Landscapes filled with lakes, estuaries buzzing with birdlife and revolutionary cities with sporting histories: the North West has something for everyone. Explore iconic cities that are as famous for their music scenes as their grand industrial buildings and museums. Hear The Beatles resonate from street corners in Liverpool and the Stone Roses and Oasis rock in fashionable Manchester. Switch off the sound in the Lake District as you retrace trails between ethereal peaks, fells and tarn lakes. Or head for the bright lights of the seaside under hedonistic Blackpool's blazing seafront illuminations. Welcome to a sports lovers' paradise with county crickets grounds, iconic horse races and Premiership football clubs to boot.
North West England
August events: Lytham 1940s Wartime Festival
Come and enjoy the atmosphere and immerse yourself in heritage, entertainment, re-enactment and have-a-go fun.
Location: Lytham Green, Lancashire
August events: International Beatleweek
Get swept up in Beatlemania as fans from all over the world descend on the city where it all started.
Location: Liverpool, Merseyside