Glendalough Cathedral is without a doubt one of the highlights of this historic monastic site. Walking among the ruins, you can almost feel the centuries of history that shaped this valley. The cathedral itself, though roofless, is truly impressive in its scale and detail. The stonework and arches tell stories of a time when Glendalough was a thriving center of faith and learning, and it is fascinating to imagine how it must have looked in its full glory. What I love most about this place is the atmosphere. Surrounded by peaceful mountains and old gravestones, the cathedral feels both grand and serene. It’s a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and take in the deep sense of history. Every corner is incredibly photogenic – from the tall stone walls to the ancient Celtic crosses scattered around the grounds. The area is well maintained, and there is a spacious parking lot nearby with a one-time daily fee, as well as free toilet facilities and small food stalls, which make the visit convenient. But what makes this site truly special is the sense of stepping back in time. If you are a history lover, a photographer, or simply someone who enjoys exploring unique cultural sites, Glendalough Cathedral is a must-see. I always leave this place inspired and grateful to experience a piece of Ireland’s soul. Definitely worth visiting – and worth sharing!

Historic, monastic site with 2 lakes of natural beauty. The old mine starts the Wicklow Way walk. All free - go early as both carparks fill up quickly and charge around €5 some free on Street parking around the hotel area.

This monastic centre beautifully situated in a mountain valley in the heart of Wicklow, the garden of Ireland, is what the room dedicated to it in the Historical Museum on Kildare Street Dublin, refers to as the Rome of Ireland. This may be in a sense, true spirituality but its collection of ruined buildings pales starkly in comparison to the aforementioned Italian capital's. That said it is still well worth a visit to this monastery village and the surrounding area that gives us a glimpse back into times when Ireland was a thriving ecclesiastical centre while most of the rest of Europe had been plunged by the fall of the same Rome into the Dark ages.

By far the largest structure in the ancient monastic site and the only one you can enter. It's very big, and despite not having a roof anymore, some of the Arches are still somewhat intact. It's a must-see in the monastic site. Just be warned that the doorway can be muddy.

Three of us visited the Glendalough Monastic City yesterday. A place we shouldn’t have missed visiting while in Dublin. The tall round tower is the most prominent feature in the place. The access into the tower is from an opening at a higher level using a tall ladders. This is to protect clergy from the Vikings, as we understand. There are tomb stones we sighted recent as 2001. Not clear to us if this is still considered to be a burial site for the community around.

What an amazing place! Very historic. Super glad we stopped and walked around. Definitely staying a few days when I go back.

Glendalough in general is a very exciting, charming in sense of magical, place. It is good to know more about the history to enjoy this place more. Take also a nice walk around the lake. In autumn it has a particular feeling to it with the stones, the surrounding graveyard and the mists, fog and falling leaves. Why not 5 stars. The descriptions are dated and although the visitor center is very service oriented the whole experience could be dramatically enhanced. Also some better coffee and warm snacks places would be great particularly on a foggy frosty autumn day.

Wonderful park to just stroll through, especially if there's a light mist/rain. Great colors of nature, especially in fall. There's a kids park for little ones. The park is full of life, just people having a quiet time. I enjoyed it so much, I went back within my 5 day visit to Dublin. It's next to busy city life yet feels miles away. Street performer outside the gates to the park.

St Stephen's Green in Dublin is an absolute gem, especially for a family visit! We loved escaping the city bustle into this beautiful, tranquil Victorian park. It was a perfect spot for the whole family, offering a great mix of beautiful landscaping, historical statues, and a lovely playground that kept the kids thoroughly entertained. The central ornamental lake with the ducks was a particular highlight. It felt safe, well-maintained, and was a wonderful place for a relaxed stroll and some people-watching. A definite must-visit for anyone in Dublin!

Such a beautiful place. I picked a great day to go there anyway. Bright blue sky, sun was shining. Birds were singing. A really nice array of flowers and shubbery are scattered across the park. The wildlife are very present here inside the middle of the busy city. In amongst the many seagulls and pigeons I saw quite a few beautiful little birds like this robin that took a great interest in me and a squirrel too. Looking forward to another visit soon!

Stepping into St. Stephen's Green right off Dublin's busy streets is instantly calming. it's like finding a secret, peaceful world :) This beautiful Victorian park is the perfect escape. You immediately feel the fresh air and natural calm among the tall, shady trees. If you need a quick break to relax and recharge in the middle of the city, this is the place. It truly feels like a happy little oasis! A must-see for anyone wanting a friendly dose of nature in Dublin

This huge beautiful park is a breath of fresh air right in the middle of Dublin city. It offers some peace to stroll around, sit by the pond and watch the ducks, swans and birds and even learn about some local history. It’s very well-kept and clean. The fall colors made everything even more gorgeous and I had a wonderful time! 🍂

Beautiful clean park. There are many statues that describes what is their relation to Irish culture. Was very fun interacting with the birds flying around. It is recommended to sit and slow down to soak the atmosphere. Do not rush the place. Will come back

Wonderful green space in the middle of the city. Surprised with a variety of greenery at this place. Well kept, many different species of birds, flowers...perfect spot to enjoy outdoor space!!!

The whole experience was pretty well done. The best part of course seeing the Book of Kells. The library was incredible. Unfortunately most of the books were removed for renovation, but enough were still there to get the feel of it. The red building at the end was a full immersive experience - that made me dizzy and nauseous. I wish I could’ve purchased a ticket without the red building (just the book of Kells and the library), but the option wasn’t available. Recommend buying tickets online in advance to get your preferred timed entry.

A truly fascinating and culturally rich experience that offers a deep insight into one of Ireland’s greatest treasures. The Book of Kells Experience combines history, art, and spirituality in a beautifully curated exhibition that captures the skill and devotion of the monks who created this masterpiece over a thousand years ago. The exhibition itself is well laid out, with clear storytelling and impressive visuals that explain the creation of the manuscript and its incredible detail. The lighting, atmosphere, and overall presentation make it easy to appreciate both the artistry and the reverence behind the book. The short film at the start gives great context and helps visitors understand just how remarkable the work is. The real showstopper, however, is the Long Room Library — one of the most breathtaking spaces in Dublin, if not the world. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time. The scale, the scent of old wood and books, and the sheer sense of history are unforgettable. The only slight downside is that it can get quite busy, which makes it harder to take in the exhibits at your own pace. The display area for the Book of Kells itself is smaller than expected, and you don’t get much time to linger. A few more interactive or modern interpretive elements would really enhance the experience, especially for younger visitors or families. Still, this is an essential stop for anyone visiting Dublin — an inspiring reminder of Ireland’s deep scholarly and artistic heritage, and a beautifully preserved piece of world history. Well worth seeing once in a lifetime. 🇮🇪📖✨

Amazing. Do this. Go here. First of all, the place looks little phenomenal. Its really really interesting and super well built with tons of history and cool facts in every tiny crevice of the campus. And even better is that the tour guides know these details and they di give you a really good overview of everything. Additionally, the old library is a magnificent sight. With the atlas sculpture and the harp! Really really cool!

Well, I was expecting the place to be much bigger. I’m not sure why, but half of the library (bookshelves) was empty. The Book of Kells (I mean the book-artefact) is worth seeing – later there’s a 3D film projected on the wall with an explanation of its history. But the film is really slow… Later it is another film. Overall, the place is definitely worth a visit, but the price is really high – €20. In my personal opinion it should be cheaper. But defenetly whole Trinnity Collage area looks amazing.

Words are nit enough to describe how awesome it was and no photo dies the library’s scale justice. The tour in the 2nd building was very cool and interactive too. I liked the live statues and the films: both are very well put together and visually appealing. If you have enough time, try to go with a guide. And make sure to come early - it closes at 16.30.

Attending Trinity College was just an unforgettable experience for us. We've seen a lot of different libraries and tours, but it's just the atmosphere of science and Greece. We were very impressed. The tour is very interesting and exciting. Indeed, thank you for the opportunity to visit you. We recommend a must-visit in Dublin.

This experience was topping my Dublin bucket list and I was certainly not disappointed. Recommended for all history lovers. There are different price ranges in regards to the tickets, so you bettee have a look before you buy the first one you see. Friendly staff. Btw, it is not allowed to take photos of the Book itself, don't even try!

For a short break between train journeys, we arrived on the Welsh Highland Railway and visited the castle. It was our first visit and we enjoyed our time walking around. Our grandson managed the narrow steps up and down the towers. We had about an hour and it was enough time to walk around most of the site. It was a five minute walk from the station. The towers have narrow steps which might prove a challenge and the ropes help. The views from the top of the castle were amazing, across the harbour and out to sea, and towards Snowdonia. A great place to bring children and the lift to view the castle is a bonus.

A wonderful experience and worth the money. Absolutely stunning castle with great areas with information. Museum was wonderful to walk around. Areas have been adapted for accessibility. Lots of narrow spiral staircases but lit well and all have ropes or supports.

Amazing place to see. Parking is very nearby, with shops and cafes around. The castle itself presents a very long story since the 12th century. Worth seeing. Thank you for great customer service and letting me dive in past ages of history.

Loved it. Lots of history here. This castle is well preserved and authentic looking. This alone makes it 5 stars. Castle fans will have fun here. But! This means danger as well. The spiral staircase can be dangerous to say the least. Especially in the down pour that we were in. Many of the steps are only a couple inches wide, barely enough for a toe or heel. You're given a rope (soaking wet in our case) to hang into as you climb up or down. If you explore more, you'll find you can get to to the walls with regular stairs. And if you think even those are too difficult, there is an elevator. Ask the staff to direct you to it. The museum is interesting, but has very little to do with the castle itself, more about war in general. There are recorded voice guides you can listen to if you pay the £3 price for the device. I'm not sure why this has a cost when the same device at castell coch was free.

It’s a good experience for a few hours; plenty of passageways to explore and views across the town, harbour and Menai Straights. The military museum within the walls of the castle is worth noting if you are interested in such things. There is a coffee shop within the grounds and toilets too.

What an absolutely amazing castle. So much to see and do within the castle, from views to interactive experiences. Be prepared for a lot of steps, but well worth it. So many amazing views, from lots of different view points. Lovely cafe within the castle, great for refreshments, especially after all the steps. Very clean toilets in the castle too. The Royal Welsh Fusilier Regimental Museum is a must to visit while at the castle, all included in your castle admission fee. So much history about the Regiment, lovely to see and learn about it all. The castle even has modern features, like an access elevator at the Kings Gate. Could of easily spent a few days seeing everything the castle has to offer, but managed to get the majority in while there. The gift shop is a must in the Regimental Museum and the larger gift shop in the castle. Overall, fantastic value for money.

