North West England Travel Information, please select a menu below or browse the whole page:
Contents
North West England Travel Information
North West England Hotels & Accommodation
North West England Attractions & Tours
England Sightseeing Attractions & Tours
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- How to get around England
- Food & Drink in England
- Museums in England
- Nightlife Tours in England
- Shows & Performances in England
- Adults-only Shows in England
- Cabaret in England
- Concerts in England
- Comedy Shows in England
- Day Trips in England
- Nature and Wildlife Tours in Englan
- Nature Parks in England
- Adventure Tours in England
- Helicopter Tours in England
- Bike Tours in England
- Walking Tours in England
- Mountain Bike Tours in England
- City Tours in England
- Hot Air Balloon Rides in England
- Photography Tours in England
North West England Travel Information
North West England extends from the attractive market towns of Cheshire, through the vast urban areas around Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Blackburn and Burnley, to the wilds of Cumbria in the north – the ancient kingdom of Rheged, where place names reflect its turbulent, multi-racial, past.
For many, the North West means the English Lake District, a National Park and world heritage site where you’ll find England’s only mountain range – and one of the country’s most outstandingly beautiful places. Then there’s the wonderfully lush countryside of Lancashire – particularly around the borders with Cumbria and North Yorkshire
Transport information
Queensway Tunnel, Liverpool under the River Mersey to Birkenhead, Wirral peninsula
Transport policy
As part of the national transport planning system, the North West Regional Assembly was, before its abolition in 2008, required to produce a Regional Transport Strategy (RTS) to provide long term planning for transport in the region. This involved region wide transport schemes, such as those carried out by the Highways Agency and Network Rail.
Within the region, the local transport authorities plan for the future by producing Local Transport Plans (LTPs) which outline their strategies, policies and implementation programmes.The most recent LTP is that for the period 2006–11.
In the North West region, the following transport authorities have published their LTP online: Blackburn with Darwen U.A, Blackpool U.A., Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Halton U.A., Lancashire, Merseyside and Warrington U.A. Since 1 April 2009, when the county of Cheshire was split into two unitary councils the Cheshire transport authority ceased to exist, however it is the most recent LTP for the area.
Air Travel
The biggest international airport in the region is Manchester Airport, which serves 28.2 million passengers annually; more than some of the world’s major aviation hubs. The airport is home to three terminals, plus the World Freight Terminal, which serve destinations worldwide.
The largest airlines at the airport (in terms of numbers of flights in 2007) were Flybe, BMI, British Airways, Jet2.com and Lufthansa; several long-haul carriers such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic, Singapore Airlines and Emirates also operate from the airport.
Manchester Airports Group is owned approximately one-third by Manchester Council and one-third by the other nine Greater Manchester councils. In 2007, Manchester had a recorded 222,703 aircraft movements.
The airport is also a hub for major holiday airlines such as First Choice Airways and Thomson Airways; it was previously served by Thomas Cook Airlines and Monarch Airlines.
The region’s second largest airport, but is the oldest and fastest growing, is Liverpool John Lennon Airport, which serves over 5 million passengers annually. The airport serves destinations primarily in the UK and Europe and is a major hub for EasyJet and Ryanair.
The only other significant passenger airport in the region was Blackpool Airport, which was refurbished in 2006 and handled around half a million passengers annually. Destinations ranged from the Canary Islands in Spain to the Republic of Ireland. Commercial flights ended there in March 2017.
Cumbria
Barrow/Walney Island Airport – Operated by BAE Systems Submarines, private use
Carlisle Lake District Airport – Operated by Stobart Group, public use
Greater Manchester
City Airport Manchester – Operated by City Airport Manchester Ltd, public use
Manchester Airport – Major international airport operated by Manchester Airport Group, destinations worldwide
Woodford Aerodrome – Operated by BAE Systems Regional Aircraft, now closed
Lancashire
Blackpool Airport – Operated by Balfour Beatty, public use (commercial flights withdrawn)
Warton Aerodrome – Operated by BAE Systems, private use
Merseyside
Liverpool John Lennon Airport – International airport operated by Liverpool Airport plc, destinations worldwide
RAF Woodvale – Operated by the Royal Air Force, military use
Southport Birkdale Sands airstrip – Sand runway located on Southport beach (infrequent use, subject to prior permission)
Rail
Manchester’s Piccadilly station is the largest and busiest railway station in the region. Liverpool Lime Street railway station is the main inter-city and long-distance station in Liverpool. The main connection by train is the West Coast Main Line, connecting most of the North West. Other important lines are the Liverpool to Manchester Lines and the North TransPennine, which connects Liverpool to Manchester through Warrington.
East-west connections in Lancashire are carried via the Caldervale Line to Blackpool. Liverpool and Manchester both have extensive local passenger rail networks operating high-frequency commuter trains. The quietest railway station in the region, by usage, is Reddish South, the 4th quietest in Britain.
The InterCity branded service in the UK began between London and Manchester in the mid-1960s; the new Euston station opened in 1968. With the new electrification of the line in the late 1960s, passenger numbers doubled.
