WIN
one of two family breaks in Lancashire
SUMMER #wherelifefeelsgood • Free days out • Family breaks • Outdoor fun • Historical adventures • Tasty treats • Summer shows ...and much more!
Including an 11 page Lancashire What’s on guide
WELCOME TO SUMMER IN LANCASHIRE
Afternoon picnics in the park, watching outdoor theatre, ice creams aplenty, cycle rides in the countryside with friends, the smell of BBQs wafting through the air, camping out and waking up to hear the dawn chorus – Life really does feel good in the summer! And where better to spend your summer than in Lancashire. From country escapes to seaside breaks; castles and museums to theme parks and animal attractions – all topped off with a great range of family friendly places to stay and eat, not to mention a huge variety of summer events. We are also excited to announce that the award winning St Annes Beach Huts will be opening their stylish NEW Beach Apar tments this summer, giving us yet another an excuse to spend more time on the coast. And it wouldn’t be summer without a trip to The Blackpool Tower. With five attractions under one roof you’re guaranteed a fantastic day out for all the family – whatever the weather! See page 17 for details on the Blackpool BIG ticket.
WIN ONE OF TWO FAMILY BREAKS IN LANCASHIRE Win a 3 night break staying at Ribby Hall Village near Blackpool together with BIG tickets to 7 Blackpool attractions – for a family of 4.
OR
Win a 2 night break staying at the Beach Apar tments with annual Xplorer passes to 11 Lancashire Museums for a family of 4.
TOP 10 SUMMER EVENTS
QUICK QUIZ
Where can you get a 360 tour of the Blackpool skies and experience levels of 3 G-Force?
Click here to find out more
IN LANCASHIRE 1 Oliver Twist
Play in the Park 3 July – 15 August, Williamson Park, Lancaster
Show 5 Garstang 1 August Festival 6 Lytham 2-9 August
2 CATS 9 July – 5 Sept, Blackpool Opera 7 Royal Lancashire Show 7-9 August, Ribchester House & Winter Gardens
Tower Circus 3 Blackpool Until 1 Nov, Mooky & Mr Boo’s Big Day Out
4 Fleetwood Festival of Transport (FREE) 19 July
STAY IN TOUCH
For the latest updates on offers, events and things to do follow Visit Lancashire on Facebook and Twitter
8 Blackpool iFEST
Illumination Switch On (FREE), 4 Sept
9 Vintage by the Sea (FREE) 5-6 Sept, Morecambe
10 Blackburn Heritage Festival
(FREE) 12-13 Sept
PROD
ND DIRECTED BY THE ENDRESZ F UCED A A M I LY
26TH MAY TO 1ST NOVEMBER 2015 BOOK NOW: 0871 222 9929* www.theblackpooltower.com
*Calls cost 10p per minute, plus network charges.
• HISTORIC HOUSES • MUSIC FESTIVALS • SPORTS EVENTS • KITES
27-28 June
28
25-28 June
& Moorside Park, Bacup
28
WED
17
Scorton Steam Brass in the Park Scott Park, Burnley
21
20-21 June
Shop till you drop Freeport, Fleetwood
Preston
25
25-26 (schools) 27 Jun (public)
Whitworth Scarecrow Festival Venues throughout Whitworth
29
27 June5 July
26
FRI
25
Brockholes Nature Reserve
SUN
Lancashire Science Festival - UCLAN,
Bacup & Stackstead Leyland Society Carnival - Stubbyleed Gathering - Leyland
28
21
Ribchester Music & Art Festival Ribchester
Midweek Meander
A quest to discover hidden treasure -
Jungle Jims’ Play Centre, Blackpool Tower
30
TUES
27
Padiham
SUN
SAT
27
Promenade & Beach SAT
Lytham Hall & Centre
24
WED
Lytham Club Day
Catch the Wind Kite Brass in the Park Festival - Morecambe Memorial Park,
22-28 June
SUN
MON
TUES
23
SUN
22
Watch the ride in action
20
SUN
Thrill filled journey Ride the new Red through 1000 yrs of Arrows Sky Force Lancashire’s history Blackpool Pleasure
Blackpool Tower Dungeon Beach
21
TUES
MON
20
Railway, Rawtenstall
THU
Various locations
