Flip Out Aintree Charity Day: Jump Into Summer Fun for Just £10 in Aid of Alder Hey!
Looking for wasy to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays without breaking the bank? We’ve found just the ticket!
Welcome to our North West travel blog. From the rugged peaks of the Lake District to the neon lights of Blackpool and the cultural powerhouses of Manchester and Liverpool, this region is our favourite playground.
At Explore with the Cookes, we don’t just list places, we share our family days out, honest reviews, and the best special offers to help you plan your next adventure without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a rainy day museum review, a hidden gem restaurant, or the latest special offers for a family weekend, you’ve come to the right place. Dive into our latest blogs and plan your next North West adventure.
25 Jul 2026 15:55
Looking for wasy to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays without breaking the bank? We’ve found just the ticket!
29 Jun 2026 16:38
Are you ready to create some magical memories this summer? As the school holidays arrive, the North West is bursting with fantastic opportunities for family fun, but one destination is set to turn the excitement up to eleven.
2 Apr 2026 11:15
The Easter half term is officially here, and if you’re looking to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank, the North West is the place to be. From prehistoric putts to high flying funfairs, we’ve rounded up the best attractions with exclusive offers to make your 2026 break egg-tra special.
25 Mar 2026 16:58
Located right on the Liverpool Waterfront, the UK’s biggest Indoor Funfair is officially back for 2026 at the Exhibition Centre this Easter! It offers three hours of unlimited rides in a climate controlled environment so whether you’re looking to dodge the April showers or keep the kids entertained during the school holidays, this is the ultimate destination for family thrills.
8 Oct 2025 20:09
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.
5 Oct 2025 19:42
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.
We love planning days out and visiting attractions across the North West. Here you'll find detailed reviews on the places that we have visited along with tips for your visit.
If you are looking for the perfect way to burn off some energy and keep the kids entertained over the Easter school holidays, regardless of the unpredictable British weather, the Indoor Funfair at Liverpool’s Exhibition Centre is a must visit. As a family from Warrington always on the lookout for affordable, local adventures, we recently took the boys (and their varying levels of bravery!) to see if it lived up to the hype and its safe to say that the boys (and us adults) had a blast!
We recently visited Dino Falls Golf, where we experienced a unique blend of mini golf excitement and prehistoric themed fun that makes it a must visit destination for families, friends, and golf enthusiasts alike. Here’s a detailed review of our visit, highlighting what makes Dino Falls Golf stand out.
Our sports obsessed household has been counting down the days to the release of the film GOAT, so the excitement levels were already sky high before we even stepped through the doors of Cineworld Warrington. The boys especially have been buzzing for weeks, anything sport themed instantly becomes the event of the week in our home, so this cinema trip was a proper family outing.
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.
This concept of iris photography has fascinated me for a while now. It's the art of capturing the intricate details of the human eye and transforming them into stunning, abstract pieces. We decided to visit Eyemazy in Chester for something special with our boys.
My work recently took our whole company to enjoy an afternoon of team bonding and fun at Wildshore in Delamere. It's located among the woodlands and offers a brilliant escape for team building with a wide array of water activities available on the lake. We started the afternoon with some introductions and team photos and then those going into the water went off to get their wet suits on.
Whether you’re planning a cosy weekend escape, a family friendly adventure, or a last minute getaway, the North West is packed with incredible places to stay. From lakeside lodges in Cumbria to chic city hotels in Manchester and Liverpool, we share honest reviews, real family experiences, and the best deals we’ve found along the way.
What You’ll Find in This Section
Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful Lake District retreat, a fun filled Blackpool weekend, or a foodie escape in Cheshire, we’ll help you find the perfect base for your next adventure.
30 Jun 2025 20:24
When we found out that Charlie’s team was playing Wath Brow Hornets, a rugby league club in Cumbria, we knew the three-hour drive from home would be a stretch on match day so to avoid a pre-match rush and ensure that Charlie was well rested, we decided to make a weekend of it!
Book Early: For anniversary stays, hotels in Bowness and Keswick fill up months in advance.
