Explore Lancashire

The best part of planning your holiday is figuring out all the wonderful places you want to visit. Thankfully, a short break or day out in Lancashire doesn’t have to break the bank, as you’ll find a heap of free outdoor things to do, ideal for those sunny summer days.

It’s bank holiday weekend (again!) and the sun is set to shine all weekend, so why not visit one of the many exciting events happening across Lancashire. Check out this handy list below to discover more about some of the events happening, or for further information why not head over to our events guide.

Environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy have recently announced the winners of the prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for summer 2023.

It’s World Cocktail Day this Saturday and to celebrate we’ve gathered some delicious cocktail recipes provided to us from a selection of different Lancashire businesses.

This weekend is a great opportunity to learn more about the special connection Lancashire has with the Royal Family. Whether it’s a trip to Lancaster Castle to learn more about the Duke Of Lancaster or a trip to one of Lancashire’s historic sites who have had a monarch visit in the past, there’s plenty of opportunities to learn more about the royal connection to Lancashire.

Home to the Kings Castle of the North, Lancaster has had a strong royal connection for centuries. So what better way to celebrate the upcoming coronation of King Charles III than with a stroll around this beautiful historic city.

Spring has sprung and what better time of the year to get out and about in nature. The blossom is blooming and for around six weeks of the season Lancashire’s beautiful woodlands host a wonderful carpet of bluebells.

There’s something wonderful about a trip to the beach in summer. Feeling the soft warm sand between your toes, the smell of the fresh sea air, and the taste of delicious ice cream, especially if you can bring your four-legged friend along too.

Although some of Lancashire’s beaches impose restrictions during the summer months, there are still plenty of great dog-friendly beaches waiting to be explored.

One of the world’s oldest emus will celebrate his 40th birthday at Blackpool Zoo on Monday 20th March. 

Throughout the Easter break the Charity has planned activities and events at their Centre, Shores Hey Farm in Burnley, Lancashire. They are also encouraging food lovers to come and enjoy an Easter afternoon tea or fish supper in The Cafe.

We’re very excited to announce that Lancaster’s 44^th Annual Literature Festival, Litfest, begins this Friday 17 March. Running until the 26 March, we’ll be offering a packed programme of events, including opportunities to meet our authors; take part in discussions; find out more about nature and history, philosophy and politics; and be entertained by poems and stories.

As the proud winners of the Lancashire Tourism Award for Best Self-Catering Accommodation, we wanted to celebrate English Tourism Week by sharing some exciting news.

Turtle Bay is heading to Blackpool as new restaurant and bar confirmed for town centre.
    •    Turtle Bay Blackpool will open in summer 2023
    •    The Caribbean-inspired restaurant and bar coming to ground floor of the Forshaws Hotel on the promenade

The Mall Blackburn’s happy themed free crafts sessions have been a huge hit with little artists this week and there is still plenty more fun to be had!

Finding the love of your life is magical, and it makes you want to make every moment perfect for them. If you have found your one true love and are ready to get down on one knee, then you need two things; the ring and the perfect place to propose.

Halloween is fast approaching and there’s no better way to get into the spooky spirit than pumpkin picking.

It’s World Cocktail Day and it’s a Friday – there really has been no better time to sit back relax and enjoy a cocktail or two...

As part of National Walking Month Glen Duckett has shared his favourite local walking route, why not give it a go this weekend?

On Saturday 16^th April, Blackpool Pleasure Beach will be open until 10pm for egg-citing Easter fun during the park’s first Late Night Riding event of the year. As well as enjoying Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s fantastic line up of rides, as with all late night riding events, guests can be amazed by a spectacular fireworks display to end the night.

From the Ultimate Fiesta at The Blackpool Tower Circus to uncovering the gruelling history of Lancashire at The Blackpool Tower Dungeon, there's plenty to keep you entertained in Blackpool this Easter. 

Cedar Farm is not just a great place to find awesome gifts for Mother’s Day but also a wonderful place to take your mum for the day. To help you celebrate Mother’s Day at Cedar Farm, we’ve put together the following guide, so you make the most of your day there. 

Did you know Lancashire is home to a selection of the best wildlife nature reserves and sites in the country?

With 354 recorded bird species, it’s time to get out those binoculars in Lancashire!

Panto season is finally here in Lancashire and with so many to choose from we sent local mummy @amy_colgan_86 to check out the Grand Theatre’s production in Blackpool.

If you are looking for things to do this weekend, Lancashire has you covered. Check out our list of some of the exciting events happening this weekend across the county.

On Saturday 27 November, all true-blooded Lancastrians will be celebrating #LancashireDay. This year we have put together a list of exclusive offers so you can spread the love to the local Lancashire businesses.

Lancashire Day 2021 is here! We've put together a list of some of the exciting events happening this Lancashire Day. 

Get in the Christmas spirit and visit one of Lancashire's exciting festive events happening this weekend. 

Just because Halloween and Bonfire night are finished, it doesn't mean the fun has to stop! There are lots of exciting events happening this weekend, so there's no need to be bored. Some are even free, so no matter your budget you can have fun in Lancashire this weekend. 

