Things to do for all the family in the North West
Everyone loves a trip to Blackpool but what of the less well-known coastal attractions, such as the golden sands of Formby, where the dramatic sweep of dunes affords views from Cumbria down to north Wales. And instead of a promenade there are lush pinewood pathways to explore while keeping an eye out for red squirrels – the village is home to one of the country’s largest colonies.
The Queen reputedly once said she would be happy to retire to the Northwest. Her Majesty had her eyes on the Ribble Valley, which may not share the Lake District’s international reputation, but that’s great news for those who enjoy unspoilt country pubs, stunning scenery and bracing walks in the countryside. The wide open spaces could have been invented for social distancing – you can head off in your hiking boots and only see sheep all day. ancaster Business Improvement District manager Tony Johnson says he is delighted the town is coming back to life.
“I have to admit on the Sunday before reopening I didn’t sleep much, wondering what might happen,” he says. “Would people come? Would they abide by social distancing rules? Would businesses have
The Inn at Whitewell, Clitheroe, comes highly recommended by people in the know, while foodies over the county border in Cumbria currently have their pick of seven Michelin-starred restaurants, including the two-star L’Enclume in Cartmel.
Meanwhile in Liverpool, buzzing Bold Street has been closed to traffic, allowing independent eateries to create outside “parklets” to welcome back the punters in a socially distanced setting. everything in place?
“The next day I decided to take a walk around the city to see what was happening, and I was pleasantly surprised at how many people there were. There were a lot of smiley faces, and a lot of shopping bags.
“I spoke to some businesses and they were happy with how the day had gone, certainly the morning was very busy and
It’s a similar scene over in Manchester with restaurants opening their doors and spreading out, with hip places such as the Hatch on Oxford Road extending a warm welcome to the dozens of independent retailers and street food kitchens based there.
As attractions, golf courses,
gardens and outdoor adventures welcome
you back, staff have put strict
safety measures in place so you can
enjoy summer safely. Look for the
“We’re good to go” logo on websites – it’s
there to reassure you that the places
have carried out a Covid-19 risk
assessment and are following Government
guidelines. then it started to tail off in the afternoon. We had a couple of small queue issues but other than that, day one went well and bodes well for the future.
“But we must remember it isn’t about the first week; it’s the next week and week after that. We’re grateful, as are all the independents of Lancaster, for the public’s support so far. Let’s hope we can build on this.”
Knowsley Safari Park has created drive-in picnic bays for visitors once they’ve cruised past a wonderful collection of animals from lions to rhinos, wildebeest and the famous baboons.