A Truly Inclusive Gem – Caernarfon Castle As a disabled visitor using an electric wheelchair, I can say without hesitation that my experience at Caernarfon Castle was absolutely unforgettable — and deeply emotional in the best way possible. From the moment I arrived, I felt seen, welcomed, and respected. Entry was free of charge for disabled guests, a gesture that instantly set the tone for an inclusive and thoughtful visit. The accessibility features at the castle far exceeded my expectations: the lift to the top of the iconic Eagle Tower (known locally as the "bottlenecks") was not just functional — it was liberating. For the first time, I got to enjoy those breathtaking views and imagine the stories that echoed through the fortress walls, just like any other visitor would. A particularly moving highlight was meeting Trevor, a passionate and knowledgeable volunteer who shared the castle’s history with kindness and sincerity. His storytelling brought the past to life in a way that was engaging and personal. The adjoining Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum was another treasure — offering a fascinating look into military heritage, all presented in a way that was accessible and welcoming. But what truly stayed with me was the overwhelming gratitude I felt for everyone who made this possible. From thoughtful design to empathetic staff, Caernarfon Castle is a beacon of what accessibility should look like. I left with happy tears — humbled by the care and respect shown to visitors like me. Highly recommended, not just for the history, but for the heart. Thank you just doesn't seem to covert it.

We went up with a car, beautiful views with sheep on the way. Breathtaking views at top. Very windy so be prepared! If you like cheeky seagulls, you'll enjoy this place a lot!

Great place to go hiking and have a great time! Although it’s 37 pounds to go up on a tram! What the hell!!! Although it is very beautiful! They is goats and lambs evreytwhere. Don’t google the accidents that happened here while your up there as they is quite a few and it scared me

Beautiful place with plenty to do on the journey up aswell as at the top..A Tram both ways. Copper Mine & gift shop half way,£25 for family worth every penny.Museum at the top free with kids activities.Mini Golf at the Top £5 aswell as a great cafe & gift shop.Brilliant family activities ⛷, Tubeing and Bob sleigh..With Discounts..

Stunning location with amazing views in all directions. Well worth the bike to the top (3/4 to the top really) but, if you get the choice, take the tram. Much easier on the legs and lungs. Would highly recommend this as part of your essential North Wales experience.

I went here three times in 2 days 😄 I went up walking early in the morning, drove with a car, and via Orme tramway. They offered different experience and has its own charm but I enjoyed them all! The day I went there at afternoon was extremely windy so better prepared with a windbreaker. Overall, the scenery from the top of Orme was wonderful. From the top you can explore different spots or even only sitting enjoying the day.

The mine tours are quite pricy but well worth it as it's self guided so you can make your way around at your own pace. There's a tram up to the mine from the town so it's wise to park in the town and take the tram up the hill if you don't mind paying. There are great views at the top of the hill and nice areas to eat or walk at the top. I've been twice and would go again if I was in the area.

Fantastic viewpoint of the North Wales coast and Anglesey. Some amazing walks plus the ability to ride up and down on a tram or a cable car. You could kid yourself you were in the Alps! There are some easy paths (apart from the gradient 😂) and some difficult paths to get up and down. There's a toll road around the Orme and a decent pub at the bottom by the tram station. Worth a trek.

The pier was unfortunately closed when we visited, and honestly, it looked a bit worse for wear—definitely in need of some TLC. That said, it still has a certain charm, and we ended up getting some really great photos with the moody clouds and seaside backdrop. You can see how iconic it used to be, and hopefully will be again. Even though we couldn’t walk it, the surrounding promenade and views still made it a worthwhile stop.

Lovely traditional pier. In better condition than many piers and has all the stalls still in place. Tried the lovely prawns and chips in the past all have been great. Used to call it death pier with all benches and dead flowers. Didn't like that too much seemed a little depressing. Its cleaned this up a little removing dead flowers meaning a nicer experience. The end of the pier is great with bar and views to die for.

me and my friend we went with a full bus of so many people which includes our family , family friends and children and some unknown persons as well , bcoz its a charity trip for gaza and that trip help them to provide important stuff. so about the trip i can say it was so wonderful, so enjoyable with so much fun , the weather was perfect , the beach vibe is perfect and off-course the food was perfect. so i can say the overall trip was perfect.❤️🤗

A lovely pier, lots of market type shops and gift shops, and a pile of food shops so you'll never go hungry while taking in amazing views from the pier. There's a few boat trips that can be done. Whether thats a slow cruise around the bay or a speedboat experience. The pier seems to go on forever, a lot to explore

A good old fashioned pier where you can have a leisurely walk. There are small stalls either side along the sides, and a cafe and a bar at the far end. For the kids, there are amusements and rides at the start of the pier.

Little bit disappointed by the offerings of entertainment on the pier it felt like it could have had more shops and more things to do along the way to the end. Although the bar and cafe at the were well with a trip to. The views from the pier were stunning and I enjoyed sitting outside with a drink watching the ships and windmills. More shops along the peri would be much better.

Llandudno Pier is a beautiful Victorian seaside pier, wide and long with plenty to enjoy. The arcades and amusements keep it lively, while gift shops, cafés, and many donut stalls add to the charm. A ferris wheel and speed boat rides give extra excitement. You’ll also see plenty of seagulls surrounding the pier, so be careful as they often try to grab food from visitors. The atmosphere is relaxed with stunning hill views and lots of photo opportunities. Walking along the beach with the breeze feels refreshing, and on clear blue sky days the scenery is even more spectacular.

It was truly a wonderful trip. Me and my family absolutely loved seeing the wonderful sculptures! They weren't just magnificent, they were amazing, innovative and I loved how symbolic the pieces were. There were so many to see and the facts they held too was fascinating to learn. Even though it was raining, we still had a brilliant time. We wish you the best and want to say thanks for having us.

Heard about this place from word of mouth and was not disappointed. Did a memory jar Xmas 24 for my dad so we have time together more than gifts. The sun came out and we had a fantastic day. So nice to simply stroll round at our pace, learn things along the way and of course, see the amazing statues. Lunch in the cafe was lovely and the shops were nice to explore. Were there around 3.5hrs in total and to see my dad enjoy it so much was precious! Well worth a visit! I will be back!

What an amazing, and not too expensive day out with the early bird tickets. We were truly taken back by the creativity of some of the sculptures. The time and effort that has gone in to each and every one, was honestly outstanding. It’s a really good day out, even if you “sculptures” aren’t really your thing! There is also a really lovely cafe and shop and as we came round to the end, there was also a man playing some music and singing, his voice was gorgeous! The only downside we found, was the walking between some of the sculptures with a little one. Towards the end, he got quite bored and the walking was tiring for him. This is something that can’t really be helped and I should think most 6 year olds would be the same after an hour or so of walking. Amazing day out otherwise, would definitely recommend!!!

Amazing day, a lot more than I realised. Loved the fact sheets especially regarding the endangered animals! Cafe was amazing and the portions were wonderful. You could tell the coronation chicken was homemade, it was delicious! Brilliant for all the family.

What an amazing place! This was our first visit and we had such a fantastic time. So many amazing sculptures, lots of info to read and get the kids talking about important social and environmental topics, friendly staff and delicious food. We loved it and will definitely be back!

We enjoyed our day here. It was Halloween so the staff were all dressed up and they had scare actors. The food looked amazing especially the afternoon tea but we found our scones a little dry but very nice. Was pleased to be there for the return of the Knife Angel. Not a full day out but well worth a good couple of hours.

Amazing day out! We got the early bird tickets which meant we had to be there for 9am. Was a great option it was quiet. We were able to have a lovely breakfast in the cafe and it wasn’t busy. Food was great we had 2 breakfast a sandwich and drinks and it came to £30. Well worth it for quality and portion size. This place is amazing we wondered round for hours so much to see. We did the kids activity sheet so that kept my 9 year interested and active running about getting the clues. Would 100% recommend a visit. In fact we are planning on going back at Xmas time

The Museum of Liverpool is a standout gem on the city’s waterfront—both architecturally and experientially. Its striking modern design sits beautifully on the Pier Head, and once inside, the views are simply stunning. Expansive glass windows offer sweeping panoramas of the River Mersey, making it feel like you're part of the landscape as you explore the museum. It’s a rare treat to find a space that connects the past and present so seamlessly, both inside and out. The exhibitions are as engaging as the setting. From Liverpool’s social and industrial history to its deep musical and sporting roots, everything is thoughtfully curated and full of local pride. Interactive displays and rich storytelling make it accessible and fascinating for all ages. But what made my visit truly special were the surprises. During my time there, a local community choir performed—unexpected and moving. It added such a warm, human element to the experience and underscored the museum’s role as a living part of the community, not just a place for static exhibits. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this museum offers more than you might expect. It’s a place where architecture, heritage, and people come together beautifully.

The Museum of Liverpool* is a fantastic modern museum that captures the heart and history of the city. Located along the iconic waterfront, it offers engaging exhibitions on Liverpool’s rich cultural, social, and industrial heritage. From The Beatles and football to the city’s maritime past, the museum tells powerful stories through interactive displays, artefacts, and multimedia. The architecture itself is striking, and the views of the Mersey from inside are stunning. It’s free to enter, family-friendly, and a must-visit for anyone wanting to truly understand Liverpool's identity.

Nipped in here with my 9 year old and my husband as we were in Liverpool to go to my university library. I have been here many times and everytime I feel like I am seeing something new or realising I missed something the last time I was there. The atmosphere is so calm 😌 The staff there are so lovely and helpful, lifts work and toilets were very clean. There were some interactive displays for the children to get involved in which was amazing to see. Will definitely be back 😀

​A Trip Through Time, with Room for Improvement: ​The Museum of Liverpool offers a truly compelling journey through the city's rich history, and my recent visit was filled with moments of discovery and appreciation. The exhibits themselves are thoughtfully curated, covering everything from the city's maritime past to its vibrant musical heritage. It's clear that a great deal of effort has gone into telling Liverpool's story, and the sheer breadth of content makes for a very interesting and informative visit. ​The staff also deserve a special mention. They were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable, always ready with a friendly smile and keen to answer any questions. Their enthusiasm for the museum and the city's history was infectious and added a lot to the overall experience. ​However, a couple of issues detracted from what could have been a perfect visit. The first was the use of audio within the displays. In several sections, audio—whether it was spoken dialogue or ambient sound—was playing, and the noise from multiple sources made it very difficult to concentrate. It was a real challenge to read the display boards and absorb the information when competing with overlapping audio from other parts of the exhibition. ​Secondly, the lighting in some areas was far too dim. While I appreciate the intention to create a certain atmosphere, the low light levels made it genuinely hard to view the items and, more importantly, to read the text on the display boards. I found myself straining to make out words and details, which took away from the enjoyment of the exhibits. ​Overall, the Museum of Liverpool is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city's past, thanks to its fascinating content and excellent staff. However, addressing the issues with audio and lighting would make the experience significantly more accessible and enjoyable for all visitors. The museum has the potential to be truly world-class, and these small changes would make a huge difference.

