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Explore With The Cookes

Step inside the happy chaos of the Cooke Family!

We're a family of 4 (plus our mischievous beagle) from Warrington, Cheshire.  We're all about having fun, making memories, and sharing our passion for travel, food and sport. 

You'll also find our top tips for saving money and honest reviews to help you on your own adventures.

Latest Blog Posts 

Our Guide to Spooky Halloween Light Trails in the North West 2025

The nights are drawing in, the leaves are turning, and there's a distinct chill in the air, all signs that Halloween is almost upon us!  If you're looking for a thrilling yet family-friendly way to celebrate this spooky season, the North West of England is home to some of the best Halloween light trails in the country.

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Our Guide to the Best Pumpkin Picking Patches in the North West 2025

Autumn is officially here, and that means it's time to pull on your wellies, grab a wheelbarrow, and head out on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin! Pumpkin picking has become a beloved tradition, and the North West of England is bursting with amazing farms offering everything from simple patches to full-blown Halloween festivals.

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Discover the Magic of North Wales: A Family Review of the Welsh Mountain Zoo

Looking for the perfect family day out in North Wales?  The , nestled high above Colwyn Bay, is an absolute must-visit.  Officially known as the National Zoo of Wales, this charming, conservation-focused attraction offers a unique blend of rare animals, stunning panoramic views, and an incredibly relaxing atmosphere that makes it perfect for creating memories that last a lifetime, especially those unexpected, heart warming interactions.

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Little India at The Ring O Bells: Warrington's Must-Book Sunday Indian Banquet

Looking for the ultimate Sunday treat in Warrington?  Look no further than Little India at The Ring O Bells.  This unique venue, housed within a traditional, cosy pub on a quaint, cobbled street, now offers an exclusive, once a month Sunday Indian Banquet.  If you crave authentic Indian cuisine combined with exceptional value, this monthly feast is the best curry buffet in Warrington and an absolute must-book.

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Halloweenville at Partridge Lakes: A Spooktacular Family Adventure in Warrington

​Are you searching for the perfect Halloween day out that's more spooky than scary?  Look no further than Halloweenville at Partridge Lakes in Warrington!  This immersive, family-friendly event is the ultimate destination for Halloween fun this October.  Formerly known as the Halloween Lakeside Light Trail, the experience has been completely reimagined for 2025 with a brand-new theme that promises a thrilling adventure for all ages.​  We've got all the details on what's new, what to expect, and why this is the must-visit Halloween event in Warrington this October.

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Top European Christmas Markets 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

There's nothing quite like the experience of visiting a Christmas market in Europe.  The crisp winter air, the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine, and the twinkling lights that transform a town or city into magical wonderlands.  As you plan your festive escape for 2025, you will  be spoilt for choice.  From historic traditions to modern marvels, here is our guide to the top European cities to visit for Christmas markets in 2025.

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Experience the Magic This Christmas: Home Alone in Concert

Are you ready to kick off the festive season with a dose of cinematic and symphonic magic?  Get ready, because Home Alone in Concert is coming to Connexin Live in Hull on Monday, 8th December.  This is your chance to relive the beloved Christmas classic like never before, with the iconic film screened in high-definition as a full live orchestra performs.

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The Money Talk: Why Financial Education Should Start in Childhood

Ever wonder why so many adults struggle with money?  The truth is, many of us never got a proper financial education.  We’re left to figure out complex concepts like interest rates and taxes all on our own, often through trial and error.  But it doesn't have to be this way.  By teaching children about money from a young age, we can equip them with the tools they need to build a secure and successful future.

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Your Ultimate Guide to UK's Hottest Upcoming Family Shows 2025

Looking for the perfect family day out?  The UK's live entertainment scene is bursting with incredible shows, from roaring dinosaurs to high-octane stunts and magical musical extravaganzas.  We've compiled a comprehensive list of the most exciting upcoming family shows in the UK, with a special focus on September and beyond!

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Support Our Blog 

You might have noticed that we're a small team, and every review, blog post, and piece of content we create is a true labour of love.  We juggle this passion project alongside full-time jobs and the beautiful chaos of raising our boys.  Our dream is to one day turn this into our full-time work, giving us more time to spend with our family while continuing to share the content you love.

If you enjoy what we do, here are a few simple ways you can help us grow, at no cost to you. 

Thank you for being part of our journey.  Your support, no matter how small, helps us get one step closer to our dream.

Ready to start your next adventure?

Browse our blog for more detailed guides and reviews.  We update our content regularly with new experiences, so be sure to bookmark our page and follow us on social media!