10 things to do in the North West over the summer holidays
The summer holidays are here. If you're based in Greater Manchester, Warrington, Cheshire or Wirral, you're well placed to make the most of them. From wide open parkland to indoor adventures when the weather has other ideas, there's plenty to fill the weeks. Here are ten ideas to get you started.
1. Pack a picnic and find a good spot
The North West has some brilliant green spaces for a proper summer spread. Wirral Country Park follows the old railway line from Hooton to West Kirby, with flat, easy walking and estuary views. Closer to Manchester, RHS Garden Bridgewater at Worsley has lovely grounds to wander and picnic in.
Our Best of Local summer range is a good place to start when you're putting the hamper together - freshly baked bread, local cheese, and seasonal fruit. Add what you need to your next Creamline order and it'll be on your doorstep ready for the trip.
2. Take a woodland walk
Delamere Forest in Cheshire is one of the region's most visited green spaces and a great spot for a family walk or bike ride. There are also treetop adventure courses in the forest for older children and adults who want something with a bit more adrenaline. Just pack a flask of tea or coffee and something from the fridge for an al fresco lunch, and you’re ready for a lovely day out with minimal planning.
3. Get crafty
Cheshire Craft Workshop hosts pottery painting and other art workshops that are a great way for older kids and teens to express their creativity and try something new. Or head to Manchester Craft and Design Centre for a mix of hands-on workshops and exhibitions from local artists.
4. Head to an indoor attraction on a rainy day
Every summer day trip needs a backup plan – especially in the North West. Luckily there’s no shortage of great family-friendly museums and galleries. The Museum of Science and Industry always has fantastic interactive exhibitions, and Eureka! in Merseyside is a hands-on science centre made especially for young people.
5. Meet some not-so-local wildlife
Chester Zoo is one of the most popular days out in the North West, and for good reason. Over 128 acres you can see more than 500 different animals – no matter which one is your child’s favourite, you’ll find it here.
6. Have a woodland adventure
If your children are at the age where treehouses, zip wires and boat rides are their ideal day out, a woodland adventure park is worth the journey. There are several across the region that lean into storytelling and outdoor exploration rather than big rides, which makes them a good fit for families with younger children. Try BeWILDerwood in Cheshire or Zip World in North Manchester for an exciting day up in the treetops.
7. Find your new favourite summer recipe
Summer is when local fruit and veg is at its best, and it's a good time to cook something new - especially if the children can get involved. To make it a bit more of a project, we're running a Summer Foodie Bingo challenge throughout the holidays. It's a checklist of seasonal food moments - from hosting a BBQ to eating tea outside - and you can share your progress with us on Instagram or Facebook. Find the full challenge and some ideas to get you started here.
8. Travel back in time at a historic site
The North West has an impressive number of castles, historic houses and English Heritage sites that are well set up for families. Most have outdoor grounds the children can explore freely, as well as indoor activities and engaging exhibitions.
Lyme Park on the edge of the Peak District offers a medieval deer park and formal gardens with room to roam. Or head over to Walton Hall and Gardens in Warrington and meet the four-legged residents in their little petting zoo, perfect for young animal lovers.
9. Visit a local market
Artisan makers from all across the region can be found at your local Makers Market, from butchers and bakers to potters and painters. Find your nearest Makers Market here - you might even spot a Creamline stall there!
10. Cool down at a water park
On the days the sun does show up, you can make a splash in one of the North West’s fun water parks and swimming pools. Grand Central in Stockport is well known for its water slides, or for younger children try Happy Mount Park in Morecambe.
Make the most of your summer
The more you've got sorted at home, the easier it is to get out and enjoy the summer. Creamline delivers fresh milk, eggs, local produce and everything in between - straight to your door, in line with your usual delivery days. We've also put together a summer range through our Best of Local suppliers, covering seasonal produce, BBQ favourites and al fresco breakfast bits.
To add or amend your order, just do it by 9pm the night before your delivery day for Daily Essentials, or 9pm two days before for Best of Local.