This is a truly unique museum, holding the distinction of being the world’s first dedicated to the history of a regional city. Admission is free, and it’s both informative and engaging, with the added bonus of a stunning, sweeping view of the River Mersey from one of its upper floors. For anyone who enjoys learning about the story of a city and her people, this museum is a must—especially when it’s a city as vibrant and special as Liverpool. One highlight for me was an exhibit featuring the different birds that once contended for the right to be associated with the city’s name—I had a good laugh there. My mum and I spent about two hours exploring, and still didn’t manage to see everything. It’s definitely the kind of place you can return to time and again, always leaving with something new learned.

Museum of Liverpool — A Standout Day by the Docks We visited the Museum of Liverpool around six weeks ago as a family, looking for something meaningful to do on a breezy day by the Mersey. What we expected was a quick cultural stop. What we got was a full experience that left a lasting impression—and had us staying far longer than planned. --- First Impressions From the outside, the building is striking. Set proudly on Mann Island with clean architectural lines and panoramic views, it fits perfectly into the city's modern yet historic waterfront. Inside, the layout is open and bright, with great flow between sections and excellent signage. Entry is completely free, yet the quality and thought put into every gallery rivals many ticketed attractions. --- Exhibits & Atmosphere The museum is cleverly structured into thematic zones: The Great Port, Global City, People’s Republic, and Wondrous Place. Each section blends historical artifacts with stories that matter—about migration, music, sport, struggle, and success. It’s not just about showcasing objects, it’s about telling Liverpool’s story in a way that connects personally. Interactive elements, films, soundscapes, and digital displays help bring it all to life. One moment you’re learning about women’s suffrage and working-class politics, and the next you're surrounded by the legacy of The Beatles, or seeing the social impact of Liverpool FC across decades. The museum doesn’t shy away from harder topics either—like slavery, poverty, or industrial hardship—but handles them with clarity and respect. --- Lunch Break We had lunch in the café on the ground floor. It was clean, well-run, and not overpriced. Sandwiches and a bowl of scouse stew with fresh bread hit the spot—simple, hearty food with views out toward the docks. Service was friendly, and tables were spaced well enough to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Toilets were spotless and easily accessible too. --- Beyond the Walls: Albert Dock After finishing up inside, we wandered along Albert Dock. The walk itself extends the museum experience, with historic buildings, sculptures, and river views all echoing the city’s maritime roots. The setting gives space to reflect on everything you’ve just seen—there’s real harmony between the museum and its surroundings. --- Why It Works It's free—but doesn't feel "budget" The tech, the curation, and the flow are all top quality. It respects your time You can walk in with no set plan and still come away feeling like you’ve taken in something important. It’s people-focused The exhibits don’t just show you Liverpool—they make you feel what it’s been through. It’s accessible Wide walkways, lifts, ramps, and clear instructions. Ideal for families, older visitors, or anyone with mobility needs. --- Final Thoughts This is exactly what a 21st-century museum should be. It’s not trying to impress with scale alone—it’s built around narrative, identity, and public value. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it offers an honest, moving, and uplifting look at Liverpool’s past and present. It’s clean, spacious, modern, and free—but most importantly, it’s engaging. We left feeling informed, connected, and genuinely proud of what this city offers its people and its visitors. A must-visit if you’re in Liverpool. We’ll be back.

The Museum of Liverpool may not immediately dazzle with flashy theatrics, but for anyone fascinated by history, it's a real treasure trove. As the first national museum devoted to the story of a regional city, its purpose-built building on Pier Head presents Liverpool’s past in a smart, contemporary setting. Inside, the museum is organized into four major thematic galleries: The Great Port, Global City, People's Republic, and Wondrous Place. These cover everything from Liverpool’s role in maritime trade and the empire, to its diverse communities, culture, migration, and urban development – spanning a timeline from prehistoric times to the present day. With over 6,000 objects on show, paired with interactive sections like History Detectives and the Little Liverpool play area for under‑6s, it's both educational and engaging. For history-buffs, the highlight is definitely the well-curated storytelling of Liverpool’s global influence, technological growth, and multicultural heritage. While it may lack the visual impact of larger museums, its depth and context are what make it stand out. A particular gem is the top-floor sports gallery, featuring exhibits and archives on football and other local sporting traditions, alongside multimedia displays celebrating the city’s sporting heritage . It's a fitting tribute to Liverpool's sporting culture and proves that even in a history museum, sports can play a starring role. Overall impression Not a flashy museum, but rich, thoughtfully curated, and highly rewarding for history enthusiasts. Clean, modern building with a logical layout across three public floors. The sports gallery on the top floor adds a dynamic touch and is well worth visiting. Ideal for those who appreciate Liverpool’s complex story—from maritime prowess to urban identity. If you're drawn to the narrative behind the city—its people, international connections, and evolving social fabric—this museum delivers an insightful and memorable experience.

Not knowing what to expect and not really a big fan of museums we were pleasantly surprised at how good this was. The staff were very friendly and the audio was easy to use giving details as you walked around. The immersive areas were fantastic, walking around each area with background music really brought things to life. The yellow submarine, the cavern club, strawberry fields, abbey road, penny Lane... everything was amazing. We visited the actual cavern club the night before and the room in the museum was exactly the same. We are so glad we visited. The shop, cafe and discovery area where you could dress up as a beetle were all great too. Highly recommend, probably the best place we visited in Liverpool.

We had an AMAZING experience at The Beatles Story. Went on a Monday in the late morning. There were 4 of us, including our 8 year old Beatles obsessed son. The self guided audio tour allowed a lot of flexibility for our multi generational group. The exhibits were spot on and great photo ops! Learned a ton, had a blast! Definitely recommend!

It was really good. The replica of the cavern club and the yellow submarine were great. The shop is extensive with loads of beatles merch that my kids are now enjoying. Overall a great day The only downside was everyone walking around with the headphones and little tablets. Almost felt like I was in a zombie apocalypse. I had to keep interrupting my party to chat about it, or be interrupt myself when they wanted to chat.

I recently visited The Beatles Story at the Royal Albert Dock in Liverpool, and it was an unforgettable experience! The museum beautifully captures the journey of The Beatles — from their early days in Liverpool and Hamburg to their rise as global music icons. The immersive exhibits, original memorabilia, and lifelike recreations of the Cavern Club and Abbey Road were amazing. The audio guide, included with the ticket, made the visit even more engaging, with detailed storytelling and music clips that bring the history to life. The flow of the museum is well-organized, and I recommend spending at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore it fully. 🎟️ Tickets can be booked online (around £20 for adults) and it’s best to reserve in advance, especially on weekends or holidays. The staff were friendly and everything was easy to navigate. 🚆 Getting there: The museum is at Royal Albert Dock — about a 20-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street Station or a 5-minute walk from James Street Station. Buses and taxis are also convenient, and parking is available nearby. 💡 Visitor tips: • Go early to avoid crowds. • Don’t skip the audio guide — it adds so much depth! • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Maritime Museum or Tate Liverpool. • Wear comfortable shoes and take time to browse the Fab4 Café and souvenir shop. Overall, The Beatles Story is a must-visit for fans and even those with a casual interest in music history. It’s emotional, nostalgic, and very well presented — a true tribute to the Fab Four! 🎶

Very nice experience with a great history behind the band. You go down the steps into the entrance and are invited to have a green screen photo of yourselves as the beetles, Headsets are provided with short video's shown as you go around and yes you can sit down at various stops and enjoy the story, art, photos and videos of your self guided tour it IS a place to visit if your visiting the UK and enjoy old music and history made and shaped modern sound you have today. I provided a FEW photo's but you will have to visit to enjoy what's there ! Ps The staff are very friendly as are the locals who will guide you to and through the venue 👍

I brought my 2 children (5 and 8) for my son’s birthday and they loved it. I wasn’t sure if they would enjoy the headsets but they loved following the numbers and finding out all about the Beatles history. We even got to sit at John Lennon’s piano as it was my son’s birthday. The discovery zone was fab and the cafe even had a play area for them so I got some peace at the end. Loved it x

We went to both the main museums and both were worth it but I enjoyed the chronological presentation here. Also enjoyed the creative way they presented things. Worth it.

The pleasure beach is very much reduced since we last visited. I believe you have to buy tickets to ride before you can go inside. There used to be lots of stalls games food etc. That s all gone. That end of the town is pretty much shut down. No open businesses on the promenade. The illuminations are really nice they've been dramatically updated

Really enjoyed the day not been since I was younger although I live in the town! Bought tickets in advance so had an e-ticket which was no problem. As a resident you do get a small discount. Think we payed £35 per ticket. Lots of rides to suit all ages. Small rides had pretty much no queues , the large rides like The big one, avalanche, Icon had to wait 30mins, but worth the wait! Love the old fashioned wood rollercoaster unfortunately the big dipper was closed but the grand national was open. There is a hog warts train which goes round the park , which is great for little ones and grownups. The station is a good replica of an old fashioned station. Park was very clean, toilets spotless and attended always cleaning the loos. Staff great happy to help and very friendly. My only complaint is not enough signs telling you where rides are. You can download app and there is a map on the app, which is easy enough to use. Arcade on site with traditional 2p machines and others, small stores like hook the duck and basketball ball games. Burger King , Cafe, and other stalls selling chips ect. Well worth a visit if your in Blackpool

Even though it was windy, cold, and wet at times, we had a great day at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. The queues weren't too bad, and the rides were great. To be honest you really need longer than a day to get around all the rides, and next time we will attend for 2 days. At this time of year its getting dark around 4pm, so you have a few hours riding in the dark 👌 I went with 4 stars due to 3 main issues. 1. The on-site carpark is £18 for the day 🤯 Ouch! I feel that is a little steep, but it does keep the carpark quite available, and there are other carparks available nearby if you don't mind a little walk. 2. They only allow bottles of water to be brought into the park. We turned up with 3 small bottles of pop and were told we needed to either throw them away or store them in a locker on the external side of the park. The only reason for this is to encourage you to buy drinks in the park, and no other reason. Personally, when there are 3 paying guests, all with 1 small drink each I find it inappropriate, and not like we were all bringing in several 2-litre bottles for the day. We didn't take any food with us, as we intended to buy food inside, but you will also find no food is allowed to be taken into the park either to encourage you to buy inside the park 🤷‍♂️ 3. The price for the lockers are also ridiculous. £6 for a small locker, £8 for a medium sized locker, and I believe the large lockers were a tenner 🤯 We found out that only medium lockers were still available, so we paid £8 to store our contraband pop in 😂🫣 All in all we had a great day, and next time we will come more prepared 😊👍

Staff are friendly and helpful. Rides are amazing. Food and drinks are good quality and not quite as expensive as you might think. Getting in when you arrive can take a bit of time but security is there for everyone’s benefit so you just need a little patience. If you’re visiting with family, I’d strongly suggest a go on the Alice in Wonderland ride as it’s looking fantastic this year! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Visited Blackpool Pleasure Beach for the Halloween evening event and it was amazing! The park came alive after dark with spooky decorations, eerie lighting, and fantastic Halloween-themed shows. The atmosphere was thrilling but not too scary, making it perfect for adults and older kids alike. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout, and the rides were just as fun as ever. The Halloween evening really added an extra level of excitement and I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for a spooky, fun night out!

