Looking to whisk your family away for a lovely, memorable weekend adventure? Well, that should be easier than you’d think. We’ve got loads of exciting destinations perfect for a family getaway here in the UK. And with us in Manchester being quite central, a lot of incredibly great places aren’t that far away at all – no matter what it is you are looking for. A captivating city conquest? A Charming countryside retreat – a wild coastal adventure? If you’re looking for a bit of inspiration, here are five ideas for the best family weekend getaways close to Manchester.
The Maritime & Cultural Delight that is Liverpool
Just a very short drive away to the west is the vibrant city of Liverpool – famed for its maritime heritage and cultural riches. If you are looking for a nice lovely city break, the Alber Docks, The Beatles Story Museum and Merseyside Maritime Museum are excellent spots – as are the majestic Liverpool Cathedral and the historic Royal Liver Building. With its blend of culture and beautiful waterfront charm, it’s a fantastic location if you have kids interested in history and music.
Coastal Adventures in North Wales
If you drive a little further west, you’ll end up in the incredibly stunning North Wales, where rugged coastlines and fascinating historic landmarks, such as the Conwy Castle and Beaumaris Castle await, where tales of knights and royalty truly come to life. They’ve got everything here: sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and wonderfully quaint seaside villages. This is a fantastic spot if your family consists of outdoor enthusiasts, as the Snowdonia National Park or the Great Orme are right around the corner. It’s a beloved holiday place – no wonder – so you’re also able to find wonderful static caravans in North Wales, be it to rent or, if you’re coming often, for sale.
Chasing the Romans in Chester
Nestled along the banks of the River Dee, the historic city of Chester offers a wonderfully delightful mix of Roman ruins and medieval marvels within easy reach of Manchester. It’s almost like a little step back in time when you wander through the ancient streets lined with Tudor-style buildings and Roman walls – there is definitely a reason it’s mathematically (what an odd thing to say) the prettiest city in the world. The Chester Cathedral and the well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre are must-sees, but the Chester Zoo Monorail might just be what your little ones love.
Exploring the Outdoors in the Peak District
Almost only a stone-throw away from us is the Peak District – and, same as with Wales, perfect for families looking to explore the outdoors. Pack your hiking boots and wander through rugged moorlands, verdant valleys, and the most enchanting woodlands. Mam Tor or Kinder Scout are especially beautiful natural wonders and can be discovered next to adventuring alongside the Tissington Trail. There are great little villages with traditional pubs and inns to be found scattered across, but maybe you might want to camp here, too, as it’s as perfect as it gets for idyllic scenery. Make sure to have a look at Gulliver’s Kingdom, too, for a lovely little family theme park!
Family Fun in York
Beautiful York! Another city where it’s way too easy to travel back in time, with its ancient walls and cobbled streets. The York Minster is one of Europe’s largest Gothic cathedrals, The Shambles have wonderful, timber-framed buildings datingback to the Middle Ages, and the Jorvik Viking Centre is just the most unique experience for the entire family. And ofcourse, it’s here where you’ll find excellent and traditional Yorkshire Pudds. And for the little ones, have a look at York’s Chocolate Story or the National Railways Museum. If your kids are a bit older, maybe the York Dungeon tickles their fancy?