The region saw the last steam-train service on the UK network – the Fifteen Guinea Special on 11 August 1968, with three Black Five locomotives.
Roads
The M6 motorway is one of the North West’s principal roads
Regionwide
Warning signs at Hardknott Pass
Regionwide, the principal road link is the M6, which enters the region, from Scotland, near Carlisle in the north and leaves it, for the English Midlands, near Crewe in the south. It connects such towns and cities as Penrith, Kendal, Lancaster, Preston, Warrington, Liverpool and Manchester. The M6 intersects many of the North West’s motorways and A-roads, carrying almost 120,000 vehicles per day (41,975,000 per year).
Britain’s most severe steep road is Hardknott Pass in Cumbria and the highest road in the UK is the former A6293 at 2,780 ft at Milburn, Cumbria; the highest classified road in England was the A689 east of Nenthead in Cumbria on the Durham boundary.
Old meets new at the Stockport Viaduct; designed by George W. Buck, it is the largest free-standing brick structure in the UK, built in 1840 when it was the largest viaduct in the world; it features in many L. S. Lowry paintings
Greater Manchester and Merseyside
Motorways of Liverpool City Region and Cheshire to Manchester
The Greater Manchester and Merseyside areas are home to almost 4 million people; over half of the region’s population. The road networks intertwining these metropolitan areas are extremely important to the economy and are largely motorway, including the M62 which crosses the entire country (east to west, Hull to Liverpool); this motorway directly connects the cities of Manchester and Liverpool, carrying 78,000 vehicles in the North West per day.
The Merseyside-Manchester region has many other motorways that serve many millions on a daily basis: the M61 connects Manchester to Preston; the M56 runs south of Manchester to Cheshire and Wales; the M57 and M58 motorways run north of Liverpool and connect towns such as St. Helens and Wigan; the M60 is Manchester’s ring road; and the M67 and M66 motorways run east and north respectively, both of these roads are under 10 miles (16 km) and link Manchester to smaller outlying settlements. On top of this there are countless numbers of A-roads, B-roads and minor roads which circle, entwine and serve these two major metropolises.
Cumbria
A sign marking entry to Scotland located on the M6 motorway crossing the border of Cumbria.
In Cumbria the M6 runs all the way down the east of the county connecting the very north of England to the Lancashire border. The A590 links Barrow-in-Furness to Kendal with around 14,000 vehicles per day.
The A595 runs all the way along the West Cumbrian coast beginning near Barrow and ending in Carlisle, linking towns such as Whitehaven and Workington. The A591 road runs from Kendal to the centre of the county connecting Lake District settlements like Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick. Other important A-roads include the A5092, A66, A596 and formerly the A74, until this was upgraded to motorway standard as an extension of the M6 between 2006 and 2008 to meet the A74(M) at the Scottish border.
Lancashire
The Lancashire economy relies strongly on the M6, which also runs from north to south (Lancaster to Chorley). Other motorways in the region include the M55, which connects the city of Preston and the town of Blackpool at 11.5 miles (18.5 km) in length. The M65 motorway runs from east to west, starting in the town of Colne, running past Burnley, Accrington, Blackburn and terminating in Preston.
The Lancaster-Morecambe area is served by the A683, A6, A588 and A589 roads. The Blackpool-Fylde-Fleetwood area is home to the A583, A584, A585, A586, A587 and A588 roads. The city of Preston and its surroundings are served by the A6, A59, A582, A583, A584 and, to the very south-east, the M61 motorway. To the east of the county are the A59, A6119, A677, A679, A666, A680, A56, A646 and A682. The M66 begins 500 metres (0.3 mi) inside the county border near Edenfield, providing an important link between east Lancashire and Manchester.
Cheshire
In Cheshire, there are four motorways: the M6, the M56 (linking Chester to the east), the M53 (linking Chester to Birkenhead) and the M62, which runs just along the county’s northern border with Merseyside and Greater Manchester. The Cheshire road system is made up of 3,417 miles (5,499 km) of highway and the principal road (M6) carries 140,000[45] vehicles in the county daily, linking the North West to the West Midlands.
The county town of Chester is served by the A55, A483 and A494 roads, amongst others. To the west of the M6, Crewe, Northwich and Sandbach are served by the A54, A51, A49, A533, A556 and A530 roads; these all eventually link up connecting the towns to the larger cities, including Stoke-on-Trent to the south. To the east of the M6 in Cheshire lies the Peak District and towns such as Macclesfield and Congleton, which are served by the A6, A537, A536, A34, A523 and A566 roads.
Ports
The Shields Ferry crosses the mouth of the Tyne between South Shields and North Shields every 30 mins, a seven-minute ride. Foot passengers and bikes only; both ferry piers are served by the Metro.
The Tees Transporter Bridge is a weird contraption: it’s a gondola slung beneath a slender metal bridge that carries vehicles and others across the river between Middlesbrough (south bank) and Port Clarence, Stockton (north bank).