Visited to see the illuminations, after hours for the Pleasure Beach. Chose to go as had visited as a child and had many happy memories. LED lights were good, but the warmth and vibrancy of the incandescent bulbs, was definitely missing. The prom looked very tired in areas, a lot of fencing/metal railings to stop visitors, as did a lot of the buildings. A shame, especially with the historic nature of the place.

Visited Blackpool pleasure beach for the first time on holiday this August 2025. It was a dream destination from me as ever since I was a child I’ve always wanted to come here, and especially ride The Big One. My previous experience of theme parks are only Alton Towers and Drayton Manor plus some of the American ones including Disney Orlando and Universal Orlando. We booked tickets which I don’t think were unfairly priced. It was slightly cheaper than a day out at Alton Towers. If you stay at the Boulevard hotel or The Big Blue hotel you get free entry on select days. Entry was fast, but be prepared to go through body scanners. Overall I’m beyond impressed. The park was extremely clean, well kept, nothing looked like it was neglected. The ride operations were exceptional. All rides were operating at the time they were stated to open, with queues in peak summer time no more than 30 minutes for the main ones like Icon or Valhalla. All rides operated through out the day until closing, there were no unfortunate break downs. We managed to do 17 rides from 10 am to 6pm, riding Icon 4 times and the Big One twice! Just be warned, if you’re going to ride Valhalla yes it’s really that wet!! There are plenty of food options on site, much cheaper and so much tastier than Alton Towers! I can’t recommend this park enough. Leaving was heartbreaking but I can’t wait to come back another day. Well recommend for anyone 5*

Great value and iconic way to see the Promenade in Blackpool! Some of the trams are open top, which is great for the illuminations but beware of bad weather! We just missed an open top tram and we were disappointed we missed it. But as luck would have it, a rain storm came out of nowhere and we were lucky we got on a tram with a roof!

I was looking forward to a ride on the tram which I experienced today. Unfortunately the tram was very busy with standing room only and despite all the information I have seen they would not accept my bus pass for payment. I was not the only person on the tram who expected their bus pass to cover the cost if the fare. The conductor was very nice about it but told me I would have to pay for the return journey so I declined and got off at the next stop and had quite a long walk back into Blackpool. I suggest they update their information.

A great way to get your bearings around the city centre the walls stretch for over two miles and are amongst the most intact in the UK. You have views of the River Dee…. the Roman garden… famous clock tower …the Chester Canal and Cathedral all from the raised walkway

Some lovely views from up the city walls Gotta say that the state of the walls is pretty good for ancient architecture. Also if I'm correct it was restored in 2015 which made it more safe and durable Anyways it's free so go see them!! 😉

My Stroll Through Chester Walls, Chester Walking along the Chester City Walls was like stepping back in time through layers of English history. These ancient Roman and medieval fortifications encircle the heart of Chester, offering some of the best panoramic views of the city — from the magnificent Chester Cathedral to the River Dee and the charming old streets lined with Tudor-style buildings. The entire walk is around 2 miles (3.2 km) long, and I loved how every section had its own story — the Eastgate Clock, the Northgate, and the Water Tower all stand as reminders of centuries past. The walls are beautifully maintained, and there are plenty of spots to stop for photos or just take in the view. I particularly enjoyed walking during the late afternoon when the golden light made the sandstone glow. It’s an easy and peaceful walk suitable for all ages, with clear signboards and multiple entry points. I recommend starting near Eastgate Clock and circling around at a relaxed pace — it takes about an hour if you pause to explore along the way. Visitor Tips: • Wear comfortable walking shoes — the path can be uneven in places. • Early morning or late afternoon walks are best for fewer crowds and lovely light. • Don’t miss the view of the Roman Amphitheatre and Chester Racecourse from the walls. • Entry is free, and the experience feels like a journey through living history. Overall: A must-do experience in Chester — peaceful, scenic, and rich in heritage.

The Chester city walls are a breathtaking marvel of medieval engineering and historical preservation. As you walk along the ancient ramparts, you're transported back in time, surrounded by the rich tapestry of history and craftsmanship. The walls beautifully encircle the city, their sturdy stones and well-preserved towers creating a striking contrast against the modern skyline. The iconic Eastgate Clock, perched atop the entrance, adds a charming touch of elegance and serves as a stunning focal point.

Walked all the way around and it is free. Lots of viewing points, especially over the town and river. Gentle walk 1½ hours

Chester was a nice day out especially as the weather was favourable the walls and clock tower is a must just to say you've done it obviously if you have mobility issues it would be a problem. The cathedral is a must free entry but donation is accepted it does make you feel a bit guilty as you do have to pass reception where you could pay and get brochures the boat trip was good up the river not very long but you do get a bit of history comentation thrown in. Finished of with a meal at the smoke House on the river side.

What a well appointed, well maintained and totally free, historical tourist treasure. We walked the entire circuit over an evening stroll and brisk morning walk. A joy to behold.

This zoo is awesome! It’s big, so give yourself a few hours to explore. The elephants, rhinos, and bears were amazing to see, and I was lucky enough to spot the leopard too. The exhibits are huge and well designed, with plenty of space for the animals but still great views for visitors. Highly recommend!

We had an amazing family day out. So much to see (impossible to see in one day). Plenty of cafes, restaurants and clean toilets all around the zoo. Also plenty of benches to sit on when you need a break. We will definitely visit again

I loved it! Just me and the hubby on our 9th anniversary spent with the animals and finally no kids hahaha. All the staff are really friendly and had no problems with me filling up my water bottle from the pub for free. I have a verified hidden disability card which enabled my husband to get in for free. Just wish we got there for 10am so we could have chilled out with the cheeky monkeys and the big cats....This was the 1st week after half term so the zoo wasn't chockablock and I remained meltdown free.

It was a lovely zoo, perfect for families. I went alone and it was really lovely to see all the animals but I felt that the enclosures were smaller than other zoo's I've been to especially for the elephants but it was great to see such a variety of animals and their conservation work

Great day out! Sadly didn't fit everything in which means another visit! Would reccomend bringing your own food as it can be pricy for what you get. Animals well looked after, staff friendly and informative.

We visited Chester Zoo for a day trip and had a thoroughly enjoyable experience overall. The staff were excellent—friendly, approachable, and always willing to help, which made a real difference throughout the visit. Parking was straightforward, with wide spaces and clear signage, making arrival stress-free. The zoo itself offers a fantastic break for families, with plenty to explore and good facilities for young children. Hiring a trolley proved to be a brilliant option, especially when carrying backpacks or managing tired little ones. That said, there are a few areas that could be improved. The toilets did have a noticeable odour, which detracted slightly from the overall comfort. Free water is only available at the entrance, and it would be a thoughtful gesture to provide additional refill stations around the site, particularly on warmer days. To see all areas in one visit, you may need to keep a brisk pace—so plan ahead if you're hoping for a more relaxed experience. While the range of animals is impressive, we did notice the absence of certain species such as tarantulas, scorpions, and unfortunately no sharks or crocodilian species. Despite these minor drawbacks, Chester Zoo remains a well-organised and enjoyable destination, especially for families. We’d happily return and recommend it—with just a few tweaks, it could easily be a five-star experience.

A really great visit. Saw everything we went for and more. As members we go a few times a year, (make sure we get value from membership 😀), and for a few hours at a time, whereas before we would go for whole day. Which was exhausting! This visit we saw the new cheetah brothers, as well as the Fossas, and went through the lemur walkthrough and met loads of ringtail lemurs up close! Also too many other beautiful animals to mention. Some paths were closed as they were putting up the lights for the xmas lighting display, so there was a little bit of 're-mapping' to find our way round, but think it was worth it as the light displays looks like it should be fantastic. It starts next weekend, so we're going back to see them! We had a fabulous afternoon, as the weather was really lovely too. I'd recommend anyone to visit this enormous and fantastic place, and if you can, join, it does make economic sense if you can go 3 times in a year!

We went with three kids 1, 3 and 7. They all thought it was great. The newer areas like Oz are well kept but some of the other areas just need a lick of paint and a tidy up. We saw a lot of rubbish and uncleaned parts of the park (picture of the lake). Every member of the young staff team were great, couldn’t be faulted. The rides are fine for that age, although most had a decent queue of 20 mins to 45 mins. We stayed in the lodge accommodation which was fine, don’t expect anything exceptional (the price reflects that). The safari lodges were chip board throughout with no doors separating the rooms and the shower filled up within seconds so your wash will be quite rushed. With that said as adults we saw both negatives and positives. The kids only saw the positives. If your going for a day or two with an overnight stay it serves the purpose.

We went on and SEN day where the park was quiet and both ourselves and our two little boys really enjoyed it. Weather wasn't great but we were still able to use all the rides, staff appeared to be more understanding of everyone's situations and if there was no queue they allowed us to stay on the ride for another turn which saved the hassle of having to get the kids off the ride to then put them back on after walking back to the entrance. Park is showing its age and could do with a general clean and update, but still a really fun day

Wow what an evening. We went as a large family group last night to the Land of Lights in Gulliver's World. This was our first time to this kind of event and we were not disappointed at all. The whole experience was truly spectacular. The lights were fantastic, the food great. We had pizzas all round nd the kids really enjoyed the witch ice-cream tubs, while the adults went for the delicious hot chocolate. All the staff were really friendly and helpful including all those on fire out duty for roasting the marshmallows . Along with I think it was Pete and Amanda who were really friendly and exceptional in their service 😁. I would highly recommend this if you have never been. We will definitely be back and watch out for further events at Gullivers.

This is a really fun theme park for the kids. I think the ages they are aiming at are probably between 6-10 but they still have some rides for the older kids too. Some rides are very popular & the wait time can be up to 30+ minutes but when I went it was Bank Holiday Sunday so was bound to be busy. My daughter is 14 & although some rides are for little kids they still had a few aimed at older kids such as the rollercoaster & drop ride which were really fun. We will definitely return & take my niece again when she's a bit older.

We went bank holiday Monday for my son’s birthday, paid £122, for 4 people we managed to get on 4 rides. Then over £100 extra inside the grounds, Really disappointed, most rides were 2 hour queing times. it wasn’t even they were really packed the problem was they had 1 person loading the rides, that same person would then have to strap each person in so the safety checks then set the ride in motion, then stop the ride unload the ride then reload the ride, the big rollercoaster only had 1 carriage running. Considering it was a bank holiday they should have had more staff working, knowing the weather was hot and it would be busy. The place is card only the internet went down couldn’t buy drinks ice cream nothing for like 40minutes. When we finally got round to getting drinks got through the massive ques there were no bottled pop left no bottled water. We went in the restaurant at the main entrance for lunch, the food was served quite quickly, but while eating lunch the power tripped like 7 times. I have made a formal complaint said I would hear from them within 7 days, I’m still waiting 2 weeks later 🙈 would we visit here again No, and we’re local only around 20minutes away, we normally do the eat sleep play and have been to Milton keys and Sheffield and Yorkshire. Never had any problems like we had in Warrington, I don’t think we will visit here again.

