Explore more in the North West

Inspirational Ideas for North West Breaks

The dazzling pioneering cities of Manchester and Liverpool. The serenity of the Lake District. Innovative sculptures. Britain’s favourite seaside resort… the list goes on.

One thing’s for sure – you’ll never be bored in the North West. The only problem is deciding where to visit first…

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Be serenaded by the Singing Ringing Tree, Lancashire

Singing Ringing Tree

This unique wind-powered musical sculpture overlooks Burnley from the top of Lancashire’s Crown Point. It’s a metal tree made from galvanised steel pipes that emits haunting, melodic notes as the wind blows through it.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Hotel 99

Go in search of red squirrels in Merseyside

Red Squirrel

See if you can spot these elusive creatures as they skip through the trees in the beautiful woodlands at the Red Squirrel Reserve in Formby. You can also blow the cobwebs away on a bracing coastal walk and find out about Formby’s history.

Nearest hotel: The Bold Hotel, BW Signature Collection, Southport

Be drawn to Derwent Pencil Museum, Cumbria

Derwent Pencil Museum

Discover the home of the world’s first pencil in Keswick as you trace the history of pencil making and see how Derwent fine art pencils are made today. Come face to face with one of the largest colour pencils in the world (it measures almost 8 metres!) and a James-Bond-style wartime pencil.

Nearest hotel: Castle Inn Hotel, BW Signature Collection, Bassenthwaite, Keswick

See the world in miniature at Blackpool's Model Village.

Blackpools Model Village

Experience rural life through a microscope as you marvel at the intricate detail of the tiny handmade figurines that adorn this excellent model village. Thatched cottages, a castle, fishing village, church and cricketers playing on the green – they’re all here.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Carlton Hotel, Blackpool

Escape to Another Place, Merseyside

Crosby Beach

Crosby Beach just outside Liverpool is home to this amazing surreal artwork by Antony Gormley. Spread over 2 miles of coastline, the sculpture comprises 100 cast-iron life-size figures looking out to sea. Make sure you time your visit for when the tide’s out…

Nearest hotel: Heywood House Hotel, BW Signature Collection, Liverpool

Discover Manchester's bohemian Northern Quarter

Manchesters Bohemian Quarter

If you’re looking for shops and bars that offer something a bit different to the usual chains, head to Manchester’s trendy Northern Quarter. Here you’ll find a treasure trove of retro boutiques, independent cafes and fun bars.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Manchester Altrincham Cresta Court Hotel, Altrincham

Have an uplifting experience in Cheshire

Anderton Boat Lift

The Anderton Boat Lift is an incredible feat of Victorian engineering. Standing 50ft high, it lifts boats from one river to another. See it at work for yourself on a memorable trip on the River Weaver.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Forest Hills Hotel, Frodsham

Have a purr-fect time at Mann Cat Sanctuary, Isle of Man

Mann Cat Sanctuary

If you’re a cat lover, you’ll be in your element among the hundreds of felines that roam freely across 7 acres of land at this cat sanctuary. Entry is free, but food donations are gratefully received by the cats.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Palace Hotel & Casino, Isle of Man

Book direct with us for our lowest rates

There’s no need to hunt around for deals because you will always get the lowest price exclusively when you book direct** on the Best Western website, via our call centre or direct at one of our hotels thanks to our brand new  ‘Rewards Rates’ which offer you a discount off the same rates found anywhere else.

To benefit from the very lowest rates around, you need to be a Best Western Rewards member, but don’t worry – if you’re not already a member, you can join today. Simply join for free during the booking process.