North West England Key Facts
North West England extends from the attractive market towns of Cheshire, through the vast urban areas around Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Blackburn and Burnley, to the wilds of Cumbria in the north – the ancient kingdom of Rheged, where place names reflect its turbulent, multi-racial, past.
For many, the North West means the English Lake District, a National Park and world heritage site where you’ll find England’s only mountain range – and one of the country’s most outstandingly beautiful places. Then there’s the wonderfully lush countryside of Lancashire – particularly around the borders with Cumbria and North Yorkshire.
What is North Wedt England known for?
North West England became famous in the 18th century for spinning and weaving, and cotton mills and factories dotted the Lancashire landscape. The industrial revolution developed round Manchester. As cotton trade grew, mill towns replaced ancient cities.
What is the land like in North West England
What cities are in North West England?
Where is the nicest place to live in North West England?
- Trawden, Lancashire.
- Altrincham, Cheshire.
- Christleton, Cheshire.
- Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria.
- Prestwich, Greater Manchester
What is North West England called?
North West England is one of nine official regions of England and consists of the administrative counties of Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside
North West England Statistics
Area: 14,165 km²
Population: 7.3 million (2019) Eurostat
ONS code: E12000002
Sovereign state: United Kingdom
Police: 5 Territoral Police Forces
Constituent country: England
Hotels & Accommodation in North West England
Cumbria Hotels
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Cumbria?
On average, 3-star hotels in Cumbria cost £12 per night, and 4-star hotels in Cumbria are £16 per night. If you’re looking for something really special, a 5-star hotel in Cumbria can on average be found for £20 per night (based on Booking.com prices).
What are the best hotels to stay in Cumbria?
Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa, World Hotel Distinctive, Ravenstone Manor and The Furness Railway Wetherspoon are some of the popular hotels in Cumbria.
In addition to these hotels, Abbey House Hotel, Westmorland Hotel Tebay and The Samling Hotel are also popular in Cumbria.
What are some popular places to stay in and around Cumbria?
Popular places to stay in Cumbria include hotels near Lake Windermere, Scafell Pike and Muncaster Castle.
What hotels in Cumbria have nice views?
Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, The Fleece at Ruleholmeand Forest Side Hotel have received great reviews from travellers in Cumbria regarding the views from their hotel rooms.
Guests staying in Cumbria also spoke highly of the views from the rooms at Buttermere Court Hotel, The Samling Hotel and 1692 Wasdale.
What hotels in Cumbria are good for couples?
Couples travelling in Cumbria loved staying at 1692 Wasdale, Hazel Bank Country House and Windermere Boutique Hotel.
Similarly, these hotels in Cumbria are highly rated by couples: The Samling Hotel, Forest Side Hoteland Lindeth Fell Country House.
How many hotels in Cumbria are listed on Booking.com?
There are 2,976 hotels in Cumbria you can book on Booking.com.
Which hotels in Cumbria are good for families?
Many families visiting Cumbria loved staying at 1692 Wasdale, The Pheasant Inn and The Samling Hotel.
Similarly, The Fleece at Ruleholme, The Punch Bowl Innand Lindeth Fell Country House are also popular among family travellers.
What hotels in Cumbria offer an especially good breakfast?
For hotels in Cumbria that serve up a highly-rated breakfast, try 1692 Wasdale, Hazel Bank Country Houseand The Punch Bowl Inn.
Breakfast at these hotels in Cumbria are also highly rated: New Crown Inn, The Dukes Head Inn and Old Kings Head.
What are the best cities to stay in Cumbria?
Carlisle, Bowness-on-Windermere and Windermere are popular with other travellers visiting Cumbria.
What are the best hotels in Cumbria near Lake Windermere?
Some of the best hotels in Cumbria near Lake Windermere include New Hall Bank, Edge Mere Apartment, Bowness-on-Windermere and The Den – The White House Windermere.
Accommodation in Cheshire
How many hotels in Cheshire are listed on Booking.com?
There are 736 hotels in Cheshire you can book on Booking.com.
What are the best hotels to stay in Cheshire?
The Hotel Chester, The Lion at Malpas and Lion & Swan Hotel are some of the popular hotels in Cheshire.
In addition to these hotels, Cock O’ Barton, Reubens Congleton and Pickmere Country House are also popular in Cheshire.
Which hotels in Cheshire are good for families?
Many families visiting Cheshire loved staying at The Hotel Chester, Pickmere Country House and Cock O’ Barton.
Similarly, Alexandra Court Hotel, The Lion at Malpas and Manor House Hotel, Alsager are also popular among family travellers.
What are the best cities to stay in Cheshire?
Chester, Warrington and Wilmslow are popular with other travellers visiting Cheshire.
What hotels in Cheshire are good for couples?
Couples travelling in Cheshire loved staying at Reubens Congleton, The Hotel Chester and Lion & Swan Hotel.
Similarly, these hotels in Cheshire are highly rated by couples: The Lion at Malpas, Cock O’ Barton and Pickmere Country House.
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Cheshire?
What hotels in Cheshire offer an especially good breakfast?
For hotels in Cheshire that serve up a highly-rated breakfast, try Cock O’ Barton, The Coach House Innand Pickmere Country House.
