Itinerary Planner

Family Fun in Delamere

Family Fun in Delamere

There’s a plentiful supply of things to see and do for all the family in and around Delamere.

Here's our recommended must-do's for a visit to this area of Cheshire for a weekend break.

Day 1

Go on a Woodand Adventure. Delamere Forest is Cheshire’s largest woodland area and the perfect place for family adventures and picnics. Take a trip to the Visitor Centre where you can pick up trail maps, hire bikes for an exciting family adventure, or just explore the forest on your own.

There’s plenty of wildlife to be found including the greater spotted woodpecker, small tortoiseshell butterfly and southern hawker dragonfly, so why not bring some binoculars and see what you can spot.

If you’re feeling adventurous then bring out your inner ape at Go Ape! A high wire adventure with rope ladders, Tarzan Swing into a giant rope net, zip wires, rope bridges and much more in the heart of the forest. A high wire adventure takes approximately 3 hours. Age and height restrictions apply, booking is advisable.

Have fun at Blakemere. Head 10 minutes down the road from Delamere Forest and you’ll find Blakemere Village, with an indoor play barn, outdoor adventure play park, Bird of Prey flying displays and Segways as well as craft shops and craft activities, plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

Stay right in the heart of the forest in one of the beautiful new forest holidays lodges, the perfect place for a back-to-nature family break,

Day 2

Anderton Boat Lift. Built in 1875 the Anderton Boat Lift’s purpose was to transport working craft between the Weaver Navigation and Trent & Mersey Canal 50 feet above. Today the Anderton Boat Lift still operates so step aboard the Edwin Clark trip boat for a river trip and journey through the lift. The operations centre houses an interactive exhibition, gift shop and refreshment area, so there’s plenty to see and do.

Other Suggestions

Beeston Castle. Standing majestically on a sheer rocky crag, Beeston Castle offers perhaps the most stunning views of any castle in England. Discover 4,000 years of history, and explore over 40 acres of woodland walks. Perfect for a family day out!

The Ice Cream Farm. Choose from over 30 award winning and irresistible real dairy ice creams and sorbets made in Cheshire. Visit animal corner, watch the cows being milked and visit the café and gift shop. For the younger ones there’s ‘Crazy Daisy’s amazing adventure Indoor Play Barn and outdoor play area.

Product Information

  1. Delamere Forest

    Northwich

    Enjoy a fun day out in Cheshire’s largest woodland!

    Located between Liverpool and Manchester, Delamere Forest provides a stunning setting for your next family adventure.

    Add Delamere Forest to your Itinerary

    Enjoy a fun day out in Cheshire’s largest woodland!

    Located between Liverpool and Manchester, Delamere Forest provides a stunning setting for your next family adventure. Whether a leisurely wander through the trees, scaling the heights at Go Ape, an adventure in the deep, dark wood finding all the sculptures from the Gruffalo story or enjoying a family bike ride on our traffic-free trails, Delamere Forest is bursting with opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Explore the stunning landscape on a choice of five waymarked shared-use trails or the blue-graded single track bike trail. If you’re stuck for wheels why not visit Delamere Forest Bike Hire, who’ll happily fix you up with a hire bike, they’ve got something to suit everybody. Be sure to visit the eco-friendly visitor centre which is also home to the Delamere Forest Café – for all the post-fun refreshments you’ll need.  You can become a Delamere Forest member for £72 and get free parking all year round, plus a range of discounts and benefits. You’ll also be supporting the nation’s forests. Find out more here.

     

    Contact Details:

    Linmere, Delamere, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2HZ

    Tel:

    0300 067 4340

    Website

    Web Site

  2. Go Ape Delamere

    Northwich

    Boasting three high ropes activities above the forest floor, and an all-terrain Forest Segway experience, days out at Go Ape Delamere are about having fun and creating unforgettable memories.

