Things to do in York, the Lake District & Northern England

In York, the great cathedral of York Minster offers free guided tours and a 275-step tower climb, the JORVIK Viking Centre takes you on a ride through a reconstruction of Viking-age Jorvik, and the free National Railway Museum shows Mallard, the world's fastest steam locomotive, alongside a Japanese Bullet Train. In Liverpool, The Beatles Story on the Royal Albert Dock recreates the Cavern Club and Abbey Road Studios, and in the Lake District, Windermere Lake Cruises sail between piers such as Bowness, Ambleside and Lakeside. Further north, Durham Cathedral has no admission charge and a museum of the North East's history, while Housesteads Roman Fort, Britain's most complete Roman fort, looks out along Hadrian's Wall. For thrills, head to Alton Towers Resort in Staffordshire or the seaside Blackpool Pleasure Beach with its 10 roller coasters, and in winter the Alpine chalets of the York Christmas Market and the Manchester Christmas Markets, with a large ice rink, bring festive cheer to the city centres.

Good to knowPre-booking is essential at the JORVIK Viking Centre, where bags must be under 38 × 30 cm and aerosols are not allowed, and services can close York Minster to sightseers, so check its calendar first. Durham Cathedral opens only from midday on Sundays, Windermere's winter sailings should be checked on the timetable, and Housesteads Roman Fort is uphill from the car park. On rainy days, Blackpool Pleasure Beach's indoor dark rides, including the historic Ghost Train, work well.