A trip to the North West of England

Guest Article | Posted 2023.05.17

Weekend breaks away are a great way to explore parts of the country you wouldn’t normally go to. Whilst most people flock to the more well known, popular areas of the country, few think to take a trip to the North West of England. Major university cities such as Manchester and Liverpool boast some of the best shopping hubs and nightlife in the country, whilst the unique and historic atmosphere of Chester makes for an unforgettable short break.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, something for the whole family or a weekend away with friends, the north west is the perfect destination for your next staycation. You can explore museums, galleries and landmarks like Manchester Cathedral or the iconic Blackpool Tower, visit food markets, and enjoy live music venues. Below I have picked out two of my favourite places to stay for weekend breaks, the vibrant city of Manchester and the beautiful Lake District.

Manchester

Manchester is an ideal destination for a UK break. The buzzing atmosphere of the city makes it a fun and interesting place to explore, whilst the variety of activities available offers something for everyone. Visitors will find plenty of iconic attractions such as Manchester City and Manchester United Football Stadiums, Whitworth Art Gallery, and Castlefield Urban Heritage Park.

There are also a host of museums, art galleries, theatres, and music venues.

If you’re looking to stay in the heart of Manchester, the Northern Quarter is a great option. This area is known for its quirky boutiques, vintage stores, and restaurants. You can also find some of the city’s best clubs and bars here as well as art galleries and graffiti murals. For those who want to explore further afield and beyond the city centre, Salford Quays is another excellent option with direct access to many attractions.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay which has that home away from home feel to it,  The Governors House or Bulls Head are fantastic options for people wanting to stay  outside of the city, but equally aren’t too far from the centre of Manchester.

The Lake District

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle for a few days, the Lake District is the place to go. The rolling fells and lakes create a dramatic landscape, offering great photo opportunities, but also perfect for those looking to go hiking. The Lake District is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and there is no shortage of water sports, such as kayaking, sailing and paddleboarding.

The Lake District is also home to picturesque villages and market towns, where you’ll find independent shops, quaint little eateries, and traditional pubs.

The Crown and Coniston Inn sit in the heart of the Lake District and boast amazing views of the surrounding fells and lakes. Both pubs are ideally situated for those looking to hike The Old Man of Coniston circular walk.

Another wonderful place to stay is The Wordsworth Hotel. The country mansion has its own swimming pool, and its impressive grounds are surrounded by fells.

 

Guest Author: Holly Dodd, Freelance Writer