The summer holidays are upon us, and that means the great scramble to fill six weeks with fun stuff has begun. Lucky for you, we’re here to lend a helping hand with our guide to eight family days out in the North West.
From seaside trips to unforgettable attractions, there’s plenty to keep the kids occupied right on your doorstep. We’ve included a real mixed bag here, including free day-out ideas and activities suitable for toddlers, so you can bust boredom and add a few to your holiday itinerary.
Sound good? Then let’s jump straight into it.
10 Must-Do Activities to do in the North West
The North West is full of great activities for the whole family, but with so much variety, it can be difficult to narrow it down into a short list.
Thankfully, we’ve done all the hard work for you, so you can simply arrange the transport, book the tickets and enjoy your day out with your family.
Step Into an Underwater World at Blue Planet Aquarium
Forgive us for prioritising self-promotion, but in our book, Blue Planet is the definitive day out here in the North West. Who doesn’t love spotting their favourite fish from the spectacular showcase of marine critters on display? It’s ideal for toddlers, teens and chaperoning adults alike. And best of all? It’s all under cover – good news for those looking for something to do in the rainy north west of England.
And if you’re looking for something with a bit of adrenaline, why not book a shark dive in advance, which bring you face-to-face with blacktip reef sharks and sand tiger sharks. You’ll be provided with full-training and the equipment needed to complete your dive safely.
Plan your visit and book your tickets to Blue Planet Aquarium here.
Complete a spot of shopping at Cheshire Oaks
Located just next door to Blue Planet Aquarium, you’ll find one of the UK’s best shopping experiences, Cheshire Oaks. It’s jam-packed full of the high street’s best shops, like M&S, Rituals, and Hotel Chocolat, as well as designer outlets for brands like Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Mulberry.
There’s also a children’s play area to let the kids burn off some energy and enjoy some fresh air.
Couple all that with a plethora of dining options, and you’ve got the makings of a great day out, particularly when it’s only about a 15-minute walk from Blue Planet Aquarium.
Walk the Mersey Valley Way
Fresh air? Tick. Wildlife? Tick. Adventure? Nailed on. The Mersey Valley Way will be the first of nine new National River Walks, with work having begun in September 2025. The aim is to make the area more accessible and easier for everyone to enjoy the outdoors, complementing the investment that’s taking place through Stockport. The project will upgrade and improve around 4km of river path, ensuring it meets standards for the likes of wheelchairs, prams, cyclists and horse-riders.
Spend the day in the highly scenic Lake District
The Lake District is England’s largest national park, covering over 900 square miles of beautiful English countryside, including 16 major lakes and Scafell Pike, the highest point in England.
It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the country, and we’re incredibly lucky to have it in the North West. From quaint towns like Keswick and Windermere to utterly stunning hikes, the Lake District is a must-visit for anyone in the North West.
Take advantage of free museum and gallery spaces
If there’s one thing the North West does well, it’s free cultural attractions, including museums, galleries and visitor centres. There is the Tate Gallery at the Royal Albert Dock in Liverpool, which is entirely free. You can also stop by the neighbouring Maritime Museum!
Manchester also boasts the Museum of Science and Industry, which features lots of interactive sections for kids, as well as Manchester Museum, with an ever-changing array of exhibits.
It makes for a great day out, come rain or shine. Most of them are super child-friendly too, so the little ones shouldn’t take too much convincing.
Hit the beach – and not just for the sunbathing
Here in the North West, we’re lucky to have some spectacular British beaches on our doorstep, including Formby, West Kirby and New Brighton Beach to name but a few. There’s a lot more to do on these golden stretches of sand than simply sunbathe, whether that’s hitting the arcades, enjoying a paddle or rock pooling by the shoreline (something we know plenty about). Even when the weather’s not so beachy, there’s always something to see and do at the seaside, so if you need some last-minute day trip inspiration, this is a safe bet.
New Brighton Beach in particular has benefitted from recent investment, and is home to independent businesses, its own lighthouse still standing from the 1800s and the Wirral’s largest theatre.
Thrill seeker? Head down to Blackpool Pleasure Beach
For over 100 years, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been thrilling the North West’s adrenaline junkies. From the world-famous Big One, with its terrifying 205-foot drop, to the unrivalled freedom of Avalanche, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has a lot to offer families. For younger families, they’ve even got a Nickelodeon Land section of the park, with more family-friendly rides.
Outside of the Pleasure Beach, you’ll find fresh fish and chips and the iconic 1p arcades.
Book your place at the National Football Museum
If your kids are counting the days until the new season starts, why not ramp up the excitement a notch with a visit to Manchester’s inimitable National Football Museum? Documenting the beautiful game from its inception to the present day. This is an absolute must-visit attraction in the North West for the football crazies in your household. Expect tons of footie artefacts and exhibits, as well as plenty of interactive displays and activities that younger visitors will enjoy.
Step back into musical history in Liverpool
The North West is renowned for its rich musical heritage, and Liverpool is a large part of that, including The Beatles.
The Liverpool Beatles Museum is home to over 1,000 items closely related to the history of The Beatles, including their iconic outfits, instruments and other memorabilia. There are also interactive elements like recreations of the Cavern Club and Hamburg’s Reeperbahn, where The Beatles played some of their most famous gigs.
Want a more active, fast-paced activity?
If you’re an active person, looking for something that provides more active participation, then activities like Go Ape, Adventure Now, Challengers or even mini golf could be great options for you and your family.
They’re fantastic ways to push yourself out of your boundaries, while also widening your boundaries of fun! These activities are perfect for groups, too, allowing team-building and laughs between families.
We hope this guide has provided some fuel for thought on how best to spend time as a family this summer and beyond. If you’re hoping to visit Blue Planet Aquarium during the six-week holiday, be sure to plan your visit and book your tickets in advance.