Bonfire night is here! There are lots of organised bonfire and firework’s displays happening across Lancashire so you can celebrate safely. If fireworks aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty of things happening across the county this weekend, so there’s no need to be bored.

There's lots of exciting things happening across Lancashire this weekend, so if you are looking for something to get you in the spooky sprit, to keep the kids quiet or simply to make the most of the weekend, there is something for you. 

From Octoberfest celebrations to Apple Day Festivals, Singing performances to Halloween events, there's lots of exciting events happening across Lancashire this weekend.

Check out our list of some of the events taking place across Lancashire this weekend. 

It's October and there's lots of exciting events happening in Lancashire, we've put together a list of some of the things happening in Lancashire this weekend. 

Back by popular demand, Blackpool Zoo is inviting intrepid investigators to its super spookfest this October. 

The small Lancashire market town of Darwen woke up today to find a massive mural of England and Manchester United footballer Luke Shaw on the side of an iconic period building in its town centre.

The exciting new season programme from Blackpool Grand Theatre got the seal of approval from the Alan Carr and Craig Revel Horwood waxworks at Madame Tussaud’s. 

Spend a relaxing 24 hours exploring Chorley’s historic houses, famous market town and surrounding countryside.

We've put together a list of all the exciting things happening this weekend in Lancashire, for even more events happening this month in Lancashire check out our What's On page. 

There is nothing better than getting some fresh air and exploring the beautiful sights of Lancashire, however when it comes to choosing a pram-friendly walking route, it isn’t always easy.

“A 10-day Lytham Festival for 2022 will attract around 200,000 live music fans and we can’t wait to bring global icons back to Lytham Green.”

Lancaster Arts announces a season of live arts events this autumn continuing their on-going theme of Water, focussing on the environmental crisis we are facing.

The newly refurbished Whitaker Museum has been celebrating high visitor numbers after its reopening in July.

Lancaster's Dukes theatre has paid an unusual tribute to a much-loved volunteer and supporter of their outdoor walkabout shows.

Celebrate afternoon tea week and enjoy a deliciously decadent Lancashire Afternoon Tea in the spectacular setting of Hoghton Tower.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach has a whole host of shows ready for families to enjoy this summer. From stunning ice performances, to magical illusion shows and even a combination of fine dining and the best in live entertainment, there is something for everyone.

After a two-year absence from Lancaster's Williamson Park, The Dukes is delighted to entertain audiences outdoors once again.

Long car journeys aren’t ideal, especially for kids, that’s why we’ve put together a list of 5 places for you to detour off the M6, stretch your legs and Rediscover Lancashire.

Have a fun-filled weekend in Lancashire!

Here’s a list of just some of the fantastic things going on in Lancashire this weekend.

Make the most of the summer days and enjoy a delicious picnic in the beautiful Lancashire countryside. Gather your troops, prepare your picnic, and explore some of the finest picnic destinations Lancashire has to offer.

Lancashire-based and independent visitor attraction, the Bowland Wild Boar Park, is ready to thrill family visitors with brand-new facilities this summer, having added engaging, fun and more unusual features to its day visitor experience.

Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours have announced a unique tour experience for 2021, which includes a 75 minute tram tour along Blackpool Promenade and locally sourced Fish & Chips.

An exhibition reaches hopefully towards the end of the rainbow. Pre-Raphaelite Artist of Hope displays Evelyn De Morgan’s symbolic paintings alongside contemporary stories from those who have lived through warfare and from NHS staff who have served on the frontline during the pandemic. 

A tender comedy-drama about a beautiful, life-affirming lockdown romance, Sunnymead Court, visits The Dukes in Lancaster on Monday 5 July 2021. 

Escape the everyday with a wonderful break for two in Lancashire. 
Follow the journey of the honey bee, and find out how The Bee Centre's delicious honey is at the centre of some of Brindle Distillery's creations. Then explore Lancashire from a different viewpoint on bike or by luxury canal boat. 

Escape the everyday with this two day itinerary exploring Lancashire's great outdoors. 
See the counties stunning scenery from all angles, whether that is beside a Llama, up in the trees, speeding on a trial bike or at a more leisurely pace. 

Escape the everyday with a fun family 48-hours in Lancashire. 
Experence the thrills of tractor rides, farm animals, trams and more, as well as staying in some very exciting accommodation. 

Escape the everyday with a weekend filled with farm yard fun!
From feeding the animals, to tractor rides and freshly made ice cream, Lancashire's working farms each offer something different to explore.

Escape the everyday and enjoy a wonderful break to Lancashire's coast. 
Take a trip to the seaside, enjoy time on the sand and even in the sea, then travel down the prom and take in the artwork. Follow that by a restful night, morning swim and afternoon group activities. 

Come rain or shine, al fresco dining is here to stay. Check out some Lancashire businesses who are bringing the inside out, this spring.

Holden Clough Nurseries is hosting two weekends of artisan Spring Markets.
 

Highest Point Festival has today announced the full line up for the event which will take place in Lancashire this Septembe

Residents and visitors are reminded there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in Easter activities at home, or in one of Preston’s many parks and open spaces.