Blackburn Centre
SAT
Blackpool Armed Forces Week
20
16
Family Fun Weekend Caribbean Carnival with Peppa Pig & Moor Park, Preston George - East Lancashire
THU
Open Air Theatre Emma - Brockholes
19
Countryside comes to town -
SUN
18-21 June
50+ FREE Walking routes
Leyland Centre & Worden Park
15
SAT
THU
18
Witton Country Park, Blackburn Download
FRI
Birchwood Country Park, Lytham St Annes
Leyland Festival
SAT
Fylde Rock & Roots Pack a picnic and explore the trails Festival - Great
St Annes Beach Huts
Take a trip 380ft into the sky to the top Blackpool Tower
MON
JUNE
Hire a Beach Hut for the day -
• EXCITING RIDES • FAMILY FUN DAYS OUT • VINTAGE VEHICLES... There’s more online at visitlancashire.com
• SCARECROWS • ARTS FESTIVALS • CARNIVALS • TOWN FAIRS
JULY
Cross Bay Walks
Morecambe Bay, from Arnside to Kents Bank
April - Sept
Brass in the Park
Hire a Beach Hut
Ightenhill Park, Burnley for the day Rawtenstall Town Centre St. Annes Beach Huts
12
11-12 July
12
13
CATS opens
8
Pongo’s Party -
Marty MacDonald’s Farm, Grand Theatre, Blackpool
14
SUN
Experience the wonders of underwater life at SEALIFE - Blackpool
Blackpool Opera House and Winter Gardens
9
9 July - 5 Sept
Colne Grand Prix Colne
15
5
Horrible Histories
Grand Theatre, Blackpool
10
FRI
7-20 July
5
SUN
7
4
THU
7 July -29 Aug
Astley Park, Chorley
Westholme School Theatre, Blackburn
16
• PICNICS • SYMPHONY CONCERTS • MUSICAL THEATRE... There’s more online at visitlancashire.com
7-11 July
RV International Piano Festival -
THU
Rawtenstall Annual Fair
7
Picnic in the Park
Coronation Park, Ormskirk SAT
South Ribble Museum
Watch the trailer
Queen’s Park, Burnley
WED
SAT
4-11 July
Brass in the Park
WED
SAT
11-12 July
4
Ormskirk Dance Festival
TUES
Town Centre & Ashton Gardens, St Annes
11
Lancaster
6
St Annes Carnival Festival & Fun Day
4-5 July
TUES
5
4
Various locations in Lytham
Oliver Twist 3 July - The spade speaks Fleetwood The Dukes 15 August of Roman, Viking & Scarecrow Festival Williamson Park, Norman discoveries Fleetwood MON
SUN
The Crown Inn, Bacup
3-4 July
Lytham Music & Arts Festival
MON
The Crown Affair Dance & Music Festival
3
SAT
July - Sept
TUES
THU
2
Blake & Lucy Kay (4th) with the Heart of England Orchestra, Hoghton Tower
SUN
Venues across Pendle
Symphony at the Rockprest Tower - Status Quo (3rd), Moor Park, Preston
FRI
Pendle Cycle Festival
SUN
WED
1
15-18 July
Merlin Advert
• OUTDOOR THEATRE • MUSIC FESTIVALS • PICNICS • CRAFTING
19
Pack a Picnic and Be a Nature Explorer St Annes Kite visit the Wyre Estuary at WWT Martin Mere Festival Country Park Wetland Centre St Annes Beach
This way
Weekday am 27 July - 28 Aug
Beacon Country Park, Upholland
21
25-26 July
25
29
9 July - 5 Sept
Preston Guild Hall
30
29-31 July
25
25-26 July
A Day in the Life, 1915 - Queen Street
Leighton Hall, Carnforth Mill Textile Museum, Burnley
31
31
• NATURE EXPLORING • COUNTRY FAIRS • FARMERS MARKETS... There’s more online at visitlancashire.com
Tues/Thurs until the end of Aug
Lancashire County Fair - Samlesbury Hall
26
SUN
25
SAT
24 July 3 Sept
Helmshore Mills Textile Gardens Watch the Museum, Haslingden trailer
28
Green Fayre
Flag Market, Preston
9 July - 6 Oct
FRI
26-27 July
Familyfest
CATS - Blackpool Opera The Tiger who came Picnic Cinema House & Winter 0 The Shining to Tea
WED
MON
27
24
SAT
THU
Lytham St Annes
Weekday Family Craft Activities -
TUES
St Annes Music Festival
20
Burscough
THU
23
WED
22
PICNIC SPOTS in Lancashire
FRI
Rufford Old Hall, Ormskirk Thornton The BEST
19
Summer Holiday family craft workshops
Towneley Hall, Burnley Queen Street Mill Textile Museum, Burnley MON
18
