Greenwood House

There is so much to explore in the unspoilt local countryside of the Forest of Bowland. Just a short distance away from the house, you will find the bustling market towns of Clitheroe and Settle.

Take a trip up the hillside to the free entry to Clitheroe Castle, a crumbling ruin of a Medieval Castle with a Museum on the grounds and stunning panoramic views of Ribble Valley’s historic landscape.  

Keen walkers and cyclists will find a treasure trove of routes through the nearby Gisburn Forest, with deep woodland and challenging hills providing award-winning mountain bike routes to test all abilities.   For further physical fun, head off to the gorgeous Yorkshire dales and take on one, or all three, of the Peaks, Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen-y-Ghent.

Take in the breathtaking limestone scenery, sweeping valleys, waterfalls and ancient woodlands. Grab a pair of hiking boots and take one of the many trails to explore the area to its fullest!

The town of Kirkby Lonsdale is a half-hour drive away, where you can roam the independent shops and restaurants. There you will find a delightful nature trail at Devil’s Bridge which leads you to a breathtaking 300ft Mynach waterfall.

A visit should not go by without a trip to the Lake District with its most famous spot Windermere, an hour and a half away. There are activities to keep everyone busy, including sailing, horse-riding, kayaking and hill walking. Choose from taking in the stunning Lake Windermere by air or water, from a breathtaking Gyroplane experience to a relaxing ride on one of the many steamers available at the pier at Bowness-on-Windermere. Or stay on dry land and hire a local bike and enjoy some of the western shore cycling routes of Windermere and Grizedale Forest, which are particularly good for family-friendly routes.  

For a trip to the beach, Morecambe Bay is well worth a visit, just under an hour in the car, with a sweeping coastline and views of the spectacular Lakeland Mountains, a perfect spot to sit on the promenade with fish and chips and take in the view.

Afternoon tea can be taken at the iconic Midland Hotel for delicious cakes and sandwiches, and it would be rude not to take a photo opportunity at the statue of a funny man and local hero Eric Morecombe found on the promenade.

Read more about The North West

Luxury self-catering holiday accommodation in The North West

Buckle up, as we are about to dive into the beating heart of the United Kingdom, the North West of England. Here, urban buzz meets countryside serenity in a show-stopping fusion! A whole treasure trove of experiences are waiting to be unwrapped. And guess what? We have the keys to luxury properties that can be your swanky basecamp for this epic adventure. Let the adventure begin!

First stop on our rollercoaster of delights is the dazzling city of Manchester. Forget what you thought about industrial vibes, Manchester has shed its old skin and emerged as a cultural butterfly! You can kick off your journey at the Old Trafford stadium, a mecca for football fanatics and a place where legends are made. Historic venues like the Albert Hall and the legendary Hacienda still echo with the beats that make your heart thump while the Northern Quarter brings a bohemian vibe with street art and indie shops that will make your Instagram followers green with envy. Hold onto your hats because a short joyride westward takes us to Liverpool, the city that is practically a synonym for The Beatles. You can dive into the band's epic history at the Beatles Story Museum in Albert Dock. The maritime legacy showcased at the Merseyside Maritime Museum is like a crash course in Liverpool's bustling port past. A leisurely stroll along the rejuvenated waterfront is lovely. Museums, shops, and restaurants await. Chester is a characterful city that is practically a living, breathing Tudor fairy tale. Black-and-white Tudor architecture? Check. Iconic city walls? Check. Chester Cathedral with its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture? Double-check. On top, The Rows medieval shopping galleries add a unique charm to the city centre. Little ones adore Chester Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the whole of the UK. Blackpool, with its iconic Blackpool Tower and Pleasure Beach amusement park, is your ticket to a classic British seaside experience. Try not to miss the annual illuminations, a dazzling light show that draws visitors from far and wide. Blink, and you might just miss the fun!

Now, let's take a breather from the bustling urban centres and immerse ourselves in the charm of idyllic villages. Hawkshead, with its cobbled lanes and historic buildings, is like stepping back in time. If you are are feeling quirky, you should check out Port Sunlight near Liverpool, where well-preserved Edwardian architecture gives you a glimpse into industrial-era philanthropy. Who knew villages could be so cool?

Adventure seekers, get your boots on because we are venturing into the enchanting Lake District. This is where nature pulls out all the stops with picturesque landscapes, lakes and fells. Lake Windermere and the other charmers are playgrounds for water activities while Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, is a challenge waiting to be conquered by intrepid hikers.

As the sun sets, get ready for a feast because the North West's culinary scene is a showstopper. From traditional pub fare to Michelin-starred dining, it is a gastronomic journey that will have your taste buds dancing. Locally brewed ales, Lancashire hotpot and Cheshire cheese are just the tip of the culinary iceberg.

North West England is a rollercoaster ride of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you are exploring vibrant cities, meandering through charming villages or embracing the great outdoors, this region promises a diverse and enriching journey for those who are ready to discover England's North West.