Days Out, Attractions and Places to Visit in Lancashire
Even though Lancashire is a county for business and industry, it has some the best attractions and days out in the whole of the North West.
Blackpool Zoo
Just two miles from the famous sea-front, the multi-AWARD WINNING Blackpool Zoo provides a home to over 1,500 animals from all over the world. The Zoo provides new standards of animal care and aims to provide a stimulating, informative and enjoyable experience that demonstrates its role in the conservation of endangered species. All your favourites from aardvarks to zebras in 32 acres of spacious, mature parkland.
Botanic Gardens Museum, Churchtown, Southport, Lancashire
Permanent Collections
The Botanic Gardens Museum houses a number of fascinating objects within their permanent collections such as:
Photographs and paintings that tell the story of 19th century Southport.
6th Century dug-out canoe which was found near Martin Mere. The canoe was probably used for fishing and was one of eleven found in the area. It was radio carbon dated to 535 A.D. by experts from John Moores University.
A Victorian parlour showing how a middle class Victorian family would have lived. Another interesting element of the exhibition is a display of Victorian toys. It includes dolls houses, dolls, teddy bears, board games and many other much loved toys and games.
A Natural History room featuring an extensive collection of birds and animals. In addition, the collection also comprises many interesting fossils that highlight the changes in climate and landscape that have taken place over millions of years.
Dan Dare / Eagle Comic was founded in Southport in the 1950’s and was Britain’s answer to imported American publications featuring the likes of Superman and Spiderman. To mark the connection between the comic and the town, the museum has a display of fascinating artefacts and Dan Dare memorabilia.
Greenlands Farm Village, Tewitfield, Carnforth, Lancahire
Greenlands Open Farm
This is a truly hands on experience with plenty to learn about and it’s not just for the kids, the adults will enjoy this as well. You can meet Red and Blue our Shetland ponies, hold a pygmy goat kid or watch the baby piglets annoying their mum. With plenty to see under cover, our open farm can be enjoyed come rain or shine.
The Farm Shop
Downstairs you’ll find a butchers, deli, eggs, fruit and vegetables and a feast of cakes and biscuits supplied from the local area. Also while you are here why not treat yourself to something from The Loft upstairs – with clothing, art, gifts, cosmetics and homeware, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Many are locally sourced and fairly traded, it’s a treasure trove of interesting and unique products.
National Trust Rufford Old Hall
Rufford, Ormskirk, Lancashire, one of Lancashire’s finest Tudor buildings
Just minutes from J27 of the M6, Rufford Old Hall has something for everyone. The spectacular Great Hall is believed to have hosted a young Shakespeare and there are collections of armour, weapons and tapestries.
The attractive Victorian Garden contains sculptures and topiary and, with its woodlands and canal, is the ideal place for a picnic or gentle stroll. A magnificent, giant, carved wooden screen is thought to be the only one in the UK.
Lancashire’s Countryside Collection
You may be surprised to discover that Lancashire has two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, over 100 square miles of access land and has such a varied landscape that it has inspired artists ranging from Wordsworth to Tolkien.
Hidden in this spectacular countryside you will find a range of attractions to visit, food to taste and experiences to try. Follow winding country lanes to discover pretty garden nurseries and charming tearooms serving delicious homemade food. Uncover culture and heritage at stately homes and steam railways alongside sweeping vistas and wild moorland.
Cram in a fun packed day for the kids at a farm attraction or Simply cast a line and relax beside a serene fishing lake. Lancashire’s nationally protected landscapes are also home to nature reserves and country parks – a perfect retreat for a weekend wander or a serious trek – just don’t forget your binoculars!
Lancashire’s rural attractions are committed to providing visitors with an experience that is environmentally sustainable which means you can feast on great local food, see abundant wildlife and have access to wide open countryside on foot or by bike. In less than hour from Manchester and Liverpool you can escape into a haven of quiet lanes, stunning landscapes and great visitor attractions.