Another first at this National Trust in Northumberland. Plenty of parking with some disabled parking near the entrance and also some electric charging point for electric vehicles. As you walk through under the clock tower there is a large open garden with deck chairs and the first of many safe spaces for families to entertain children. There's a cafe, shop and toilets all on the ground level making them easy access. Further round is the entrance to this beautiful stately home that apparently has the largest grounds of all the National Trusts. There is wheelchair access into the house to see the ground floor and also an elevator to go up stairs which is fantastic for people that struggle with stairs. There are lots of items and paintings to see so well worth a look around. Apparently, the house was only gift to the Trust in 1947 and the last family member lived there right up to around 2011. There grounds are vast which include a lovey walled garden. You can hire peddle or electric bikes to get around £10 - £12. We got there in the afternoon so went straight around the house as it closed at 15:30 but the grounds stay open till around 17:30. Another National Trust Gem. Well worth a visit. By the way the staff are really friendly, doing a wonderful job.

Wallington Hall is one of the best National Trust days out in Northumberland. The house itself is full of character, with beautiful rooms, quirky collections, and striking murals that tell the history of the North East. The gardens are a real highlight — the walled garden is stunning and peaceful, while the wider estate has riverside walks, ponds, and woodland trails that feel endless. It’s fantastic for families too, with several play areas, adventure trails, and plenty of space for kids to run wild. The café and shop are both worth stopping by, and facilities are good. The estate is big, so wear decent shoes — the walk to the walled garden takes a while but is worth it. Some paths can be tricky if wet, but most are well kept. A super day out!

This is our second visit to Wallington Hall and Estate (previously here 6 or 7 years ago). Both times we visited on a busy (but not overcrowded) weekend. Understandably a popular place for families; Wallington has plenty of space for kids to play and several kids-oriented features in the woods. We thoroughly enjoy the walks through Wallington woods and around ponds, complete with interesting art along the way (carved owl, carved log, etc.). Another delight is the walled garden, which is quite substantial and well maintained with numerous types of plants in varied micro-environments. The estate also has several places to sit and enjoy nature. The main house at Wallington is another National Trust treasure that requires a few visits to truly appreciate the variety and uniqueness of the furniture, paintings, children’s toys, books, and other items. The central hall is amazing for its design and artwork depicting the area's past. The kitchen is outfitted with numerous bygone items, including many old earthenware jars that also caught our interest. The detailed doll houses in one room are also an attraction. Visited in late May 2025

Me and the family really enjoyed it here, the staff were very friendly and there was plenty to do and see. We went for food and it was lovely and the staff were so friendly. My kids favourite part was finding the little animals in the house and my dads favourite part was the walled garden. 100% recommend if you're looking for a fun friendly day out.

Really good and well looked after house and gardens. We went round the house first which was incredible. We did the river walk which took us about an hour to walk but we'll worth it. The walled garden is well worth a walk around aswell.

Lovely place, hadn't been for years but it used to be my Grandma's favourite place for tea! Had a lovely walk by the river and over the stepping stones. Fascinating exhibition about the history of the Hall and it's owners.

Lovely place to visit - beautiful Hall and extensive stunning gardens. Didn't have time for the River Walk but will definitely come back for that. Second hand book shop, tea room and ice cream remain open after the last entry to the Hall. Perfect for all ages groups

A really good day out, brilliant exhibits with great information boards not long winded like other museums but tell you everything you need to know. For a free day out donations are welcomed it really is a great day out. We didn’t have time to see the historic buildings but we will definitely revisit and take them in next time. Not as vast as there sister museum in York but it is a great museum.

My first visit here today, with my partner and friend. We had a super time enjoying all the special locos and carriages. Highly recommend for anyone in the area. Free to enter, donations appreciated. The staff were all friendly, especially the lady on the desk at the entrance. The shop has a great selection.

Locomotion is widely praised as an excellent, all-weather attraction that's completely FREE to visit, making it an incredibly popular choice for families and budget-conscious travelers. Visitors consistently highlight the sheer volume of historical trains and railway artifacts on display, covering a vast period of railway history. The museum is well-organized, interactive, and provides a rich educational experience. It has big parking spaces.

An absolutely fantastic museum. Visit was on last day of the 200 years of SDR exhibition. Had a lovely walk to engine workshop, housing, workmens cottages and walk on part of original SDR. Cafe was in one of exhibition halls. Good selection of food and drink. All staff were friendly. Easily spent 4 hours here.

Part of the National Railway Museum, the Shildon Locomotion museum houses historically significant items railway locomotives, rolling stock and other railway related items. Most importantly Locomotion No 1 which hauled the first railway passenger journey 200 years ago is here. I visited during the 200th Anniversary weekend, which meant it was busy. You could pay for a ride behind a replica of Stephenson's Rocket on my visit. There are two covered exhibit halls, a great gift shop, a large cafe, and plenty of toilets. Car parking is free, and the site is adjacent to Shildon Railway Station for those arriving by train. The site is fully accesible for those unable to walk any distance. A number of very early railway buildings dating from the 1800's are located a short distance away from the museum, and are well signposted. A great place to visit, not just for rail enthusiasts, but for anyone with an interest in Britain's industrial history.

An excellent railway museum. Brilliant exhibits. Helpful staff. Lots to see and do for all ages. The engines are amazing. Easy to get to by car and plenty of parking.

We had a lovely whistle-stop visit to Locomotion as we were passing on our way up north. Bolstered by a generous serving of lunch, we enjoyed a wander round the halls and a pleasant walk down the tracks. We definitely hope to return another day when we have more time to spend. I especially liked seeing Rocket, and we were also chuffed with our merch from the gift shop 👍

Visited in August while in Hexham. A surprisingly beautiful and ancient abbey. It was freezing to enter but a donation is requested, but not mandatory. You can also pay £3.50 to down into the crypt. Well worth a visit if you in the area.

Lovely Abbey Church in a town also worth visiting. Very beautiful building with lots of interesting things to see( view photos). No entrance fee but you can give a donation either by card machine or cash. Very peaceful place with seperate chapel for private prayer.

Absolutely fantastic abbey that is vibrant, active & well worth the entry fee. We paid the extra to go down the steep steps to the original crypt from 673/4...the crypt itself was built from recycled stone from a Roman bridge at Corbridge. Roman carving & inscriptions are clear to see in the stonework. When we visited GAIA (a revolving globe art installation) was in the abbey. It looked fantastic. As a bonus the café was lovely & on a sunny day sitting in the courtyard would be bliss.

Lovely place to look at. Unfortunately we arrived late in the day so only got to enjoy the exterior of the building. They were ringing the bells which was nice. Next to the abbey is a park and the railings of the park are covered in knitted/crocheted poppies which was beautiful to see. Well done to those who made the poppies.

So beautiful. We have English Heritage card but if you don't, I would still recommend buying a ticket to look round

Beautiful welcoming Abbey. We were warmly greeted and welcomed into the Abbey. Beautiful building, free entry but you are able to donate (which I recommend). They also have a shop, cafe and toilets. I found this a very accessible please with on street disc parking nearby. Worth the visit.