The Handlebards A Midsummer Night’s Dream
18-19 July
Commercial Vehicle Museum, Leyland
Generation Noise Exhibition
SUN
about canal holidays in Lancashire
The American Road Show - British
TUE
FRI
Eanam Wharf, Blackburn Fleetwood Town Centre & Seafront MORE
SAT
18
Blackburn 18-19 July Fleetwood Festival Canal Festival of Transport
SAT
The Show Ground, Great Eccleston
17-18 July
SAT
18
Great Eccleston Agricultural Show
17
FRI
Astley Park, Chorley
17-19 July
SUN
Animals in the Park
Flag Market, Preston
SAT
FRI
17
JULY
Food & Drink Festival
Beat Herder Festival - Sawley
• MUSICALS • FLOWER SHOWS • AGRICULTURAL SHOWS
13
Towneley Park, Burnley
14
14-15 Aug
Lytham Green
15
15-16 Aug
SUN
Alice in Wonderland Lancaster Castle
SAT
8
Hire a Beach Hut for the day
10
Robin Hood the Musical
16
1-2 Aug
Last chance to see Oliver Twist at the Play in the Park
Fylde Coast Food & Drink Festival
Marine Hall, Fleetwood
2
FRI
FRI
9
7
MON
Lytham 1940’s Wartime Festival -
9-10 Aug
SAT
SAT SUN
9
Drop the Beat Festival
THU
WED
5, 12, 19 & 26 Aug
9
British Commercial Vehicle Museum, Leyland
WW1 Workshops & Craft Activities Lancaster Castle
12
Blackpool Air Show The Classic Car Show Blackpool
3-31 Aug
SUN
Lancaster Castle
7
Wyre Estuary Country Park Open Day - Thornton
FRI
Kids Activity Tour
6
Astley Park, Chorley
Until 15 Aug
St Annes Beach Huts
11
Walled Garden, Astley Park, Chorley
16
SUN
Preston Flag Market
5
BUY tickets online and SAVE!
Marine Hall, Fleetwood
SUN
Revival
Samlesbury Hall, Preston
Salesbury Hall Ribchester
SUN
1-14 Aug
8
SAT
8
4
Blackpool
1
Royal 7-9 Aug Basil Brush Lancashire Show The Full Fox Tour
THU
Clitheroe Food Festival - Clitheroe
Various locations in West Lancashire
Summer Holiday Crafts & Activities with Mistress Marjorie
SAT
2-9 Aug
Meet the horses & ponies at WHW Penny Farm
SAT
MON
3
West Lancashire Walking Festival
1
Read our BLOG about meeting Thomas
WED
Lytham Green and other venues in Lytham
TUES
Lytham Festival
East Lancashire Railway, Rawtenstall
Chorley Flower Show
TUES
AUGUST
1-2 Aug Garstang Show Day out with Thomas The Showfield, Garstang
• CLASSIC CARS • VINTAGE FESTIVALS • STEAM RAILWAYS... There’s more online at visitlancashire.com
READ all about these award winning beach huts
• RHYTHM & BLUES • FAMILY FUN • GRAVY WRESTLING • TRACTORS
AUGUST Nature Tots
Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston
SUN
30
Greenlands Village, Carnforth
30
WED
Save 50% with the BIG ticket
Enjoy splash park fun at Happy Mount Park Morecambe
Breakfast with Theatre in the Peppa Pig & George Park - Mr Stink -
Wellies Cafe, Greenlands The Walled Garden, Farm, Carnforth Astley Park, Chorley 28-29 Aug
World Gravy Wrestling
Rose ‘N’ Bowl, Stacksteads
31
29
Burnley Canal Festival - The Inn on
East Lancashire Railway, Rawtenstall
29
the Wharf, Burnley
31
29-31 Aug
• MOTORFEST • OUTDOOR THEATRE • WALKING FESTIVALS... There’s more online at visitlancashire.com
All Summer
Family Fun weekend with Peppa Pig & George SAT
28
25
TUES
MON
Until 1 Nov
SAT
FRI 30-31 Aug
28-31 Aug
Summer Festival fun day
SUN
Samlesbury Hall
30
28
24
MON
SAT
FRI
FRI
28
23
SUN
22
FRI
21
Ormskirk Motorfest Samlesbury Ormskirk Town Centre Skirmish
SUN
SAT
29
Taster of this unique sport
19
Mooky & Mr Boo’s Darwen 1940’s Day The Sorcerer’s Darwin Market Square Apprentice Outdoor Big Day Out Avenham & Miller Parks, Theatre - Lytham Hall Blackpool Tower Circus
FRI
THU
WED
Great Eccleston Showfield 29-30 Aug
18
Pinocchio Outdoor Theatre
THU
21
27
Great Eccleston Tractor Pull
15-23 Aug
TUES
MON
17
Pack a picnic and Marty Macdonald’s Great British explore Worden Park Farm - Pongo’s Party Rhythm & Blues Thornton Little Theatre Leyland Festival - Colne
