Southport: Only a 45-minute drive from Liverpool is the Victorian seaside town of Southport. Famous for its boulevards, pier and gardens, Southport is a fine example of a traditional seaside town. Head down to the pier for fish and chips, or have afternoon tea in one of the many tea rooms. If you love nature, head to the Ainsdale Sand Dunes Nature Reserve — where you can find rare plants, birds and amphibians along the 10 kilometres of way-marked footpaths.
Llangollen: An hour-and-twenty-minute-drive away is the picturesque Welsh town of Llangollen. Home of the International Musical Eisteddfod, Llangollen is full of history, culture and nature. For outdoor lovers, there are plenty of walking and cycling trails heading off into the hills. If you prefer a more sedate ride, you can take a horse-drawn canal trip on the famous Llangollen Canal. The historic mansion, Plas Newydd, is also worth a visit.
Chester: Chester is a historic, walled city only 45 minutes from Liverpool by car. Founded in the Roman times, Chester is a hodgepodge of architecture, with a Tudor high-street, Victorian town hall and Medieval gatehouses. You can row on the River Dee or watch horseracing at the Chester Races. If you are with the family, a visit to Chester Zoo is not to be missed.
