Cafe
On the Hush
Manchester City CentreOn the Hush is a popular Northern Quarter cafe bar, winning awards for its bottomless brunch. Loyal customers and visitors...
Staycity Aparthotel Waterfront
Albert DockStaycity Aparthotel Waterfront is conveniently located just a short distance from the waterfront and within walking distance to all the top...
Haunt
Manchester City CentreWhen Peter Street lost its Caffe Nero it gained Haunt, an independent coffee shop and wine bar. Stepping inside, you...
Leo and Roobs
BlackfriarsNamed after the owner’s kids, Leo and Rubes is a neighbourhood cafe from the folks behind The Black Friar. It’s...
Malmaison Manchester Spa
PiccadillyA favourite for girls' weekends and romantic breaks, the Malmaison Manchester Spa is a cosy hideaway that uses its compact...
Tate Liverpool – temporarily closed for refurbishment
Albert DockTate Liverpool on the Royal Albert Dock is the northern outpost of the Tate galleries. With an impressive free collection...
Sefton Park
Sefton ParkSefton Park is larger than most parks, although it’s still not Liverpool’s biggest – that award goes to Croxteth Country...
Residence Inn by Marriott Manchester Piccadilly
Manchester City CentreResidence Inn by Marriott Manchester Piccadilly is the chain’s first long-stay venture in the North of England. Situated less than...
The Beatles Story
Albert DockThe Beatles are probably Liverpool’s most famous export and it stands to reason that the city has quite a few...
Speke Hall
SpekeSpeke Hall is a National Trust property on the outskirts of Liverpool. You could say it’s an old Tudor dame...
Hallé St Peter’s
AncoatsHallé St Peter’s provides a rehearsal and recording space for Manchester’s renowned orchestra as well as being home to the...
The Walker Art Gallery
Liverpool City CentreThe Walker Art Gallery has housed Liverpool’s world-class art collection for over 130 years and includes everything from Renaissance masterpieces...
Liverpool Cathedral
Georgian QuarterLiverpool Cathedral is the biggest in the country but age-wise, it’s a baby. No medieval architecture here; the cathedral was...
Hope Mill Theatre
AncoatsSituated in an industrial estate on Pollard Street, Hope Mill Theatre has made a name for itself despite its back-street...
Bury Market
BuryEverything from fresh fruit and veg to wooden spoons, Bury Market has a dizzying range of stalls selling fresh produce,...
Junction
Manchester City CentreJunction is the new all-day destination at Manchester Central. It’s ideal for conference delegates but it’s also open to the...
Inflata Nation Manchester
Trafford ParkThis indoor inflatable playground is an excellent way to tire out hyperactive kids on a rainy day and for that...
Manchester Art Gallery
Manchester City CentreMosey down Mosley Street between Piccadilly Gardens and St Peter’s Square, and you can’t miss the Greek columns that flank...
Royal Exchange Theatre
Manchester City CentreManchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre is an exciting clash of modernity and history and the same can be said of its...
Play Factore
Trafford ParkPlay Factore is like a super-sized version of the traditional indoor play centre. It’s enormous; crawling through tunnels, clambering through...
The Art of Tea
DidsburyIndependent coffee shop and bar The Art of Tea offers more than just good quality loose leaf tea. It's situated...
Pennington Flash
LeighPennington Flash is Greater Manchester’s only National Nature Reserve. This wetland habitat, formed by flash flooding of former coal mining...
Graystone
SalfordGraystone is Salford’s action-packed home of high-adrenaline sports. Skateboarding is the big deal here. Practise on all sorts of drops,...
Sandcastle Waterpark
BlackpoolSandcastle Waterpark is almost as much of a part of Blackpool’s South Shore scenery as the Pleasure Beach with primary-coloured...
Cafe Tabac
RopewalksWithin spitting distance of the bombed-out church, Cafe Tabac has been rolling with the changes at the top of Bold...
Rococo Coffee House
Cavern QuarterRococo is an independent coffee house slap bang in the centre of town, occupying two upstairs floors of a historic...
Chaiiwala Trafford Centre
Trafford ParkChaiiwala Trafford Centre is perfect for snacks, lunches, light meals and even breakfast. The food comes together in a joyful...
Manley Mere
FrodshamThis man-made lake used to be a field full of cows until the owners diversified their business model from dairy...
Rabbies Thai
WythenshaweRabbies Thai is an unlikely favourite known for serving one of the best bowls of pad thai anywhere in Manchester....
Factory Coffee
SpinningfieldsWhile lockdown marked the end for some businesses, for others it was a chance to expand into surprising new territories....
Z Hotel Liverpool
Cavern QuarterZ Hotel Liverpool offers compact accommodation in contemporary, if slightly spartan rooms. It may be plain but it is good...
CitySuites I
BlackfriarsCitySuites I is a sleek modern aparthotel that gives you the facilities of a high-end hotel combined with your own...