26
Meet some of Britain’s best known celebrities - Madam
Tussauds, Blackpool
Lord Chamberlain’s Men perform Twelfth Night
Rufford Old Hall, Ormskirk
Unleash your inner ape - Go Ape Rivington
Preston
Lancaster City Museum
20
family-friendly walks
MON
Meet the Land Army Girl and join in family activities
Pendle Walking Festival - including
29-31 Aug
• BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS • CYCLING • HERITAGE • FOLK MUSIC
SEPTEMBER
Ride the Lights
Venues in Fleetwood
SUN
6
4-6 Sept
Burnley Beer Festival
Burnley Mechanics
Tour of Britain Stage 2
4-6 Sept
Mooky & Mr Bob’s Big Day Out
Ribble Valley & Pendle, Blackpool Tower Circus Clitheroe to Colne
7
8
World Fireworks Championships
Heritage Weekend & Woodland Festival
Blackpool Promenade
Until 1 Nov
4
5
SAT
4
FRI
3-6 Sept
5-6 Sept
Midweek Meander Heritage Open Days
Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston
9
Venues across Lancashire 10-13 Sept
10
List of all Heritage open days
THU
Fylde Folk ‘N’ Roots Festival
3
Best View from a tram
WED
Until 5 Sept
Blackpool Tower Festival Blackpool Headland
TUES
WED
2
Bilsborrow THU
starring Jane Mcdonald. Blackpool Opera House & Winter Gardens
Guys Oyster Festival Blackpool iFest Blackpool 4 Sept - Vintage by the Sea Guy’s Thatched Hamlet, Switch-on Weekend Illuminations 8 Nov Morecambe
MON
Last chance to see CATS in Blackpool
FRI
1
TUES
CATS star READ why nald loves Jane Mcdokpool Blac
Blackpool Promenade
Blackburn Heritage Festival
Rossendale 1960s Festival - Rawtenstall
Blackburn Centre
Towneley Park, Burnley
11
11-13 Sept
12
12-13 Sept
13
SUN
11, 18, 25 Sept & 2 Oct
SAT
11
FRI
10-12 Sept
FRI
THU
10
11-13 Sept
•OYSTER FESTIVAL • VINTAGE SHOWS • AND MUCH, MUCH MORE. There’s more online at visitlancashire.com
Explore Brockholes this summer
Located straight off junction 31 of the M6 at Preston
Events throughout the summer
shop
eat play
Experience our floating Visitor Village within a 250 acre nature reserve Get in Touch 01772 872000 info@brockholes.org
www.brockholes.org
Brockholes
@visitbrockholes
FREE THINGS TO DO IN LANCASHIRE THIS SUMMER Brockholes Nature Reserve
Mythical Coastline Trail
Whitaker Museum & Art Gallery
Explore the natural world at the ‘unreserved’ Brockholes Nature Reserve near Preston.
Have your picture taken with an Ogre on Cleveleys Waterfront and discover the other sculptures on the Mythical Coastline Trail
Natural history, contemporary exhibitions and local ar tefacts await discovery at the Whitaker Museum & Ar t Gallery in Rawtenstall
St Annes Beach Build sandcastles, fly a kite or just sit back and enjoy the view across the open sands of St Annes Beach
Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery Get crafty with free craft sessions throughout the summer at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery
Bay Cycle Way Cycle the stunning coastline of Morecambe Bay on the brand new Bay Cycle Way from Glasson Dock to Barrow
Singing Ringing Tree Walk up to the highly unique Singing Ringing Tree in Burnley for amazing views and stunning sounds
World Horse Welfare Penny Farm Meet the 70 horses and ponies at World Horse Welfare Penny Farm near Blackpool. (The stables are undercover so it’s a good even if it’s a wet day)
Samlesbury Hall Discover the history of Samlesbury Hall and Gardens, complete with ghosts, Henry VIII and witches. (Small fees apply for tours and events)
Tolkien Trail Pack a picnic and follow the 5.5 mile trail from the village of Hurst Green in the beautiful and inspirational Ribble Valley - look out for Hobbits!