I took my 4 year old grandson and 2 year old granddaughter my grandson couldn't go on any rides with out an adult as it would mean leaving my granddaughter alone my grandson was so up set. The only saving grace is that the santa trip was excellent its truly worth it my grandchildren really enjoyed this part of the day, just wish you didn't have to pay full price if you can't use the rides. Also if your planing to go take another adult with you so your little ones don't feel left out. I must give a shout out to the young man on the merry go round he seen how up set the babies were and let them stay on for an extra go he is a great asset to the gullivers team.

It was our granddaughters birthday and we went along to the park with her. It turned out to be a great day out. There are tons of rides for younger children and lots of parks to play in with picnic area's nearby so you can eat while the kids play. There isn't very much for older children to ride on, so it's limited in that respect. But if you have younger children, it's great value for money and you can easily spend all day there and just about see it all.

Fun, historic town. Lots of great little shops that have been used to fill lots of the buildings with authentic businesses from around 1900. In proper dress and character docents. Terrific stop for anyone driving through ironsgate village. Super nice area for kids to play and experience what it was like 125 years ago. Loved this place, but too many stores had no one to explain what you were looking at. The fish and chips were fresh and delicious

A truly wonderful, insightful visit. It was amazing revisiting as an adult after coming here as a child, what a fantastic experience to share with my 13 year old son, who was just as impressed as I was. A huge mention to the wonderful staff who make this experience incredible. Every member of this team from the reception throughout all the staff who are in full Victorian character are absolutely amazing. A real credit to this set up are you guys. You were all so welcoming, engaging, knowledgeable and totally endearing. What a fantastic landmark we have and to share such an incredible part of our history. It makes us and you feel proud of our heritage. Thankyou 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

Really enjoyed our visit to Blists Hill Victorian Town. I haven’t been here since I came with my primary school, so glad to see it’s still as amazing at 23 as it was back when I was 8 (I walked in and remembered the layout and the fun memories of my school trip there, if that doesn’t speak volumes of how amazing this place was and has continued to be then I don’t know what could) . Went as a family day out with our dog, we were amazed at how dog friendly it was, out of everything there were only two places we couldn’t go with our dog which was no bother and completely understandable (sweet shop & bakery). The animals located in the town were well cared for and friendly with knowledgable handlers who were more than happy to answer questions, clearly knew the animals likes and dislikes and spoke fondly of their quirks showing a love and dedication for their four legged cast members. Our favourite Victorian character was the local police man (and his “cousin” singing in the pub - who was a very good singer). We met him on our way in and straight away were greeted with a welcoming warmth before he directed us towards our first stop of the day the post office for our very own dog licence which was decently priced as were a lot of items sold in their other shops around the town. My mum’s favourite activity was George’s carriage ride. The beautiful boy took us both and our dog around the town, he looked happy and well taken care of which as long term animal people it was a joy to see him comfortable and enjoying his work. My favourite stop off was the last one of the day for us. It was the printing shop which we visited after having a ride around the town in George’s carriage. Inside the printers we were taken through the different printers, how they are used to help create prints for the village and answered our questions from possibilities of injuries to how the different printers work in terms of changing letters, sizing of letters etc (it looked like a lot of fun and now I wish I could own one). we came away with a couple of notebooks and a postcard that fit perfectly in with Halloween. We will definitely be looking at Blists Hill Victorian Town for future day trips out, and we hope next time we visit we’re in the season for the use of the fair ground as it would have been lovely to have seen those in use.

Wow..What a excellent Victorian Town Everything as it was back in the day. You feel like you're in the Victorian Era. I got myself a one off adult single ticket, £27 Oct 2025 prices, you can buy a multiple pass to see other extractions which works out cheaper in Ironbridge area. It started with a short guided tour at 11.30 with Emily, She was so friendly, kind and so enthusiastic and told us all along short history about the town. The Town itself has shops,Bank, butchers ,bakery, clothing shop and a forerunner to WH Smith with a post office, and plenty of other shops. And don't forget to have a sing song at the pub on the corner The mine as well is a great reminder about how hard it was to work here and the forge, and the tile factory. The houses are open so as you enter you will find now and again a person dressed up and he or she will tell you about the house. There's a few places to eat and have hot/cold drinks. I had a trip as well in the carriage with George the shire horse pulling us around the town. The car park, you pay on exit ,just make a note on what time you actually park. I paid ( £6 for 5hrs, Oct 2025 prices) A must visit while you're are in the area of Ironbridge.

I visited Blists Hill Victorian Town about 20 years ago, and it was great to come back and see how it’s changed. It’s still a fun and educational day out! I loved the traditional fish and chips from the old-fashioned chippy and the Victorian-style photos. It’s a shame you can’t get some of the old-fashioned sweets they used to have, but we really enjoyed the singalong around the piano in the pub which was definitely a highlight of the day.

Definitely would recommend visiting Blists Hill. We spent numerous hours with our 10yr old son and he loved it as did we. I’d suggest going on a dry day as there is lots of walking outdoors and the fish and chip shop should you choose to go to doesn’t have indoor seating. Staff were all very pleasant and knowledgeable. Well worth the visit.

Visited for the Blists Hell Halloween event The spooky atmosphere was fantastic the setting and ambience were really well done and made for a really eerie vibe. Of the few scare actors I managed to see, those I did encounter were absolutely brilliant especially the clown with the balloons, the plague doctor, and the Nosferatu-style vampire. They really brought the event to life and deserve a lot of credit. Unfortunately, the event was let down by overcrowding. It was difficult to see everything due to the sheer number of people, and the queues were SO long. I queued 45 minutes for fish and chips, and another 20 for the bakery, not the fault of the vendors, but a clear sign of how overcrowded the event was. There were quite a few intoxicated and stumbling guests, which did feel inappropriate given how many young children were present. At one point, several areas were closed off due to fire alarms, which caused a lot of confusion and crowding. The movement of the crowd during that time was very chaotic almost like a stampede and raised concerns about how well safety was being managed. Finding staff was also hard with so many visitors in full costume, it was hard to tell who was part of the team. The atmosphere was affected by some rude behaviour from other attendees pushing swearing, and a general lack of courtesy. While the event itself had potential, the crowd size and lack of control made it hard to enjoy. Wouldn't rush back but that has more to do with the overcrowding and rude attendees than the event.

Never heard of this place before so we thought we'd give it a go. Being in early October and a Monday it was quiet when we arrived, plenty of parking. Not the best of days weatherwise but that didn't put us off. It's definitely a trail that needs moderate fitness as it's fairly up and down with many steps, plus good boots are needed (especially in the wet as the rocks are slippery). But if you take time there shouldn't be any issues. Some amazing waterfalls with good viewing points. There are cafes at the start and half way round but the one by the carpark was closed. (Monday). There was an ice-cream van further up the trail. Overall a pleasant hike with great views. Is it worth £11 per adult? I'd say yes as someone has to maintain it.

This walk is amazing. We went as a family group with 4 adults and 2 children aged 3 and 6 yrs. We thought the prices were a bit steep at first but the car park is very good and the toilets are clean and modern. The walk is exciting and awesome. There are waterfalls all the way up and on the way back down too. The path is stoney and slippy at times with lots of steps so adequate footwear and clothing is necessary. Absolutely brilliant.

Was a bit skeptical when i had to pay 11 each to walk around the trial. It was worth it. Many beautiful waterfalls and takes about 2 hours at least to complete. It took us 5. We like to stroll and really admire what were looking at. We even got to walk behind one of the falls which was breathtaking.

Way better than I imagined..walk took 3 hours to complete,and we saw many small to medium waterfalls. Entrance at £11 IS good value,don't let it put you off. Parking is plentiful,with excellent toilets just before yo pay to enter.

This walk is beautiful and follows a river full of waterfalls around a circular route stating in Ingleton. It is ideal for families with children who can walk 4 miles. The walk has been on private land for many years and costs adults £11 (in 2025) including parking. The walk has a nice cafe stop halfway round. I took a detour up Ingleborough adding another 6 miles, but it was worth the views. Ingleton is a lovely village with decent pubs, cafes and outdoor sports store. A great day out.

Been wanting to visit here for a while. It didn't disappoint. Yes there is a charge, but it is also kept very well. Paths are good and there are a few fun scramble parts( I visited in the dry, might be different in the wet) Waterfalls galore and plenty of swimming spots. Great area at Thornton force for a picnic. All in all a full fun day out.

Beautiful views lovely and peaceful. I enjoyed the Waterfalls. But I won't lie, this trail is not easy in the slightest. I found it extremely difficult at times despite taking regular rest breaks. A lot of people turned back halfway through and we wondered why. The last half of the trail is mainly a hike through scenery and nothing to do with the waterfalls at all. The map does not match the trail which I found very unhelpful, there are numbers at certain points of the trail as you go along. I would suggest finishing at 8 or if you want to see the last waterfall 10. There is an ice cream van but it's another 10/15 mins after the last waterfall and is over a bridge with a steep decline and incline. Overall I'm chuffed we managed to do it in just over 3hrs but I wouldn't do it again. There is a toilet block and plenty of parking but the price seems a bit steep at £22 for 2 adults.

Brilliant lovely day out with family. Shops and cafes really good selection. Garden centre is definitely worth a visit. I spent way to much on a wire fairy ( inprogress as we speak.

I visited Trentham Gardens today, I've been on many occasions and I have always enjoyed it and today wasn't an exception. But I was so pleased to see so many beautiful plants and all the nature that was being attracted by them. I'm not sure what the part is called but it's the little bit by the children's play area, which has a red bridge and a pond. Well I'm a massive fan of real flowers, bees, ladybirds etc and I was so happy to see the flowers and that area flourishing! Myself and my daughter (9yo) loved watching all the bees and wasps going from one flower to another. We loved seeing all the different things growing there and how calm and relaxing it was! It's beautiful and you can tell it's being well taken care of!

We visited for the Halloween event on the evening. Beautiful place to visit as always. The decor was lovely. Sadly they didn't have the seperate disabled access line they've had on previous occasions. The line did move quickly but our child became stressed with being surrounded by a large volume of people waiting in the queue. We booked the first slot for the event to get ahead of the crowds for this reason. Would be great if there was a section for older children who may enjoy being spooked. The food on offer was great.

A fabulous day out, reasonable prices for entry. A beautiful Italian garden & a walk around the lake is recommended. Also an excellent shopping village there too.

