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Museums & historical sites
Museums, castles, historical sites, mills, historical industrial sites, amphitheatre

 

 

 


Photo of Beeston Castle courtesy of local photographer Mark Nelson. http://society6.com/Zardoz67

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Kidsguide tip
Most of these attractions hold special family events especially during school holidays: check the events section of their websites.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check before you go!
Sometimes things change, places close down, contact details alter or we just make a mistake.
There's nothing worse than disappointed kids so please contact the venue before you set off. 
If you do notice something wrong or out of date, please do other parents a favour and
let us know.
basic listings  

Anderton Boat Lift

Anderton nr Northwich
Restored boat lift. Ride in a boat as it is literally lifted from one canal level to another. Fun for kids and fascinating for parents.
01606 786777
info@andertonboatlift.co.uk
www.andertonboatlift.co.uk

Beeston Castle

Beeston
Ruined medieval fortress with spectacular views. Great for exploring and picnics. Steep uphill walk. Woodlands & wildlife trails. Special family friendly events.
01829 260464 (general)
0870 333 1181 (events)
www.english-heritage.org.uk/northwest

Bersham Heritage Centre

Wrexham
Devoted to telling the story of Wrexham’s historic industries and archaeological sites, Bersham Ironworks and Minera Lead Mines. Closed: October 31st 2011 – March 30th 2012.
01978 318970
bershamheritage@wrexham.gov.uk
www.wrexham.gov.uk/heritage

Birkenhead Priory & St Mary's Tower

Priory Street, Birkenhead
Benedictine Monastery 1150AD)  the oldest standing building on Merseyside. Climb the tower for great views across the Mersey.
0151 666 1249

Birkenhead Tramway & Wirral Transport Museum

Birkenhead
Tram rides.
Tickets & timetable from Tourist Info at Woodside Ferry Terminal. Museum of restored local buses, trams, cars etc. Model railway.
0151 647 6780 (trams)
0151 647 2128 (museum)
www.wirral.gov.uk

The Boat Museum

Ellesmere Port
World's largest floating collection of canal craft, 200 year old dock complex. Try steam powered crane, explore cabins, family events. Boat trips.
0151 355 5017
www.nwm.org.uk

Bolton Library and Museum Services

Bolton

For a fun family day out and inspiration for all, Bolton's Museums and Libraries are the place to go.

01204 332211

museum@bolton.gov.uk

www.boltonmuseums.org.uk

Bolton Steam Museum Bolton
The largest collection of working mill steam engines in the UK. See website for opening times and steaming days.

www.nmes.org

Cheshire Military Museum

Chester
Exhibits showing life for Cheshire soldiers and their families. Interactives. Trench display.
01244 327617

Chester Amphitheatre

Chester
Part excavated Roman amphitheatre.  History of Chester displays and brass rubbing in Chester Visitor Centre opposite.
01244 351609 (visitor centre)

Chester Cathedral

Chester
Cloisters, medieval shrine, 200 year old cobweb painting. Maths and shapes trail. Wildlife Safari (bird & animal pictures). Refectory.
01244 324756
www.chestercathedral.com

Chester Guided Walks

Chester
Historical walking tours start at Visitor Centre. Roman Soldier Wall Patrol - a route march around Deva with a Legionary in full battle gear June - Aug. Evening Ghosthunter Tours
01244 402445

Chirk Castle

Chirk
14th century fortress with medieval tower, dungeon. Beautiful grounds, tea rooms. Den building area. Snowdrop walk, family fun days. J
oin in pike drill.
01691 774706
chirkcastle@nationaltrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle

Cholmondeley Castle

Malpas
Gothic style castle (not open to public). Attractive grounds with picnic area, play area, farm animals etc. Events inc. fireworks musical evening and country fair.
01829 720383
www.cholmondeleycastle.com

Clitheroe Castle & Museum Clitheroe
Small but attractive castle ruin set on hill overlooking town, great play area. Museum very family friendly. Children's activities. Cafe.
www.lancashire.gov.uk

Congleton Museum

Congleton
Touch screen computers, pull out figures & voice-overs telling story of Congleton. Medieval boat, coin hoards.
01260 276360
info@congletonmuseum.co.uk

