Lyme Park
A proper deer park on the edge of the Peaks: 1,400 acres, a herd of red deer, the Crow Wood adventure playground, and the house from the BBC's Pride and Prejudice.
Stockport Air Raid Shelters
Stockport, Greater Manchester
A mile of tunnels cut into the sandstone under Stockport sheltered up to 6,500 people in the Blitz; today an audio tour walks you through bunks, first-aid posts and graffiti left by the families who slept here.
Under-16s go free with a paying adult. It is atmospheric rather than frightening, best from about seven up, and genuinely cool underground - take a layer whatever the weather.
Know before you go
- It is genuinely underground and cool all year - bring a layer even in August.
Looking for more museums & science near Stockport?
Also in Stockport
Reddish Vale Farm
A proper small farm park tucked into the Tame valley on Stockport's edge: cows, goats, shire horses and alpacas, zip wires outside and a play area under cover for when it rains. Book online, the gate price is higher.
Etherow Country Park
A big lake crowded with waterfowl, a flat path alongside it and a cafe where you left the car: the easiest small-child walk in the Stockport area. Entry is free, the car park is not.
Bramall Hall & Park
A black and white Tudor manor house sitting in around 60 acres of parkland with woods, brooks and lakes. The park costs nothing, under 16s go into the hall free, and all-day parking is £3.
Hat Works Museum
The UK's only museum of hats and hatting, back open after a four-year refurbishment. The galleries are free and you can try hats on; the Victorian factory floor is a £7.50 guided tour. An hour well spent, not a full day.