    Add Go Ape Delamere to your Itinerary

    Go Ape, Delamere
    Go Ape! Delamere - Go Ape! is the UK's number 1 forest adventure
    Go Ape, Delamere
    Go Ape, Delamere
    Go Ape, Delamere
    Go Ape, Delamere
    Go Ape! Delamere - Go Ape! is the UK's number 1 forest adventure
    Go Ape, Delamere
    Go Ape, Delamere
    Go Ape, Delamere

    Located in the heart of Delamere Forest, a 50-minute drive from Liverpool - boasting three high ropes activities above the forest floor and an all-terrain Forest Segway experience, days out at Go Ape Delamere are about having fun and creating unforgettable memories.

    Whether you are a thrill seeker looking for action-packed fun or simply after some quality time with friends and family, a Go Ape experience not only boosts your sense of well-being, it's great for self-esteem and keeps you active.

     

    Treetop Challenge

    An exhilarating 2–3-hour self-guided journey through the forest canopy.

    Treetop Challenge is an unparalleled outdoor experience. It’s all about testing your own limits at dizzying heights.

    You’ll be tackling canopy-height crossings, leaping off free-fall Tarzan swings and riding high-speed zips. Our rope ladders are your gateway to a hidden world.

    For those aged 10+ and over 1.4 metres tall.

     

    Treetop Adventure

    Go Ape Tree Top Adventure is a jam-packed hour of intricate crossings, wobbly bridges, and a zip wire finale - guaranteed to evoke screams and laughter. Our Tree Top Adventure courses are designed with the younger family in mind.

    A high ropes experience for those over a metre tall.

    Once you've found your feet and head for heights then take the fun to new levels, finishing off with an even longer zipwire. Treetop Adventure Plus offers more thrills and challenging crossings.

    For those aged 6+ and over 1.2 metres tall.

     

    Forest Segway

    Ride, roam, and explore this enchanting Cheshire Forest.

    Whether you’re whizzing through purpose-built tracks or drinking in spectacular scenery – our all-terrain Segways are a brilliant way to discover more of the forest than ever before.

    This hour-long experience on a self-balancing electric Segway is a totally unique way to tackle the trails.

    All participants must be 7-18.4 stone (45-117kg).

    Contact Details:

    Delamere Forest, Linmere, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2JD

    Tel:

    01603 895500

    Website

    Web Site

  3. Blakemere Village

    Northwich

    Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, Blakemere welcomes visitors all year round to experience its unique activities, exciting events, enticing eateries, and independent shopping opportunities.

    Add Blakemere Village to your Itinerary

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    Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, Blakemere welcomes visitors all year round to experience its unique activities, exciting events, enticing eateries, and independent shopping opportunities. Whether it’s a convenient point to meet friends for lunch, a safe spot to entertain the kids, or a welcoming place to try something new, it’s never been easier to spend time together at Blakemere. 

    Blakemere is a family run attraction and home to Cheshire Segway, award-winning Birds of Prey experiences, two craft workshops and the family-friendly Playbarn, plus a variety of food and drink outlets.

    Parking and entry are free.

    Throughout the year, Blakemere hosts a programme of seasonal events including the Easter Bunny Trail, Sounds of Ibiza, Blakemere Firework Display and the annual Magical Woodland outdoor experience, with its dazzling lights and stunning sounds set in the depths of Cheshire woodland. Please visit our What’s On page for a full list of events.

    This year, Blakemere celebrates its 30th anniversary by hosting a series of celebratory events and sharing images and special tributes. Please follow us on social media for updates and share your treasured Blakemere memories using the hashtag #30yearsofBlakemere.

    It is also home to Blakemere Touring Park, winner of the Marketing Cheshire Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year 2023, Best Site for Families in the Practical Caravan Top 100 Sites 2023, and the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2022. It also offers a luxurious collection of holiday homes and lodges at Blakemere Holiday Homes 

    In 2023, Blakemere launched its new  Blakemere Hideways, a luxury 5* glamping retreat nestled within a hidden clearing. It’s 9 small and 3 larger lodges, all with en suite bathrooms and private hot tubs on their decked gardens.