A lovely Abbey. Friendly receptionist at the entrance taking tickets to see the massive Earth display. Take a moment to reflect on one's life through our planet Earth and our fragile ecosystem.

We visited the fort and museum and spent about an hour and a half here, which was plenty of time to really take it all in. The ruins are incredible and give you a real sense of the history, while the museum brings everything to life with well-laid-out displays and fascinating artefacts. The hill up to the fort is quite steep, but it’s definitely doable if you take your time — worth it once you’re at the top. Facilities are limited, with only one bin and toilet at the entrances, so it’s best to plan ahead. Overall though, it’s a brilliant experience that stands out for both the history and the atmosphere. I’d recommend it to anyone — whether you’re into history, out for a family trip, or just looking for something different to explore.

Housesteads is one of the most impressive and atmospheric forts on Hadrian’s Wall. The ruins are remarkably well preserved, with clear outlines of the granaries, barracks, and the commander’s house, giving a real sense of Roman life on the edge of the empire. The views across the Northumberland landscape are breathtaking, especially from the wall itself, which runs right past the site. There’s a good museum with artefacts and context, plus really friendly staff. A good idea is to include a decent walk along the wall and to visit the museum at the same time. A must-see if you’re exploring Hadrian’s Wall.

Glad we made a detour here on the way back from Scotland. I’d advise going early as it was extremely busy when we left at lunchtime with coaches, we arrived just as it was opening. It’s a steep but steady climb up. Although it’s an English Heritage site, National Trust membership gains access and the cafe/facilities at the bottom are NT managed with museum/shop at top next to site English Heritage (which is also point for tickets).

We went to Hadrian’s wall early, it was a nice little walk, uphill and with plenty of sheep “debris” to avoid, but the experience overall was great. The engineering marvel that this is nearly 2000 years old is amazing. You can see the wall for miles with some of the views.

Wonderful Roman garrison. If you intend walking Hadrian's wall be prepared for some very demanding climbs and descents wear good shoes and clean it can be very wet and windy. Speak to locals.

Absolutely amazing place best preserved fort we have seen Worth the long walk from the car park You can imagine Roman life Extremely interesting highly recommended for everyone

Another 'wow' for the Romans. This is one heck of a fort remains. Stepping amongst history made 2000 years ago ! Parking is independent of Nat Trust/English Heritage, around £5 for 3/4 hours, ample spaces with allocated motorhome spots. Lovely Bat Trust chap on reception. You don't pay/card until you're up at the fort. Nat Trust Cafe/toilets etc. There's coffee/snacks at the top but no actual cafe/toilets. It's quite a walk up, well maintained pathways, and most definitely worth the walk. Access can be made by car for less able folk. Brilliant, so much to see, read and explore - including the amazing wall.

Firstly the grounds are gorgeous! Just take a book and seat on one of the benches and take it all in :) Beautiful collection of paintings. Some real impressive ones actually Definitely worth the visit. I was not a huge fan of the swan show…nothing extraordinary. The cafe is nice. The bookshop/gift shop are a must

Loved this place. The pet project installation was wonderful. My daughters made some new friends who all got involved with the most fabulous creative play in that space. Meanwhile I had a moment of meditation (some might call it a snooze) with my headphones in on one of the incredibly comfortable 3D canvasses! Fascinating - history and some artworks and curiosities. I remember the two headed calf from when I was a kid (about 40 years ago) Magical to see the silver swan in action. Highly recommended- beautiful grounds as well. Nice gift shop (quality gifts at reasonable prices). Bought a tea towel ~ we kinda collect them. Staff were all nice… and authentic if that makes sense.

Fabulous day out! I'm a wheelchair user and found the museum very accessible. The staff here were amazing! An absolute credit to the museum! Loved the Silver Swan demonstration at 2pm. The cream tea in the cafe was delicious 😋 The gift shop is very nice too and has a range of reasonably priced goods. We paid the membership fee and will definitely be back a few times.

The Bowes Museum is such a fantastic place to visit! The grand building and beautiful grounds make it feel really special from the moment you arrive. Inside, there’s so much to see fascinating exhibitions, incredible artwork, and interesting displays that keep both adults and children engaged. The café is lovely, serving good food and cakes with a relaxed atmosphere. There’s even a small play park in the grounds, which was a great bonus for the children and gave us chance to enjoy a coffee while they played. A brilliant day out for families, history lovers, and anyone visiting the area.

An incredible place too visit. So much to see, make sure you arrive early as you'll need plenty of time! Astonishing world of art, great history in a wonderful. Friendly staff and a more than decent cafe /restaurant providing very generous portions. A must see if the silver swan automaton.

Fantastic day out today. The staff were all brilliant, kind and offered help. Quite a bit for kids to see and do. We all enjoyed the exhibits on display. Oh and the Silver Swan is amazing! We rang up to request a wheelchair for one of us before arrival and it was no problem. Most of the museum is easily accessible to all. Cafe was good with prompt service and helpful staff. Good value as well. Thank you to all staff today!

We had a lovely day at Bowes Museum. Entry was free due to it being Heritage Week, if we had paid it would still be well worth the money. Lots to see. The grounds are lovely as well, but we got rained off.

We loved our night at the observatory. Unfortunately it was a very cloudy night so was a bit hit and miss, catching the stars through the telescopes. Staff were amazingly entertaining and their passion rubbed off on you by the end of the visit. Complimentary hot chocolate was welcomed towards to end, getting a bit of free time to ask questions and revisit sections of the observatory. The building itself was impressive with the manually rotating roof sections where the telescopes live. We went early June and very keen to go back on a clear night in peak winter season. Thanks for an amazing experience

Wonderful experience. We attended the 9m session on a wonderfully clear July night. The initial video presentation was astounding and truly opened our eyes on the sheer scale of the night sky. The subsequent opportunity to view the sky through the Observatory telescopes in the presence of experts was astounding. This was then followed by a great opportunity to chat with the team The sessions cannot fit in many visitors so it is important to book ahead. And do follow the detailed arrival instructions - the site is by its nature remote and off the beaten track

I had a wonderful experience here. It says something that after driving for 2h into dark skies and it ending up being a cloudy night, that I still wasnt disappointed and would absolutely do it again. The talks were so informative and engaging, super interesting. We saw and used the telescopes and were able to observe a star despite the clouds.

Really good, I would say excellent. The team who were at the top to meet us stay with us for the 3 hours of our tour were brilliant. The team were very knowledgeable in there subject, they were very helpful and super friendly. Unfortunately the weather wasn't helpful it was raining for the first two hours. But the last hours the stars appeared which was fantastic. The team explained so much. I would definitely recommend to go and see the stars. Don't forget it is weather permitting.

We had clear skies - result. We have been before although it was cloudy then. However, don't be dismayed as the team put on a brilliant, educational and interesting talk / slideshow to entertain you. Our last visit was clear skies and we had the opportunity to to look through both telescopes as well as sit outside in the moon chairs to gaze at the night sky. Team there were so enthusiastic, knowledgeable and able to make the subject approachable. Photos are from my iPhone 17 Pro Max, so no match for the telescopes, but gives you an idea. Being dark sky status the area is superb for star gazing be you just interested or a seasoned professional. The track up to the observatory is about 2 miles long, a little bumpy in places and can take a while at 10mph so bear that in mind with your arrival timing.

