The North has no shortage of options for a fun-filled day out for adults – the hardest part is choosing where to go! From sightseeing to walks, must-visit attractions to adventurous activities, we've listed some of the best days out for adults in the North.
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1. Go Ape, Delamere Forest
Nearest station: Delamere
Go Ape has eight locations across the North of England, so you can find the one closest to you. We've chosen Delamere Forest, as it's within easy reach of Delamere station, just a five-minute walk away. There are four fantastic options to choose from at this location with the Treetop Challenge offering the most thrilling experience for adults. Whizz through the trees on five zip lines, Tarzan swings and more, with the course taking around 2-3 hours to complete. It's a fantastic day out for adults with a sense of adventure!
2. Chinatown, Liverpool
Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Liverpool's Chinatown is a vibrant district that offers a day out with a difference. The area is known for its stunning Chinese Arch, the largest outside of China, which was imported from Shanghai, as Liverpool's twin city. Discover an array of authentic Chinese restaurants, supermarkets, and speciality shops, as well as activities like the Quirky Quarter with interactive experiences to enjoy. February is one of the best times to visit Chinatown, as the Chinese New Year celebrations are well underway.
3. The Deep Aquarium, Hull
Nearest station: Hull
An award-winning aquarium, The Deep is home to over 3,000 species of not only fish but reptiles, too. Say hello to a variety of sharks, fish, penguins, snakes and more, as you navigate your way through the tunnels and exhibits. Check out what events are on before you visit or opt for something special from their range of experiences, from sleepovers for big kids to private hire. Open all year round, excluding Christmas and Boxing Day, it's a great day out for adults any time throughout the year.
4. Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough
Nearest station: Marton
Ormesby Hall, a stunning Georgian mansion, offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Middlesbrough. Managed by the National Trust, the hall provides insights into the lives of the Pennyman family, who resided there for generations. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms, enjoy seasonal garden displays, and participate in various activities and events throughout the year. The best part of this day out for adults is you can bring your four-legged friend along for the visit! Ormesby Hall even uses a pawprint rating system to help you know how dog-friendly each area is.
5. Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery, Blackburn
Nearest station: Blackburn
Established as one of the first purpose-built free museums outside London, Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery is a treasure trove of diverse collections. The museum houses an impressive array of artefacts, including Egyptian antiquities, over 1,000 Japanese prints, and the UK's largest collection of icons dating from the 1300s to the late 1800s. The museum also features an extensive collection of coins, over 500 books and manuscripts, and natural history exhibits, so there really is something for everyone to enjoy on a day out for adults. Take a look at what's on at the museum to plan your trip.
6. Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland
Nearest station: Bishop Auckland
Auckland Castle, a historic Norman castle, offers visitors a journey through centuries of history. The castle features beautifully preserved rooms, an extensive art collection, and breathtaking gardens like the Deer Park and Walled Garden to explore. Throughout the year, the castle hosts a variety of events, including medieval jousting, art exhibitions, and garden tours, so be sure to check what's on to plan your visit. Turn your day out in an overnight stay with both a hotel and self-catering accommodation on offer.
7. The National Justice Museum & City of Caves, Nottingham
Nearest station: Nottingham
The National Justice Museum, housed in a historic courthouse, provides an immersive experience through the history of crime and punishment. Visitors can explore original courtrooms, prison cells, and interactive exhibits that bring the past to life. Adjacent to the museum, the City of Caves offer a unique opportunity to explore Nottingham's extensive network of underground passages – there are over 800 concealed beneath the streets – revealing the city's hidden history. A truly unique day out for adults, the City of Caves offers guided tours for groups of 10 or more.
8. Dee River Kayaking, Chester
Nearest station: Chester
As the name suggests, Dee River Kayaking offers not only kayaking in the heart of Chester but stand-up paddleboarding, too. The calm water of the River Dee provides the perfect backdrop for first-timers and offers lessons, as well as kayaking tours of Chester. All trips start from Sandy Lane Park and take in the beautiful stretch of the River Dee around Chester Meadows, including the Roman city walls, the Old Dee Bridge and more. If stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has piqued your attention, opt for a lesson, fitness session or even SUP to the pub! Check out more water activities across the North for day out ideas.
9. World Museum, Liverpool
Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Located just a 6-minute walk away from Liverpool Lime Street, the World Museum is home to over 1.7 million artefacts from across the globe. Explore the collections in detail, including 80,000 items from the ancient world and 40,000 objects from the 19th century, as well as more modern curations like the physical sciences and horology collections. Enjoy the museum's free audio guide or make your visit your own. There's also an aquarium to enjoy, as well as a planetarium for all the stargazers amongst us.
10. Chill Factore, Manchester
Nearest station: Manchester Picadilly
Experience the thrill of snow sports at Chill Factore, the UK's longest indoor ski slope located right beside the Trafford Centre in Manchester. Offering skiing, snowboarding, and fun snow activities, Chill Factore caters to all skill levels with ski and snowboarding lessons and coaching sessions. Enjoy a real snow environment all year round, complete with equipment hire and expert instructors. It's the perfect destination for adults seeking a bit of adrenaline on a day out!
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