The Spa & Gym at The Edwardian Manchester
Manchester City CentreIf you're looking for high-end luxury from your spa day or gym membership, The Spa & Gym at The Edwardian...
Papillon
Georgian QuarterPapillon is a quaint-looking bistro-style restaurant, complete with baby pink paintwork and pinstripe canopy to match. In fact, it looks...
The Egg Vegetarian Cafe
Liverpool City CentreSituated in an airy loft space in a grade II listed Victorian building this warm and inviting vegetarian cafe offers...
Pear Mill Vintage Emporium
StockportThe beauty of this place is that you never quite know what you’ll find, from ancient artefacts to military uniforms...
The Health Lab
Manchester City CentreThe Health Lab is the fitness studio connected to Northern Quarter health food cafe The Green Lab. It focuses mainly...
TeamSport Go Karting: Trafford Park
Trafford ParkTeamSport Go Karting: Trafford Park has 450 metres of adrenaline-fuelled GP circuit and a new fleet of Biz Evo3 adult...
Mackie Mayor
Northern QuarterMackie Mayor is a cosmopolitan food hall located in an 1858 Grade II listed market building on the edge of...
The Ice Cream Farm
TattenhallWith more than 50 flavours of Cheshire Farm ice cream, The Ice Cream Farm is officially the biggest ice cream...
Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester
Trafford ParkLegoland Discovery Centre is Manchester’s ultimate Lego playground. If your children like building and creating with those brightly coloured blocks,...
Café Blah
WithingtonCafé Blah is back in a new location after being priced out of their old home across the road. A...
Heaton Park
PrestwichIf you’re craving greenery but don’t want to stray too far out of the city, Heaton Park, on the Manchester-Bury...
This & That Cafe
Northern QuarterEveryone's heard of NQ backstreet gaff This & That, even if they've not actually found it (it's up the ginnel...
Liverpool Watersports Centre
WaterfrontNothing shakes up the senses quite like a winter dip in the docks. Head to Mariners Wharf for all-year-round aquatic...
Bolton Museum
BoltonBolton Museum is much more than just your standard local history-focused collection. Because of its links with the cotton trade, this...
Rufford Old Hall
OrmskirkTudor house and garden Rufford Old Hall has all the classic features of a National Trust day out. Beautiful gardens,...
Kallos Cafe & Wine Bar
BlackfriarsKallos Cafe & Wine Bar has lit up Salford's dining scene like a thunderbolt from Zeus himself since it opened...
Alexandra Park
Whalley RangeAlexandra Park, or Alex Park as it’s known, was once rather shabby but has now been restored to something approaching...
Manchester City Stadium Tour
BeswickEven if you’re not a Blue you can’t help but be impressed with the scale of the Etihad Stadium in...
Knowsley Safari
PrescotKnowsley Safari is an exciting day out for all animal-lovers – not just for kids. Who wouldn’t want to watch...
Lyme Park
StockportLyme Park is a huge estate with a Medieval herd of red deer, stunning views and a handsome Regency house....
Curzon Knutsford
KnutsfordIf big, brash multiplexes aren’t your thing, and you don’t want to trek into the city just to see the...
Tandle Hill Country Park
RoytonWith its sweeping panoramas of seasonal golds, reds and browns, Tandle Hill Country Park is one of the best places...
Quarry Bank Mill
StyalQuarry Bank Mill makes a change from the stately homes in pretty gardens National Trust blueprint. It’s an industrial gem...
Blakemere Village
NorthwichBlakemere Village is the Cheshire one-stop for shopping, outdoor activities and family-friendly events.
Switch CoffeeBar
RopewalksSwitch by name and switch by nature, Liverpool’s Switch CoffeeBar transforms from a daytime coffee shop to a neon pink...
The Koffee Pot
Northern QuarterThis greasy spoon with indie cool is a true Mancunian institution. Established in 1978, the Koffee Pot used to live...
Waterworld
Stoke-on-TrentWaterworld is Facebook-famous - everyone's been and everyone raves about it. It's not cheap but when you compare it to...
Everyman Manchester St John’s
St John'sWith its red velvet seats, waiter service, and ultra stylish bar and cafe, Everyman Manchester St John’s is a far...
Night & Day Cafe
Northern QuarterWithout Night & Day Cafe, the Northern Quarter as we know it probably wouldn't exist. It was places like this,...
The Hollies Farm Shop Lower Stretton
WarringtonWith vegetables so fresh they could have been dug up from the field that morning, homemade pies and sausage rolls,...
The Old Fire Station
SalfordThe Old Fire Station is a café, bar, bakery and brewery tap with a real community feel. It’s a part...
Red Brick Market
Baltic TriangleIf you love thrifting, vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, secondhand vinyl, charming curios, retro homeware, old comics, and the like, you...
A se Anar
BlackpoolSelf-taught chef Renuka Morris opened Indian restaurant A se Anar after working as a teacher in higher education for 23...
Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour
Old TraffordEven if it's not a match day, there's plenty happening at the iconic Old Trafford stadium. The best way to...
Juniper Bramhall
BramhallJuniper Bramhall has a well-deserved reputation for excellent coffee: a blend of sweet Brazilian arabicas, soft and fruity Latin American...
Cafe Cotton
AncoatsLocated in the modern extension of the lovingly restored Halle St Peters in the heart of Ancoats, this award-winning independent...
Dakota Manchester
Manchester City CentreThe Dakota Manchester describes itself as Manchester's best hotel. We're not getting into that debate but we will say it's...
TeamSport Go Karting: Manchester Victoria
Manchester City CentreTeamSport Go Karting: Manchester Victoria is a high-octane experience that'll turn even the mildest contestant into a speed demon.
Kong’s NQ
Manchester City CentreKong’s NQ is the chicken shop done good. From a pop-up to a permanent home on Oldham Street, this place...
Fletcher Moss
DidsburyFletcher Moss has four outdoor, floodlit clay tennis courts which are open to everyone and accessibly priced.
Portobello
HadfieldThe Italian couple who run Portobello in Hadfield know how to make an impression on a local community. Their restaurant...
Little Leaf at One Fine Day
Liverpool City CentreLocated inside the Cotton Exchange building alongside One Fine Day, Little Leaf is a bright and airy yet cosy and...
Liverpool Central Library
Liverpool City CentreLiverpool Central Library looks like another example of impressive Victorian architecture at first (the city is full of them) but...
Kadampa Meditation Centre Manchester
ChorltonKadampa Meditation Centre Manchester, or KMC, is part of a network of centres which promote The New Kadampa Tradition; a...
Baby E Coffee & Deli
Cavern QuarterSurprisingly inviting for a basement cafe-bar, Baby E Coffee & Deli is a tucked-away spot for brekkie, brunch or lunch...
The Farm Club
PickmereThe Farm Club started life as a triathlon training centre before it expanded into offering a wider wellness experience. Situated...
The Lambing Shed Farm Shop and Kitchen
KnutsfordMoseley Hall Farm is home to 250 cattle, over 2,500 sheep, and in the barn once used for newborn lambs...
Thoughtfully Cafe
RopewalksIndependent coffee shop Thoughtfully Cafe is just a few minutes walk from Liverpool ONE but it feels like a world...
CitySuites II
BlackfriarsTopped by the super-luxe Supersuites penthouse, CitySuites II has a number of options for high-end city centre stays. It offers...
Thurstaston Beach
CheshireA trip to Thurstaston Beach is more like a day in the countryside than at the seaside. Part of the...
MOST Bakery
AltrinchamSelling beautiful artisanal breads, sandwiches, pastries and other sweet treats, family bakery MOST has become a popular spot since it...
Fluffy Fluffy Liverpool
Liverpool City CentreFluffy Fluffy Liverpool is part of a dessert café chain that began life in Toronto, Canada before expanding into the...
Buile Hill Park
SalfordL.S. Lowry used to be a regular visitor to Buile Hill Park, and Frances Hodgson Burnett is thought to have...
Manchester Museum
Manchester City CentreManchester Museum reopened in February 2023 following a £15m transformation to make it more inclusive and more imaginative in how...
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
RavenglassThe seven-mile, narrow-gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is a spectacular way to explore this corner of the Lake District. It...
The Northern
DidsburyOne of the oldest tennis clubs in the world, The Northern is the original home of tennis in Manchester. It...
Jodrell Bank
MacclesfieldJodrell Bank is a landmark. On a clear day, you can see its Lovell Telescope from the top of almost...
Hathersage Swimming Pool
HathersageCatch the Hope Valley line train from Piccadilly to this picturesque Peak District village for a dip in Hathersage Swimming...
Imperial War Museum North
Salford QuaysThis quayside location in Trafford Park was bombed heavily during WW2 so it’s especially appropriate that it was chosen as...
WooTea
Manchester City CentreServing some of the most aesthetically-pleasing bubble tea in all of Manchester, WooTea is the place to go if you're...
Cafe Sanjuan
Stockport Town CentreServing a unique Caribbean-Colombian combo, Cafe Sanjuan is the creation of Luis Felipe Sanjuan, who hails from Barranquilla, a bustling...
Sticky Fingers
Stockport Town CentrePolish bakery Sticky Fingers now has a permanent cafe and shop on Stockport's Great Underbank, as well as its Market...
Fab Cafe Bar
Manchester City CentreIs it really a drunken night out in Manchester if you don't (at least consider) heading to Fab Cafe? Or...
Science and Industry Museum
St John'sThe Science and Industry Museum celebrates 250 years of innovation. Galleries showcase Manchester inventions, bring the noise and the danger...
Ordsall Hall
SalfordOrdsall Hall is a piece of Tudor history just a short walk from the contemporary comings and goings of Salford...