Really big estate, didn't get to see all of it, maybe next time when the weather is on my side. Would be great to see the wildlife, but I wasn't so lucky. Loved how intricate the metal dandelion sculptures were.

Amazing place, like a National Trust property but much larger than most of the ones I've been to. Obviously much of the gardens have been restored but they all look amazing. Lots of stopping places if you get tired. The boat ride on the lake is a reasonable cost and really nice on a summer's day. The residence is not accessible as it's just a shell but there are lots of plaques telling you about the history of the place. Would really recommend it for young and old, as there are walking trails around the lake and the youngsters can do a' fairy trail 'to try and spot all the amazing sculptures. There are beavers on the island too, you might not see them but you might spot their handiwork asking the edge of the lake. There are shops just outside the entrance too, I would recommend the ice cream at the Thornton's shop, by far the best on site (and we pretty much tried them all!)

Been a long time annual ticket holder and always pleased to go to the gardens . You sometimes baulk at the price but when you look around the gardens and see how much work goes on it easily value for money . The gardens are great . Lovely to stroll around the lake and pop in one of the two cafes for a drink before pottering around the Italian Gardens . My granddaughter is a great fan of the play park . And yesterday it was our first time on the boat . It was brilliant. Great commentary from the guys on board . Learnt so much and saw some great bits of wildlife . Once again great value at only £3 .

The Theatre of Dreams. What can I say, I was blessed to witness MANU vs Arsenal on 17th August 2025 in this iconic stadium, steeped in history. The atmosphere buzzes way before the kick-off. The vibe is unbeatable. Although MANU lost, it was truly a blessed moment for me coming from the other side of the globe. Old Trafford is an incredible pilgrimage for anyone who watches sports.

Going to a Manchester United game as a New York football fan was a dream come true. We stayed at the adjoining Football Hotel with an amazing view of Old Trafford. On game day, we had the Red Cafe Hospitality package and enjoyed a three-course meal before the game. The first course was a delicious and creamy soup. Next, I had the pork belly with mashed potatoes, which was astounding. Lastly, we had chocolate and fruit. While enjoying our meal we were charmed by ex-Manchester United players telling us stories of their playing days. The staff were so nice and friendly. Our seats were padded and comfortable at the Stretford end of the field. United won 2-0 and wett returned to the Red Cafe and enjoyed a drink and a wonderful meat pie. I will definitely be back. What a great time.

Visiting Old Trafford is truly a worthwhile experience. You’ll have the chance to explore the main functional areas of the stadium, learn about the rich history of the club, and visit the traditional trophy room. It’s an unforgettable tour for any football fan and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the legacy of Manchester United.

The theater of dreams! A show! one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world, you can breathe the English atmosphere, the passion for Man Utd and The magic of the Premier League! Incredible experience

My wife & I visited here in Nov 2022 the day prior to my surgery at the Spire. Awesome day & great to see my favourite teams stadium even though they have gone down hill. Either was good & would recommend. 👌

Visited Old Trafford for my first ever matchday experience, a 1-0 loss to Everton, and despite the result it was an unforgettable day. I’d been before for a stadium tour, but you really don’t appreciate the sheer size, atmosphere, and beauty of the place until you’re actually in the stands surrounded by thousands of supporters. There really isn’t a bad view anywhere in the stadium. The seating space was decent, and even from my spot I could take in the pitch and the scale of the ground without any obstruction. The atmosphere, chants, and energy of the crowd were something special, the overall experience was definitely better than the performance from the players that day. A must visit for any football fan, and I’m already looking forward to coming back for another match, hopefully with a better result next time.

Old Trafford. Full of history and atmosphere. One of the great football grounds. The security on entry to matches is slow. Arrive early on match day to get through the checks.

Had a great time here for my friend Edens birthday. Everyone who served us that night was brilliant. I got chatting to one staff member Mit great guy but well done team

Great cocktails. I had a very good Negroni. Warm and attentive service in this atmospheric and intimate bar we stumbled on when trying to escape the rain. Highly recommended.

There is this one bartender who is a rude and arrogant. Our pints were not full and when we asked him to fill it to the bro he made sure to fill it but later made a very very arrogant comment and a rude face. Suggesting that my boyf and I were asking for something which was not usual. I have been to this this place so many times. The last time we went here we had a lovely time. Our bartender was as a lovely man!! He made sure we were look after! But this time it was comepelt opposite! A really rude guy!serving downstairs!

Beautiful discreet cocktail bar. Gorgeous decor and ambience. Makes a mean old fashioned. Really skilled staff.

Great tasting cocktails, very good ambiance plus very enthusiastic staff! The cocktails were amazing just a bit pricey but they were well worth it! The bartender even made me a customised drink when I asked for something that they would recommend for me - and that was absolutely lovely! Will definitely come back here!

So glad we found this place. From the moment we were greeted by the quirky friendly host the staff were so friendly throughout. This is also a serious cocktail place for people who like proper cocktails from mixologists that know their stuff. Thanks for a great night!

Nice, but quite expensive for what it is. We were expecting more of a science theme, but the drinks weren’t anything special. My partner got a good recommendation from a member of staff, but it was just not worth the money. It was also very loud, to the point where you couldn’t even have a conversation, with some patrons being very rowdy and staff not doing anything about it. Overall, it was okay but we wouldn’t go again, but we did like the ice cube!

Loved the Cheese Experience which was fun and informative. The shop and cheese room is full of delights to buy. However the restaurant really let it down. Overpriced for the quality received, tables available but told full initially and there seemed to be chaos amongst younger staff working out table spaces at front of restaurant yet ignoring those waiting to be seated or to find out if there is space. Restaurant was really completely disappointing.

I just love cheese of any description, and with my own history of working in the dairy industry a visit here was a bit of a no brainer really. The cheese making demonstration followed by tasting was an absolute highlight. Nice to see they had put out some Wensleydale and fruit cake samples to try. The two together just work so well. Regrettably there was no actual cheese production to watch from the viewing gallery during my visit, but I can hardly fault them on account of their production schedule. The cheese shop is also a must visit, more so than the equally well stocked gift shop in my opinion. Well laid out and with samples of each flavour available to try before you buy. I did a lot of trying, and then of course a little buying. Be prepared for the cold in here though, presumably to help keep the cheese fresh.

Wensleydale creamery visitors centre and Calverts Restaurant is in Hawes, in literally the heart/ middle of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. The staff had spot on customer service/ hospitality. In shop, cheese shop and the restaurant. They have a small visiter car park,but the is a large car park 150 yds down the road, which is a pay car park. The Wensleydale creamery experience you need to buy tickets for online. In Calverts restaurant, we were lucky to get a table, many people turned away and had to book. For 2 meal,a side & 2 drinks cost £36. The meal was delicious 😋. I will post pictures. The cheese shop was very busyand wasnice to taste other cheeses. 🧀 😋 Will show also in pictures as well as the gift shop. The gift shop was like going in a candy shop as there was loads of items to buy and gifts. Some items was expensive but others not so bad. Ice-cream cost £3.50 each. I totally recommend. Wheelchair friendly and has blue badge parking.

It certainly looked like fun when reading about it online. But when we visited on Sept 27, the place was absolutely packed. There was no parking in the visitor lot, so we needed to use the Pay & Display lot located down the street. I had hoped for a lovely cheese type tea in the restaurant, but had not realized that booking was necessary. I would have had to wait an hour, and I wasn't willing to do that with so many people crowding around. We opted to go to the "fast food" counter and order cheese scones, each of which came with a walloping amount of butter. I ordered the cappuccino to go with it. I felt a bit like splurging. The scones were OK. I wouldn't say they were outstanding. So, overall, I'd say my experience was disappointing, and I'm one who usually gets excited by simple things!

Took the tour last year, was amazing. This year, was back for more cheese (after free samples in the tasting room!) Both times had a lovely meal in their Calvert's resturant. Totally recommend.

What a great place. Much bigger than I was expecting, they've certainly made the most out of their association with Wallis and Gromit. There's a large gift shop selling a wide range of goods including; Pottery, gin, beer, biscuits, smelly stuff as well as cheese, of course. We paid to watch a demonstration on how they make cheese, around £5.50 for adults. They run demonstrations at certain times throughout the day. We enjoyed it as well as looking at all the old equipment and hearing about how it all started.

Came a bit late in the day, so didn’t have lots of time to visit the different areas. We sampled some cheeses and ended up buying some to take home. Then we stopped at the cafe for a cuppa, and cheese scone! We had a decaf tea and would have liked a Yorkshire decaf! The cheese scone came with a slice of Wensleydale, butter and chutney, which was delicious . There’s plenty of seats outside which was fab, with the afternoon sun on my back!!

I'll start with the car park. It's decent size and well maintained. I completely do not agree with flat rate you have to pay on top of the entry tickets. Regardless if you are there for just couple of hours, half a day or full day, still have to fork out another £12. Park itself is spread out across vast space. There's lots and lots of walking. Rides are decent. Other attractions are good as well. For us it worked out quite expensive as we've come with a child under 2 years old mainly to visit CeBeebies Land. I've managed to pop on some rides when he had a power nap. Overall we've enjoyed our time in there and definitely rate it higher than any other UK theme park. Problem is, once you've been to Universal Orlando and other Florida parks you gonna find all rides in any UK park not as thrilling and stunning as what they have in there. We've found all staff to be friendly, helpful and polite. Cleanliness throughout the park was decent including rest rooms. We've even found a nice kebab takeaway on site which was a plus.

We’ve been to Alton Towers three times now, and it never disappoints! Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo rollercoaster thrill seeker, there’s something here for everyone. With a little help from Cadbury’s (who will you take vouchers — are a huge help! As it can be a little pricey) we were able to enjoy another amazing trip. The whole park is lovely and clean, and all the staff we met were really friendly and helpful. If you’re planning a visit, just be aware that during peak times the queues can get quite long for the rides. We went out of peak this time, and it was incredibly quiet — barely any waiting at all, which made the day even better! Just a heads up also food in the park is very pricey if you don't want to take food with you, but as a one off it's ok. like us going three times we learnt to take sandwiches and snacks and bought a coca cola refillable drinks beaker we take everytime. We noticed families taking the travel trucks with their bits and bobs into carry around for the day of there is a large amount of you who which is a brilliant family hack. Some of the food wasn't that spectacular and very cheaply made as you would get in most big theme parks but some little hidden gems in the park were lovely like the coach house confectionary in gloomy woods serving up there social media viral black ice creams and sweet foods. Overall, Alton Towers is an amazing day out full of excitement, laughs, and memories. Can’t wait to go back again!

We had an amazing day in Alton towers. We went on a Scare fest event, it was brilliant. I really recommend to download the app to see the waiting times in queue as well as if it’s closed or having a weather delay. It’s good to see every ride update so you don’t make any unnecessary walk. To be honest even the 45mins ques were quick. Staff were very friendly and helpful, food is nice but pricey. Bring comfy shoes and snacks!!! We went for opening which allowed us to go on every main ride. The scare mazes were fantastic, the themes the actors were spot on!!🖤🧡 Both day and night time all the resort looks very stunning with the rides lighted up and the Alton Castle! 🏰 all the park is very looked after. Definitely coming back next year!