Breakfast at these hotels in Cheshire are also highly rated: Chester Court Hotel, Holly Trees Hotel and The Lion at Malpas.
What hotels in Cheshire have nice views?
Pickmere Country House, Inglewood Manor and Willington Hall Hotel have received great reviews from travellers in Cheshire regarding the views from their hotel rooms.
Guests staying in Cheshire also spoke highly of the views from the rooms at Tollemache Arms, Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa and Holiday Inn Ellesmere Port/Cheshire Oaks, an IHG Hotel.
What are the best hotels in Cheshire near Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet?
Some of the best hotels in Cheshire near Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet include Entire House – Cheshire Oaks/Ellesmere Port, Holiday Inn Ellesmere Port/Cheshire Oaks, an IHG Hotel and Room@87.
What are some popular places to stay in and around Cheshire?
Popular places to stay in Cheshire include hotels near Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, Chester Racecourse and Arley Hall.
Accommodation in Lanarkshire
What are the best hotels to stay in Lanarkshire?
Crossbasket Castle, Hampton By Hilton Hamilton Parkand Dakota Eurocentral are some of the popular hotels in Lanarkshire.
In addition to these hotels, Ramada East Kilbride, Best Western Motherwell Centre Moorings Hoteland Holiday Inn Express Hamilton, an IHG Hotel are also popular in Lanarkshire.
What hotels in Lanarkshire offer an especially good breakfast?
For hotels in Lanarkshire that serve up a highly-rated breakfast, try Dalziel Park Hotel, The Hopetoun Arms Hotel and Crossbasket Castle.
Breakfast at these hotels in Lanarkshire are also highly rated: Elphinstone Hotel, The Georgian hoteland The Robertson Arms Hotel.
What hotels in Lanarkshire have nice views?
New Lanark Mill Hotel, Crossbasket Castle and The Georgian hotel have received great reviews from travellers in Lanarkshire regarding the views from their hotel rooms.
Guests staying in Lanarkshire also spoke highly of the views from the rooms at The Hopetoun Arms Hotel, Ramada East Kilbride and The Raven’s Cliff Lodge by Marston’s Inns.
What hotels in Lanarkshire are good for couples?
Couples travelling in Lanarkshire loved staying at Crossbasket Castle, The Georgian hotel and Hampton By Hilton Hamilton Park.
Similarly, these hotels in Lanarkshire are highly rated by couples: The Robertson Arms Hotel, Busby Hotel and The Hopetoun Arms Hotel.
How many hotels in Lanarkshire are listed on Booking.com?
There are 271 hotels in Lanarkshire you can book on Booking.com.
What are the best cities to stay in Lanarkshire?
Motherwell, Hamilton and East Kilbride are popular with other travellers visiting Lanarkshire.
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Lanarkshire?
Which hotels in Lanarkshire are good for families?
Many families visiting Lanarkshire loved staying at Crossbasket Castle, Belmill Hotel and The Georgian hotel.
Similarly, Busby Hotel, The Robertson Arms Hotel and Hampton By Hilton Hamilton Park are also popular among family travellers.
Accommodation in Merseyside
What are the best hotels to stay in Liverpool?
Innside by Melia Liverpool, The Resident Liverpool and Lock and Key Boutique Hotel – Duke Street are some of the popular hotels in Liverpool.
What are the best hotels in Liverpool near Albert Dock?
Some of the best hotels in Liverpool near Albert Dock include Campbell Square Apartment 3, Staybridge Suites Liverpool, an IHG Hotel and Lock and Key Boutique Hotel – Duke Street.
What hotels in Liverpool offer an especially good breakfast?
For hotels in Liverpool that serve up a highly-rated breakfast, try The Lake House, Lock and Key Boutique Hotel – Duke Street and Novotel Liverpool Paddington Village.
Which hotels in Liverpool are good for families?
Many families visiting Liverpool loved staying at The Lake House, Hotel Tia and The Arc Hotel.
How much is a hotel in Liverpool for tonight?
On average, it costs £107 per night to book a 3-star hotel in Liverpool for tonight. You’ll pay on average around £170 if you choose to stay in a 4-star hotel tonight, while a 5-star hotel in Liverpool will cost around £216 (based on Booking.com prices).
What hotels in Liverpool have nice views?
Innside by Melia Liverpool, Novotel Liverpool Paddington Village and Holiday Inn Express Liverpool-Albert Dock, an IHG Hotel have received great reviews from travellers in Liverpool regarding the views from their hotel rooms.
How much is a hotel in Liverpool for this weekend?
The average price per night for a 3-star hotel in Liverpool this weekend is £144 or, for a 4-star hotel, £192. Looking for something even fancier? 5-star hotels in Liverpool for this weekend cost on average around £188 per night (based on Booking.com prices).
What hotels in Liverpool are good for couples?
These hotels in Liverpool are highly rated by couples: Phoenix Pods, Hotel Tia and The Glebe Hotel.
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Liverpool?