I visited the observatory on my birthday in March for one of their aurora watch evening events. I knew there was a *chance* of seeing the aurora borealis here (because of an 11 year peak, spring equinox and dark sky conditions) but I never dared hope I would get to see them on my actual birthday! We all filtered in to the lecture room and then within a couple of minutes of the introduction starting, a fellow staff member came rushing in to say it's happening, and then we all went outside and had at least 15mins of watching it live. Phone cameras pick up more than the naked eye, so it doesn't look as pretty as what my phone says, but that doesn't mean it's still not fascinating or exciting to be able to take slow exposure shots and see the results of what you've just captured! Once the excitement was over, and it had calmed down, back inside we went for some learning and then the big telescopes. Had an absolutely fantastic time. Can't recommend this facility enough. You need to do your research and book in advance, but if you do so you will have a wonderful time.

One of the best events I've ever been to, absolutely outstanding and we will definitely be returning for future events. Can't thank Adam, Dan and Gregoire enough, their enthusiasm was electric. Amazing!!!

We parked at Bowlees Visitor Centre and followed the path along the river past Low Force and the old swing bridge, then continued up to High Force. It’s about four miles there and back and such a lovely walk with great views all the way. The path can be uneven in places so it’s not really one for pushchairs, but it’s very dog friendly and has lots of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. High Force is a beautiful sight, especially after heavy rain when the water really thunders down. If you prefer a shorter walk, you can park at High Force Hotel, but there’s an entry fee from that side. The Bowlees route is free, and if you carry on a little further upstream you’ll come across Bleabeck Force too, which is another great waterfall to see.

Waterfall itself is absolutely beautiful, an incredible site with multiple different walks, all round incredible scenery. Unfortunately some of the staff were quite rude, lady in the ticket office spoke to us like we were an inconvenience for being there and took so long serving drinks. Was very rude to other customers when someone asked why you had to pay to see the waterfall. I understand the sight has to be maintained but it could have been explained a lot nicer than she did with a lot less attitude. The gentleman at the top of the walk however was lovely and explained the paths to us and how the waterfall came to be. All in all a beautiful experience but it would be nice if the staff at least pretended they wanted to be there!

The waterfall at High Force is a phenomenal sight to see, especially after heavy rainfall. We visited just after the tail end of Storm Claudia had drenched the north east area & saw it raging, quite a sight. The staff members in the pub where you buy your tickets could employ better manners when dealing with customers as we were made to feel like we were just in the way a little & in honesty I'm not sure why we paid as there were no rangers, staff or guides on the path to show tickets to. Parking was reasonably priced BUT please read the small print! There's a lot.

Wow!! Please just visit and enjoy this wonderful place! It literally enabled my partner and I to just breathe 🧘 Beautiful! The chap at the ticket booth was so helpful and friendly, the Hotel was friendly and so accommodating and the Waterfall was so unexpectedly perfect! The walk to the waterfall was simple and pleasant and you could return on the path or take the steep steps up to complete a circular walk - perfect afternoon xxx

We walked from low force, along the river Tees edge, taking in the views... River Tees on one side and fields of cattle on the other..Benches and seats all along the pathway or you could dip your toes in the water at various points.. over the wooden bridge** onto a large grass area to let the dogs stretch their legs before climbing a lot of steps up to the high force motel, where you buy tickets for the falls and wooded area... Carparking available, Toilets, Cafe with picnic benches, to enjoy a food, ice cream or hot drink before handing over your ticket and descending through the woods to more steep steps down to the base of the falls, where you feel the true force of the water... Spend as long as you like, just listening to and seeing the amount of water cascading over the rock face... Back up the steep steps,via left into another wooded area, where cattle roamed free (to our surprise), carved sculptures, bird feeding stations and a nice wood walk....** You can see the falls for free, but from above only, if you walk straight on and don't cross the wooden bridge...

We have visited High Force many times before but what a spectacular visit this time. The volume of the water due to all the heavy rain was very impressive. Such a beautiful sight in autumn. Very well organised purchasing tickets from the hotel. This goes towards the up keep of the paths which were safe and well maintained. The only criticism is the high parking fee, nearly £5 for an hour, payable via a parking website. Beautiful part of the region and definitely worth a visit.

A spectacular waterfall, it was coming down both sides when we visited. Easy walking down to the waterfall, you can then scramble across the rocks for a better view. The walk back through the woods is a bit more arduous and not pushchair friendly, that said you can just double back on yourself.

Had difficulty getting here due to road closures, but the museum is well laid out and some of the exhibits can be touched, it needs to be used in conjunction with the vindolanda ticket as the two complement each other. My only criticism is that the video room needs a door as the noise from school visits can drown out the audio.

Good museum and interesting displays. Worth getting joint ticket with Vindolanda. Big plus is free parking at both sites. I walked east along Hadrian's Wall and on return went back into museum.

The Roman Army Museum does a fantastic job of telling the story of the men who served on Hadrian’s Wall. Through well-presented exhibits, films, and displays, it shows how soldiers came from all over the Roman Empire to defend this frontier. The museum really brings their lives, duties, and experiences to life in a clear and engaging way. It’s an excellent complement to visiting Hadrian’s Wall and a must for anyone interested in Roman history.

A wonderful Museum that provides insight into all aspects of Roman army history. A really interesting film half way which guides you through the history of the wall. A good couple of hours, if you do everything on offer! Incredible education on the history of animal bones my children still take about the talk one of the volunteers gave! 👌🏼👌🏼

The Roman Army Museum at Walltown is an excellent first stop for understanding Roman military life, especially in the context of Hadrian’s Wall. If you’re visiting the area, it adds a lot to the experience—especially with its films, interactive displays, and connection to the landscape. For families, casual visitors, or history fans, it offers good value. If you’re more of a specialist, you might want also to visit Vindolanda or some of the larger forts for deeper archaeology

This place is a must if your visiting Hadrians wall! Excellent. Watch the 20min film if your there, it was worth it and gives a great insight into a soldiers life on the wall

The museum was great on a rainy day but we were not able to go to the second location to walk around the actual Roman fort. The museum provided a good background on the growth and decline of the Roman Empire, the establishment of Hadrian’s wall, and the life of the Roman soldier. All of the items in the museum are items recovered from the fort. Wish there was more information on the any battles fought while the fort was occupied.

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!!

First time visit, beautiful gardens, bit past their best due to the time of year but will definitely return spring/summer next year. Cafe was a very nice and good was good. £15 per adult but we got in free with Historic Houses membership. They are currently doing some restoration work on the ruined castle but there is a demo on the history of it.

Wow what a spectacular place to visit! The castle itself is so impressive. Not far from the M6 too so we stopped on route from Scotland to the Midlands. The cafe was pleasant, lots of choice to eat. We had burger and chips which was tasty. High chairs available. Toilets near to the cafe. And at the back of the grounds is the best outdoor playarea I've ever seen suitable for all ages. It's huge, has zip wires for older kids and toddlers, sand pits, slides, swings. It's a great day out if not a better stop than the services!