The Snow Centre
Trafford ParkWith 180m of downhill skiing and snowboarding, The Snow Centre is the UK’s longest indoor real snow slope. And though you...
Isaan Thai Cafe
HeavileyIsaan Thai Cafe is a joyous discovery. It's a tiny little restaurant with only a few tables but the food...
Anason
GlossopAnason is a Turkish-Mediterranean cafe which is fast becoming a local favourite for breakfasts, brunches and lunches in Glossop. Situated...
Waku Waku
Chinatown (Manchester)Waku Waku highlights a generational gap. You could say it’s just like going for lunch in that A-Ha video or...
Openswim UK
SaleIf you want to go swimming at Sale Water Park, the safest way is with Openswim UK. They hold casual...
Department Campfield
St John'sOnce the Air and Space Gallery at the Science and Industry Museum, upper Campfield Market has been transformed into Department...
The World of Beatrix Potter
WindermereThe World of Beatrix Potter is always handy to have up your sleeve if you’re in the Lake District and...
Limitless Lifestyle Community
Business District (Liverpool)It’s been quite a year for Limitless Lifestyle Community, a new personal training gym which opened on Dale Street in...
Platt Fields Market Garden
FallowfieldPlatt Fields Market Garden is a muddy bit of the good life in urban Manchester. It’s a fantastic community growing...
The Two Hares
GlossopWe hate to use that threadbare phrase 'hidden gem' but we’ll make an exception for The Two Hares. Tucked away...
The Gallery Cafe
Manchester City CentreNot just somewhere to take the weight off after peering at all the Lowrys and Valettes, The Gallery Cafe at...
Hyde Leisure Pool
HydeIf you're looking for a pool with a waterslide in Manchester, you've got two options: Grand Central in Stockport and...
Pomegranate
Liverpool City CentreHeading into Pomegranate, an independent cafe on Old Hall Street, you’re met with bright neon signs, leafy wallpaper and reams...
Kickair
Green QuarterKickair, an “indoor freestyle park” behind Victoria Station, is the kind of place that fills kids (and big kids) with...
Reset by Form
Manchester City CentreThis is hidden-away studio in the Bloc building (not to be confused with the BLOK studio) is worth seeking out...
Ohayo Tea
Chinatown (Manchester)Ohayo Tea is one of the more unique bubble tea cafes in Manchester. That's because it's themed around the Shiba...
Cibo Gran Café
WilmslowCibo Gran Cafe in Wilmslow takes the ladies who lunch concept and swaps it for ladies who brunch. And anyone...
The Whitworth Cafe
Oxford RoadThe Whitworth Cafe has to be one of the most architecturally pleasing art gallery cafes anywhere in the world. It's...
Stockroom
Stockport Town CentreStockroom is Stockport's new cultural hub, housed in former retail units in the Merseyway Shopping Centre. It's a light, bright...
Bold Street Coffee Manchester
Manchester City CentreOpen in Liverpool since 2010, Bold Street Coffee is something of an institution over there and the place to go...
RYDE Studios Manchester
DeansgateClass-based gym RYDE Studios Manchester opened in Barton Arcade in March 2024, following the success of its original studio in...
Uncle T
Oxford RoadUncle T at Circle Square serves up boba that's been freshly made in-house for added flavour. Expect big, bright bubble...
Manchester Academy of Gymnastics
SalfordManchester Academy of Gymnastics offers gymnastics to adults and children, boxing for anyone over ten, and parkour.
Manchester Jewish Museum
Cheetham HillManchester Jewish Museum reopened in 2021 after a £6 million upgrade that restored its synagogue to its former glory, and...
Splash World
SouthportSplash World in Southport is an inclusive family-friendly water park. It offers a range of attractions but is perhaps more...
The Bridgewater Hall
Manchester City CentreThe Bridgewater Hall is where Manchester gets serious about music. The international concert venue was built in the 1990s and...
The Carrs
WilmslowThe Carrs is a large, 70-acre park on the edge of Wilmslow that's worthy of a day-trip even if you're...
Oxygen
Media CityOxygen is the 13th UK park from the runaway active play juggernaut. Inside it’s brightly-coloured with trampolines and crawl-throughs almost...
Cafe Lucaya
Liverpool City CentreHead to the Tower Building, on the corner of Water Street and The Strand to find the charming, plant-filled haven...
Glossop Market Hall
GlossopThe long-anticipated Glossop Market Hall reopened in November 2025 following a £7.3m redevelopment project. The market stalls have been replaced...
Prestatyn Central Beach
PrestatynPrestatyn Central Beach is a great spot to take the children. There are a few amusements but it’s nothing like...
Manchester Central Library
Manchester City CentreOfficially, The Lowry is the most visited attraction in Greater Manchester, but only because the official list for some reason...
Brockholes
SamlesburyBrockholes is the jewel in the crown of Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s nature reserves with royal visits and a fancy floating...