Pendle Sculpture Trail Follow the Pendle Sculpture Trail at Barley to find out which witches were involved in the famous 1612 Lancashire Witch Trials.
Rivington Pike Take a trek to the top of Rivington Pike near Chorley andenjoy the stunning scenery of the West Pennine Moors
Beacon Country Park With 300 acres of countryside to explore there’s plenty of space to let off steam For the latest special offers
CLICK HERE
ACCESS ALL AREAS XPLORER MULTIPASS gives unlimited access for two adults and two concessions to visit all 11 Lancashire museums for a whole year.
FOR JUST
£20
BIG SAVINGS IN BLACKPOOL
THE BLACKPOOL BIG TICKET
gives you access to 7 Blackpool attractions including the famous Tower, SEALIFE and Blackpool Dungeon for just £45 for adults and £32 for children aged 3-14. Saving you over £50 per person if you were to buy individual tickets.
A GREAT DEAL
FOR KITTENS Kids go Half Price on Tuesday - Thursday shows of the west end musical hit CATS at Blackpool’s Opera House from 6 July – 5 September
FIVE AMAZING ATTRACTIONS ONE INCREDIBLE PRICE BOOK NOW: 0871 222 9929* *Calls cost 10p per minute, plus network charges.
P R O M E N A D E ,
B L A C K P O O L
www.theblackpooltower.com
The luxury and comfort you would expect from a 5 star hotel with the space and personalised touches you can only find in a bespoke self-catering property.
NEW FOR SUMMER 2015!
*NEW* st annes beach apartments 6 SEA VIEW & 3 GARDEN VIEW FOR SHORT BREAKS & HOLIDAYS Ideally located Contemporary apartments
Fully equipped. Grear for families and groups of friends
Free day beach hut rental with every full week stay!
VISIT WWW.STANNESBEACHAPARTMENTS.CO.UK FOR INFO & TO BOOK 2 colour 119–125 South Promenade, Lytham St Annes FY8 1NP t:01253 789332 e: info@stannesbeachhuts.co.uk Twitter: @stannesbeachut Facebook: /StAnnesBeachHuts
black
THE UK’s NO.1 FOREST ADVENTURE at Rivington, Nr. Bolton
Book aortcagll 08oa45p64e3.c91o54.uqukote VLANGA *Offer valid until 31st August 2015, excluding Saturdays and Corporate Events. Discount code must be entered at time of booking. Only valid at Rivington. Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website.
15
% O F F PER PERSO
N*
GREAT OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Forest of Bowland Arnside & Silverdale
phs togra r pho lsgood u o y Share herelifefee #w using
Lancaster
Grab your ruck sack, pack a picnic and head out into Lancashire’s countryside. Fresh air, hundreds of miles of footpaths and trails, stunning views and more than our fair share of wildlife, life feels good when you’re exploring Lancashire’s great outdoors.
Start your adventure today! The flat towpath along the Leeds – Liverpool Canal is perfect for walking and cycling taking you through a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Monkey around for less at Go Ape Rivington with our great offer
Fleetwood
Star t of the Tour of Britain stage 2 on 7 Sep End of the Tour of Britain stage 2 on 7 Sept
Blackpool Preston
Blackburn Burnley
southport Chorley
QUICK QUIZt
Fores How big is the of of Bowland Area al Beauty? tur Na ing nd Outsta
Click here for the
answer
For more cycle routes go to cyclelancashire.com Download over 50 FREE walking routes Cycle the NEW Morecambe Bay cycle way Photo Oppor tunity at the Crook ‘o’ Lune
See the straight mile at Burnley, one of the Wonders of the British Waterways. The Guild Wheel cycle route. A 21 mile, safe and mainly off-road way to explore the area along the River Ribble, past ancient woodland, historic city centre parks, the largest nineteenth century dock in Europe and Brockholes Nature Reserve. Get a taste of rural life at one of Lancashire’s Agricultural Shows Picnic stop at Dunsop Bridge the geographical centre of Great Britain Make new friends at one Lancashire’s animal attractions and farm parks
Open all year round! Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays, 11am – 4pm
Summer Fun at
Penny Farm
FRE E ENT RY
Rescue and Rehoming Centre
• Family Fun Days every Wednesday in August • Dale’s Trail Activity Walk • Snacks, homemade cakes and afternoon tea in the coffee shop Medieval Fair Saturday 5th September 2015
Call 01253 766983 for more information www.worldhorsewelfare.org e: penny@worldhorsewelfare.org
The entrance to Penny Farm is situated on the A583, Preston New Road, near Peel Corner, Blackpool. Registered charity no: 206658 and SC038384
NEW FOR 2015!