Waterfall Timing: Visit the falls the morning after a rainy night for the most dramatic views, just don't forget your sturdy boots!
Travel: If you're heading up for an event or at peak time, allow extra time for the M6; the views are better than the traffic!
If there’s one thing we love as much as travelling, it’s great food. The North West has officially become the UK’s dining destination of choice in 2026, holding more Michelin stars and "Top 50 Gastropub" awards than any other region outside of London.
We know that a bad meal can ruin a great day out, which is why we’ve dedicated a huge part of our blog to honest, first hand restaurant reviews across the North West. We look at everything from portion sizes and child friendliness to whether that "Instagrammable" spot actually delivers on flavour. Don't book your next table until you've read about our latest finds!
18 Feb 2026 19:20
If you’re looking for incredible Chinese food in the North West, then Mr Lau’s Dim Sum Bar and Restaurant in Warrington should be at the top of your list.
25 Oct 2025 14:08
As massive fans of the Rodízio dining concept, we were absolutely buzzing to be invited to the VIP launch event for Jardim Brazilian Steakhouse in Warrington. Having a premium all you can eat meat experience right on our doorstep is a game changer, and after our visit, we can't wait to return to Warrington's new dining destination! Located right in the heart of the town centre, Jardim aims to bring the soul of South American dining to Cheshire. The name Jardim means Garden in Portuguese, reflecting their passion for fresh ingredients and a vibrant, energetic atmosphere.
28 Sept 2025 19:48
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.
25 Jul 2025 19:31
Looking for the best Mexican food in Chester? Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey to Death by Tacos! Nestled in the heart of Chester, Death by Tacos promises an authentic and exciting Mexican street food experience.
30 Mar 2025 19:39
Sunday lunch just got a serious upgrade, we found the perfect spot right here in Warrington, Cheshire! We ventured to Vandal Bar and Restaurant, located in the Treasury Building next to the Parr Hall, and let me tell you, it was a Sunday feast fit for kings (and queens!).
7 Sept 2024 20:14
Looking for the best curry in Warrington? Tucked away on a charming, cobbled street is The Ring O Bells, a traditional, cosy pub that plays host to a culinary gem, Little India. This unique setting, a blend of historic English charm and vibrant Indian cuisine, creates an atmosphere that’s immediately warm, welcoming, and perfectly sets the stage for a memorable meal.
The North West is the UK’s entertainment powerhouse. Here is what’s on our radar for the coming months:
Neighbourhood Weekender (Warrington): May 23–24, 2026. Catch Richard Ashcroft and the Blossoms at Victoria Park.
Foo Fighters at Anfield (Liverpool): 25th & 26th June, 2026. Foot Fighters play Anfield on their Take Cover Tour 2026
Creamfields (Daresbury): August 27–30, 2026. The world's biggest electronic music festival returns to the Cheshire countryside.
Warrington Wolves Rugby League (Warrington): Super League is back from 12th February 2026
The Grand National (Aintree): Our guide to making the most of a day at the races without breaking the bank.
Warrington Arts Festival (Warrington): 18th July to 25th July 2026 in Warrington Town Centre
War of the Worlds Live: October 2026. Coming to the Blackpool Opera House and Manchester’s O2 Apollo.
Looking for tickets? We often find early bird discounts for North West pantomimes and summer festivals. Check out our blogs below where we will add any new offers.
5 Jul 2026 16:18
Get ready for an out of this world experience! The Warrington Arts Festival (WAF) 2026 is returning this summer from July 18 to July 25, promising a programme that is going "galactic." Produced by the arts charity Culture Warrington, this year’s festival invites residents and visitors to explore the town through a cosmic lens, blending world class performances with bespoke works created by local artists and young producers.
26 Jun 2026 18:27
There are stadium gigs, and then there are nights that etch themselves into your memories forever. Seeing the Foo Fighters at Anfield on Thursday 25th June 2026, the absolute hottest day of the year was exactly that.