The Lowry
Salford QuaysFlagship arts venue The Lowry was at the heart of 1990s' plans to breathe new life back into Salford Quays....
Hardware Coffee and Kitchen
RopewalksThe perfect brunch spot on Renshaw Street, Hardware is themed loosely around the Rapid Hardware shop it replaces.
Alderford Lake
WhitchurchAlderford Lake is the perfect day out all year round. It’s an idyllic location but you won’t be able to...
Ilkley Pool and Lido
IlkleyIlkley Pool and Lido is an Art Deco gem; its clean lines and geometric tidiness surrounded by the rugged outline...
Classic Football Shirts Shop Manchester
Northern QuarterManchester isn’t just home to two of the best-known football teams in the world - it’s also home to one...
The Mekong Cat
Stockport Town CentreThe Mekong Cat is a teeny restaurant in Stockport serving food from Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos. It’s the second opening...
Levenshulme Antiques Village
LevenshulmeLevenshulme Antiques Village is the first stop if you're doing up a period property or even just looking to add...
Royal Armouries Museum
LeedsThe Royal Armouries Museum is definitely one to visit. A focus on weaponry may sound a bit dull, but this...
Pavilion Gardens Buxton
BuxtonIt's the variety of attractions and things to do that make Pavilion Gardens Buxton special. This elegant Victorian park and...
HOME
Manchester City CentreWith five cinemas, two theatres, a bookshop, and over 500 sqm of gallery space, HOME is one of Manchester’s biggest...
Garten Bar | Corn Exchange
Manchester City CentreRight in the centre of the Corn Exchange atrium, the German-themed Garten Bar is a light, airy setting for brunch,...
Creams Cafe Manchester Arndale
Manchester City CentreCreams Cafe is a dessert parlour that was founded in 2008 by Adam Mani and Balal Aqil. With humble beginnings...
Haute Dolci Trafford
TraffordChocoholics and those with a sweet tooth will feel right at home at Haute Dolci, a dessert cafe situated in...
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church Garden Cafe & Bar
RopewalksEverybody knows the Bombed Out Church, but just in case: hit by an incendiary bomb during the Liverpool Blitz of...
Llandudno West Shore Beach
LlandudnoIt’s a shame that many tourists who visit Llandudno never make it to West Shore Beach. It doesn't have the...
Jackalope
SaleThe Jackalope may be a mythical beast but fortunately a top-notch brunch at Sale’s relaxed café bar is reassuringly real.
ManCoCo
Manchester City CentreManCoCo sits in the railway arches on Hewitt Street between HOME Arts Centre and the Castlefield Gallery. It's not the...
Black Milk
Northern QuarterBlack Milk is a hip, Insta-friendly dessert cafe in the Northern Quarter known for its towering ice creams, gelato, sweet...
The Jacaranda
RopewalksSerious Beatles fans will know all about The Jacaranda. This bar and gig venue was opened by their first manager...
Kenyon Hall Farm
WarringtonKenyon Hall Farm is the perfect countryside day out all year round. From picking up a premium Fraser Fir Christmas...
Lovelocks Coffee Shop
Liverpool City CentreNestled in the Cultural Quarter, a stone's throw from St George's Hall and Walker Art Gallery, Lovelocks recently relocated up...
Tea Hive
ChorltonTea Hive is a quaint little cafe celebrating the nation's favourite cuppa, and cake, lots of cake. As you'd expect,...
Manchester Aquatics Centre
Oxford RoadManchester Aquatics Centre is open once again, following an 18-month closure for an extensive refurbishment and upgrade. The new centre...
Sizergh Castle
KendalSizergh Castle, or Sizergh - National Trust as they're calling it nowadays, sits just outside the southern boundary of the...
Sugar Junction
Northern QuarterWith a very vintage vibe, homemade cake and cocktails, and tempting hot and cold plates dished up all day every...
Kontrast
Cheetham HillHidden underneath the railway arches between Red Bank and Dantzic Street, Kontrast sauna and ice bath cafe isn't in the...
Runway Visitor Park
AltrinchamFor spine-tinglingly close views of the huge planes landing and taking off at Manchester Airport, head to the Runway Visitor...
Longshaw Estate
GrindlefordIf you're looking for eye-widening views of the Peak District and miles of contrasting countryside to explore on foot, take...
Duke Street Coffee
CastlefieldDuke Street Coffee is a recent arrival to Castlefield, bringing speciality brews like Japanese green tea hojicha to an area...
Ingleton Swimming Pool
IngletonIngleton Swimming Pool is a good option for a summer dip if you prioritise comfort over invigorating wild swimming sessions....
Total Ninja
Trafford ParkTotal Ninja is part bouncy-castle on steroids, part warrior training ground. The venue is mainly divided into two parts: an...
The British Music Experience
Albert DockHead to The Cunard Building, one of the Three Graces that form Liverpool's iconic waterfront to find The British Music...