Conway Castle

Conway
Impressive, large thirteenth century fortress style castle with battlements and towers.
01492 592358

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Corgi Heritage Centre
 

Heywood, Rochdale
Exhibition of model Corgi vehicles. Free.
01706 365812

Dewa Roman Experience

Chester
Climb aboard Roman galley, walk through reconstructed Roman streets. Fortress excavations. Hands-on studio: try on roman armour etc.
01244 343407

Dunham Massey

Altrincham
18th century mansion. Victorian servants "below stairs". Ghosts! Sawmill. Gardens and parkland. Free kids quizzes, events and family workshops.
0161 9411025
dunhammassey@ntrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Ewloe Castle Wepre Park, Connah's Quay
Ruins of a native Welsh castle, one of the last fortifications built by the Princes of Wales. Walk through a wooded valley: can be very muddy. Loads of streams, waterfalls, squirrels. Very atmospheric. Children's play area in Wepre Park.
www.flintshire.gov.uk

Greater Manchester's Museum of Transport

Manchester
Nearly ninety historical vehicles, of which a large proportion are buses  and also the prototype for Metrolink trams.
0161 205 2122
www.gmts.co.uk

Grosvenor Museum

Chester
Chester from pre-history to today. Romans, fossils, quizzes, interactive exhibits.  Some kids' workshops - must be pre-booked
01244 402008
www.grosvenormuseum.co.uk

Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker

Nantwich
Secret nuclear bunker only declassified in 1993. Visit govt HQ, BBC studio etc. Emergency TV broadcasts. Soviet Spy Mouse Trail for smaller kids.
01270 629219
coldwar@hackgreen.co.uk
www.hackgreen.co.uk

Halton Castle Halton Brow
Castle ruins.
01928 569 895
www.nortonpriory.org/menu/halton-castle
The Hardmans' House Liverpool
T
ime capsule of post-war years. Unopened food rations, glamorous period clothing,  evocative original photographs. Children's quiz trail. Book your place on a tour in advance.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
The Hat Works Stockport
Special exhibitions, children’s events, craft workshops in holidays and special family activities. Children's tours (booking essential).
0161 355 7770
bookings.hatworks@stockport.gov.uk
www.hatworks.org.uk

Imperial War Museum North

Salford
Focuses on how war shapes lives. Hands-on sessions including crafts and dressing up plus Animals and War Tour at weekends. Family "Hot Spot" activities during holidays.
0161 836 4000
iwmnorth@iwm.org.uk
http://north.iwm.org.uk

International Slavery Museum

Liverpool
Based in the Merseyside Maritime Museum at Liverpool's Albert Dock. Explores both the historical and contemporary aspects of slavery telling stories of bravery and rebellion amongst the enslaved people.
0151 478 4499
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ism/

Lancaster Castle Lancaster
Dates back to 12th century. Site of the Pendle witch trials and still used as a law court. Well preserved with lots to see. Events inc. kids' activity tours.

www.lancastercastle.com

Leasowe Lighthouse

North Wirral Coastal Park, Near Moreton
You can climb to the top on the first Sunday of each month in winter, and in first and third Sundays in summer. There is a visitor centre. Minimum height 1.10 metres so not for small children.
1.00 -  4.00.
www.leasowelighthouse.co.uk

Little Moreton Hall

Congleton
Free guided tours of hall, a famous example of Tudor half-timbered architecture. Herb and vegetable garden, knot garden. Picnic lawn.
01260 272018

littlemoretonhall@nationaltrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Llanymynech Limeworks Heritage Area Llanymynech
Explore the fascinating Hoffman Kiln. Follow Caratacus, the Romans, Offa and others onto Llanymynech Hill. Enjoy the wildlife.
01691 839130
joanzorn@tiscali.co.uk
www.llanymynech.org.uk

Macclesfield Silk Museums

Macclesfield
4 museums. Fabric and clothing exhibits. Working looms, hands-on activities. Try weaving designing and printing.
01625 612045
www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk

Manchester Museum

Manchester
Egyptology, science for life gallery, mammals, birds and live animals, collections of fossils and minerals. Kids' workshops and activity sessions. Monthly "
Big Saturdays" family activity days. Monthly under 5s sessions with storytelling, art & crafts.
0161 275 2634
www.museum.manchester.ac.uk

Merseyside Maritime Museum

Liverpool
Story of Liverpool's maritime history, emigration and slavery. D
ress up as sailors, pirates or mermaids, activity sheets, books and a rocking boat. Sea Urchins play area.
0151 478 4499
maritime@liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/maritime

Minera Lead Mines and Country Park
 

Wrexham
Starting point for the Clywedog Trail. Restored beam engine house, winding engine and boiler houses. Try panning for lead. Picnic spots with scenic views.
01978 762122
mineraleadmines@wrexham.gov.uk
www.wrexham.gov.uk

Mouldsworth Motor Museum

Mouldsworth
Vintage, classic and sports cars, early bicycles. Old toys and pedal cars. Kids quiz with prizes. Near Delamere Forest.
01928 731781
www.mouldsworthmotormuseum.com

Museum of Liverpool Liverpool
Demonstrates Liverpool’s unique contribution to the world and showcase popular culture while tackling social, historical and contemporary issues.
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/mol/
Museum of the Manchester Regiment Ashton-under-Lyne
The Museum tells the story of the Manchester Regiment soldiers through the objects they left behind including uniforms, equipment, weaponry, souvenirs and medals. Art activities and family workshops in the holidays.
0161 342 2254
www.tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/mom

Museum of Science and Industry

Manchester
Tells the story of the history, science and industry of Manchester - the world's first industrial city. Frequent activities and workshops for children at weekends.
0161 606 0156
www.mosi.org.uk

Nant Mill & Clwedog Valley

Wrexham
North Wales own "Ironbridge Gorge". Walking trail through valley with nature trails and picnic spots. Also Minera lead mines.
01978 752772
mineraleadmines@wrexham.gov.uk
www.wrexham.gov.uk

Nantwich Museum

Nantwich
Tells the story of Nantwich through the ages - Quizzes and special child-friendly displays during holidays.
01270 627104
enquiries@nantwichmuseum.org.uk

www.nantwichmuseum.org.uk

National Conservation Centre Liverpool
See craftspeople conserving art and sculpture. Exhibits inc. m
ummified Egyptian crocodile &  Peter Pan's People's Gallery. Free activities suitable for families on Saturday afternoons & school holidays. Children's menu and highchair in café. Nearby St Johns Gardens suitable for picnics.
0151 478 4999
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/conservation
National Football Museum Manchester
Hall of Fame. Interactive activities: test your speed, reactions and accuracy, score a penalty, try commentating.  Cafe and shop.
0161 605 8200
www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
National Museum of Penny Slot Machines Southport Pier
Over 100 Penny Slot machines some dating back to the 1890's. Great fun to play inc. Blackpool Tram Race and Harry Corbett’s Sooty TV Concert’.
www.visitsouthport.com

Nether Alderley Mill

Nether Alderley
15th century working watermill. Flour grinding demonstrations.
01625 584412 
www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Norton Priory Museum & Gardens

Runcorn
800 year old Augustan priory excavated to show how medieval monks lived. Walled garden.
01928 569895
info@nortonpriory.org
www.nortonpriory.org

Park Bridge Heritage Centre Medlock Valley, Ashton under Lyne
Restored remains of industrial buildings & railway lines. Includes Stables Tea Room.
0161 330 9613
www.tameside.gov.uk/countryside/medlock

The People's History Museum

Manchester
Museum dedicated to the 'extraordinary story of ordinary people', offering a new look at the lives of working people over the last 200 years.
0161 839 6061
info@peopleshistorymuseum.org.uk
www.peopleshistorymuseum.org.uk

Portland Basin Museum Ashton under Lyne
Restored nineteenth century Ashton Canal Warehouse. Trails and activities for children. Picnic tables. Canal boat trips.
Open Tuesday - Sunday, 10am - 5pm.  Free admission

0161 343 2878
www.tameside.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/portlandbasin.htm
Port Sunlight Museum & Garden Village

Port Sunlight, Wirral

Port Sunlight Museum & Garden Village offers family fun throughout the year, featuring a Museum, sprawling gardens and a tearoom. 