What a beautiful castle and grounds. Plenty of open space to wander and have a picnic. Great grounds with a lovely cafe indoors, with plenty of outdoor seating inside the square of the castle grounds. The cafe had a super selection of fresh meals and great bakery products as well. Ice cream parlour was delicious. Parking very reasonable at £2, can be paid at the restaurant.

An interesting former stately home, with extensive gardens. A tale of what happens when these spend thrift lords throw it all away. They are still working on parts of the estate and gardens, but is well worth a visit. The cafe is decent and is a popular spot for families.

A fantastic day out for adults, children & dogs. Extensive gardens & woodlands to explore, a large adventure playground with separate areas for older children and toddlers- with the only toddler seat zip slide I've ever seen!- cafes and of course what is left of the castle. The gardens are so loved and well maintained, there were absolutely loads of mushroom varieties if that floats your boat! A small museum section which tells you the story of the house and how it came to what it is today, as well as plenty of information boards everywhere you go. Dogs are allowed every where except inside the play areas, but there are plenty of benches/seats looking over the play area for someone to sit and wait with the dog. The café next to the play areas are only open weekends and school holidays- which we didn't realise until after we got there so please bare that in mind!

Fabulous place to visit. Romantic, but very impressive ruins. Food in the cafe was lovely. We opted for a light pizza each and my whipped feta, pear and walnut was divine! Lovely to see the gardens being brought back to life. The newly planted Rock, Japanese and sweet scented gardens will be wonderful once established. We didn't have our granddaughter with us, but the children's play area is amazing, and we will definitely return with her in the future. Well worth a visit.

Magical place, viewpoints are stunning, lovely coffee shop in the woods, huge open gardens. The regenerated gardens are in their infancy in parts, definitely on the revisit list for a few years time to see how they have developed! Rose garden smells unreal!

This is a small museum with a big story to tell using interesting storyboards and exhibits. The staff are really friendly and knowledgeable, there is so much to see you really do need to take your time to absorb the whole story. There is an excellent wee cafe with hot and cold food, snacks and cakes

Had a great time, lots to see, do and read about, lots of interactive items to keep the kids interested and old war time clothing to try on and an old kitchen for them to potter about in. Really young kids(5 and under) might find it boring but it's well worth a visit, I paid £26 for a family visit, there is also a large train outside and a range of garden games to play. It also has a really nice cafe and shop and the staff were superb.

A very educational museum about the Munitions Factory built in the area during the First World War. It gives a full explanation on why and how it was built. The staff were very polite and welcoming. The prices are extremely reasonable. This place is run as a charity, so any money made goes to the museum. There is a car park on site, which is free to patrons. There are toilets, gift shop and a small cafe (food is excellent) here as well.

Fantastic museum about WW1's largest munitions factory as well as the UK's biggest railway disaster and a smaller exhibition section on WW2 and post war nuclear history. Whilst only a small building, it was crammed with interesting exhibits, old photographs and archive records and recorded memories from evacuees. Well worth the visit!

A small but very interesting museum. I was nice to see the 'war museum ' done from a different angle. Definitely worth the time & money.

The Devils Porridge is a brilliant wee museum in Eastriggs telling the story of the UK Governments plans to deal with a cordite shortage in World War 1, and it goes on to explain the part it played in World War II as a huge munitions factory. It is well laid out, makes good use of modern technology to tell the story of the people who lived and worked there, and it brings alive a factory which played a key part in the British war effort (and a place I was totally ignorant of until my visit). Nice friendly staff too.

A fascinating afternoon spent here with on site parking, a café, toilets and gift shop. The staff were very informative and inviting as soon as I entered the site. The flow of the museum is easy to follow and presented in a way that it tells a coherent story full of artefacts and information. The range of interactivity with the exhibits was impressive with use of projector videos, well lit cabinets, touchscreens, audio tracks, photo galleries, wearable costumes, televised movies, archive documents, a light up control panel and a projection of a woman which looked like a hologram at first glance. An excellent museum definitely, consisting of two floors and a stunning locomotive outside. Upstairs is accessible by stairs or lift (although upon my visit the lift was out of order) but this would normally make the museum completely wheelchair accessible. For the price, location, information, exhibits and customer service, I would definitely recommend visiting!

It's the only show cave I've visited and actually felt like I was in a natural cave. The fact that most of the cave is pretty much j as nature created it, with scaffolding platforms to walk on (rather than a dug out and concrete filled floor) gives it this feeling. Plus the end of the cave is still being explored. Really worthwhile visiting. The tour guides are great at what they do, and you're given plenty of opportunities at the end to make your own way out of the cave at your own pace to take photos.

White Scar Cave is a fascinating underground wonder! The guided tour takes you through impressive limestone formations, waterfalls, and unique chambers filled with natural beauty. The staff are knowledgeable and make the experience engaging. A bit of walking and ducking in places, but absolutely worth it for the breathtaking sights inside. Highly recommend for anyone visiting the area

Great cave experience, Mike our guide was fantastic. Informative and interesting to listen to. Great for adults and kids. You do need to have quite good mobility, there is a few sections that require you to walk stooped over and to be manoeuvring around rocks, lots of stairs too.

Second visit to this outstanding set of showcaves and still every bit as magical as the first. Even the view from the car park is awe inspiring in a way that few other attractions can match, and things only get better from there as you make your way underground. The guides are very knowledgeable and help you to make sense of what you are seeing as you go. Some superb flowstone formations, and I found the ice age mud deposits in the battlefield cavern utterly fascinating. Take advantage of the toilet facilities before you enter the caves. It's a long walk around with a lot of running water. Definitely worth half a day of your time spent on a visit here.

Thoroughly enjoyed the tour . The guide was extremely knowledgeable and very personable. If your tall be prepared for quite long passages where your crouched right down . The tour takes around 80 minutes to complete. Our group comprised ages from 10yrs old to about 70 ish and we all enjoyed it. Well worth a visit Esp on a rainy day

We were on our way back home from Lake District and decided to check it out as a stop. Great experience. Our guide was Christopher. Not only did he show the key areas but thrown in some fascinating facts on how the cave formed and how old it is. The discovery of the cave was also an inspiring story. See for yourselves. Truly recommend. Shame we missed the kitchen opening times at the cafe. Stunning views inside and outside. :)

Found this place quite by accident, while eating lunch and managed to get on the next tour. Booked my ticket online but tickets can also be bought at the cave. There were so many people that they spilt us into two groups with a guide each. Our guide, Adele was knowledgeable, fun and delivered a great tour. Truly an amazing experience.

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.

The panoramic views from the castle are worth the climb to the top. At first glance, it seems like "just some old ruins", so I would recommend downloading the Free audio-guide, which is very clear and informative.

Took a hike to the Kendal castle on a lovely afternoon. It is a magnificent view of the whole town from the top of the hill. Worthy of a visit!