Gooey Bakery & Café
Manchester City CentreIf you’re a fan of brunch and baked goods but it just has to be Instagrammable, Gooey should be top...
Mumbai to London Cafe
DroylsdenMumbai to London Cafe doesn’t look like much from the outside (or the inside) but don’t let that fool you;...
The Portico Library
Manchester City CentreThe Portico Library is as peaceful and relaxing as any library could be, despite being situated on Mosley Street in...
Ezra and Gil Liverpool
Business District (Liverpool)Ezra and Gil Liverpool is the third opening from this popular coffee and brunch spot. What makes this location stand...
People’s History Museum
SpinningfieldsThe People’s History Museum tells the story of the development of democracy in Britain. It's the only museum in the UK...
Head Over Heels Chorlton
ChorltonHead Over Heels Chorlton is yet another of those giant soft play areas - but it is one of the...
Windermere Lake Cruises
AmblesideNot everyone is up for bounding up mountains in search of the perfect view. If you prefer a more relaxing...
Wild Shore Delamere
DelamereIf you've never known the joy of flying over a lake on a rope swing and daring yourself to let...
Papa Don
StretfordSmall, cramped and slightly damp, Papa Don is about as unassuming as it gets. But if you can see through...
Everyman Theatre
Liverpool City CentreThe Everyman is an impressive modern theatre on Hope Street and a cornerstone of Liverpool's cultural scene.
Alderley Edge
Alderley EdgeThere are two very different Alderley Edges. One is a chi-chi town of footballers and wealthy socialites, the other –...
Alex’s Bakery
Manchester City CentreAfter beginning their cake-making journey at Manchester's Artisan Markets in 2014, Alex's Bakery ditched the stall for a store front...
Lowther Castle & Gardens
PenrithLowther Castle & Gardens is an intriguing attraction. It looks grand enough at first sight, but the castle is literally...
Dunham Massey
AltrinchamDunham Massey is one of the National Trust’s most visited properties, bringing in over half a million people in 2023....
Haigh Woodland Park
WiganHaigh Woodland Park is a good mix of cultivated prettiness and ancient woodland with plenty of things to do.
Rough Hand Made
Albert DockRough Hand Made is a gorgeous artisan bakery on Albert Dock. Eat in or take away but get there early...
Pace Health Club & Nu Spa
Green QuarterThe Pace Health Club & Nu Spa sits inside the Park Inn by Radisson hotel, on the edge of the city...
Chatsworth
BaslowThe classic vista of the grand 17th century house overlooking the River Derwent is the most famous image of Chatsworth,...
Delhi House Cafe | Corn Exchange
Manchester City CentreThis slick 2020 addition to the Corn Exchange is determined to do something different to other contemporary Indian restaurants. And...
Elizabeth Gaskell’s House
ArdwickVisitors to Elizabeth Gaskell’s House can explore the author’s home where she wrote most of her novels such as North...
The Coffee & Cake Boat
CastlefieldThe Coffee & Cake Boat is a floating café moored on the Bridgewater Canal in Castlefield, serving freshly brewed coffee...
Museum of Liverpool
Albert DockThe Museum of Liverpool on Pier Head is an eclectic and diverse collection of Liverpool stuff and stories. Part of...
Bisous Bisous
ChorltonBisous Bisous is a renowned local but French patisserie and they have a café on Beech Road in Chorlton.
Waterside Leisure Club
DidsburyIf you like your gym to be the kind of place where you can spend an entire day, hopping from...
Bold Street Coffee
RopewalksOpen since 2010, BSC is something of an institution and the place to go if you're in need of caffeine...
San Carlo Gran Cafe
Manchester City CentreHead to any of the ristorantes in the acclaimed and award-winning family-run San Carlo Group and you know you’re in...
Z-arts
HulmeZ-arts is the UK's only arts centre and theatre especially designed for children and families. Sitting at the heart of...
Bada Bing
Northern QuarterBada Bing began life as a pandemic era pop-up before owners Sam and Josh took a few years off. They...
Lymefield Farm Shop
HydeGet on the Hadfield train from Piccadilly, disembark at the amusingly-named Broadbottom, and walk down the road to visit Lymefield...
Worthington Park
SaleWorthington Park is looked after by a green-fingered bunch of volunteers who raise money, return lost property, improve facilities and...
Salford Museum & Art Gallery
SalfordSalford Museum and Art Gallery was the UK’s first free public library when it opened in 1850. The building was...
Something More Productive
WithingtonYou'll find Something More Productive tucked away off Withington High Street, next to the post office. A meeting spot for...
Emmaus Mossley
MossleyEmmaus Mossley is a 'secondhand superstore' in a former cotton mill. Run by a homelessness charity, it’s staffed in part...
SEESAW
Manchester City CentreThis attractive space will appeal to people who want a less corporate, more creative feel for their working day. Housed...