On average, 3-star hotels in Liverpool cost £25 per night, and 4-star hotels in Liverpool are £30 per night. If you’re looking for something really special, a 5-star hotel in Liverpool can on average be found for £5 per night (based on Booking.com prices).
Book Hotels, Guest Houses & Villas in North West England
Hotels in North West England are spread around the State within the territory of 17.9 kilometers, while 66 hotels are located directly in the city center. We have 16 Guest Houses available to Book in North West England and 66 Hotels listed available for Booking right now.
- Discount Hotels in Chester
- Guest Houses in Windermere
- Bed and Breakfast in Bolton
- Hostels in Manchester
- Blackburn Hotels with Restaurant
- Hotels in Blackpool with Gym
- Lancaster Hotels with Swimming Pool
- Spa Hotels in Liverpool
- Pets Allowed Hotels in Wirral
Hotels in North West England by City
We have listed Hotels in North West England by District, select a city in North West England to view the latest Hotel Deals.
Cheshire
Cumbria
- Appleby
- Arnside
- Barrow in furness
- Bassenthwaite Lake
- Bowness
- Carlisle
- Cartmel
- Coniston
- Dalton
- Glenridding
- Grange
- Grasmere
- Hawkshead
- Kendal
- Keswick
- Kirkby Lonsdale
- Kirkby Stephen
- Penrith
- Pooley Bridge
- Ullswater
- Ulverston
- Windermere (Lake)
- Windermere (Town)
Greater Manchester
Lancashire
Merseyside
Hotels in North West England by Hotel Name
We have listed Hotels in North West England by Hotel Name, select a hotel in North West England to view the latest Deals.
- Sunnybank Cottage – Ulverston
- The Duke of Edinburgh – Barrow in Furness
- Appleby Manor Hotel & Garden Spa
- Beech Cottage – Wallasey
- Windermere Manor Hotel
- The County Hotel – Carlisle
- The Derwentwater Hotel – Keswick
- Regent Hotel By The Lake – Ambleside
- Netherwood Hotel & Spa – Grange over Sands
- Whitewater Hotel & Spa – Newby Bridge
Healthcare
Healthcare in England is mainly provided by the National Health Service (NHS), a public body that provides healthcare to all permanent residents in England, that is free at the point of use. The body is one of four forming the UK National Health Service as health is a devolved matter, there are differences with the provisions for healthcare elsewhere in the United Kingdom, and in England it is overseen by NHS England.[1] Though the public system dominates healthcare provision in England, private health care and a wide variety of alternative and complementary treatments are available for those willing and able to pay.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care is a senior minister of the Crown within the Government of the United Kingdom, and leads the Department of Health and Social Care with responsibility for England’s NHS. The Secretary serves as the principal adviser to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on all health matters.
National Health Service
The NHS is free at the point of use for the patient though there are charges associated with eye tests, dental care, prescriptions, and many aspects of personal care.
The NHS provides the majority of healthcare in England, including primary care, in-patient care, long-term healthcare, ophthalmology and dentistry. The National Health Service Act 1946 came into effect on 5 July 1948. Private health care has continued parallel to the NHS, paid for largely by private insurance, but it is used by less than 8% of the population, and generally as a top-up to NHS services. Recently there have been some examples where unused private sector capacity has been used to increase NHS capacity and in some cases the NHS has commissioned the private sector to establish and run new facilities on a sub contracted basis. The involvement of the private sector remains relatively small and according to one survey by the BMA, a large proportion of the public oppose such involvement.[3]
Crime
The North West is the second safest region in England. The overall crime rate in the North West in 2021 was 51 crimes per 1,000 people, and the most common crimes were violence and sexual offences, which happened to roughly every 24 out of 1,000 residents.
Out of all of the North West’s larger towns and cities, Blackpool is the most dangerous. The next most dangerous is Birkenhead, and St Helens comes in as third most dangerous. There are safer parts of the North West, starting with Bamber Bridge which ranks as the safest area in the North West, followed up by Warrington in second place, and Widnes in third place.
Tourism
Being the home of the industrial revolution, housing the Roman City of Chester and boasting a rich sporting pedigree, this region is steeped in history and intrigue – the only question is where to visit first.
Visit Blackpool and its famous Tower and Promenade, seven miles of award-winning golden beaches and the magic of illuminations; it’s time to take a fresh look at this favourite British seaside town.From frills and family entertainment to historic gems and beautiful gardens, there is always something new to discover in Blackpool.
Enjoy a giggle as you walk along the Comedy Carpet, watch the dancing fountains at St John’s, or get up close and personal with the residents of Blackpool Zoo.Lastly, who can resist the feel of wind in your hair on the white knuckle rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
There are so many fun things to do in Cheshire. Stroll around one of the region’s stunning gardens for a perfect introduction to the county. Take the kids to Gulliver’s World for a magical day at a theme park. Trace England’s Viking heritage to the water’s edge on the Wirral Peninsula.
