Bolton Bliss: A Family-Friendly 3-Day Adventure

Discover family fun in historic Bolton, where adventure awaits!

19 July 2023

Bolton, located in the beautiful county of Greater Manchester, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its array of attractions. Take your kids for a fun-filled day at the Bolton Aquarium, where they can explore the diverse underwater world. Experience the enchanting beauty of the surrounding countryside with a leisurely family stroll through Lever Park, home to stunning gardens and charming picnic spots.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Bolton Bliss

  • Check into the family-friendly Holiday Inn Bolton Centre, where the kids are greeted with a special welcome pack, and parents can relax in spacious rooms.
  • Head to Smithills Open Farm for a day of animal encounters, from cuddly rabbits to mischievous goats – don't forget to try your hand at sheep racing!
  • Visit the Bolton Museum and Art Gallery to immerse yourself in the town's history and discover its impressive art collection.
  • Take a breather in the picturesque Queens Park, where the little ones can burn off some energy in the play area while you enjoy a picnic amidst beautiful surroundings.
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at Middlebrook Retail Park, boasting an array of shops, from high street favorites to unique boutiques. Don't forget to stop by the LEGO store for a dose of childhood nostalgia.
  • Savor a delicious dinner at Yu & You, a family-friendly Chinese restaurant known for its mouthwatering dim sum and innovative dishes.
Day 2

Adventure Unleashed

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the charming Cafe Loco, where you can munch on their famous cinnamon swirl pancakes before embarking on your Bolton adventure.
  • Head to Rivington Pike and take a family hike up the hill to enjoy panoramic views of Bolton and beyond.
  • Explore the enchanting Smithills Hall, a medieval manor house with stunning gardens and spooky tales. Don't miss the interactive displays and exciting events for kids.
  • Immerse yourselves in fun and history at Turton Tower, a majestic Tudor house complete with stunning gardens and a hands-on exhibition to keep the little ones entertained.
  • Treat the family to a scrumptious lunch at Vicki's Cafe & Bistro, a quaint eatery offering homemade delights, including legendary bacon butties and indulgent cakes.
  • End the day with a thrilling evening at Hollywood Bowl, where you can challenge each other to a game of bowling and enjoy some well-deserved laughs.
Day 3

Culture Vulture

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Griffin Pub, where the whole family can tuck into a traditional English breakfast or indulge in a Belgian waffle feast.
  • Discover Bolton's industrial heritage at the Bolton Steam Museum, where you can marvel at the impressive collection of steam engines and learn about their fascinating history.
  • Visit Hall i' th' Wood Museum, a 16th-century house that was once home to famous writer Samuel Crompton. Uncover intriguing tales and immerse yourself in the Tudor era.
  • Take a stroll around Jumbles Country Park, where you can enjoy picturesque walks, serene lakes, and even have a family picnic overlooking the stunning countryside.
  • Treat yourself to a delightful afternoon tea at The Cherry Tree Tea Rooms, where you can savor freshly baked scones, dainty finger sandwiches, and a selection of cakes.
  • Bid Bolton farewell with a delicious farewell dinner at The Crofters Arms, serving up traditional pub food with a modern twist, ensuring everyone leaves with satisfied taste buds.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into Manchester Airport and then take a train or bus to Bolton. There are several airlines that fly to Manchester Airport from all over the world, including British Airways, Delta, and Emirates.

Car

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by car is to take the M60 and M61 motorways from Manchester. The journey takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic. You can also drive from Liverpool or other nearby cities.

Train

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by train is to take a train from London Euston station to Bolton station. The journey takes around two hours and there are several trains per day. You can also take a train from other cities such as Manchester or Liverpool.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by boat as the town is inland. However, you can take a ferry from Dublin or Belfast to Liverpool and then drive or take public transport to Bolton.

Bus

The best way to get to Bolton, United Kingdom by bus is to take a Megabus or National Express coach from London or Manchester. Both companies run services to Bolton several times a day and the journey takes around 4 hours from London and 90 minutes from Manchester.

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