Lancashire Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs in Lancashire, England. Plan your trip with our detailed travel guide!


Introduction to Lancashire

Lancashire is a county located in North West England, bordering Greater Manchester to the south and Cumbria to the north. It has a rich industrial heritage, charming countryside, and exciting cities. Lancashire is divided into three regions: West Lancashire, Central Lancashire, and East Lancashire. Each region has its unique attractions and draws visitors from all over the globe.

In this comprehensive guide, discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs in Lancashire. Plan your trip with our detailed travel guide!

List of Places to Visit in Lancashire

Lancashire is home to many culturally significant attractions as well as natural wonders. Here are our top picks for places to visit in Lancashire:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Lancaster Castle: This historic castle is over 900 years old and has been used as a prison, courthouse, and castle. It now houses a museum and is open to the public.

  2. Blackpool Tower: This iconic structure in the seaside town of Blackpool offers stunning views of the coastline and is home to a circus, ballroom, and other attractions.

  3. The Beatles Statue: This statue of The Beatles in their hometown of Liverpool is a must-see for any fan of the famous band.

Natural Attractions of Lancashire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. The Lake District National Park: This stunning national park straddles the border between Lancashire and Cumbria and offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating.

  2. Forest of Bowland: This beautiful forest spans across the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers, bird watchers, and hikers.

  3. Morecambe Bay: This breathtaking bay offers sweeping views of the coastline and is a popular spot for walks and picnics.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lancashire

Lancashire offers several fantastic hiking and biking routes. Here are our top picks:

  1. Pendle Hill: This iconic hill is 557 meters high and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a challenging hike but worth the effort.

  2. The Lancashire Coastal Way: This 137 km long coastal path runs along the coast from Merseyside to Cumbria. It offers stunning views of the sea and the countryside.

  3. The Trough of Bowland: This scenic route takes you through the heart of the Forest of Bowland, offering breathtaking views of the countryside and several quaint villages.

Best Things to Do in Lancashire: Activities and Tours

Lancashire offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors. Here are our top picks:

  1. The Blackpool Illuminations: This annual light show illuminates the promenade and is a must-see for any visitor to Blackpool.

  2. The Lancaster Canal: This historic canal is a great spot for a leisurely boat ride or a relaxing walk.

  3. The Ribble Steam Railway: This heritage railway offers a unique way to explore the Lancashire countryside and is a must-visit for any train enthusiast.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lancashire

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Lancashire:

Day 1

  • Explore the historic city of Lancaster, including Lancaster Castle and the Lancaster Cathedral.

Day 2

  • Head to the seaside town of Blackpool and experience the Blackpool Illuminations.

Day 3

  • Visit the Trough of Bowland and enjoy stunning views of the countryside and villages.

Day 4

  • Explore the Lake District National Park and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Day 5

  • Take a leisurely boat ride along the Lancaster Canal and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day 6

  • Step back in time at the Ribble Steam Railway and explore the Lancashire countryside by train.

Day 7

  • Walk along the Morecambe Bay and enjoy the stunning coastline views.

Food and Drink Scene of Lancashire

Lancashire is famous for its hearty and traditional cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Lancashire Hotpot: This lamb and potato stew is a classic Lancashire dish and is a must-try for any visitor.

  2. Chorley cakes: This sweet pastry filled with currants is a popular Lancashire snack and is perfect with a cup of tea.

Local Beverages

  1. Thwaites Beer: This award-winning beer is brewed in Blackburn and is a must-try for any beer lover.

  2. Lancashire Cheese: This tangy, crumbly cheese is a staple of the Lancashire diet and is delicious with a pint of beer.

Where to Stay in Lancashire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lancashire offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some top picks:

  1. The Midland Hotel: This iconic hotel in Morecambe offers stunning views of the sea and is a great spot for a luxurious stay.

  2. The Mitre Inn: This historic inn in Lancaster is a great spot for a cozy and affordable stay.

What to Buy in Lancashire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lancashire offers many unique souvenirs and locally made products. Here are some top picks:

  1. Lancashire Cheese: This delicious cheese is a must-buy for any food lover.

  2. Lancashire Textiles: The county is known for its textiles, including wool, cotton, and lace.

Local Culture and Customs of Lancashire

Lancashire has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and festivals. The county is famous for its friendly residents and welcoming atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Lancashire

The best time to visit Lancashire is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the busiest months, so book accommodation in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lancashire

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine and visit the traditional pubs.

  2. Respect the local customs and traditions, including the diversity of people and religious beliefs.

Don’t:

  1. Litter: Lancashire’s natural beauty is one of its biggest assets, so help preserve it.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lancashire

Lancashire is a relatively safe county, but it’s always advisable to take precautions against theft and stay in well-lit areas after dark.

Health in Lancashire

Lancashire has a well-developed health system, including public hospitals and private clinics. It’s always advisable to have travel insurance before visiting any country.

Getting to Lancashire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lancashire is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Lancashire

  1. Manchester Airport: The airport is located 72 km from Lancaster and is well-connected to major cities around the world.

  2. Liverpool Airport: The airport is located 68 km from Blackpool and offers flights to several domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Lancashire

  1. Lancaster Bus Station: The bus station is located in the heart of Lancaster and offers services to several destinations in Lancashire and beyond.

  2. Blackpool Coach Station: The coach station is located in the city center and offers services to several destinations in Lancashire and beyond.

Other Options

  1. Train: Lancashire is well-connected by rail, with several train stations throughout the county.

  2. Car Rental: There are several car rental companies located in Lancashire, including Hertz and Enterprise.

How to Get Around in Lancashire

Lancashire is easily navigable by public transport, including buses and trains. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Where to Go Next from Lancashire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lancashire is surrounded by several exciting destinations, including:

  1. Manchester: This vibrant city is located just south of Lancashire and offers a wide range of cultural attractions and activities.

  2. The Peak District National Park: This stunning national park is located just east of Lancashire and offers a wide range of outdoor activities and scenic views.

Conclusion

Lancashire is a historic and beautiful county with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and exciting cities. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re ready to plan your perfect trip to Lancashire. Enjoy your visit!

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    Blackpool
    Chorley
    Cleveleys
    Clitheroe
    Forest of Bowland
    Lancaster
    Lytham St Annes
    Morecambe
    Poulton-le-Fylde
    Rossendale