Towns & Cities in North West England
Cheshire
- Chester
- Crewe
- Birkenhead
- Ellesmere Port
- Macclesfield
- Runcorn
- Stockport
- Wallasey
Cumbria
- Appleby
- Arnside
- Barrow in furness
- Bassenthwaite Lake
- Bowness
- Carlisle
- Cartmel
- Coniston
- Dalton
- Glenridding
- Grange
- Grasmere
- Hawkshead
- Kendal
- Keswick
- Kirkby Lonsdale
- Kirkby Stephen
- Penrith
- Pooley Bridge
- Ullswater
- Ulverston
- Windermere (Lake)
- Windermere (Town)
Greater Manchester
- Bolton
- Bury
- Manchester
- Oldham
- Rochdale
- Stockport
- Wigan
Lancashire
- Barrow-in-Furness
- Blackburn
- Blackpool
- Clitheroe
- Lancaster
- Preston
- Warrington
Merseyside
- Liverpool
- St Helens
- Southport
- Wirral
Museums & Galleries
- Wirral Transport Museum
- Norton Priory
- Lakeland Motor Museum
- Museum of Science & Industry
- World Museum
- Wordsworth
World Heritage Sites
Jodrell Bank is one of the world’s leading radio astronomy observatories.
Peover Hall and Gardens – A fully-furnished, Elizabethan manor-house with Carolean stables and gardens. It was General Patton’s 3rd Army Headquarters for their first 6 month stay in Britain during World War II.
Capesthorne Hall – set in 100 acres of picturesque Cheshire parkland, has been touched by nearly 1,000 years of English history – Roman legions passed across it, titled Norman families hunted on it and, during the Civil War, a Royalist ancestress helped Charles II to escape after the Battle of Worcester.
Hadrian’s Wall – stretches 70 miles across the north of England from Cumbrian Roman coastal defences at Ravenglass to Wallsend on the east coast. Dating back as early as 112 AD, the route today encompasses archaeological sites, spectacular landscapes, rare wildlife, complete solitude and vibrant cities.
Askham Hall – A stunning grade 1 listed Pele Tower dating back to the 13th century, Askham Hall has been transformed from a stately family abode into a unique and contemporary stylish retreat and restaurant. A luxurious, intimate, unpretentious home from home awaits.
National Parks
- Go Quest Adventures – UK Wide
- Three Sisters Race Circuit in Wigan
- Wirral Transport Museum – Wirral
- Sea Life – Blackpool
- Blue Planet Aquarium – Cheshire Oaks
Travel Requirements
When you travel to England, you:
- do not need to complete a UK passenger locator form before you travel
- do not need to take any COVID-19 tests before you travel or after you arrive
- do not need to quarantine when you arrive
This applies whether you are vaccinated or not.
It includes people who are transiting through England.
Other countries may have rules about what you need to do to leave the country to travel to England. You should check travel advice for the country you are travelling from.
How to stay safe while in the UK and on public transport
Travel provider and transport hub rules
Your travel provider, or the transport hub you travel through, may have COVID-19 rules in place. For example they may require or advise you to wear a face covering.
You should follow any COVID-19 rules and guidance from:
- your travel provider – airline, ferry, coach or train company
- the transport venue – airport, port, coach or railway station
Red list countries and territories
There are currently no red list restrictions in place for travel to England.
Travel abroad from England
Other countries have rules about what you must do to travel there from England.
Read separate guidance about what you need to do to travel abroad from England.
Covid Information
Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include:
- entry or exit bans
- quarantine
- mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
- suspensions or reductions of international transportation options
Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.
Before travelling:
- verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
- consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
- monitor the media for the latest information
- reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator
The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.
Useful links
- Travel restrictions and health requirements – United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the British authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Check your Passport and Travel Documents before you travel
Check how long it will take to get a passport before you apply.
If you need a passport urgently, you can find out more about the Online Premium or 1 week Fast Track services.
Do not book travel until you have a valid passport – your new passport will not have the same number as your old one.
What is a passport?
A passport is a travel document that serves as the ultimate form of proof for your citizenship. Every country issues passports to citizens of that country. British Citizen passports are issued by the United Kingdom Identity & Passport Service (IPS). UK passports come in two sizes to accommodate frequent travellers, jumbo and regular. Jumbo passports contain 48 pages while regular passports contain 32 pages.
Do I need a passport?
British citizens require passports to exit and enter the UK and all other countries in the world. It is your responsibility to carry the correct identification while travelling abroad.
Do British Subjects have the same rights of entry to other countries as a British Citizen passport?
No. British Subject passport holders have different entry requirements than British Citizen passport holders. If you hold one of these passports and require information on passports and visas, email info@uk.visacentral.comfor further information.
How does VisaCentral obtain a passport for me?
VisaCentral provides passport services for UK citizens by submitting proper documentation on your behalf to the UK Identity & Passport Service (IPS). This eliminates the need for you to visit, communicate, and correspond directly with the IPS. Please go to Passports to see the full range of passport services VisaCentral provides. For citizens of any other country residing in the UK, please consult your home country’s local consular office for passport details.
How long is my passport valid?