Smithills Open Farm
BoltonIf you've ever wondered what you call a baby alpaca, or which is the biggest and most ferocious owl in...
Inspire Cafe
LevenshulmeInspire Cafe is an inclusive, relaxed gem of a community cafe housed in a former church in Levenshulme. It serves...
Albion Farm Shop and Cafe
SaddleworthHead to the hills above Oldham to find this food-lover's gem. Like many proper farm shops, Albion Farm Shop and...
Portland Basin Museum
Ashton-under-LyneStep inside the restored nineteenth-century Ashton Canal Warehouse in Ashton-under-Lyne and you'll find the Portland Basin Museum. With exciting, accessible...
Treehouse Café
BroughtonSalford independent the Treehouse Cafe is the sort of picture-perfect coffee house you frequently see on Instagram but rarely stumble...
Wordsworth Grasmere
GrasmereAt Wordsworth Grasmere you can immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings which captured the poet's imagination and drove much of...
Tatton Park
KnutsfordTatton Park is a historic estate on the edge of Knutsford, home to an opulent neo-classical mansion, landscaped gardens, woodland,...
Vibe Cafe
Liverpool City CentreThe Vibe serves cheery vegan food that will light up your Instagram feed and fill your belly. Known for its...
Beeston Castle
TarporleyBeeston Castle perches atop a rocky crag, looking out over the surrounding Cheshire Plains.
Dino Falls Adventure Golf
Trafford ParkDino Falls Adventure Golf is the only landmark kids care about in Manchester. You can’t miss the volcano and huge...
Gallery Oldham
OldhamGallery Oldham in the town’s Cultural Quarter features artworks and items from Oldham’s diverse collections alongside newly commissioned art, international...
Withington Baths and Leisure Centre
WithingtonFancy a dip in an Edwardian era swimming pool complete with stained glass windows, poolside changing cubicles and ornate tiling?...
Contact Theatre
Oxford RoadWe were shocked when Contact Theatre, or just Contact, as it prefers to be known, announced it was celebrating its...
Maritime Museum
Albert DockLiverpool’s Maritime Museum is part of the National Museums Liverpool collection. As one of the country’s major ports, seafaring and...
RHS Garden Bridgewater
WorsleyThe 2021 opening of this new 154-acre garden was greeted with much excitement and long queues, and rightly so. Once a...
Press Bros Coffee
Lark LanePress Bros Coffee opened in this corner spot on Lark Lane after winning everyone over with its sausage patty melts...
ARMR Store
HulmeThe much loved Caribbean cafe ARMR Store has relocated from Contact Theatre on Oxford Road to the Kath Locke Centre...
SipCha Manchester Arndale
Manchester City CentreServing up eye-catching cups of bubble tea with a multitude of different coloured and flavoured boba (those popping tapioca balls...
The Pankhurst Centre
Oxford RoadThe Pankhurst Centre is the former home of Emmeline Pankhurst and her family. Open to the public on Thursday and...
Gorton Monastery
GortonIts proper title is Manchester Monastery but most people in the city know it as Gorton Monastery. This Grade II...
Planet Ice
AltrinchamYou may know this venue best as Altrincham Ice Dome but it’s now run by Planet Ice and offers relaxed...
Victoria Baths
Victoria ParkOnly open on Wednesdays (and closed entirely during the winter months), Victoria Baths isn’t fully geared up as a visitor...
Eccles Boxing School
EcclesThe top floor of Bridgewater Mill was a derelict shell when Eccles Boxing School founder Brian Gardner first laid eyes...
The Drop Bar Cafe
Chorlton"Authentic, original, unapologetic", that, according to its website, is the mission of The Drop Bar Cafe, a Caribbean set-up on...
That’s Thai
Cheetham HillThat's Thai is a teeny hole-in-the-wall cafe next to a garage in Cheetham Hill. While it only has a small...
Cockfields Farm Park
OldhamCockfields Farm Park, in the countryside between Oldham and Ashton-under-Lyne, is a young child’s idea of the perfect day out.
The Bluecoat
RopewalksThe Bluecoat is Liverpool city centre’s oldest building, and the oldest arts centre in the country.
Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden
KeswickLingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden is a great place to stop for lunch if you’re in the Lake District. The...
The Whitworth
Oxford RoadAny art lover’s trip to Manchester would not be complete without a morning or afternoon spent gazing at the walls...
Reddish Vale Farm
ReddishIan Brown, take note. Reddish Vale Farm, on the Stockport side of Manchester, has everything you could want to keep...
Ancoats Coffee Co.
AncoatsIf you’re serious about your coffee, Ancoats Coffee Co has to be your first port of call in this part...
GAIL’s Bakery King Street
Manchester City CentreGAIL's Bakery on King Street is the latest Manchester addition to this London-born chain, following the success of their Altrincham...
Fluffy Fluffy
Manchester City CentreFuwa Fuwa, is North America's largest soufflé pancake and dessert café. It opened its doors in Manchester New Square in...
