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01. Mother Shipton’s Cave, North Yorkshire

For an off-beat adventure, head to Knaresborough where you can discover the legends surrounding Mother Shipton, her cave and the Petrifying Well. Mother Shipton was a famous prophetess who lived in the 14th century and was believed to be a witch because she could predict the future. She remains a folklore heroine surrounded by 500 years of mystery, including the legend that says she was born in the cave during a terrible thunderstorm. Mother Shipton's is a great place for a summer adventure as you can bring your dogs, and there are adventure playgrounds to wear out the little ones. What's more, the area is forested and looks beautiful at this time of year, and the picnic areas have lovely views over Knaresborough.

02. Bradford Ice Arena, Bradford

What better way to cool off in the summer heat than by ice-skating! Bradford’s epic Ice Arena has general skating for a quick cool-off, or figure, speed, and synchronised skating for the more adept skaters. You can even play ice hockey and hold parties here; Skate Tot sessions are also available for the little ones. If you’d prefer to make an evening of it with friends and loved ones, then you can join the disco skating sessions with lights and music to turn the rink into a skating dance arena. The rink is sure to be a cool day out, perfect for families, friends, or just a solo skate.

03. Japanese Garden, Preston

In the heart of urban Preston lies a secret garden hidden within Avenham park. It is a beautiful and tranquil Japanese garden where you can experience a moment of bliss, see the water lilies, smell the daisies, and hear the birds chirping away. This garden is a perfect spot for a stroll or a picnic this summer. With a cafe and many local amenities nearby, this is the perfect relaxing day out.

04. Blackpool Zoo

Blackpool is so much more than just the beach, and we think Blackpool’s zoo is one of the very best. Not only can you get up close and personal with your favourite animals you can also enjoy a giraffe feeding experience! There is a huge variety of animals to see and even some rare species you may never have heard of! The zoo has African pygmy goats, Brazilian tapirs, capybaras, giant anteaters, kangaroos, red pandas, and several species of monkeys, birds, and other fascinating mammals.

You can also enjoy several daily talks about the different animals, and the kids can run around in the play barn whilst you enjoy the lovely onsite cafe.

05. Harrogate Golf Club, Harrogate

What makes this a truly remarkable golf course is that it’s the oldest in Yorkshire and has a long history dating back to 1892. You can partake in open competitions, play alone, or with friends and family. With 18 holes and many obstacles, it is a challenging course but still suitable for all abilities making it a great place to visit for the day.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by djolihodges (@djolihodges)Entry: From £35

06. Powerleague Manchester Central, Manchester

Here’s one for the sports fans! At Powerleague you can book a pitch for your friends and family to enjoy, or you can join in with their 5,6,7, and 9-a-side leagues. What’s more, party packages are available for the little ones, and even a kids’ camp! For the oldies, there’s walking football for a fun day out at a more leisurely pace.

07. Planet Ice Blackburn Arena, Blackburn

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by PlanetIceUK (@planeticeuk)

08. The Hepworth, Wakefield

The Hepworth art museum is situated on the banks of the River Calder, making it the perfect summer spot for soaking up some culture. This innovative and contemporary gallery houses extraordinary works from Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, Jacob Epstein, and Lucie Rie, to name a few. Notable architects have designed the building and gardens, which come alive in the summer making for the perfect picnic spot.

09. Chester Racecourse, Chester

Founded in 1539, Chester racecourse is notable for being the oldest racecourse in the world still in operation. The racecourse has gone on to win several awards from the Racehorse Owners Association. This summer, the course is running several events, including family fun days and ladies' days. Not only does Chester racecourse offer an extensive list of fixtures and events, but they also offer hospitality packages for weddings and birthdays. It is a beautiful place to spend the day, and races are definitely more fun in the sun!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Chester Racecourse (@chesterraces)

 

 

 

 

10. Coronation Street Tour, Manchester

Calling all Corrie fans, this one’s for you. At MediaCity in Manchester, you can take a walking tour of the set where Corrie is filmed. You’ll recognise all your favourite iconic buildings such as The Rovers Return pub and Kev’s car shop! Follow in the footsteps of all your favourite characters along the cobbled streets of the real Coronation Street!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by @corrietour

Summer is the best time to enjoy a day out and about having a new adventure. Whether you go to one of the ice rinks or take a stroll through the Japanese garden, whether you take the family or enjoy a bit of me time, whatever you do, you’ll be sure to have a cool summer with one of our ideas. Even better, all of our ideas are accessible via train, so you can ditch the car and get on with having fun!

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