Lancashire (Manchester, Blackpool and Morecambe Bay)
Lancashire is a large county in northwest England, home to the thriving city of Manchester, the seaside resort of Blackpool (and its posh neighbour Lytham St Annes) plus lots of lovely countryside.
And a stunning coastline at Morecambe Bay. This has dangerous quicksand (this is where the Chinese cockle pickers were swept out to sea a few years ago).
If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe (learn how to upright an overturned sheep). Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees.
At the coast, keep dogs away from nesting birds and sand dunes. Read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside. Check beach bans before travel.
The city of Manchester
Of course, Manchester is very much in the news these days, and even has its own No.10 North to share power with London. Home to a rich industrial past, it’s also heavily associated with football.
And music! From Oasis to the Smiths.
The seaside resort of Blackpool
This is another of those towns that had its heyday and could again. But is pretty run-down with litter and endless shopping chains. It has a beautiful sandy beach, and up the road is swanky Lytham, where Les Dawson lived!
Preston – rainiest place in England!
Preston is the rainiest place in England, even more so than the Lake District. So bring your windproof brolly if visiting! The downpours no doubt drain into the nearby River Ribble.
The Forest of Bowland
Swap the city for magnificent countryside. Here you’ll find rolling hills, moorland, valleys, rivers and old traditional villages. The landscape can be very remote in higher areas, so take care.
The forest also provides important habitats for many birds and mammals.