If your passport was issued when you were 16 years of age or older, your passport is valid for 10 years. If your passport was issued when you were 15 years of age or younger, your passport is valid for 5 years.
When applying for a passport renewal, will my old passport be returned to me?
Yes, your old passport will be returned unless it is deemed to be damaged by the UK Identity & Passport Service (IPS). The passport will clearly indicate that it is invalid and it is important that you advise whether any valid visas remain in the passport before applying for it to be renewed.
How long must my passport be valid for international travel?
Most countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of a trip. If your passport expires sooner than that, you must apply to renew your passport. Go to Visas to determine how long a passport must be valid for each specific country of travel. In the event that your passport is set to expire go to Renew Passport and get started.
Can VisaCentral obtain additional passport pages for my passport?
No. You must apply for another passport. Go to Renew Passport for details.
How many blank passport pages do I need to meet entrance requirements and what is considered a ‘blank’ passport page?
Passports must have enough blank pages to accommodate entry and exit immigration stamps for each country of travel. At least one visa page in your passport is required for each visa. Most travel visas that are stamped into your passport require an entire blank visa page. A ‘blank’ visa page must be clean, clear, and not show ink or stains from any other pages in the passport.
I am recently married or divorced and have changed my name. Can VisaCentral help me change my name on my passport?
With proper documentation, you are able to change the name listed in your passport. VisaCentral can assist you in this process by submitting the necessary documents on your behalf. Visit Passport Name Change for details.
Can VisaCentral replace my lost or stolen passport?
With correct documentation, VisaCentral can replace your lost or stolen passport in as little as a day. Visit Lost or Stolen Passports for details.
Do my children require passports?
Yes. Each individual citizen, including infants, must possess his or her own passport. You are not allowed to represent other members of the family inside your passport. VisaCentral can assist you if you need to get a new child passport or if you need to renew a child’s passport. Visit Child Passport to learn about passport requirements for children.
How old must my children be to apply for a Child Passport?
Your children must be 15 years old or younger to apply for a Child Passport. Visit Child Passport to learn about passport requirements for children under the age of 15.
How long will it take VisaCentral to process my passport?
For most passport services VisaCentral has one processing time: Fast Track – 6 working days. Visit Passports to determine the passport processing time for the type of passport you are looking for.
What mailing method does VisaCentral recommend for submitting my completed VisaCentral Application Pack?
VisaCentral recommends using Royal Mail Special Delivery or other traceable methods of delivery when submitting your completed VisaCentral Application Pack.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) aren’t valid for entry into the USA or transit through the USA on an ESTA. If you’re planning to enter or transit through the USA using an ETD, you must apply for a visa from the nearest US embassy or consulate before you travel, which may take a number of days, or hold a valid lawful permanent resident card (often referred to as a ‘green card’), which you must have with you on arrival. UK ETDs issued in the USA are valid for exit from the USA.
Visa Requirements
You may need a visa to come to the UK to study, work, visit or join family.
There are different visas depending on:
- where you come from
- why you want to come to the UK
- how long you want to stay for
- your personal circumstances and skills
Before you apply, you must check if you need a visa and what type you need. Depending on your nationality, you might not need a visa to visit or transit through the UK.
Your application must be approved before you travel.
You do not need to apply for a visa if you’re an Irish citizen.
If you’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
If you or your family member started living in the UK by 31 December 2020, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme instead of applying for a visa.
The deadline to apply was 30 June 2021 for most people. You can still apply if either:
- you have a later deadline – for example, you’re joining a family member in the UK who was living in the UK by 31 December 2020
- you have ‘reasonable grounds’ for being unable to apply by 30 June 2021 – for example, you had an illness, or were the victim of domestic abuse
Check if you can still apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.
If you want to visit the UK
Apply for a Standard Visitor visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months. For example:
- for a holiday or to see family and friends
- for a business trip or meeting
- to do a short course of study
You must apply for a Marriage Visitor visa if you want to visit the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.
If you have a visitor visa you cannot take a job in the UK.
If you’re travelling through the UK
You might need a visa if you’re travelling through the UK on your way to another country, for example if you have a layover between flights.
Apply for a visa to travel through the UK.
If you want to study in the UK
Your course length, type and place of study affect which visa to apply for.
A Standard Visitor visa lets you do a short course of study that lasts no longer than 6 months.
A Short-term study visa lets you come to the UK to study an English language course that is over 6 months and up to 11 months.
A Student visa is usually for a longer course. You must be sponsored by a licensed college or university and have a confirmed place. You may be able to do some work on this visa.
A Child Student visa is for 4 to 17 year olds who want to study at an independent school. If you’re 16 or over, you can do some work on this visa.
If you want to work in the UK
You can work in the UK on a short or long-term basis with a work visa. There are many types of work visa.
The visa you need depends upon:
- your skills and qualifications
- if you have a job offer and sponsorship
- if you want to bring your family with you
- what you’ll be doing – for example sporting, charitable or religious work
You can set up a business with a Start-up visa or an Innovator visa.
If you want to join family in the UK
If you’re a spouse, partner or family member of someone who has British citizenship or settlement in the UK, you can apply for a family visa to join them. They may need to show that they can support you financially.
