Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Leigh

"Let your child’s creativity and enthusiasm flourish on small amusement rides, interactive exhibits and photo experiences, including their favourite characters from Thomas and Friends, Bob the Builder, Fireman Sam are all featured in this 13,000 square ft. activity space. With its own café and gift shop Mattel Play is also perfect for large groups and parties to keep the children entertained during school holidays. Aimed from children between 1-12 years of age."

"Boasting the largest group of Grade I listed buildings in Britain, along with an eclectic selection of bars, restaurants, shops and cultural attractions, including some of the city's finest independents, Royal Albert Dock is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the UK."

"As a part of the Church of England and Cathedral of the Diocese of Liverpool, this is one of the most popular and noteworthy Liverpool churches. Popular as Cathedral Church of Christ in Liverpool, built in 1978, it presently houses the prestigious seat of Bishop of Liverpool. Total length of Liverpool Cathedral, including the Lady Chapel is 189 m, making it the largest cathedral and religious building in Britain and the longest cathedral in the World."

"One of two cathedrals in the city, Liverpool Cathedral was built in 1904 but has been altered and re-imagined many times since. The cathedral was originally designed by Giles Gilbert Scott who also designed Battersea Power Station in London, and England’s iconic red telephone box. Liverpool Cathedral is the longest in the world, with an external length of 189 metres."

"Dating back to the 15th century, the Manchester Cathedral has experienced quite a bit of history! After Henry VIII broke away from the Roman Catholic Church, the Cathedral's riches were confiscated. During the English Civil war in the mid 17th century, pitched battles were fought inside and around the Cathedral between the Royalists (those supporting Charles I, the Stewarts, and the Anglican Church) and the Roundheads (Oliver Cromwell loyalists). Also Ann Lee, the founder of the religious movement called the Shakers interrupted services here when she lived in Manchester. The church was targeted by the Nazi Luftwaffe and received a direct head during the bombings of 1940. Yet through all this the Church maintains it's quiet dignity and beauty. It is a must see while in Manchester!"

"Manchester Cathedral has undergone extensive restoration works, both in the Victorian era and in recent years, following damage from the 1996 IRA bombing of the city centre. The cathedral has existed in some form on the site since medieval times, and holds artifacts that date back to Manchester’s existence as a Saxon settlement. The main body of this Gothic cathedral was originally constructed in the late 15th century, overseen by church warden James Stanley."

"Dating back to 1215, Manchester Cathedral offers a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The official name is actually “The Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George” and is one amazing sight that needs to be seen in the city. It’s well worth a wander around to see the gorgeous architecture, especially as it has been so well preserved."

"Image Source Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, much famed as Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ King hosts the prestigious seat of the Archbishop of Liverpool. Built in Gothic Revival architecture style in 1962; this is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool and regarded as one of the heritage churches in Liverpool. Metropolitan Cathedral has their own choir band and organ; which performs on regular basis."

"If you think you’ve seen all styles of cathedrals throughout your travels, think again!. The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral has been nicknamed by locals as “Paddy’s Wigwam”, and when you first lay eyes on it you’ll understand why. The architect who designed this unique cathedral won an international competition in 1962 and the building was completed and opened in 1967."

"If, like a lot of people, your appreciation for Liverpool began with The Beatles, where better to express your love than at The Cavern Club?. Situated on Liverpool’s famous Matthew Street, The Cavern Club is a great place to declare your love for your partner if they’re a music fan. With music playing most days in the venue, why not choose a quieter time of day to drop to one knee?"

"Whether you’re a Beetles fan or not, the Caven Club should be on everyone’s must-visit attractions list. Head to The Cavern Club for true Liverpudlian music experience. The iconic cellar has seen seven incredible decades of music; from The Beatles’ first performance on 9th February 1961 to the Arctic Monkeys pre-breakthrough gig in October 2005."

"0 km from city center 9 out of 10 places to visit in Liverpool. The Cavern Club is located at 10 Mathew Street in Liverpool. This club is famous as The Beatles used to play here in their early years."

"Boggart Hole Clough is an old park with several wooded ravines, valleys, and gullies. The name is said to have come from local superstitions that the area was haunted by a Boggart. There’s an ongoing debate about whether this is a real folk tale, or just a fabrication."

"We’re happy to give St John’s Gardens top marks for looks - after all, they’re meticulously kept, lined with a series of pretty walls and dotted with all kinds of lovely statues and flowerbeds - but the inner city location and relatively modest size mean it can seem a bit cramped (there's also something a bit wrong about cracking open a can of lager 50 feet from a dual carriageway). Still, it's great for a quick walk around."

"If you’re around the St George’s Plateau then head round the back to chill out in St John’s Gardens. The garden, which is part of the William Brown Street conservation area, has been a Green Flag site since 2003 and contains ornamental flower beds and various memorials to notable people in the city. A great spot to soak up the rays."

"Speke Hall was built 400 years ago in the 16th century for the Norris family. The stunning property remained in the family for generations until 1736, when Mary Norris married Lord Sidney Beauclerk. In 1795, wealthy Liverpool merchant Richard Watt moved into the hall, which was later passed onto his son Richard Watt V who restored and fully refurnished the house in the 1860s."

"Original use: Many regard Speke Hall, a beautiful Tudor manor house, as one of the finest surviving Liverpool buildings of its kind. The hall was originally created for the Norris family, who owned the property for many generations. Construction began on the wood-framed manor house in 1530, with some buildings on the site built even earlier and incorporated into the property."

"Discover the fascinating history of Adlington Hall as you tour The Great Hall, the chapel, oak-panelled dining room, the Minstrel’s Gallery, the number 10 bedroom, and more. Alongside the Great Organ, visitors can enjoy the original furniture, paintings, and décor of the building, or wander the gardens, attempt the maze, or enjoy a slice of homemade cake and a cup of tea in the tea room. I Opening Times: Public open days run on Sundays and Bank Holidays during April and September."

"A tremendous mixture of styles, Adlington Hall was founded at the end of the 15th century and then reworked in the 18th century. So while the north and east facades have romantic black and white timber framing the south and west wings are brick built, with a solemn Palladian portico. Adlington is hired out for weddings, but on Sundays between April and October the house and gardens are open to visitors."

"Located near River Mersey, Church of Our Lady and Saint Nicholas is a beautiful and one of the oldest churches in Liverpool city. Also known as Liverpool Parish Church, this is listed in the ‘National Heritage List For England’ and considered as a part of Greater Churches Group. Known for its spectacular lantern spire, wooden interior and paintings of eminent artists; this church overwhelms all, who pays a visit here."

"Overlooking Preston's Flag Market, Cafuné offers an array of vegetarian and vegan options bursting with the flavours of South America. From fruity breakfast smoothie bowls to zesty lunch options from Colombia and Venezuela, there are oodles of choices to team with South American teas, smoothies, and unique vegan coffees."