10 of the best days out in the North West

There's something for everyone at Chester Zoo

Silecroft beach is a beautiful place to spend the day

These Tapirs are among the unusual creatures that you will find at Trotter's World of Animals

Have fun trying to spot red squirrels amongst the trees at Formby Point Red Squirrel Reserve

Be inspired at the World Museum in Liverpool

Chester Zoo, Chester
In this spectacular setting of 110 acres of beautiful gardens there are over 8000 animals and 400 different species of rare, exotic and endangered wildlife. The Zoo has lots of play areas which are spread around the site to give children the chance to burn off some energy.
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Silecroft Beach, Cumbria
Silecroft is a relaxed coastal village and beach. The large expanse of the child friendly sand and pebble beach allows plenty of space for fun. The large parking area has toilet facilities which are close to the beach but there are no facilities for meals or refreshments in the area of the beach so be sure to pack a picnic and drinks for the day.
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Formby Point Red Squirrel Reserve, Merseyside
This beautiful sandy coastline is set between the sea and Formby town. It has miles of scenic walks through the woods and dunes. Children will have a great time trying to glimpse a rare red squirrel in the pine woods.
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National Football Museum, Manchester
Inspire your kids to get sporty with a trip to the National Football Museum. It's a world-class home for the greatest collection of football memorabilia ever assembled.
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Waves Water Fun Centre, Blackburn
Kids can make a splash at Waves Water Fun Centre. It hasa lagoon shaped pool, Alien space bowl water feature, children’s shipwreck slide, jacuzzi, and a waves machine.
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Norton Priory Museum and Gardens, Cheshire
Norton Priory Museum and Gardens is a great day out for all the family, with great kids activities, a cafe, picnic area and gift shop. Visit the award winning museum, beautiful Walled Gardens, fascinating excavated medieval ruins and woodland sculpture trail. They also host an events programme throughout the year, with a great range of events and activities to suit all ages. Kids can find their way around with the free quizzes and trails or even be a mini gardener with a free to borrow Gardener’s toolkit. For green fingered little ones there is also a Tots garden with plants to touch, see, smell and hear.
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Trotters World of Animals, Cumbria
Trotters World of Animals lies in the north of the Lake District, and is a fabulous day out for all the family. From Anaconda to Zebra, Trotters has over 100 species of animals including many that are endangered such as gibbons and vultures. There’s lots to see with daily keeper-led presentations and demonstrations including free flying Birds of Prey and, if you are brave enough, Reptile Encounters. Children will love the indoor soft-play area and the outdoor playground.
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Sandcastle Waterpark, Lancashire

Make a splash at Sandcastle Waterpark which has 18 slides and attractions. In the 84º tropical climate there is something to entertain the whole family, whether it’s the thrill of the slides or the more relaxing free flowing river, the tranquil shallows or the ever popular wavepool. For our younger explorers there is the Caribbean Storm Treehouse which is an interactive adventure play area with a giant tipping coconut that cascades water plus a range of water cannons, mini slides and jets.
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