Your Summer, Sorted

Manchester

Sport, culture and science all in one city – Manchester has everything on its doorstep, or at most a short tram ride away.

1. Etihad Stadium: Home of Manchester City, the 55000 capacity stadium is brought to life in a tour including a virtual Pep Guardiola Press Conference, checking out the Tunnel Club, and dreaming big in the dressing room
2. John Rylands Library: Over 100 years old, the library is not only filled with incredible books of imagination and learning, but is also architecturally stunning. With regular family activities and special exhibitions, the whole family’s sure to be intrigued.
3. Science & Industry Museum: Manchester has been at the forefront of scientific innovation all of which you can explore here, from the booming cotton trade giving it the name Cottonopolis, to the discovery of the wonder material Graphene.

Liverpool

With the docks glistening in the sunshine, Liverpool is a fantastic waterside city full of rich history:

1. Anfield Stadium: LFC fans won’t want to miss the behind the scene tour of the state of the art dressing rooms, player’s tunnel and the pitch itself, plus all the history of the club.
2. Liverpool Cathedral: As Britain’s largest cathedral, it’s a truly awe-inspiring building regardless of your beliefs. Marvel at the stunning stained glass and enjoy the intimate quiet synonymous with cathedrals.
3. The Beatles Story: Get up close and personal with the famous four, discovering their roots, journey and of course, the music.

Birmingham

The curry mile, a hub for the arts, and full of Industrial Revolution landmarks – go back in time in this fascinating hub

1. Birmingham Back to Backs: Go back in time and discover the lives of 19th-century workers in these sensitively restored back to back terraced houses, the last surviving of their kind in the city.
2. Symphony Hall: Home of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, this world class venue is an acoustic treat. With events from all genres, treat yourself to an afternoon of music.
3. Museum & Art Gallery: From Anglo-Saxon gold, to Egyptian gods, to 19th Century art. Culture and history come together under one roof.

Sheffield

With the Eastern Pennines within easy reach for anyone with an adventurous spirit, Sheffield itself has plenty on hand for those wanting a bit of nature closer to home

1. Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre: Just half an hour from the city, walk amongst the meerkats and count the butterflies before witnessing spectacular bird of prey displays.
2. Botanical Gardens: Take time out of modern live and enjoy 19 acres of stunning gardens, first opened in 1836. With winding paths, a Grade II listed Bear Pit, and 312million year old fossilised tree, there’s something to discover beyond every shrub.
3. Graves Park: Perfect for a picnic, flying a kite, having a run around or taking a strong. With the Animal Farm nearby too, you and your family can get a taste of country life.

Chester

Originally a walled Roman fortress, Chester is bursting with intrigue… and a lion or two!

1. Chester Zoo: One of the UK’s largest zoos, Chester is unforgettable. Not just filled with stunning animals, but committing itself to conservation and saving species from the brink of extinction, see their work in action.
2. Chester Cathedral: Over 900 years old, you can see the remains of a Georgian square, Roman barracks and Norman building elements in this incredible venue for performance and faith.
3. Walls of Chester: Follow in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and enjoy panoramic views of Chester along the most complete circuit of city walls in England.