Weekends at uni can be rather boring. You’ve explored the city and found the best burgers, but what about visiting attractions slightly further away from the city.

If you’re stuck for ideas, we’ve got ten great suggestions for you for things to do less than two hours away from Liverpool.

1. Spot some exotic wildlife

Spot some exotic wildlife
Source: Knowsley Safari Instagram

Where? Knowsley Safari, Prescot L34 4AN.
How much? £15 per car or £17.50 per adult.

Ever fancied going to Africa to see a giraffe, or perhaps you wanted to go to South America so spot the bush dogs? Knowsley Safari has a collection of animals from across the globe all in one place. Turn your housemate’s car into a safari truck as you admire the meerkats, lions, tigers, baboons and many more animals the park has to offer from the safety of the vehicle. However, if you want stretch your legs you can use The Lakeside Railway to explore the park.

2. Have a flutter on the horses

Have a flutter on the horses
Source: The Jockey Club-Haydock

Where? Haydock Park Racecourse, Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside WA12 0HQ.
How much? Depends on the fixture.

If the possibility of losing so much money you won’t be able to pay your rent next term gives you an adrenaline rush, this is the perfect day out for you. Haydock Park Racecourse holds many events across the year. Not only do they host horse racing but they also hold a number of performances from live acts, previous artists include Culture Club, Olly Murs and The Jacksons.

3. Frolick in the sand and sea

Frolick in the sand and sea
Source: Wikimedia

Where? Formby Beach, Victoria Rd, L37 1LJ.
How much? Free.

You’ll get sand, sea but unfortunately because it’s the north of England it’s very unlikely there will be any sun. The natural parts of our country are beautiful and well worth visiting when you get a chance. Of course, the experience would be slightly more pleasurable in summer but as long as your wrap up warm, it could make a fun day.

4. Take in the beauty nature has to offer

Take in the beauty nature has to offer
Source: Wikimedia

Where? Ness Botanic Gardens, Neston Road, CH64 4AY.
How much? £1 for students.

The gardens are open all year round, with seasonal plants and flowers growing there will always be something different to see. The gardens are also owned by the University of Liverpool so why not take a visit to a part of the university you may otherwise not see?

5. Pet some piggies

Pet some piggies
Source: Croxteth Park Farm

Where? Croxteth Park Farm, Muirhead Ave East, Liverpool L11 1EH.
How much? £3.50 per adult.

Who doesn’t like going to see the farm animals? Alright it might be more of a thing for young kids but we all have an inner child we like to indulge in every now and again.

6. Visit one of England’s stunning National Parks

Visit one of England’s stunning National Parks
Source: Wikimedia

Where? Peak District National Park, DE45 1AE.
How much Free.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, why not take advantage of being close by to one of the most popular National Parks the UK has to offer?

7. Be a thrill-seeker

Be a thrill-seeker
Source: Pleasure Beach Resort Instagram

Where? Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool, FY4 1EZ.
How much? £32.50 for entry to the park and free rides.

If you fancy an adrenaline rush and a stick of rock, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is the place for you. While you’re there why not set yourself a challenge and ride the UK’s tallest roller-coaster?

8. Get wet and wild

Get wet and wild
Source: Sandcastle-Waterpark

Where? Sandcastle Waterpark, South Beach, FY4 1BB.
How much? £16 per adult.

It may be a bit chilly to have a dip in the sea so why not visit Blackpool’s waterpark instead? The park has 18 rides and attractions including a spa, water slides and a wave pool there is plenty to keep you occupied. If you book your tickets more than a week before your visit, you will receive a 10 per cent discount online.

9. Check out some underwater wildlife

Check out some underwater wildlife
Source: Blue Planet Aquarium

Where? Blue Planet Aquarium, Cheshire Oaks, CH65 9LF.
How much? £15.98 for a standard ticket.

The Blue Planet Aquarium has plenty of things for you to see including rock pools, a place to see the crocodiles and tanks for you to swim with sharks. If you’d rather stay outside of the tanks, there is still plenty for you to do with more than 100 tanks.

10. Get a history lesson

Get a history lesson
Source: Lancaster Castle

Where? Lancaster Castle, Castle Parade, LA1 1YJ.
How much? £8 per adult.

Dating back to Roman times, Lancaster Castle is oozing with history. Take a tour of the castle to uncover it’s dark past and learn about the owners and the castle’s royal visitors.

Last Updated on June 29, 2024

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