Kendal Castle is just a short walk from the village, around 10–15 minutes uphill. The climb is gentle and absolutely worth it once you reach the top. From the castle grounds, you can enjoy a wide, scenic view of the surrounding landscape — perfect for photos or simply soaking in the beauty of Kendal. Although the castle now stands in ruins, it has been well-preserved, giving visitors a sense of its history and charm. It’s not just a historical site, but also a peaceful spot for sightseeing and enjoying the outdoors. If you’re visiting Kendal, I’d definitely recommend making time for Kendal Castle. It’s close, free to explore, and a great way to experience both the history and natural beauty of the area.

Kendal Castle is Iconic to Kendal - it's a really short walk if you park at Parr Street and can be accessed for 4 sides. Although it's pretty much just ruins - it is a lovely for sunsets and sunrises. I've even captured the Aurora from here. Great for families to explore.

The views from here were amazing, everyone I walked past said hello and it’s a great location to end a run. Definitely worth a stop by if you’re in Kendal.

Great place for a visit . Nice park good grounds . Takebthe kids and the dog for a lovely strole

Kendal castle is mainly ruins now but some parts are still intact. Still well worth a visit! There's boards with interesting information about the castle and the lords that lived there. There's also a lovely view of Kendal town from this view point.

Museum not open on Monday or Tuesday, so just walked around the grounds which were lovely. Stopped at the cafe for tea and cake which was lovely. Lots of places to enjoy a picnic. Need to pay for parking.

Lovely grounds to walk around. Clean toilets at the hall and a lovely brew at the rotunda by the car park. Only down side.. Reflection pond was empty at the time we visited

A beautiful historic house and art gallery, set in a really nice park with a wonderful garden. I particularly liked the chapel, long gallery and the Victorian kitchen.

Expectations exceeded. It's a forest, magnificent gardens, a stately home, a museum and an art gallery all in one. Even the coffee was good. All the staff were friendly and knowledgeable.

What a lovely place! Beautiful, well tended grounds, and a stunning, newly renovated stately home to look around. Sleepy ducks round a pond and fountain, wonderful flowers and ancient trees. A very nice cafe. Despite being a weekday when we visited, it was pretty busy, and we were lucky to find a parking space. Parking was cheap though, as was entry to the hall and museum.. cheap for me, and free for my student companions. My ticket is also valid for the whole year, should I wish to return, which I certainly will. Definitely worth a visit if history, nature and beautiful houses are your thing.

Excellent place. Ticket price is £5.50 for an annual pass, so can visit as many times as you want in a year. Staff welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and informative. Lots of 'behind the walls' secret panels that were highlighted, along with information and historical stories. Great cafe in the grounds with a good assortment of food and drinks at a reasonable price. Nice outside grass and garden areas too. Great afternoon spent here

Amazing place my 4 grandchildren loved it I even got thanks of afterwards they found all the 19 mice

We visited Smithy Open Farm last month as a family, and it was a truly wonderful experience. The farm is well-kept and full of charm, and the animals are all very gentle and friendly — perfect for children to interact with. From calves and lambs to many other farm animals, you can really enjoy close-up encounters and even watch the process of milk production, which was fascinating to see. There are plenty of activities for children and families, and feeding the animals is made easy with affordable feed available on-site. It’s both fun and educational, giving kids the chance to experience farm life in an authentic and enjoyable way. One of the highlights for us was trying the farm’s own freshly made yogurt — it was absolutely delicious and highly recommended! Overall, it’s a fantastic place for a family day out, especially with young children. Warm atmosphere, well-cared-for animals, and plenty to see and do — we’ll definitely be coming back again.

We visited Smithills Open Farm during the school holidays with the kids, and it was such a fantastic day out! The highlight was seeing the full process of how cows are milked and how the milk is stored — really fascinating and educational. The children loved getting hands-on, feeding the cows and other farm animals, and learning more about farm life. There are so many activities for kids, and it’s a great balance of fun and education. The staff were friendly and made the experience engaging for both children and adults. Overall, a brilliant day out for families — highly recommend!

Really enjoyable family day out. Lots available for small children, from donkey and tractor rides to feeding the cows and other farm animals. Also being able to interact and hold baby lambs, baby goats, Emu's, Rabbits and chicks in pets corner. The specific animal based talks were really informative and the kids had chance to get a photo which was great. There are also a selection of parks for the children to enjoy and multiple shops were you can grab a coffee and locally produced ice cream which was delicious.

Love this place, but if something for all of us. Getting so close to the cows isn't something kids from the city get to do that often and it's great. Staff seem to love their jobs and It does make it extra enjoyable. Some of the other local farms are good for an hour or two but we regularly spend 4-5 hours here

Every single member of staff we encountered made this day super special! They were so warm and welcoming, all made an effort to educate us on the animals and help us to get as much from the experience as possible. We loved it! P.s we’re still dreaming about the ice cream!

We brought our 9 month old granddaughter for her first visit to a farm and we all absolutely loved it. Even for a baby there is so much to do. She was obsessed with the mini horses and the donkeys ❤️ She was fighting sleep at the end so we couldn't go to meet the animals but we certainly will be doing on our next visit. The tractor ride to the donkeys made her day 🥰 Thank you all for making our first Grandparent day the best ever ❤️

It was an amazing trip. Kids enjoying the encounter with different animals though the emus are a bit terrifying. A pity was that the cafe only provided tea/ coffee and cake. No hot food provided.

A great green open space and nature reserve for birds (no dogs allowed to protect ground nesting). Good set up where you can get a bite to eat and relax inside or out. The play area was a bit disappointing for the kids as it was under construction/refurb, but in fairness it looks like they're making a good job to make it better for the future.

We had a great time at the superhero event. My children are 18 months, 6 and 7 and they all joined in the fun! From mud throwing to den building, we were all entertained for a good 2 hours! The staff and volunteers were so friendly and great with the children. Thank you!

A lovely place to go visit with family, friends or just yourself. I usually walk all the way to Brockholes from the Preston city centre but even if the walk is long, the scenery makes up for it. A lot of greenery and amazing nature at Brockholes. A chance for you to bask in the nature and atmosphere and see the views. Definitely a must visit!

Had a lovely walk around Brockholes nature reserve. The weather was very pleasant nice sunny autumn day. Topped off with a coffee and ice cream. The car park has gone up to £6 which doesn't seem bad for all day parking but steep if your only there for a couple of hours. This makes people like cyclist park on the roadside so they don't gave to pay. The café is closed Mon, Tue, Wed now. Since we have been going the shop and plant stall have gone. The ice cream cafe has closed. You can get a coffee from the visitors centre out of a flask but the quality is poor and they charge £2.50 a cup. I know it's volunteer led, I know there is a cost to everything but if you don't provide facilities people won't bother going.

Ample parking, a great cafe and lots of well surfaced paths. Plenty of birds to see & photograph. The floating village is an amazing construction too.

