What to do and see in Lancashire, England: The Best Free Things to do

Discover Bowland and explore 803 sq km of rural Lancashire (730 sq km) and Yorkshire (73 sq km). The Forest of Bowland was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1964 and provides some of the most peaceful and remote walking, riding and cycling in the country. Festival Bowland - a year round calendar of events - is a great way to find out more about the area, discover intriguing heritage, fantastic wildlife and enjoy great family fun.

The largest district in Lancashire.

Stanley Park is Blackpool's premier green attraction, placed as a Grade II* listed facility on the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, within a designated town conservation area. The park has enjoyed continued popularly since its official opening in 2nd October 1926 by Sir George Edward Villers Stanley, after whom the park takes its name. Stanley Park was designed by famous Landscape Architects Thomas Mawson & Sons and at 256 acres, is one of England's largest and historically significant green spaces. The park was the first comprehensive site planning scheme in Blackpool; a unique development on a grand scale designed to meet the needs of the town. The park contains everything that any visitor could possibly wish for. Experience a variety of scenic walks around ornamental gardens, natural woodlands and lakes as well as a number of stunning architectural and landscape features such as the Cocker Memorial Clock Tower, Art Deco Cafe, Italian Gardens, Rose Gardens, Bandstand and Auditorium. The park also boasts a superb sporting and recreational facilities including Blackpool Model Village, Stanley Park Golf Course, Blackpool Sports Centre, Blackpool Cricket Ground and Athletic Arena, as well as boat hire and numerous outdoor pitches, greens and courts.

The museum stands high on Castle Hill, in the shadow of the Castle Keep, an image which has dominated Clitheroe's skyline for over 800 years. The historic landmark of Clitheroe, in the heart of the Ribble Valley offers a day of exploration for all the family. Our intriguing galleries will take you on a journey through 350 million years of history, heritage and geology of the local area. We have lots of activities for children in the museum - a competition hunt, dressing-up costumes, explorer back-packs (with hat and magnifying glass), craft activities and various interactive displays. Come and enjoy a fun-filled day of exploration and learning.

One of Lancashire's most historic halls set in the beautiful park of the same name. The history of the Hall itself is full of intrigue, with stories of plotting and religious turmoil. It dates back to Elizabethan times with changes and additions over the centuries, all helping make a visit to the Hall a fascinating and enjoyable experience. This grade 1 listed building is the jewel in Chorley's crown, with stunning plaster work and architectural features. As the town's museum and art gallery it is also home to items of local historical interest. William Shakespeare and Oliver Cromwell are some of the famous guests to stay at the hall.

Fairhaven Lake is one of the borough's most popular attractions. Nestled between Lytham and St Anne's, a salt water lake, positioned directly on the coast next to Granny's Bay and Stanner Bank. Enjoy the many recreational facilities provided, motorboat, canoe and rowing boat hire. For the less adventurous there is an electrically powered motor launch, enjoy the cruise and enjoy the scenery from the launch on a 10-15 min cruise. Lakeside facilities include a cafe and the RSPB Discovery Centre. The lake is one of the most important wildfowl locations in Europe, with a group of more than 250 Canada Geese, several Swans (including a solitary Black one) and many coots, water hens and other smaller fowl.