Lancashire Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

A beach with a pier, a Ferris wheel, and a tall tower.
A roller coaster with a water splash feature, a Ferris wheel, and a clear blue sky.
A modern building with a large glass facade and a distinctive sculpture in front.
A vibrant amusement park with a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, and various colorful buildings.
A roller coaster, a Burger King, and a sign for the Museum of Curiosities.

Come to this county in the north of England to discover unique wildlife areas, amusement parks by the sea and historic castles.

There is so much to see and do in Lancashire that you will be spoiled for choice wherever you head in this English county. Enjoy a relaxing walk by the sea or hike through unspoiled wildlife habitats. Experience the atmosphere in one of the historic city centers or have some fun at the amusement parks and water parks in the area.

The story of Lancashire dates back to the 12th century, when its boundaries were just starting to be established. Explore the remnants of the Industrial Revolution in the area. This marked a major turning point for the county and helped it grow as a commercial region. Today, it’s also a leisure location for travelers looking to enjoy English culture and nature.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Lancashire without heading toward the miles of beautiful coastline. Make your way to Southport to walk along the pier and build sandcastles at Ainsdale Beach. From there, travel north to the Ribble Estuary National Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife. And don't forget a stop in Blackpool to see the iconic Blackpool Tower or spend the afternoon at the Blackpool Zoo.

Journey inland to spend time exploring the Yorkshire Dales, a national park filled with rustic villages. Stop by a pub for a hearty meal in the scenic Forest of Bowland.

Finish your travels around Lancashire with a stop in the bustling city of Lancaster. Tour Lancaster Castle and discover its long history or take a picnic to Williamson Park for lovely views.

Try to rent a car if you are planning on visiting more than one location in Lancashire. This is the best way of seeing the area in your own time, although public buses are also frequent in the bigger cities and along populated areas of the coast. If you are coming from overseas, fly into Liverpool John Lennon Airport or Manchester International Airport.

The local residents, or Lancastrians, are known for being friendly and welcoming to guests. Be sure to take the time to ask for their recommendations on the best things to see and do in Lancashire.

Popular cities in Lancashire

A viaduct over a valley with a person standing in the foreground.
Carnforth
Known for Lakes, Family-friendly and Relaxing
Explore relaxing Carnforth: its lake views, sledging, countryside and more!

Reasons to visit

  • The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
  • Ribblehead Viaduct
  • Leighton Moss RSPB Reserve
A sandy beach with a metal railing and a building in the background.
Lancaster
Known for Bars, Universities and Historical
Trip time! Discover the theatre, university life and castle in romantic Lancaster.

Reasons to visit

  • Lancaster Castle
  • Ingleborough Cave
  • Williamson Park
A grassy field with a windmill, buildings, and a distant shoreline.
Lytham St. Anne's
Known for Friendly people, Beaches and Bars
Relaxing Lytham St. Anne's awaits: its oceanfront, bars, beaches and more!

Reasons to visit

  • St. Annes Pier
  • Lytham Hall
Rolling hills, a small village, and a stone wall.
Burnley
Known for Friendly people, Sports and Gardens
Love spas, gardens and the countryside? Get away to Burnley!

Reasons to visit

  • The Singing Ringing Tree
A misty landscape with a prominent hill, scattered houses, and leafless trees.
Clitheroe
Known for Friendly people, Relaxing and Countryside
Trip time! Discover the countryside, gardens and castle in quaint Clitheroe.

Reasons to visit

  • Clitheroe Castle
A stone bridge with arches over a calm river, reflecting the bridge and lights.
Preston
Known for Friendly people, Business and Historical
Love museums, history and football? Get away to Preston!

Stay near popular Lancashire attractions

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