    Blakemere is a dog friendly site with a great woodland adjacent for walking your four-legged friend. Please review our dog friendly policy here 

     

    Contact Details:

    Chester Road, Sandiway, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2EB

    Tel:

    01606 883261

    Website

    Web Site

  4. Anderton Boat Lift

    Northwich

    Book one of our extended River Cruises along the picturesque Weaver Navigation (at 11.30am or 2pm), 1 April - 1 November.  

    Add Anderton Boat Lift to your Itinerary

    Anderton Boat Lift - A fun day out for the family
    Stunning views of Anderton Boat Lift and the canal side
    All aboard for a trip up Anderton Boat Lift
    Grab lunch or a drink and a snack at the onsite cafe at Anderton Boat Lift
    Anderton Boat Lift - An extraordinary feat of engineering
    Anderton Boat Lift - A fun day out for the family
    Stunning views of Anderton Boat Lift and the canal side
    All aboard for a trip up Anderton Boat Lift
    Grab lunch or a drink and a snack at the onsite cafe at Anderton Boat Lift
    Anderton Boat Lift - An extraordinary feat of engineering

    Book one of our extended River Cruises along the picturesque Weaver Navigation (at 11.30am or 2pm), 1 April - 1 November.  

    There’s also a free waterways themed children's playground ... or you can just enjoy a stroll around our stunning grounds exploring the wide-open spaces and landscaped garden before treating yourself to our selection of fresh cakes, sandwiches, pizzas, paninis and hot and cold drinks in our hill top Coffee Shop overlooking the lift. 

    We are dog-friendly throughout the site.

    Watch out for our seasonal programme of events taking place throughout the year.

    There are no boat trips 1 November - 31 March

    Walking the Lift Tours - Selected dates during the year visit  https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/anderton for info. Minimum age 16 years”

    Contact Details:

    Lift Lane, Anderton, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 6FW

    Tel:

    01606 786777

    Website

    Web Site

  5. Beeston Castle and Woodland Park

    Tarporley

    Set 350 feet above the Cheshire Plain on the sheer rocky crags Beeston Castle is a magical site with something for everyone.

    Add Beeston Castle and Woodland Park to your Itinerary

    Beeston Castle and Bridge - English Heritage
    Events at Beeston Castle - English Heritage
    Family fun at Beeston Castle - English Heritage
    Glorious views from Beeston Castle - English Heritage
    Beeston Castle and Bridge - English Heritage
    Events at Beeston Castle - English Heritage
    Family fun at Beeston Castle - English Heritage
    Glorious views from Beeston Castle - English Heritage

    Set 350 feet above the Cheshire Plain on the sheer rocky crags Beeston Castle is a magical site with something for everyone. With stunning views to take your breath away, long walks through rich woodland for nature lovers and nooks and crannies for kids to hide in you’re sure to have a magnificent day out! Beeston's origins stretch over 4,000 years; to a Bronze Age hill fort to the medieval fortress visitors see today which was inspired by the Crusader's Castles and the impregnable hill-top strongholds of the Holy Land. Legend has it that the majestic Beeston Castle guards buried treasure once belonging to Richard II. The king is said to have dispersed bags of gold at Beeston en route to quell the rebellion in Ireland, perhaps your family can find the treasure? The famous views from the top are reputedly the best from any castle in England - on a clear day visitors can see across 8 counties from the Pennines in the east to the mountains of Wales in the west. Beeston is also a haven for wildlife and the unspoiled woodland makes it home to a host of birds and small mammals, remember to bring those binoculars and who knows what you may discover.

    The Sandstone Cafe

    Refuel after your adventure at The Sandstone Café. Perfect for visitors to the castle, or walkers on the Sandstone trail. 