Get ready for WonderHall – a brand new six-day live music festival coming to Lancashire’s stunning coast this summer.

There’s no better way to enjoy the summer sun than sharing a delicious picnic with friends and family. With miles of soft golden sand and luscious green countryside to explore, Lancashire is home to some of the best picnic spots in the country.

It’s beer garden season. Here’s our Lancashire list of the best outdoor spots to enjoy your ice cold pint, cocktail or wine! 

Moss Wood Caravan Park can't wait to welcome you back. To ensure a safe and comfortable visit, they've shared their COVID-19 safety measures with us.

Watch Sandcastle Waterpark's informative video which highlights all the safety measures to ensure a smooth return. Sandcastle Waterpark has completely overhauled it’s admission process to ensure tha..

Brickhouse Farm Cottages are beautifully situated within 6 acres of stunning Lancashire countryside. These cottages are purpose-built holiday accommodation for families, friends and carers which i..

Gisburne Park will open the UK festival season this May with an eclectic weekend of entertainment, from family shows to live music and their famous Party in the Park.

Immerse yourself in Lancashire's literacy history and walk in the footsteps of some of the most famous authors in the world. 

Amidst the fast-changing situation regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, we want to keep all Lancashire visitors, past, present and future, as up to date as possible.

Blog updated 25 February 2022

Who doesn't love a Lancashire loop? Reservoirs are great walking spots for people who get lost easily

Are you loving series 2 of The Bay? We certainly are. We want to highlight some of the beauty of The Bay that’s being shown on our screens - which you can visit in the future.

Valentine’s Day is approaching and we want to help you #EscapeTheEveryday and celebrate in the best way you can.

We're no experts, but if you're struggling today - this might help. 

The famous purple suit worn by comedian Peter Kay in the video for the 2005 Comic Relief single ‘(Is this the way to) Amarillo’ has been acquired by Showtown, the new museum of fun and entertainment coming to Blackpool.

Martin Mere is the perfect escape during the long winter months. A sprinkling of frost and a heavy-hanging sun casting an ethereal glow across an expanse of wetlands is a must for anyone looking for a lift. They are packed with winter wetland wildlife and opportunities to get back to nature and create cherished memories. 

The hope families will soon be reunited and able to make new memories through live music has inspired a heart-warming new advertising campaign for Lytham Festival.

The hit Broadway and West End show ‘ELF – THE MUSICAL’, based on the Hollywood blockbuster movie, will bring some much-needed Christmas cheer to Blackpool this Christmas with a sleigh full of laughs and spectacle.

All the best things about the red rose county 

Artists chosen by local young people to celebrate equality, fight racism and make positive change will be displaying their work across Lancaster from November 27.

Visitors will be greeted by Mrs Claus and guided through Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s very own North Pole, before meeting the star of the show – Father Christmas. A truly interactive experience, the elves will ensure all children have a present to put under the tree this winter season.

Winner of Britain’s Got Talent 2020 - To perform llive this December

The Royal Variety Charity is thrilled to announce that the Royal Variety Performance 2020 will take place at the Blackpool Opera House, within the Winter Gardens complex, on Sunday 29^th November.

WORLD PREMIERE OF
THE OSMONDS: A NEW MUSICAL
EMBARKS ON UK TOUR 
Opera House Blackpool
Tuesday 29 March – Saturday 02 April 2022

Just because we're in lockdown it does not mean you can't do your Christmas shopping as well as support some fab local businesses!

Let’s get #LancashireDay trending with your ‘thank yous’, virtual hugs and some Grand Lancashire Day prizes!

This Halloween, Astley Hall will be home to a free spooky ghost hunt for families to enjoy until the end of November.

Two live music events streamed to where you are!

Starting on Saturday 24th October and running until 2nd November, those who book appointments to visit the Farm will also be able to join in the Halloween Hunt with Spook Stations set out across the Farm. With a gift for all completed sheets, it’s a great add on for ‘little monsters’ for just £2 per puzzle sheet.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach is providing the ultimate thrill this Halloween, with a frighteningly good drive-in cinema alongside a programme of fang-tastic events and activities.

There are some fantastic prizes on offer in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty photo competition running throughout October. 

This Half Term families are invited to go on an adventure with Ugg ‘N’ Ogg and The World’s First Dogg at The Dukes Playhouse in Lancaster. 

Blackpool is lining up a brilliant assortment of family entertainment for the October half-term holidays.

With the months getting colder, it’s time for your drinks to get hotter. Longer nights call for indulgent moments, and who better to deliver the goods than Choc Amor.

Lancashire’s long and rich history is part of the county’s lasting appeal, however as with every good historic tale, it usually comes with something a little more sinister.

Enjoy 100 acres of fantastic trialing land based in the Forest of Bowland in the beautiful Ribble Valley, Inch Perfect Trials guarantees to be a brilliant day out filled with excitement!

Fearsome Craftsmen will open this Saturday running until 13 December inside the Pavilion Theatre. 

There aren’t many festivals that literally offer you something for everyone, but Gisburne Park Pop up certainly does.

HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association) are inviting you to join them for the annual Open Day, but this year it’s online.