Great visit everytime. The food stalls are expensive but if you can take some food to save yourself some money. Definitely recommend visiting during scarefest even if you dont do any of the scare mazes. Staff are brilliant they keeps things moving quickly so the ride times stay as low as possible and the park stay open 9pm meaning you can get to go on the rides in the dark. Which is well worth it!

Honestly hands down best theme park in the UK. The theming is immense and absolutely mind-blowing. Has the best rollercoasters in the UK and the best inverted coaster in Europe. The food is amazing Sand is worth it, especially the loaded fries on Tower Street. The Smiler is one of the most intense rides out there and is definitely a coaster worth going on, even if you are far away from the park it is definitely worth a visit. Loads of kids areas to adventure but some big areas for the thrill seekers. My favourite coasters in order: 1. Nemesis Reborn (Got on it 2 times in 1 day and got front row) 2. Smiler (Can be rough sometimes but is so thrilling) 3. Galactica (Really underrated and immense fun) 4. Wickerman (Best wooden coaster in the UK bc of Megafobia) 5. Oblivion (Short and boring after the drop) 6. Rita (The launch into the turn is amazing and forceful) 7. THI3TEEN (The droptrack's airtime is absolutely stunning) 8. Spinball Whizzer (Quite painful and colours don't suit Alton) Haven't been on: Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure, Runaway Minetrain. Honourable mentions: Toxicator (Best flat ride in the UK coming in close with Samurai. Sharkbait reef (I love fish and this was cool for a Theme Park) Hex (I love the story and the ride is quite unique) Congo River Rapids (Great family ride) So overall the price is worth paying and the food is worth eating. You should go to Alton Towers if you are wanting thrill and you can also go if you need a family day out with the kids. (Scarefest at Alton Towers is the best Halloween event at a major theme park throughout the whole of the UK and the vibe of the park already fits a Halloween vibe)

Look I totally get that there may have been issues with staffing as it was the last day of scare fest, but we still paid the same amount then any other days. Ultimately I have seen a huge difference in the service from staff at the resort, I’m not talking about the ones on rides or at the guest services, the main issue is the food and restaurants staff and the facilities. Shocking difference, the attitude on some of the staff and the serious lack of any customer service. It was like they have just grabbed a load of teenagers out of school and plonked them down, in all the restaurants and food stalls. 1. Total mess around the food stalls including hotdog stand. 2. Unlit areas when they have organise for night rides and attractions there were broken lights everywhere and massive dark spots across the park, including near the food stalls as. 3. Toilets, this shocked me as I had never experienced issues with unclean toilets at AT before. Really smelly and no cleaning staff in sight. Almost every toilet in the resort had an issue . 4. Lots of areas of the park were closed as they were setting up for bonfires night, it was almost like an excuse for staff to behave like the resort was half closed. 5. Monorail stunk of alcohol, first thing in the morning and generally needs to be cleaned up it’s old worn and looks uncared for. 6. Staff at the video stalls after a ride has some serious attitude problems, not all of them, but sone would just stare at you, not saying anything, and then mumble and give annoyed looks. The attractions/rides, as always were great. And the actors of the scare mazes were brilliant. but what makes Merlin entertainment brilliant is the whole magic of the resorts and the magic was definite missing and most of the staff just didn’t care, this could be because of the way they’ve been treated who knows but I was very disappointed, it’s lost its magic for me.

Absolutely amazing place! Definitely recommended for all the family If you're an older family I would recommend two days - would also recommend looking at the Waterpark as it is fantastic for all the family Only negative that you would expect, the food, drinks and merchandise is expensive so make sure you save up if you intend on eating and drinking on park

This is a really fantastic place. Our visit was thoroughly enjoyed by both adults, our 9 year old and our 15 year old. The app is brilliant for solving the quest and although it was busy, the site was not crowded. No queues anywhere. A burst pipe meant that the water was off for a lot of our visit but the staff managed this brilliantly and it did not spoil our experience at all. The gift shop has a wide variety of items and is one of the best I've seen. Would definitely recommend to families of all ages.

Brilliant day out, well worth the money. Full of wonder and mystery, even for grown-ups - and the attention to detail is amazing. The staff are really friendly as well as incredibly helpful. Food is amazing at the cafe attached to the gift shop, with a very good gluten free range as well. And although some of the site is understandably not wheelchair-accessible, it is generally very good for people with limited mobility (however the car park could use a few more disabled bays - despite having a blue badge we had to park in the overflow car park which was quite a walk from the entrance). Overall, though, I rate the Forbidden Corner very highly and would recommend to all ages and tastes. We'll definitely be returning!

Brilliant place to visit. Full of surprises, quirky, funny, spooky, we had a great time. We’ve been visiting since it was a little bit smaller, but now a major tourist attraction. Well worth a visit. Try to go when it’s a little quieter, possibly during the week. It was really busy when we went on a Sunday, but all well mannered. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Beautiful location too in the heart of the Yorkshire dales.

What a fantastic day out for the family! We took our 9 year old son here on the first Sunday of October half-term. We all loved it. There were also much younger and much older children there who were having a great time too. We're looking forward to returning next year.

Great day out for kids and adults alike. A grounds to explore full of whimsical wonder. Not fully suitable for this unsteady of your feet of wheelchairs due to lots of narrow staircases and uneven grounds,although plenty to do on level.floor and beautiful views to enjoy. Great food choices, including gluten free and dairy free options. At a reasonable price too. Myself, my 23 y/o daughter and her partner had a great day out today. Highly recommend

We've been several times before, with friends and for a birthday party. Highly recommended for children over 5 years old as some nooks and dark paths that maybe scary for very little ones. Lots of outdoor paths and the playground is suitable for younger ones. Small Cafe wasn't open this last time that was on the main grounds so had to go back to the main one next to gift shop which was a bit of a trek with 4 hot drinks.

I don't want to spoil this place, so just go,take the kids, and experience it for yourself. There are some slightly creepy moments that some sensitive kids (and maybe even adults!) Won't like, but we managed fine with a 6 year old. Great place, very different to other attractions, really unique and original.

Went to Chatsworth for the Christmas markets, light trail and to see the house wonderfully decorated for Christmas. Really enjoyed the decorations in the house, which was a nature theme this year, bringing the outside in. The grandeur of the house is magnificent, with a great history, you can wander round at your own leisure. There are guides in every room who are friendly and very approachable ready to answer any questions you may have. There are lots of places to eat and drink and some nice gift shops, plenty of toilets and amenities for baby changing and people with disabilities. The grounds are extensive and well kept, I particularly liked the rock garden, which looked lovely lit up. The market is very good, with all the usual Christmas stalls, selling gifts and food/wine/ gin tasting, most off the stalls I did notice were card only, I did draw some cash out and ended up spending it in the gift shops. The ground the stalls are on is all got a ground cover on so not muddy. There is plenty of seating areas for when you grab a coffee or burger etc.

We enjoy visiting Chatsworth House. This time an art exhibition was on display, which changed the experience in a positive way. We don’t always get to see the animals, but we were able to this time around. The weather was great. The staff were helpful. We had a poke around the shops. A lovely day out. I would recommend to anyone, especially if you haven’t been before

Visited Chatsworth Christmas on the 23rd November. It was truly a lovely day. The Christmas market is excellent, very different from your average UK Christmas market. The quality of food, drink and products on offer was brilliant. Definitely visit the Scone hut, they are truly to die for. Chatsworth House Christmas display is outstanding and walking the garden just adds that extra dimension to a great day. Add in the gift shops and the overall atmosphere and you will not be disappointed. If you are local in Derbyshire then do one thing, go to Chatsworth, its a no brainer.

The Chatsworth Christmas ticket gives you access to the House, unlimited entry to the gardens for one day, and you can also access the Christmas market (which is free). It’s a lovely day out and well worth the ticket price. Be warned, food and drink inside is very pricey (but what do you expect?). I’d recommend the Stables for something lovely and warm that doesn’t break the bank.

Fabulous visit to chatsworth house & Christmas Market. Lovely stalls to look round. You will love the house with all the Christmas trees and the wonderful decorations. The walk round the gardens were just wonderful too. So worth a visit at this time of year.

An absolutely magical, Christmas experience! The house itself is mind blowing and each room makes you gasp with how much detail and care has gone into each and every decoration. It was laid out perfectly and even had sounds and scents through each experience. The gardens were beautiful to walk through and the Christmas markets were spectacular 😍 There was something for everyone to enjoy there! I cant wait to come back again next year 🎄✨️🎁

Bought tickets well in advance to visit the house and also the Christmas markets. My family enjoyed visiting the house, it's very easy to get around there are a few staircases which you need to navigate. As the visit is in preparation for Christmas there are lots of Christmas trees beautifully presented throughout and the staff are very helpful and informative. I thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas markets; having been to lots of busy public access Christmas markets like Manchester, Liverpool, York etc it was a fantastic relaxing experience to be able to walk around freely and visit the different vendors. Will certainly look at returning.

I’ve been to many museums around the world, and this is definitely one of the best. The collection is astounding and there’s so much to see, you’ll need a whole day to do it justice. It’s great for all ages and you don’t need to have a particular interest in armies or weapons to enjoy your visit. The displays are beautifully arranged. The museum is free to enter and there are multiple free shows for kids and adults alike to enjoy throughout the day. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Leeds.

Fantastic day out. Loads to see and interact with. The historic role plays are very informative. A well stocked shop has plenty of items for all ages. If you fancy a snack and drink then the cafe has it all. There is a car park very close.

The Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds is a treasure trove of history, offering a fascinating journey through centuries of arms and armour. The Royal Armouries itself dates back to the 15th century, originally serving as the national collection of arms and armour for the monarchy. Today, its Leeds museum houses this incredible collection, making it one of the UK’s most important historical institutions. The museum is divided into several impressive galleries, each highlighting different aspects of military history: • The Tournament Gallery showcases medieval European armour, including full suits worn by knights, ceremonial helmets, and weapons used in jousting and battle. It’s a striking insight into the skill, artistry, and traditions of the medieval period. • The War Gallery presents a chronological view of warfare through the ages, featuring firearms, muskets, and rifles alongside historical accounts that show how weaponry shaped battles and societies. • The Oriental Armour Gallery highlights arms and armour from Asia and the Middle East, offering a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship, styles, and cultures beyond Europe. The museum also features live demonstrations of swords, archery, and firearms, making history interactive and engaging for visitors of all ages. The exhibits are meticulously curated, providing context and storytelling alongside the stunning collection. Best of all, entry is completely free, allowing everyone to explore this incredible heritage without cost. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student, or visiting with family, the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds offers a deeply educational and inspiring experience, celebrating the artistry, innovation, and history of arms and armour through the centuries.