STINGRAY ADVENTURE
Booking/Info: 0871 423 2110 PROMENADE, BLACKPOOL www.sealife.co.uk/blackpool
wyretheatres.co.uk
01253 887693
theatres
Friday 7 August, 11am and 2.30pm Marine Hall, Fleetwood The Basil Brush Show - The Full on Fox Tour Adults £13, children £11, family of four ticket £38 Sunday 16 August, 10am – 4pm Marine Hall , Fleetwood The Fylde Coast Food and Drink Festival Free entry Friday 28 August, 2pm Thornton Little Theatre Marty Macdonald’s Farm – Pongo’s Party Great summer holiday fun for all the family £9
WELCOME TO LANCASHIRE ONLINE GUIDE
READ NOW
Check out the latest event listings on visitlancashire.com
SUMMER SHOW STOPPERS OUTDOOR EVENT SURVIVAL GUIDE
JANE MCDONALD’S
BLACKPOOL
Make the most of warm summer evenings and long sunny days with a visit to one of Lancashire’s outdoor theatre productions and concerts.
DON’T FORGET! MUSIC ON THE GREEN Deck chairs or a rug to sit on Picnic - Make sure its portable if you’re going to a Walkabout Theatre event.
Now 8 days long, Lytham Festival is packed full of live music including Faithless, Rae Morris, Elaine Paige and Marti Pellow, not forgetting picnic cinema and comedy nights. From 2-9 August. And don’t forget you can now stay at the NEW Beach Apar tments in St Annes.
Waterproofs, warm clothing and sun tan lotion - so you’re covered whatever the weather.
Experience the UKs BIGGEST walkabout theatre in Lancaster from 3 July - 15 August
Flags - especially if you’re going
OLIVER TWIST
to a proms concert. Singing Land of Hope and Glory without a flag just isn’t the same!
Camera or phone - to capture
those magical moments to share with friends.
Get a full list of outdoor theatre and festivals in Lancashire this summer... including Emma at Brockholes Nature Reserve near Preston and A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Rufford Old Hall.
WATCH THE
PREVIEW NOW!
Don’t forget to share your images with Visit Lancashire on Facebook and Twitter
What do you love most about working in Blackpool? So many reasons! The people are the main reason but the Opera House is one of the best venues in the UK to perform in without doubt. What three words sum up Blackpool to you? Vibrant, exciting and welcoming Have you ever been to the top of Tower or ridden the BIG One at the Pleasure Beach ? I have done both! I have been to the top of Blackpool Tower several times and had a ride on the Big One Did you come to Blackpool as a child? Are there any particular ‘Memories’ you’d like to share? I came to Blackpool as a child, teenager and adult. I remember the first time I saw the Illuminations when I was a child, it was truly magical and something I will never forget. My mum and I always saw the shows in Blackpool, it was so exciting and spectacular. I remember ballroom dancing with my father in the Tower Ballroom, he was a lovely dancer. How lucky am I to have such wonderful memories. CATS is at the Blackpool Winter Gardens from 9 July - 5 September. Tickets start from £20, with half price children’s tickets Tues-Wed. Watch the preview trailer HERE
amazing things to do
samlesbury hall lancashire’s historic home
Rufford Old Hall
Outdoor theatre tickets can be purchased online or at Rufford Old Hall 01704 821254 nationaltrust.org.uk/ruffordoldhall
© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.
We're ticking off '50 things do before you're 11 ¾' and enjoying outdoor theatre in this stunning setting.
£3 per child
Luxury 5* caravans at competitive rates
Superb family run holiday park, only 15 minutes from Blackpool. Small pets welcome.
www.mowbreckpark.co.uk or call 01772 682494
Throughout the School Holidays: Betsy Bumble Bee’s interactive talks for kids of all ages!
The Halcyon Day - Sunday 26th July Music and Songs from local artists - £4pp
Samlesbury Skirmish 30th & 31st August New for 2015: The Jacobite rebellion re-enactment
For more information visit www.samlesburyhall.co.uk
£5adult £3child
www.thedungeons.com/blackpool
Lancashire’s Museums A fantastic group of 11 exciting, family friendly museums across Lancashire. Discover a variety of activities over the school holidays to keep the kids entertained, and exhibitions and events to commemorate the WW1 centenary….