If you love nature or bird watching you will love this place. Great for walking or picnic. Little shops there with local crafts, something to eat . Grab a coffe and enjoy the nature :)

It's nice enough here. Well kept, good walking paths, nice cafe and visitor village. We did see a few unusual birds, some butterflies and damsel flies. The walk through the trees is lovely, like an enchanted tunnel. What did spoil it for me though, was the overwhelming traffic noise, with the site being right next to the motorway. It made the walks far less peaceful than they should have been, and made it difficult to use the bird identification app that I often use on walks. The pollution from the traffic isn't great either. That said, it's free entry, though you do have to pay for the car park, which was fairly pricey at £6 for a few hours. I'd suggest a visit if it's nearby to you, but I wouldn't travel too far or you might be disappointed.

Absolutely brilliant! What a wonderful experience and to be able to get up so close to these beautiful animals. We bought the owl experience for my brothers birthday and he loved it! He couldn't stop smiling! All the volunteers are very knowledge, friendly and passionate about the birds and the sanctuary. I love the fact it's not commercialised. Its all about the birds and creating a safe and natural environment for visitors to enjoy too. Thank you for having us and allowing us to take photographs of a very memorable day.

Great sanctuary to see owls and bird of prey up close. The volunteer guides were informative and friendly, and all guests can experience handling some birds during the flight display show. Highly recommended place to visit and hope to get another chance to come again! =^^=

We found this place while looking for something to do on our journey back to north wales from the lake district. What an absolute gem of a place. It's £12 entry you get to see the various birds in the aviaries. There is also a flying display in the price at no extra cost. The display was absolutely fantastic finding out about the individual birds you also get the birds flying to your hand also. This place isn't a big company owned place. It's run by volunteers. All the money they receive goes to the care and feeding of the birds. I would highly recommend this place if your in the area.

Great little place. All volunteers which you can tell really love the birds they look after. The show was really good and got to hold one. No show will be the same because the birds will only do what they want to do, which is great they are not forced to do anything.

What a lovely little place. It's run by volunteers who are lovely. There is an array of owls and some birds of prey. It is £12 to get in and they also have consessions. It opens at 11am (ish) and closes at 2pm. From 1230pm to 2pm there is a flying display. This is very informative and you get to fly the birds. You can get a drink, hot or cold and snacks but there is not a cafe as such. I must reiterate just how nice the volunteers are. Will definitely go back again.

What a little gem, just under 30 minutes from home! We spent around 3 hours here and the time absolutely flew by. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and you can really feel how much they care for the birds. The flying display was a highlight: not only spectacular to watch, but also full of interesting facts that we learned along the way. The sanctuary is run entirely by volunteers, so every penny goes directly towards the care and upkeep of the birds. They do take card payments, but if you can, bring some cash along as it helps them avoid card fees and means more support goes straight to the upkeep of the sanctuary. We also got a great local tip for lunch afterwards at The Farmers Arms, just a few minutes away, which rounded off the day perfectly. Highly recommend a visit - we’ll definitely be back!

This place was absolutely fantastic!! Such a special day. I came with my family and immediately the staff are super friendly and helpful, they all clearly have lots of passion for the birds they care for. the displays are wonderful, you get a good view of the birds and get to see them up close. All the birds have educational signs posted to their enclosures about the species and conservational status so it's super great to teach children too. There are many birds to see, along with a small park to roam in and you can make a day out of it with a picnic. The best part by far were the Owl showings. It's an intimate little gathering where the volunteers show the owls up close, out of enclosure, and even give you the oppurtunity to hold and feed them. This is of course, only if the owls feel up to it, which is my favourite part about it, as it puts my mind at ease knowing the best interest is in the animals rather than the audiences entertainment. The Owls were super friendly and playful the day I went, and so were the volunteers, who really just have so much love for these birds, and make sure that each and every member of the audience get to participate fully. All this for a relatively cheap price considering the experience, can't recall the exact amount but it was worth every penny!! Aboslutely recommend for anyone who loves birds, animals or has kids with a passion for learning and nature

10/10 brilliant day out. We spent about 4 hours here. Loads to see, lots of animals. We even saw the baby elephant too. Food was handsome bit quite pricey, we bought online lunch tickets so turned out a bit cheaper. Take your walking shoes though.

Great zoo, lots of animals to see, and enclosures are well designed to allow outdoor and indoor viewing. It was quite cold and wet when we went, but we were still able to see all of the animals even if they were sheltering inside. We were told that a baby elephant had been born very recently and were really lucky to be able to see her in the afternoon when it was quieter. Lots of maps and well signposted so you can easily see where each animal habit is located. Quite a bit of expansion and improvement work on some of the enclosures (giraffes, wolves) so some areas were closed off, but still plenty of places to see those animals. Only seemed to be one main food area on the site, which got very busy because of the weather. Lots of picnic benches but very few under cover. I think there are a few other little food and coffee booths but they were closed when we went past them. Halloween theme for Half Term, lots of skeletons and spider webs added to the trees and walkways, clearly a lot of effort made to create the atmosphere, was a lot of fun trying to spot the little things that had been hidden away. Wizard themed event trail for the kids to follow. We had paid for tickets through a promotion at our hotel, but there was only a separate queue for members, everyone else waited in the same line so no apparent advantage for pre-booking online.

Really fantastic zoo, went in with lower expectations as have enjoyed some of the larger zoos in the UK, however this one packs souch in while remaining fairly small to walk around (which is a huge plus, especially with kids!). Good range of different animals, the gorillas and the baby orangutan especially were great to see. Big plus that the restaurant has decent options plus a Subway inside so you're well served for a quick lunch too.

Hand down my favourite zoo! Clean, fantastic range of species and great layout. Absolutely amazing and a great day out. Only just managed to see it all in a day but had to rush near the end end. Will definitely be going back!

A great place to visit, just the right size, so you can spend quality time with each exhibit. Loved seeing the baby elephant, amazing. Each enclosure looks well looked after & new things going on. The only thing which I would like to see is somewhere enclosed for people who brought packed lunches, it was raining at lunchtime when we went & not any dry places to sit & eat. The zoo is good value & great if you have Tesco points to swap. Would recommend a visit to this lovely zoo.

This is a smaller zoo that is making big improvements to the animal enclosures. Membership is reasonable and visited October during wizarding and Halloween activities. The staff are friendly except staff member on train who was making it clear he wasn't happy with the train not working correctly. The tigers are beautiful and recent baby elephant is worth the trip alone!!

Brilliant zoo. The elephant house currently has reduced opening hours to support the wellbeing of the new baby. Loved the Halloween pop up shop and quest. Can get busy but there is ample parking and once inside there is enough space to not feel busy. Beware of seagulls trying to steal your bucket of chips!

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.

Great place for a family day out! Had a lovely experience at this place. The whole area is very clean and well maintained. The small zoo was a pleasant surprise, free and perfect for kids to enjoy. There's a large, impressive playground with plenty of activities to keep children entertained for hours. Parking was £4.50 for the whole day on the weekend. Overall, it’s a peaceful, fun, and family-friendly place to spend the day.

