5 days in north west England
Introduction
England’s mighty north west is a cultural powerhouse. Its two iconic cities, Liverpool and Manchester, have a friendly rivalry that encompasses everything from football to music – but are you Beatles or Britpop? The region is home to some of England’s finest nature, too. Explore the vast waters and towering peaks of the Lake District, making sure to stop in its quintessentially British towns. And let’s not forget the historic charm of Chester, with its ancient city walls, cobbled streets and Roman amphitheatre.
Here’s our pick of the top things to see and do over five days in north west England:
Day 1 – Manchester
Day 1 - Manchester
Manchester is as cool as it gets. Packed with live music venues that birthed the likes of Oasis and The Smiths, its nightlife scene is absolutely buzzing. It also includes the Gay Village, one of Britain’s busiest LGBTQIA+ neighbourhoods. Football fans can tour the stadiums of Manchester’s two mighty football teams, while hipsters can hunt through the vintage shops and record stores of the artsy Northern Quarter.
Things to do in Manchester
Getting to Manchester
Manchester Airport is a major global travel hub, welcoming hundreds of flights each day from around the world. It’s easy to reach Manchester city centre from here, with regular trains taking around 20 minutes.
Manchester is around 200 miles (321 km) from London. Regular train services from London Euston take around two hours and 15 minutes.
While you're here...
Days 2-3 – The Lake District
Days 2-3 – The Lake District
England’s largest national park is a showcase of epic nature, from the nation’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, to its biggest lake, Lake Windermere. There’s no end of adventurous things to do in the Lake District. From mountain climbing to windsurfing; ziplining to abseiling, step outdoors and embrace England’s most impressive natural wonders.
Things to do in the Lake District
Getting to the Lake District from Manchester
A direct train from Manchester Piccadilly to Windermere in the heart of the Lake District takes around two hours. Alternatively, reach the south lakes in one hour and 20 minutes with a train from Manchester to Oxenholme.
The Lake District has a range of public transport options for travelling between destinations. For greater freedom, consider renting a car to explore independently around this epic national park.
While you're here...
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Day 4 – Liverpool
Day 4 - Liverpool
Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music and the birthplace of the biggest-selling band of all time, The Beatles. Explore their legacy in the live music bars of the Cavern Quarter, wander the Royal Albert Dock and Tate gallery, and enjoy independent shopping on quirky Bold Street. The city is never more electric than on a Liverpool or Everton match day — whether you’re watching in a stadium or a pub, an unforgettable atmosphere is guaranteed.
Things to do in Liverpool
Getting to Liverpool from The Lake District
Trains from Oxenholme to Liverpool take around 1 hour and 45 minutes and require a transfer, usually in Preston or Lancaster.
While you're here...
Day 5 – Chester
Day 5 - Chester
It may be a small city, but there are some amazing things to do in Chester . Dive into history as you wander its cobbled streets, stopping to admire Chester Cathedral and the 2,000-year-old Roman city walls. Modern-day Chester has no shortage of creative eating and drinking options. Sample street food from around the world at Chester Market, or dine before a show at cultural hub Storyhouse.
Things to do in Chester
Getting to Chester from Liverpool
Trains from Liverpool Lime Street to Chester run several times a day and take around 45 minutes.