Historic houses and castles
Lancaster Castle, Gawthorpe Hall*, Clitheroe Castle, Judges’ Lodgings Museum and The Cottage Museum *Gawthorpe Hall is closed due to essential building conservation work during 2015
www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums
Helmshore Mills Textile Museum, Queen Street Mill, Fleetwood Museum and Lancaster Maritime Museum
Fascinating rich social heritage and military collections Museum of Lancashire and Lancaster City Museum Kids go free at all venues (except Lancaster Castle) and for even better value why not buy an Xplorer ticket. comms: 4221
See www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums for details of all venues, opening times and events. Follow us on twitter @LMuseums
Textile and maritime heritage
DISCOVER HISTORY IN LANCASHIRE Did you know…
Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery
Lancaster Castle is owned by the Queen, and that in Lancashire she’s called the Duke of Lancaster? The court rooms are still is use today and it was still a working prison until 2011. Be on your best behaviour or you might get locked in a cell!
Samlesbury Hall is renowned as one of the most haunted locations in Britain. Resident spirits include the legendary White Lady, Dorothy Southwor th who died of a broken heart and has been seen many times within the Hall and grounds. Join one of the tours to get the spooky lowdown.
Quick Quiz
Which famous playw right is reputed to have per for med at Ruf ford Old Hall near Or mskirk?
Click here to find out mo
re
is home to a unique and enthralling collection of Beetles and an Egyptian Mummy? Plus it’s completely free to visit.
Helmshore Mills Textile Museum & Queen Street Mill Textile Museum The noise created by the spinning and weaving machines in Lancashire’s mills was so loud that workers had to use lip-reading to talk to one another. For the full effect visit Helmshore Mills Textile Museum nr Haslingden and Queen Street Mill Textile Museum in Burnley
Love Dressing Up? Morecambe’s Vintage by the Sea 5-6 September. Set around the uber-glamorous Midland Hotel this annual festival been has been likened to a big dressing up box of vintage fun!
DON’T MISS
QUICK QUIZ
BLACKBURN HERITAGE FESTIVAL, 12-13 SEPTEMBER
Click here for more info
Includes steam engines, a Victorian fairground, clog dancing, canal trips, history walks, vintage market traders, street theatre and a pop up bandstand.
ALL ABOARD Seeing Thomas the Tank Engine AND Peppa Pig on the EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY between Rawtenstall and Bury over the summer. Ride steam engines, take par t in family activities and get all excited about meeting these much loved children’s characters.
KING OR QUEEN OF THE CASTLE? Kids activity days running throughout the summer at Lancaster Castle includes a special tour especially for the under 12s.
£6.50 PER CHILD
How tall is Blackpool Tower?
Royal Lancashire Show 7th - 9th August - Salesbury Hall - Ribchester
A great day out for all the family! Equestrian events, displays, children’s entertainment, vintage vehicles, food & drink, country crafts and much much more
www.royallancsshow.com
TASTY LANCASHIRE Life really does taste better in Lancashire,
and this is never truer than during the summer months. Tuck into homemade ice cream, freshly picked strawberries, picnics on the beach, and seasonal menus packed full of locally grown tomatoes, new potatoes, peas, beetroots and fresh fish. Is your tummy rumbling yet?
NEW FOR 2015
QUICK QUIZ How many ar tisan Cheesemakers are there in Lancashire?
Click here to find out more
A stunning ar t nouveau feature of Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, dating back to 1896, was uncovered during recent work to the building and is now a feature of the new Gourmet Burger Restaurant which opened in the spring. The theatre inspired menu features a range of gourmet burgers and is the perfect pre-CATS place to dine this summer.
TOP TIPS
FOR SUMMER
PICNICS Forget soggy sandwiches – stop off at a Lancashire farm shop on route to pick up freshly made pies, quiches, pastries, artisan cheeses, home-made chutneys and fresh fruit for your perfect picnic.
A MOVEABLE FEAST Enjoy a first class fine dining aboard an historic steam engine whilst journeying through picturesque Lancashire countryside with the East Lancashire Railway. For a truly quintessentially British experience book in for afternoon tea and indulge in a selection of sandwiches, cakes, scones and of course, copious amounts of tea.
TASTE MORE OF LANCASHIRE WITH tastelancashire.co.uk
BUY LOCAL & FRESH Agricultural shows are a great way to discover new producers, pick up tasty treats to take home and generally reconnect with our rural heritage. This year the Garstang Show celebrates its 200th anniversary and the Royal Lancashire Show returns to Ribchester with a variety of crafts, food stalls and demonstrations to make your mouth water.