Beautiful park with many free things to offer. The mini zoo inside is a pleasant surprise with a variety of animals more to offer than most farms I have been to and it’s free. Open spaces with beautiful garden centre with plants to see a lovely little cafe with little stalls, plenty of clean toilets spotted around the area near the park as well as near the cafe area, definitely well kept and a breath of fresh air. The open spaces and park is just amazing with alot to offer children of all ages. Not many places have free things to offer and this had a good mix. There are two ice cream vans with affordable but delicious ice creams as well cold drinks. The zoo closes around 4:30 and the cafe at 5:00 so ensure you don’t miss out and go within the times of possible. The Thomas ride on is £3 per person and flags for £1 lovely little feature if you don’t fancy walking but want to see the park. Car park is pay and display and disabled spaces getting 3 hours for free.

Was fortunate to be able to have a wander around the hall as part of Heritage Open Days. The lady from the Friends group was extremely helpful and the group have done an excellent job with the house. It was built in the 1830's by the Greenall family, of brewing fame. Hopefully that work will continue so that it can continue to develop and be opened up more often for the public. It's now owned by the Council who have developed the grounds with a children's zoo and play area, as well as a cafe and plenty of local walks.

Recently checked this place out. It's great for families. You have a big children's play area. A children's zoo which is more like a farm with farm animals to visit. You also have a jungle Parc, crazy golf for children and normal golf course for adults. Cycle museum which I think you got to book to visit. You have Walton hall and gardens, a pond to view and there is also toilets and a cafe on the premises. Ideal place for a local day out with the family. Opens 8am until 8pm Current parking costs for cars Mon to Fri = £3.50 decent size carpark. Sat to Sun (bank holidays) =£4.50

Lovely day put for kids. Cute little zoo and play area. Gorgeous formal gardens. Parking wasa a challenge as was packed but managed to fund somewhere in the end. On way out went for a walk down the canal which was lovely.

Gorgeous park with a little animal area, really good sized play park for children with two separate areas for different ages. The food is gorgeous in the stables cafe area too. Nice visit.

Must say a hidden gem park with an amazing mini zoo (and it's included with the car parking which was £4.50 for the day). Very neatly maintained and loads of spaces to explore within the park. Will recommend getting some snacks & coffee from outside although there's a cafe in the park but a bit expensive (£4-6 for a coffee/hot choc). Overall it's a fun park with kids around.

A wonderful place to spend some time in nature. A large site with a variety of walks and hides for those happy to walk a bit further from the main area. Lots for kids to do in the inner area with ponds and different birds to look at and a restaurant too. Wheelchair and pushchair friendly paths and most of the hides are very accessible and some have an upper level. Very well managed and lots of information about what you can see, recommend a visit if you're nearby.

Today was my first visit. This place is brilliant for kids of all ages to explore wildlife, we saw many species of birds, ducks and geese. The facilities are great for wheelchair users and prams most of the grounds are easily accessible. My kids also loved the new splash walk and wildlife garden, as well as the splash area. Unfortunately we ran out of time and didnt get to use the play ground but it looks great. I think prices are fair as you can easily spend a whole day here immersing yourself in the wildlife and all activities on offer. We missed the educational sessions but would like to do them next time. The cafe is a bit expensive but nothing out of the ordinary these days, would recommend you bring a picnic as there is plenty space designated for this. Recommend a change of clothes and wellies for the wet activities. Will gladly return again soon!

My daughter absolutely loves birds and this was her paradise! Babies absolutely everywhere (end of may). The route around is easy to follow with lots of things to do. Plenty of beautiful picnic spots and i do advise taking one. The wild walk requires wellies in some parts especially after rainfall but we managed most parts without. The parks are good for young kids, my 8 year old loved them, my 12 year old not so much. Water play is involved so maybe spare clothes if they like to get wet. We spent around 3.5 hours here and parking was free, there was plenty of spaces when we arrived at 10.30 but people were struggling at 2pm. P.s control your children and do not allow them to chase the birds trying to scare them! We witnessed this numerous times!

We’ve been visiting Martin Mere for many many years and it’s always a lovely day out. Things to consider: You can buy bird seed to feed the ducks on the way in, I would suggest you buy more than one bag though as there are many different varieties of ducks over a wide area and it’s quickly used up on the ducks as you first enter the place. There are hides dotted around the reserve which gives you some great viewing of our feathered friends. Watch out for the otters who are fed daily, they are cute to watch. The volunteers there are very friendly and helpful and happy to answer any questions you may have. There’s a cafe which sells both hot and food cold, the hot chips are always on my mind when I’m there. There’s a few play areas and it’s lovely to take the young kids there to explore and enjoy the fresh air. There’s also a shop that sells a whole range of lovely stuff including T-shirts, books and local jams and chutneys. All in all a lovely day out.

Lovely volunteers and staff. Awesome environment for the birds, insects and animals. Lots of play equipment and activities for the kids. Thanks to Captain Dave for the entertaining river ride.

A great day out. Plenty of parking available, including disabled. Friendly and helpful staff. My mother-in-law was able to hire a mobility scooter for £10 despite not pre-booking. Tonnes of ducks, lots of different breeds. Plus flamingoes and otters. We only got round about 40% of the place in our 4 hour stay so will definitely go back. Plenty of toilets. Refreshing that these were clean and well looked after too. A number of playgrounds and water play equipment. Lots of picnic benches. Cafe was expensive. In good weather, bring your own picnic! A well stocked (but also very expensive) gift shop. We pre-booked a boat ride, which was lovely. Canoes also available. We will definitely return. A great day out for all of us. 10% off tickets if you book online.

We went on a dull day. There was a lot of brown ducks. Im sure if you know your duck they were different. There are storks and flamingos. There are a couple of play areas. One wet play so take a towel and possibly a change of clothes. There is a Reed bed walk off the car park which we walked part way.

Its been a while since i last visited the wax works. we decided to go and give it ago and for £48 for the family ticket it was not the cheapest. We enjoyed our time here seeing the different people and having phots with them. it was not too busy at the time so we did not have to wait long to get a good look at each wax work. the whole walk around was around 2hrs with a stop in the rovers pub mid way.

Great day, parking is not far. 50% when buying tickets to Madame Tussauds. From 11am - 9pm £7. There is sitting area to have food if you brought your own. Vending machines for snacks. Hot and cold Drinks available in Rovers retrun Coronation street sections.

Had such a fun visit here, was fun for all of us. It was very clean, including the toilets. Appears very accessible too with lots of lifts (not that we needed to use them. But worth mentioning for those who do). Staff very nice and helpful, always smiling. The wax figures were so good, I had to look up close to so many of them because you couldn't tell that they were wax. Now history doesn't usually interest me, but I loved reading the history behind Madame Tussaud. So many different areas inside and a place to sit, drink and eat. The marvel area was incredible, and our favourite by far! Lots of photo opportunities, including paid ones to purchase if you'd like to. The gift shop at the end had a little bit of everything in there. It was very clean and well kept. Would be nice to see a few more people added in there like Luke Littler and Luke Combs.

Better than expected, and the waxworks were actually really good. Definitely worth a walk around with more celebrities than I realised there were. Not too costly, and especially great if the weather is rubbish outside 😂👌👍

Well worth a visit. It has been many years since I visited the wax works! All the exhibits are fabulous. I really liked the rovers return exhibit as "Deirdre" was sitting at a table. It was unexpected. The mirror maze was hilarious!

