Best places to visit in the North West this winter

Whether you're a member looking for new places to explore or tired of the indoors looking for an excuse to get out and about, we've plenty of places open this winter for you to enjoy. Explore the UK's largest winter garden at Dunham Massey, take in impressive views and spot deer at Lyme, or wander through carpets of snowdrops at Speke Hall.

Corylus avellana 'Contorta' growing in front of Cornus alba 'Siberian Pearls' in the Winter Garden at Dunham Massey
Dunham Massey   Cheshire

Ignite your curiosity at Dunham Massey

At a time when many places are catching up on their rest after Christmas, Dunham Massey is alive with colour and character. See what delights are on display in the UK's largest winter garden, take a winter walk through the deer park, or step into the Curiosity Garden from 20 January.

Discover a different side to Dunham
Visitors with a map at Lyme Park, Cheshire
Lyme   Cheshire

An outdoorsy time at Lyme

Walk, run or meander your way into a New Year at Lyme. Join a guided walk, take part in one of the organised runs or simply explore the many areas of Lyme at your own pace.

Put your best foot forward at Lyme
Deer in the parkland at Tatton Park
Tatton Park   Cheshire

Take in Tatton

Uncover centuries of history at the Medieval Old Hall and witness life above and below stairs in the Mansion. Take a wander through glorious gardens, spot deer in the park or meet rare breed animals at a working farm. If you got a new camera for Christmas or want to take up a new hobby, why not sign up to a Going Digital workshop in January or February.

See what's on at Tatton
A couple enjoying a walk at Speke Hall
Speke Hall   Liverpool

A new time of year to discover Speke

Traditionally the grounds of Speke Hall have been closed at this time of year, but you can now get your Speke fix 362 days a year. While the hall is closed for a winter rest there's still plenty to explore outdoors. Take a relaxing walk around the beautiful estate before treating yourself to a hot drink or an award-winning scone.

Take a new look at an old favourite
The beach at Formby
Formby   Liverpool

Walk on the wild side at Formby

One very special place with multiple adventures to be had. From tranquil beach walks and pine forest exploring to red squirrel spotting and sand dune adventures, a day at Formby has a lot to offer. Reward your efforts with a stop off for lunch at one of the local eateries or relax with a pint in the pub.

Wave goodbye to those cobwebs at Formby
Visitors enjoying a walk in the woods
Quarry Bank   Cheshire

Journey beyond the mill at Quarry Bank

Discover the great outdoors at Quarry Bank on a stroll through the gardens, open during the winter for the very first time, or wrap up warm for a wintry wander around the estate. Keep your eyes peeled on the Kingfisher Walk, follow the winding river on the Southern Woods Walk or for a longer adventure, set out on the Giant's Castle Walk.

Explore the many layers of Quarry Bank
Snowy walking boots
Walking trail 

Winter walks in the Lake District

Fancy taking to the fells, paths or lakeshores in the heart of the Lake District? Pull on your boots and step outdoors – here are a selection of our favourite walks.

Try a walk