Spring bucket list: things to do in the North

Free things to do in spring in the North

Explore the North's National Parks

Spring is the perfect season to make the most of the outdoors and do something that won’t cost you a fortune. Fortunately, the North of England is brimming with beautiful places to explore on foot. Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in the expansive parks of Yorkshire, such as the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and take in breathtaking views of rolling hills and blooming wildflowers. Don't miss the stunning vistas of Malham Cove and the tranquil waters of Semerwater.

Or why not visit England's largest National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District? Stay at a cosy holiday cottage nearby and make the most of exploring all the lakes, towns and villages in the region. The Lake District is especially good for thrill seekers with a range of activities to do, from paddleboarding to cycling and more.

Trains to Cumbria & the Lake District

Spring activities for couples in the North

Activities in Blackpool

For a dose of seaside fun, head to Blackpool and experience the thrills of Blackpool Pleasure Beach. From exhilarating rollercoasters to traditional amusement arcades, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy dinner at one of Blackpool's seafront restaurants and chat through what was the best ride of the day! The Beach House Bistro & Bar is nestled in the heart of Blackpool's South Shore and includes wonderful seafood dishes with locally sourced ingredients. 

If you're looking for something iconic in Blackpool, look no further than the White Tower Restaurant. Situated within Blackpool's iconic Blackpool Tower, the White Tower Restaurant offers fine dining in a sophisticated setting. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline while indulging in a gourmet meal crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Finally, take a stroll along the iconic Blackpool Promenade and soak up the lively atmosphere of this coastal gem. End the day with the breathtaking beauty of a Blackpool sunset from North Pier.

Trains to Blackpool

Spring activities for families

Blackpool family fun

Staying in Blackpool, for a day of wild encounters and aquatic adventures, journey to Blackpool and visit Blackpool Zoo, home to over 1,500 animals from all corners of the world. If your little ones are big fans of water, make a splash at Sandcastle Waterpark, where thrilling slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers promise endless fun for the whole family.

Chester days out

Fancy a spring trip to Chester, instead? Home to a much larger zoo, the kids will love discovering over 37,000 animals, from adorable mammals to birds, reptiles, and more. For a fun but educational day out, head to Sick to Death, a history of medicine attraction that's designed with kids in mind. While it covers gory aspects of history, they've purposely made it entertaining and interactive, as opposed to scary. If the spring weather is playing nice, we recommend a picnic in Grosvenor Park, which also features a rideable miniature railway!

Trains to Chester

Spring day trips in the North

York day trip

We recommend a spring day trip to the historic city of York, where medieval meets contemporary. Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, and wander through the narrow cobbled streets of The Shambles, lined with timber-framed buildings dating back to the 14th century. York is the perfect city to explore on a refreshing spring day.

If the kids are coming along on your spring day trip, we recommend a visit to the National Railway Museum, where kids can marvel at historic locomotives and interactive exhibits. York Castle Museum is another option for history buffs with events held throughout the year to help make learning fun. There are also various hands-on activities throughout the museum, perfect for little hands and minds.

Trains to York

Leeds day trip

Leeds is another fantastic place to enjoy a day trip in spring. Head along to Kirkgate Market, one of the biggest indoor markets in Europe, to explore the range of unique goods, delicious food and drink, and more. There's also a range of events held throughout the year at the market, from record fairs to arts and crafts. Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen is another great choice in Leeds, serving up tasty bites from Dough Boys and Patty's Burgers. Check out the latest events, from quiz nights to film screenings, and plan a great day out.

For the kids, we recommend Tropical World, one of the UK's largest indoor rainforest attractions. Make your way around the seven zones, ranging from the Butterfly House to Creature Corner, and see how many animals they can spot. As part of the Roundhay Park estate, a visit to the park on a sunny day is a must! With over 700 acres to its name, the park hosts festivals and events throughout the year, so it's worth checking what's on before you visit.

Trains to Leeds

With its diverse array of attractions and activities, the North of England is perfect for ticking off your spring bucket list. Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or quality time with loved ones, the region offers endless opportunities to explore during spring. 

Remember to leave the car at home and book a train with Northern, travelling to over 500 destinations in the North!