You may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after a set amount of time living in the UK.
If your family member is in the UK on a visa
You may be able to apply for a visa to join a family member who’s in the UK on a visa. They must be either:
- your spouse or partner
- your parent if you’re 18 or under
Check what visa you’ll need to join them.
If your family member is from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
You can apply for a free family permit if you have a close family member who was living in the UK by 31 December 2020. A family permit lets you live, work and study in the UK for up to 6 months.
Close family members include your spouse or civil partner, child, grandchild, parent or grandparent.
You can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme after your family permit expires.
Family reunion visas for refugees
If you were separated from your partner or child when you were forced to leave your country, they can apply to join you in the UK.
Your family members can apply if you have been given asylum or 5 years’ humanitarian protection, and not have British citizenship.
Other ways to get permission to live in the UK
Commonwealth citizens
You can apply for an Ancestry visa to work in the UK if you have a British grandparent and meet other eligibility criteria.
You may have right of abode to live in the UK.
If you’re a Commonwealth citizen and cannot prove your right to be in the UK, read about the Windrush scheme.
Returning residents
If you had indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and left the UK for more than 2 years you’ll need to apply for a Returning Resident visa to come back.
Other visas
There may be another visa that’s right for you based on your circumstances. Check if you need a visaand what other visas you’re eligible for.
Healthcare
- Stay up to date with public health guidance and confirm coverage with your insurance provider.
- Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.
- Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.
- The standard of medical facilities in the UK is good.
- We have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK. Some GP and hospital treatments are free if you’re in the UK for a short visit. If you’re staying more than 6 months, you’ll pay a surcharge when you apply for your visa.
Bringing Medicines into England, UK
You need to prove your medicine is prescribed to you if:
- it contains a ‘controlled drug’
- you have it on you when you’re entering the UK
What sort of proof you need depends on the category of drug and how much of it you’re bringing in.
If you’re leaving the UK with medicine that contains a controlled drug, check with the embassy about the rules for the country you’re going to before you travel.
Check if your medicine contains a controlled drug
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your medicine contains a controlled drug.
You can also check the drugs listed on the packaging of your medicine and search for them on the controlled drugs list. The list does not give names of medicines, only drugs that are used in medicines.
If it contains a drug listed as schedule 2, 3 or 4 (part 1)
When entering the UK, you need to either:
- carry a letter of proof that the medicine was prescribed to you
- get a personal licence if you’re travelling in the UK for at least 3 months or carrying enough of the medicine to last you that long
If you’re a UK resident who has been prescribed this medicine abroad, you must also contact the Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit.
Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit
dflu.ie@homeoffice.gov.uk
Telephone: 020 7035 6330
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Find out about call charges
If it contains a drug listed as schedule 4 (part 2)
To make sure your medicine does not get taken away from you at the border, carry a letter of proof that the medicine was prescribed to you.
If it contains a drug listed as schedule 1
You must contact the Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit before you travel to the UK.
If you need a letter of proof
You need to get the letter from the person who prescribed your medicine. You might need to show this at the border.
The letter must include:
- your name
- what countries you’re going to and when
- a list of your medicine, including how much you have, doses and the strength
- the signature of the person who prescribed your drugs
If you need a personal licence
Email dflu.ie@homeoffice.gov.uk to ask for an application form. Include in your message your full intended travel details and reason for visit, as well as your UK address.
Before emailing, you should also:
- know the details of your medicine, including dose, strength and quantity
- have a letter from your doctor including their professional registration number
Apply at least 15 working days before you’re due to travel.
For further details, read more about personal licences.
Weather
North West England Climate
North West England Climate
orth West England is generally regarded as having the most average weather in the UK. Temperatures are generally close to the national average. Cumbria usually experiences the most severe weather, with high precipitation in the mountainous regions of the Lake District and Pennines.
In winter, the most severe weather occurs in the more exposed and elevated areas of the North West, once again mainly the Lake District and Pennine areas.
What is the weather like in North West England?
north-west – mild winter, cool summers and heavy rain all year. north-east – cold winter, cool summers and steady rain all year.
Where is the sunniest place in North West England?
Met Office data found the city received more than 230 hours of sunlight – or nearly ten days – across the coldest season, which is more than anywhere else in the country. Chichester receives more than 1,920 hours or sunlight in 2021, revealed the weather service
Travel Safety
- You should exercise common sense and look out for suspicious behaviour, as you would in Australia.
- International terrorists have staged attacks in the UK. The UK Government’s terrorism threat level is “substantial”, meaning it assesses an attack is likely. Islamic extremism, extreme right-wing ideology and the status of Northern Ireland contribute to the threat. Always be alert to terrorism. Take official warnings seriously.
- Avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence. Monitor the media for information and updates. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
- Petty crime occurs. Beware of pickpockets in tourist areas, at restaurants and bars, and on transport. Take care when using ATMs and credit cards.
- There have been incidents of spiking and acid attacks across the UK. Be alert.
Foreign travel checklist
Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.