World
Famous
Fun
Open daily from 10am Located on the Promenade opposite Central Pier
Booking/Info: 0871 282 9200 madametussauds.com/blackpool The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds
YOUR SEASIDE
BESIDE THE SEASIDE
C H E C K L IS T
Holidays and days out at the seaside are the stuff of childhood memories.
But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Think donkey rides, building sandcastles, fish & chips and you’re already there. Throw in a summer show or free event like the illuminations and you’ve got the makings of a great day out beside the sea.
Build a sandcastle, complete wit h flags and shell decorations
Try the beaches at St Annes, Blac kpool, Cleveleys, Fleetwood and Morecam be.
See a Summer Show or Circus
Our Lancashire seaside holiday
We set off really early in the morning on a really sunny day. The first thing we did when we got to Blackpool was to walk up to the tower and we spent ages looking at the jokes that were on the ground in front of the tower. I didn’t understand them all but my Mum and Dad were laughing at them. Next we went all the way to the top of the tower. It was very high and it was a bit scary walking on the glass floor. We went to the tower circus, which was at the bottom of the tower. I had my face painted like Mooky the clown and liked the acrobats the best. The next day we drove along the seafront to another beach at Cleveleys. We had fun looking at the sculptures, my favourite was the Ogre. Later we built sandcastles on the beach and had a picnic. In the afternoon we walked around the shops and then went into the Fleetwood Maritime Museum. I pretended to steer a boat and did a quiz. I liked having fish & chips sat watching the boats. Oliver, aged 10
QUICK QUIZ
Blackpool Illuminations has been enthralling millions of people for over 100 years – but do you know when the illuminations were first introduced to the resor t?
Click here for the answer
Book to see CATS at the Winter Gardens and for younger audiences the Blackpoo l Tower Circus and Basil Brush at Mar ine Hall, Fleet wood would be perfec t.
Visit childhood favourites
Go to the top of Blackpool Towe r, eat ice cream walking along a pier or have your photo taken with a host of celebrities at Madame T ussauds, Blackpool.
Hire a Beach Hut
Wha tever the wea ther a Beach Hut is the perfect base for brews, general snoozing and summer par ties. Hire the award winning St Annes Beach Hut for the day or week.
SCREAM loudly at a Theme Pa
rk
For serious thrill seekers Blackpoo l Pleasure Beach is not to be missed AND this year there’s the NEW Sky Force Red arrows ride to try!
Summer Fun
in Fleetwood
There’s a lot happening for families in Wyre during summer 2015! It’s a great place to be and why not be one of the first people to try out the new facilities! Discover Fleetwood’s picturesque waterfront, seafront splash zone and dine al fresco in the family dining area. The ever popular beach playground also has an accessible play area for children with disabilities. These attractions coupled with some great family friendly events in the district make for a perfect short break.
Call 01253 887445 for more information or visit www.visitwyre.co.uk
J UMP F O
joy
R 4 NIGHT SUMMER HOLIDAY FROM ONLY
£24pp/pn
Just 10 minutes from the bright lights of Blackpool, our 5-star Holiday Village is the perfect place for your next holiday! With over 100 acres of luxury self-catering accommodation, restaurants, cafés and bars, leisure facilities and an award-winning Spa, you’ll find Ribby Hall Village is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday with family and friends.
To book or request a brochure call us FREE on 0800 107 1933 or visit ribbyhall.co.uk (Lines open 8am – 8pm)
*Terms and conditions apply. Price based on 6 sharing a Poppy Cottage for 4 nights between the 29th May – 25th June. Subject to availability.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT TO LANCASHIRE Less than an hour’s drive from Manchester and Liverpool and two hours from London and Glasgow, a shor t break in Lancashire this summer is closer than you think
Catch the UK’s biggest Walkabout Theatre - Oliver Twist
See SpareParts Arts as part of the Fleetwood Festival of Transport
Enjoy the best of country life at the Royal Lancashire Show in August
Free Summer Kids Workshops at Freeport Fleetwood
Start your natural adventure this summer at Brockholes
Visit Merlin’s magical attractions including The Blackpool Tower See Jane MacDonald in CATS at the Winter Gardens Book a 5 Star family break at Ribby Hall Village Stay at the New Beach Apartments & get free beach hut hire for the day
Don’t miss the Blackburn Heritage Festival in September Monkey around for less at Go Ape Rivington
Stay in Touch
For the latest updates on events, offers and things to do @VisitLancashire VisitLancashire #wherelifefeelsgood
Share sn your ho Ins taagps on ouliday ram p r age
Don’t forget to enter our
SUMMER PRIZE DRAW
to win one of two fantastic family breaks in Lancashire