Aviva Studios, Factory International
Manchester City CentreAviva Studios is the new home of Factory International, the producers of Manchester International Festival. The impressive building was conceived...
Walton Hall & Gardens
WarringtonHead to Walton Hall & Gardens for landscaped grounds, woodland walks, a grand house, and a whole host of fun...
Fuel
WithingtonFuel is a Withington classic. It's been in its spot on on Wilmslow Road, at the centre of the neighbourhood,...
Cranford Cafe & Sandwich Bar
KnutsfordSituated next door to thatched pub The White Bear, Cranford Cafe & Sandwich Bar is a long-serving local favourite for...
Thornbridge Estate
BakewellType 'Rubber ducks Derbyshire' into Google and your first result is this place - handy if, like us, you keep...
Grandpa Greene’s Luxury Ice Cream
DigglePerched by the canal in the picturesque village of Diggle, near Oldham, Grandpa Greene's is best known for its award-winning...
Ad Maiora
Northern QuarterThis Italian sandwich shop opened on Tib Street in early 2025 after making a name for itself at Kargo MKT...
Gran T’s Coffee House Altrincham
AltrinchamGran T’s Coffee House Altrincham is a brightly-coloured all-day hangout on a pretty street. It’s inspired by the owner’s grandma...
Gulliver’s World
WarringtonGulliver’s World is a theme park that’s perfect for smallsters. It has rollercoasters and upside-downy things for tweens but these...
Piqniq
DidsburyPiqniq is bound to be bread and shoulders ahead of other sandwich purveyors - it’s the newest venture from La...
Smoak Coffee
ChorltonSmoak Coffee is a small coffee and bagel shop on Barlow Moor Road. The caffeine options are very good –...
Vincent Cafe & Restaurant
SouthportPart of the contemporary boutique hotel of the same name, the Vincent Café & Restaurant offers a bit of everything...
Etherow Country Park
RomileyIf you want a woodland walk complete with den-making, wildlife, picnic spots, and beautiful views, Etherow Country Park on the...
Knoops Manchester
Manchester City CentreKnoops Manchester is a chocoholic’s dream. Rather than just ordering a hot chocolate, choose the percentage, the origin and the...
House of Books and Friends
ManchesterHouse of Books and Friends is a bookshop with a difference. As well as knowledgeable, friendly staff, a great selection...
Wray
AmblesideWray is a great value day out near Ambleside. It’s a National Trust castle and parkland but entry is currently...
Fusion Plate
SaleFusion Plate is a great value Oriental grocery store in Sale with special deals on bulk buys. It also serves...
Piccadilly Gardens
Manchester City CentrePiccadilly Gardens are concrete rather than floral now but despite a slightly unsavoury reputation it still remains the gateway to...
Happy Lemon
Manchester City CentreWith almost two decades of experience brewing the perfect bubble tea, Happy Lemon has developed its own signature drinks including...
Rosa’s Thai Cafe Manchester
Manchester City CentreStarting out in a no-frills East End caff already called Rosa’s, Khao Kho-born Saiphin dished up authentic Thai flavours with...
Werneth Low Country Park
HydeWerneth Low Country Park is known for its stunning views across Tameside and Manchester. On a clear day you can...
California Coffee & Wine
AltrinchamCalifornia Coffee & Wine is a ray of SoCal sunshine. The Cal-Mex flavours served up are fresher and sharper than...
World Museum
Liverpool City CentreThe World Museum, part of National Museums Liverpool, is selling itself short. It’s not a World Museum, it’s an absolutely...
My Back Home Chai
HydeMy Back Home Chai is a Bangladeshi café located on Market Street in Hyde, Greater Manchester. The café is owned...
Richmond Tea Rooms
Gay VillageIf this isn't an excuse to pop on your best frock (or bib'n'tucker), we don't know what is. An award-winning...
The Post Box Cafe and Shawarma
ChorltonDon’t be fooled by the unassuming exterior – the interior is even more unassuming. However, the food is unbelievable. Enormous...
Calypso Cove Waterpark
BarnsleyIt's a bit of a drive if you're travelling from Manchester but it's worth it. Calypso Cove Waterpark in Barnsley...
Wax and Beans
BuryWax and Beans is a vinyl and coffee combo where you can indulge all your passions at once. Affectionately known...
Hillgate Cakery
Stockport Town CentreHillgate Cakery is a fully vegan, family-run bakery and cafe in Stockport’s Old Town. Housed in a mock-Tudor building, the...
Abyssinia Cafe and Restaurant
LeedsAbyssinia Cafe and Restaurant has been dishing up its award-winning traditional Ethiopian recipes since 2014, showcasing the cuisine's abundance in...
Petit Cafe du Coin
RopewalksGrab your beret and your polo neck, we're going incognito in a French-inspired cafe with jazz club aspirations. The little...