First time attending and was really fun. Free photos by the staff on the way around and some really cool picture spots to take for yourself. The wax hand bit was also cool with the staff being very patient and friendly.

We had a really good time here. The tower was closed due to strong winds so we came here as an alternative. Lots of photo opportunities and some great waxworks. It's much bigger inside than you might expect. A lot of fun

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.

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*

This stadium is an iconic football ground that has so much tied to it that anyone visiting will be swept off his feet, even someone who does not support Liverpool, like myself. I was swept up with the singing, the camaraderie, the enthusiasm and the general atmosphere- I thoroughly enjoyed the experience (Liverpool lost to Man Utd on the day)

We were in London on 19 October 2025, and Liverpool was playing Manchester United at Anfield. We were lucky enough to get two tickets for the match. We joined the queue to enter the stadium at around 4.15 p.m. and got to our seats within 10 minutes—just in time for the players’ walkout. When You’ll Never Walk Alone played, the atmosphere was truly electric—something I will never forget. The passion, the unity, and the roar of the crowd were simply spine-tingling. When the match kicked off, Manchester United scored within two minutes, and the home crowd fell silent. Still, we never stopped cheering for the team, and by the 78th minute, when Cody Gakpo found the net, the entire stadium erupted in joy. What happened after that… I will leave unsaid, as my memory happily ends there. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one to tick off my bucket list. I urge every football fan to watch a match at Anfield at least once. Win or lose, you will never regret it.

Beautiful building. Best stadium in UK regularly wins awards. Great toilets and concourse facilities. Premium customer service with scouse ethos. Large selection of food. Lots of bars and restaurants. Tours..shop. events. Surrounded by beautiful park land. A number of murials surround. Disability friendly and accessible. Parking in streets couple mins walk. Worst a visit. Recommended.

The atmosphere in the stadium was absolutely electric! The fans were so passionate, and hearing You’ll Never Walk Alone gave me chills. Liverpool beat Real Madrid 1–0, and Thibaut Courtois was definitely the standout player for Madrid. Best crowd I’ve ever seen!

First ever visit to Anfield as an away fan. Signposts clear enough, all the way from Kirkdale Station. There was a heavy presence of stewards near the entrance to the away end but everyone perfectly friendly and inside the ground they rank as some of the friendliest encountered anywhere. Concourse area was, despite the Welcome to Anfield mural surprisingly spartan but perfectly clean and well signposted. Didn't buy any food or drink but there appeared a reasonable range available. Word of warning if you're seated low down (which I was): it had been raining earlier and seats were wet, despite canopy just about covering, though that's always a risk you take. View was great, despite presence of photographers in front. Really great ground to visit for all the history and atmosphere (home fans singing YNWA pre-kickoff has to be seen to fully appreciate), though made all the better with the most unlikely 3-0 away win I'm ever likely to witness.

Great atmosphere even though they lost. Good organisation getting in and out. Lots of food choices around the ground. Visit the murals and Highbury memorial, very touching. Great view, and all in all a good day out.

Went to the stadium tour on october 7th and i enjoyed it so much! It’s so much better than i imagined and our tour guide Jamie was amazing and very nice! Fun fact: i’m a vet and after coming back to work on monday we had a sick cat that came in and her name was Liverpool! :)

We went to visit it but it was closed due to renovations. The area is nice, spacious and there’s a lot of stores. I was told the museum has incredible exhibits and it’s worth spending time there. There are toilets in every big block and lots of walking spaces.

I popped into the Maritime Museum in Liverpool, and honestly, it’s a gem! Tucked away in the cool Albert Dock, it’s got this vibe that pulls you right into the city’s seafaring soul. You’ve got everything from old ship models to stories about the Titanic that hit you in the feels, plus a really moving section on the slave trade that doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff. It’s all super interactive, so you’re not just staring at dusty relics. Best part? It’s free (though I tossed in a donation). Perfect for a quick visit, maybe an hour or two, and you can swing by the Tate Liverpool after. Loved it—total must-see if you’re into history or just curious!

My Visit to the Merseyside Maritime Museum, Liverpool My visit to the Merseyside Maritime Museum in Liverpool was both educational and fascinating. Located at the historic Albert Dock, the museum beautifully showcases the city’s rich maritime heritage and its vital role in global trade and migration. The museum, part of National Museums Liverpool, also includes the UK Border Force Customs & Excise exhibits, which offer an eye-opening look into smuggling, trade, and law enforcement at sea. The displays are well-organized and interactive, covering everything from the Titanic and Lusitania stories to Liverpool’s role in the slave trade and world wars. The Customs Gallery was especially interesting, featuring real confiscated items and explaining how officers track illegal goods. Visitor Tips: Entry is free, making it a must-visit for history lovers and families. Plan at least 1–2 hours to explore the exhibits, and visit the shop and café overlooking the dock for a relaxing break. The museum is also wheelchair accessible. How to Reach: The museum is located at Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ, a short walk from Liverpool James Street Station and well-connected by local buses. There’s nearby parking at the Albert Dock car park. A visit to the Maritime Museum offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and real-life stories — a wonderful way to understand Liverpool’s deep connection with the sea and the world.

The Maritime Museum at the Royal Albert Dock in Liverpool is a renowned cultural institution celebrating the city’s rich maritime heritage. Located in the historic and picturesque Royal Albert Dock, the museum explores Liverpool's significant role in global seafaring, trade, and migration. The museum features engaging exhibits on topics such as the Titanic, the Lusitania, and the city's vital links to the transatlantic slave trade. Visitors can delve into detailed displays of historic ships, maritime art, and artifacts, as well as learn about the evolution of Liverpool as one of the world’s most important ports. With interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a stunning waterfront location, the Maritime Museum offers a compelling experience for history enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike. It's a key part of Liverpool's UNESCO World Heritage waterfront and provides insights into the city’s profound relationship with the sea.

Great museum with great guides. Great place to bring family, pupils, students to learn about British history, the trans Atlantic slave and how much Britain had to do with it, among many other things. Highly recommend! For anyone bringing children, please brief them on being respectful for there's a lot of sensitive history displayed.

I personally feel this Maritime museum in Liverpool is better than the one in London. Really enjoyed it. There are 3 floors showing different themes to make me understand so much about the maritime’s world. Also there are a lot of parts to make kids interested. Will definitely bring kids to come again. 2-hour trip with kids is an ideal timing to enjoy I suggest. Definitely A Great Museum👍

The museum is absolutely packed with stuff, so a good deal of time to get around. iads of very interesting exhibits, although the bit on the Lusitania went an a bit. The Battle of the Atlantic section neatly complements the Western Approaches HQ museum, and the sections on maritime trade was fascinating. One criticism is that we found the layout incredibly confusing, we always seemed to be enter the exhibits from the wrong end and the floor arrows seemed to assume you were coming from the lifts? Sometimes the arrows pointed in two directions at once! That apart, it is well worth a visit.

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.