    Serving a delicious range of hot and cold drinks and snacks it is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Not to be missed are the delicious cream teas, and cakes. Whether you are looking for a morning pastry, a warming soup or jacket potato, we can cater for a range of dietary and lifestyle choices. 

    The Sandstone Cafe is open to the public, and you won't need to pay admission to the castle to visit.

    Dogs on lead allowed. Assistance dogs welcome.

    Contact Details:

    Chapel Lane, Beeston, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 9TX

    Tel:

    01829 260464

    Website

    Web Site

  6. The Ice Cream Farm

    Tattenhall, Chester

    Set in the picturesque location between Beeston and Peckforton Castle, The Ice Cream Farm is the tastiest trip you will ever take, enticing over 800,000 visitors a year with over 50 award-winning and irresistible Cheshire Farm Ice Cream and sorbets to choose from. 

    Add The Ice Cream Farm to your Itinerary

    Set in the picturesque location between Beeston and Peckforton Castle, The Ice Cream Farm is the tastiest trip you will ever take, enticing over 800,000 visitors a year with over 50 award-winning and irresistible Cheshire Farm Ice Cream and sorbets to choose from. 

    Contact Details:

    Drumlan Hall Farm, Newton Lane, Tattenhall, Chester, Cheshire, CH3 9NE

    Tel:

    01829 770 995

    Website

    Web Site

  7. Forest Holidays Delamere Forest

    Frodsham

    Stay in one of Britain's most beautiful forests, in a secluded location offering a retreat from the everyday.

    Add Forest Holidays Delamere Forest to your Itinerary

    A cabin with a hot tub at Forest Holidays Delamere Forest
    A cabin with a hot tub at Forest Holidays Delamere Forest

    Stay in one of Britain's most beautiful forests, in a secluded location offering a retreat from the everyday.

    There’s loads of places to stay in Cheshire. But only one where you can spend a few nights deep in the heart of Delamere Forest. A Forest Holiday is the chance to step away from the world for a few days, to catch your breath and to relax. Whether it's a weekend break, a four-night midweek stay, a seven-night break, or even longer, you feel the magic of the forest from the moment you arrive. Perfect for a back-to-nature family break, explore and enjoy time with friends or escape for a romantic weekend for two.

    The oasis of broadleaf and evergreen trees spans 972 hectares of wild forest. Here you can choose between cabins bordered by clusters of trees for an off-the-beaten-track feel or cabins with sun-lit views of country fields. In Delamere Forest you’re likely to stumble across restored meres and mosses - grassy wetlands which give Cheshire’s landscape its distinctive character.

    Reconnect in a Forest Holidays cabin with peaceful forest views, an outdoor hot tub and all the extras you need to personalise your stay. You can also book adventure activities, see the forest by segway or meet owls on a nature-led experience the whole family will love. Venture out into the local area and find your own family favourites and hidden gems. Because the forest is more than just a place it’s endless possibilities.

    Sleep under the stars in Delamere Forest in a cosy cabin that feels like home.

     

    Contact Details:

    Ashton Road, Frodsham, Cheshire, WA6 6US

    Tel:

    03330 110 495

    Website

    Web Site

Itinerary Distances

FromToDistance * (metric)
Delamere Forest (53.22871,-2.67853)Go Ape Delamere (53.22961,-2.67854)0.09
Go Ape Delamere (53.22961,-2.67854)Blakemere Village (53.22794,-2.60534)4.39
Blakemere Village (53.22794,-2.60534)Anderton Boat Lift (53.2745,-2.52763)6.59
Anderton Boat Lift (53.2745,-2.52763)Beeston Castle and Woodland Park (53.12658,-2.68248)17.5
Beeston Castle and Woodland Park (53.12658,-2.68248)The Ice Cream Farm (53.1318,-2.75038)4.12
The Ice Cream Farm (53.1318,-2.75038)Forest Holidays Delamere Forest (53.24995,-2.70194)12.19
Total Distance *44.87 miles
Estimated Journey Time1.44 hours

* Approximate distance by road

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