Best places to visit in the North West this winter

Whether you're a member looking for new places to explore or wanting to blow away the cobwebs in the great outdoors, we've plenty of places open this winter for you to enjoy. Wander through the UK's largest winter garden, take in impressive views and spot deer, or explore life in a complete industrial community.

Irises in the Winter Garden at Dunham Massey
Dunham Massey   Cheshire

Wander through winter 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 follow the Winter Woollies Family Trail.

Plan a day of discovery at Dunham Massey
Visitors with a map at Lyme Park, Cheshire
Lyme   Cheshire

Enjoy time in the great outdoors 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. It's the perfect place to bring four-legged friends too.

Put your best foot forward at Lyme
Visitors enjoying a walk in the woods
Quarry Bank   Cheshire

Explore the mill and beyond at Quarry Bank

Discover one of Britain's greatest industrial heritage sites at Quarry Bank - home to a complete industrial community. The mill will be closed 7 -11 January for maintenance, but there's still plenty to explore on 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
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

The grounds of Speke Hall are usually closed at this time of year, but you can now get your Speke fix 362 days a year. While the hall is closed for its winter rest you can take a relaxing walk around the beautiful estate before treating yourself to a hot drink or an award-winning scone. Little ones will enjoy exploring the maze, running wild in the play area and finding clues on the winter trail.

Plan a winter adventure at Speke Hall
The beach at Formby
Formby   Liverpool

Walk on the wild side at Formby

Formby is 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, no two days at Formby are the same. 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 winter cobwebs at Formby
Snowy walking boots
Walking trail 

Winter walks in the Lakes

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