subject: Exploring The North Of England [print this page] The Northwest of England may be famous for its chilly climate, but theres much more to this part of the United Kingdom than grey skies and drizzle. Some of the best nightlife and shopping outside the capital can be found in buzzing cities such as Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool, while outdoor types will be in their element in the beautiful Lake District and mountainous Peak District, where opportunities for adrenaline-pumping adventure sports abound.
Caving, climbing, abseiling, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking are just some of the white knuckle pursuits that can be enjoyed in the rolling hills, dales and mountains of the north of England, while those who like to take things a little more gently can opt for gentle strolls or bicycle rides.
Cities in the north of England benefit from being close to the beautiful countryside, so its possible to combine a weekends shopping and clubbing with adventures in the great outdoors. Liverpool city centre hotels, for example, are close to the citys cosmopolitan drinking and dining along the waterfront, but just a short train ride away from scenic countryside and family-friendly attractions such as Chester Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park. Your Liverpool centre hotel might be a budget, few-frills chain hotel, a friendly bed and breakfast, a chic boutique hotel or a modern high rise affair with good business facilties. Whatever your taste and whatever your budget, youll be ideally placed for exploring not just the city itself but the many other attractions that the North of England has to offer. The historic city of Chester is easily reached by train from Liverpool, while the buzzing shopping and nightlife of Manchester lie less than an hour away by road or rail.
The north of England is also home to some beautiful historic stately homes and gardens, including Tatton Park and Chatsworth House, both of which make ideal family days out during the summer. And sports fans visiting the north of England will be spoilt for choice, as it is possible to visit the grounds of Manchester United at Old Trafford and arch rivals Manchester City at the City of Manchester Stadium, as well as Liverpool at Old Trafford and local rivals Everton at Goodison Park. Whatever your interests, the north of England has a great deal to offer.