27 Dec 2025 12:55
Christmas morning is always magical, but this year, we pulled off a surprise that made it truly unforgettable. Our 14 year old son, Charlie, a budding guitarist and music aficionado with impeccable taste (just like his mum!), got the shock of his life when he thought all the presents were opened and then discovered he was going to see the Foo Fighters!
13 Dec 2025 19:59
Warrington's cultural heart, the magnificent and historic Parr Hall, is gearing up for an incredible season of entertainment that spans music, comedy, and unmissable live shows. Known for its superb acoustics and intimate atmosphere, this Grade II listed venue continues to attract some of the biggest names on the touring circuit.
29 Nov 2025 12:19
Oh yes it is! The most enchanting tale as old as time is heading to the heart of Warrington as the spectacular pantomime, Beauty and the Beast, takes centre stage at the iconic Parr Hall in the New Year. Get ready to shout "He's behind you!", cheer for the hero, and boo the villain, because this promises to be the most dazzling, star-studded show in town!
2 Nov 2025 20:31
The moment we've been waiting for is finally here! The Neighbourhood Weekender has dropped the first wave of its incredible 2026 line-up, and it's shaping up to be an unmissable weekend of indie and pop royalty returning to Victoria Park, Warrington. Get your calendars marked for the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday, May 23rd, and Sunday, May 24th, 2026!
We know that family days out can add up, which is why we share as many deals and special offers as we can. Head over to our blog to find out more!
We are constantly adding new blogs about the amazing places that we visit across the North West along with our top tips, hidden gems and photos from our travels. Is there a specific spot you’d like us to review next?
Follow our blogs around the UK, for the latest tips and reviews.
If you're a parent who loves to explore the world with your kids without breaking the bank or losing your sanity, you're in the right place. Planning a family holiday can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. We're a family of 4 who love to travel and explore, and we've learned a thing or two about making our adventures as smooth and budget-friendly as possible. From packing hacks to finding the best deals, we're here to share our top tips so you can spend less time stressing and more time making memories.
21 May 2026 12:39
Getting ready to go on a long-haul flight with children can feel like a military operation, but with the right preparation, it can be a manageable, and even an enjoyable part of your family adventure. Whether you are flying with a curious toddler or an energetic school-aged child, a little strategic planning goes a long way.
6 May 2026 12:20
We’ve all been there, you’ve found the perfect flight, picked out a stunning hotel, and your bags are almost packed. Then, you remember the one thing that always feels like a grudge purchase, airport parking.
5 Apr 2026 18:09
If you’re looking to squeeze every drop of excitement out of your spring, Merlin Annual Pass has just dropped a deal that’s hard to ignore. The Twice the Fun offer is back for 2026, essentially giving you a 2-for-1 pass to some of the UK’s most iconic theme parks. Whether you're a family of four or a group of dedicated thrill-seekers, here is the full breakdown of how to snag this deal, where you can go, and the fine print you need to know.
8 Mar 2026 14:37
If you’ve started looking at flights for the Easter break or a quick spring getaway, you’ve probably noticed the prices are already creeping up. One way to keep the cost of your trip down to to take advantage of Go City's Spring Promo where you can save money on attractions across the world’s most popular city destinations.
8 Feb 2026 17:34
If you are a fan of adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters, Lego builds, or historic castle walls, Merlin Entertainments has just launched what might be the best value travel deal of 2026. Their Stay for a Night, Play for a Year promotion is back, offering a free Merlin Essential Annual Pass for every guest included in a short break booking. Essentially, by booking one night at a Merlin hotel, you unlock entry to over 20 of the UK’s top attractions for the whole family for the next 12 months.
3 Jan 2026 19:41
In the early 2010s, vaping was marketed as the healthy alternative to smoking. Fast forward to 2026, and the global landscape has shifted dramatically. What was once a trendy accessory is now considered a high risk liability in many parts of the world.
Planning holidays is our speciality, without proper planning you risk missing out on visiting incredible places or just not spending your time and money wisely. Whether you work full time, have children that take up your time or just don't know where to look, we can help! Our personal travel planner services are designed to turn your average holiday into the trip of a lifetime. Click the link below to find out more.