Things to do
Manchester and Liverpool will be your go to destinations from your new build home if you have a desire to shop, eat, drink or soak in history and culture, offering shopping centres, museums, restaurants, and bars aplenty. Widely known as ‘the capital of the North’, Manchester is a constantly evolving city based on strong industrial roots. New eateries seem to appear on a weekly basis, leaving you spoilt for choice, while the Science and Industry Museum and Manchester Museum are there for anyone wanting to learn more about its history.
A city of poets and playwrights, Liverpool was crowned the Capital of Culture in 2008, and boasts the second largest amount of art galleries and national museums after London. Some of the most notable are the Tate Liverpool for its modern art collection, but those preferring more historical pieces will find what they want at World Museum. Surrounding cities also have a lot to offer. Many parks and nature reserves, including Brockholes, can be found around Preston, allowing residents to enjoy nature for the day.
For those wanting to do something with (or without!) the kids, the country’s largest zoo, Chester Zoo, is easily accessible by car or public transport. No time in the region would be complete without a trip to the beautiful Lake District, where a variety of activities are available, ranging from gorgeous hikes to a relaxing boat trip across the lakes. A weekend in nature around Windermere or Ambleside is the perfect escape for couples or families to recharge the batteries in between busy weeks.
For those who enjoy the music scene, Manchester has two great arenas for live music in the AO Arena and the newly built Co-op Live, while Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena recently hosted the Eurovision in 2023. All three are constant destinations for some of the biggest names in music.
Sport fans will also have a field day, with the region proudly boasting multiple Premier League, as well as numerous rugby Super League teams. For those wanting a trip down memory lane, the National Football Museum in Manchester is a great experience for the entire family, with interactive activities for adults and children alike.
Shopping
Where to start? Manchester alone has two of the largest shopping centres in the United Kingdom. The Manchester Arndale in the city centre and The Trafford Centre on its outskirts (which includes Sea Life aquarium and the Legoland Discovery Centre) give anyone in need of retail therapy the perfect excuse to disappear for the day.
Liverpool ONE, a vast open air shopping centre with over 170 stores, can be found right in the heart of the city, while Preston (St George’s Shopping Centre) also has its own hub of stores.
From Poundland to Michael Kors via H&M, any store you might desire is within driving range, or an easy train/bus ride away.
Smaller cities like Preston and Chester have their own markets, providing a great showcase for local produce and giving you the chance to enjoy fresh and quality products from the area around your new home.