A must if you're in Leeds. Free entry and four floors to explore with a ticketed seasonal exhibit on the top floor. Pieces of armour and weapons from all around the world and from many different time periods, arranged from oldest to newest. There is also a peace exhibit. Most of the Asian/African pieces are on the fourth floor, which was my favourite part of the museum. Live events happen throughout the day, tickets are available for seated positions with standing tickets free and first come first served. Showing up about twenty minutes before start time will almost guarantee you a seat but means you miss time in the museum. Modern building that is walkable from the corn exchange and main shopping district easily in about 15-20 minutes. I recommend the walk in daylight hours. There is also a water taxi service available that terminates near the entrance and a bus that gets you most of the way there, look online for full schedules and details.

I’ve been visiting the Royal Armouries in Leeds since I was a child, and it remains a timeless experience. Some of the exhibits are clearly veterans of many years, but they add to the charm of returning time and again. It’s a brilliant place for kids – the interactive displays bring history to life across different time periods without being frightening or sensationalised. One of the highlights, as always, is the magnificent elephant in its suit of armour – though I still don’t know how they manage to get it to stand so patiently all day while visitors admire it! My favourite exhibit was a temporary film and TV exhibit in 2008 which I visited with my high school history class and was able to view arms and armour from the critically acclaimed Lord of the Rings and Narnia feature films. On this visit, we enjoyed the temporary Roman Gladiator exhibition, which was well worth the small entry fee (the main museum remains free). A special mention to the kind lady at the desk who offered concession entry for NHS/Blue Light card holders – much appreciated. The museum could benefit from clearer signage, as it’s quite easy to lose oneself in the vast collection. I was a little bemused to find Steven Gerrard among the Tudor plate armour, but equally delighted to see Princess Diana represented in the peace exhibit – a thoughtful touch. The visit finished, as always, with a trip through the extensive and tempting gift shop. Overall, the Royal Armouries is a wonderful museum, full of history, surprises, and memories – well worth visiting, whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.

A wonderful place to visit. Free entry. Lots and lots of exhibitions covering many centuries. We spent couple of hours in here but needed much longer. It’s really well spaced out, so even though it was busy it wasn’t cramped. Air con was very welcome. Kids loved the show that was on. Lots and lots to do and see and it’s set at leeds dock which is also a fab place to visit

Go early to catch as many shows as you can. We were there only able to catch the last 2 shows of the day. Hall of steel is an amazing hall to awe. A showcase in a gallery called Make Belief includes knife crime which is important for kids nowadays. A display on peace is too tug away. Though it is free admission, they seem keen on gaining donation to support the operation.

Wow, what a place! Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Gardens completely blew me away. The abbey ruins are absolutely stunning – huge, dramatic, and full of atmosphere. You can just wander around and lose yourself in the history. The gardens are gorgeous too – so beautifully designed with lakes, statues, little follies, and surprise viewpoints. Catching a glimpse of the abbey from across the water is like something out of a painting. We also spotted deer in the park which was a bit of a treat! Loads of walking routes to choose from, so you can do a quick wander or spend the whole day exploring. There’s also two good on-site cafes, one at the visitor centre, and one lakeside venue. There are also plenty of picnic spots if you bring your own. The whole place is spotless and really well looked after. This was one of the best days out I’ve had in ages – peaceful, scenic, and full of history. It is also a World Heritage Site to boot, so you are in for a treat!

We attends an evening event with a male voice choir which was just lovely. To explore the ruins in the dark/by torchlight gave it a very different feel. The acoustics for the concert were brilliant and gave me goosebumps! We will definitely return in the daytime to see it again. Nice to do something different, we had a great time.

Absolutely Stunning place to visit. The grounds are immense and walks were beautiful. So we'll looked after. I'll definitely be going back to see the rest of it, it is so vast. Tip. Go early and take a pick nic if it's nice, or enjoy the cafe on site.

The Abbey is beautiful and nd there is so much to see in the grounds. The Mill, Hall and the walk by the river through the woods to a lovely view point. The pools and statues are great. There are toilets and cafes in the grounds. Spent 5 hours there and still didn't get to see the deer park and church.

What a magnificent place to visit. Stunning ruins of the Abbey, most of it accessible to visitors young and old. Spread over a vast area. The gardens and water gardens are simply beautiful. You can walk round the water gardens it is a circular route. In places it is not suitable for all , but signs are in place to warn visitors. I highly recommend a visit

Stunning, a fantastic day out, set in a wonderful location, the Abbey remains are just amazing and maintained beautifully. We took the tour with a knowledgeable guide and was well worth it, the architecture is just amazing

Oh!!! What a place. I was not expecting this place to be as large as it was. I am so glad we visited. We came to the area for a couple of days and happened to find this place on Google maps. It didn't disappoint. Plenty of place for the kids, dogs and children at heart to run about and explore and climb. There is a restaurant on site too so you can have a meal after a long walk and explore of the area. By the Abbey there is also a little hut where you can buy drinks, sandwichs, ice cream ect. If I return to this area again. There is an old mill to look around and also a large house to go into with art to see. I will definitely be visiting again. Was 100% worth it. :D lots too see and do. We were here 5 hours

It was our first visit and we hadn't realised how big the site was. We recently had English Heritage membership, so had free entry. There was ample free parking and the ruins of the old house and impressive newer house. Lots of interesting history and rooms you can access, such as Bess' bed chamber. Lots of tapestries, including one made by Queen Mary. Nice shop and cafe and beautiful gardens. Plenty to see and do.

A really amazing place to visit. We only expected to be a couple of hours at most, but there was so much to see. The visit also includes the adjacent old hall ruins. The house is stunning, and the interiors are decorated with the most amazing embroidery which hangs from almost every wall and room. The volunteers are very friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about the property. We took our dog and he was welcome in an area of the restaurant, which was nice as it was cold and raining. We would have liked to walk more of the grounds and gardens, but the weather put us off. They do look stunning and I'm sure on a better day would have been very enjoyable.

Fantastic to look around. Amazing house and gardens, easily able to spend a full day there and more. I could just look at the tapestries for days! Well worth a visit if you're into history or just beautiful places.

We haven't been here for quite a few years and we're pleasantly surprised, there is a lot more to see and do. The guides were interesting and knowledgeable but not overpowering like at some properties. A very pleasant day out 😁

Expect an expansive estate as the drive from the entrance to the parking lot must be a mile long. This property features two historic buildings: Old Hardwick Hall and the Renaissance style Manse known as Hardwick Hall. Bess of Hardwick was born in the original hall and had it renovated to impress guests in 1587. When her 4th husband died and she came into substantial funds she built the latter and present day manse. We were able to tour both with our National Trust memberships (via Royal Oak Society). One can climb to the top of the Old Hall for a bit of a view of the countryside if the weather is accommodating. There are no handrails, though, so take walking sticks if you think you need support while traversing the original stone steps. The Manse is huge and the tour is quite extensive. It is self guided but volunteers are available for questions. Some unique features are the longest Elizabethan Long Hall in the National Trust holdings. It has 450 year old tapestries hanging on the walls. There are also four noble women tapestries that Bess designed specifically for this house. She was obviously quite a talented woman. There are some gardens along the front and the back of the house, but not a formal designed style like you see on some properties. Parking was in a very large lot a bit of a distance from the entrance. There is a cafe on the grounds that offers a delicious cream tea as well as a myriad of other delights, all reasonably priced.

Intriguing place punched atop a hill looking out sadly over the M1 now, but back in the day it would have been quite the most magnificent spot for party's. Some old Yes topiary and magnificent Cedar of Lebanon stand century in the garden providing a great contrast from the pinkish yellow stone and unbelievable lead pane windows which adorn the hall.

A wonderful historical place of interest with stunning tapestries. We spent a very happy 3 and a half hours there. Checking out the history of bess's family, with help from the very knowledgeable volunteers. Strolling the gardens and climbing the 127 steps of old Hardwick hall. Then stopping for a very tasty cheese scone and coffee in the restaurant.

I loved the place. So much to see for every age. One issue. We has pulled pork rolls in the butterfly cafe. They looked good but we're swimming in grease. It meant that the rolls were sodden and the meal sat very heavily on the stomach. This spoiled our afternoon.

Our second visit here and it was just like the first time amazing with lots of lovely animals to see, you can easily spend the whole day here, however on this occasion we went nearer the closing time and it was raining and not many of the animals were out but we still had the best time, they have so many lovely birds and the variety of butterfly species each one as gorgeous as the other. The staff right from upon entering and to the end were absolutely amazing and so friendly. Definitely worth more visits, and a day very well spent!! Definitely recommend!!

So much more than a butterfly house. We didn't know what to expect but we were pleasantly surprised. There is so much to see. The staff and keepers are very friendly. There are so many animals to see as well as dinosaurs and fun attractions (press the buttons for a few surprises). The otters were very entertaining. You can buy food to feed the various animals. They have a wallaby walk-through and a lemur walk-through a farm yard with friendly goats. A bird house with exotic birds you can see up close and, of course, the butterfly house. There are so many pretty butterflies in a lovely setting. The bird show was very entertaining. The cafes serve a nice mix of hot and cold food at reasonable prices and the toilets are very clean. A great day out for adults and kids alike. Highly recommend.

Went with the wife and kid. The size is good enough to walk round with a kid. We spent about 2 and a half hours looking at some wonderful animals and the butterflies 🦋 were amazing and plenty to see. Also, lotties cafe was really good. The staff were very friendly. Definitely planing go back at some point. Only thing bad is that I didn't get the a code for a second visit discount that was advertised.

Wonderful staff and a very beautiful place with tons of animals that are very well kept. Don’t miss out on experiences with armadillos and meercats. They are definitely worth the money and it is the only place that we visited in that area that were you really could enjoy that kind of experience. The rest of them were from far away and not that nice.

My daughter really wanted to see the Butterflies so we went on a Sunday during the 6 weeks holiday. We had to wait to get in as there was only one woman on the gate and she had to give everyone a ticket for a reduced return visit and had to write on each one. Saying we arrived during the first hour of opening youd think they would have more staff on. The butterfly house was lovely, and there was other animals to see but we was done after 2 and half hours as was many other people who had arrived at the same time as us. I think the price is slightly high for what you get as you can go other wildlife parks and pay around the same and spend the day. We were also disappointed to find out the lemurs were only open for 30 minutes during the whole day so missed seeing them.

Really lovely place, we went on our own as a couple but would definitely bring the grandchildren back. I wanted to go to a butterfly farm and we live in Derby so this was the closest I could see. I wasn’t disappointed with the butterfly greenhouse area and it was an added bonus to have the other animals there too, including the super cute otters, meerkats and lemurs! The leaf cutter ants were astounding!! Cafe service was very slow though and it wasn’t that busy.