0151 644 6466

info@portsunlightvillage.com
www.portsunlightvillage.com

Prescot Museum Prescot, Knowsley
Prescot Museum's new exhibition explores the Natural World with objects from World Museum Liverpool, with visits from Knowsley Safari Park's smaller animals.
0151 430 7787

Quarry Bank Mill 

Wilmslow
Restored cotton mill. Try weaving, dyeing cotton etc. See how hard children worked. Water wheel. Woodland/riverside walk. Play area. School holiday activities for all the family. Picnic facilities. Trails and tracker packs. Cycle route.
01625 527468
quarrybankmill@ntrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Royal Air Force Museum

Cosford, Shropshire
Large aviation collection with over 70 historic aircraft. Visitor centre and restaurant. Free entry except during special shows and rallies.
01902 376 200
cosford@rafmuseum.org
www.rafmuseum.org

Ruthin Gaol

Ruthin
Find out what prison was like in the 19th century. Try the hand crank and experience the dark cell.
01824 708281
susan.dalloe@denbighshire.gov.uk

www.ruthingaol.co.uk

The Salt Museum

see Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse

Setantii Museum Ashton-under-Lyne
The history of Tameside from Celtic times to the present day with olden day figures, replica armour and the Anderson air raid shelter with wartime sound effects. Holiday art activities and family workshops.
0161 342 2812
www.tameside.gov.uk/setantii

Shore Road Pumping Station

Birkenhead
Display about building the Mersey Railway Tunnel and a working giant steam pump "the Giant Grasshopper".
0151 650 1182
www.wirral.gov.uk

Speke Hall

Liverpool
Mansion with priest hole, Victorian kitchen, servants' quarters. Wooded gardens, walk along the Bund. Kids' play area. Children's activity sheets.
0151 427 7231
spekehall@nationaltrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Stretton Watermill

Stretton, nr Farndon
Working corn mill in beautiful setting on Dee. Two waterwheels turning grain into flour. Picnic spot. Local walks nearby. Open only at certain times - check website.
01606 41331
cheshiremuseums@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
www.strettonwatermill.org.uk

Touchstones Rochdale Rochdale
Arts and Heritage Centre  with lots of family activities. Free entry to the museum and art galleries.  Family Activity Creative Tours (F.A.C.T.) last Sunday of every month. Summer holiday events. Cafe
www.link4life.org

Warrington Museum & Art Gallery

Warrington
Fossils, Egyptian treasures. Family friendly exhibits and see kids' section on their web site. Holiday activities.
01925 442392
museum@warrington.gov.uk
www.warrington.gov.uk/museum

Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse (formerly the Salt Museum) Northwich
History of Cheshire's salt industry. Interactive exhibits and free kids quiz sheets. Special events and school trips.
01606 41331
www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/visiting/museums/weaver-hall.aspx

Wirral Museum

 

Hamilton Square, Birkenhead
Permanent exhibitions include a model of the Woodside area at the time of the opening the Queensway Road Tunnel
Admission Free
0151 666 4010
www.wirral.gov.uk

World Museum Liverpool
 

Liverpool
Egyptian and Asian artefacts. Natural history inc. fossils and dinosaurs. Planetarium with free public shows inc. sunshine show for the under-5s

0151
478 4399
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/

World of Glass

St Helens
Galleries and interactive exhibits. Victorian furnace and labyrinth of tunnels, mirror maze, interactive play area, glass blowing demonstration.
08700 114466
www.worldofglass.com 

Wrexham County Borough Museum & Archives

Regent Street, Wrexham
A great visitor experience for everyone who wants to discover the county borough’s heritage and collections held in the museum and the archives. Coffee bar & bistro.

01978 317970
museum@wrexham.gov.uk
www.wrexham.gov.uk/heritage

   
other links you might find useful:
private parks & gardens
galleries
boats, trains & automobiles 
scientific attractions

places to go in Cheshire
places to go in Manchester
places to go in Merseyside
places to go in NE Wales
   
 


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