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Northwest England Free Gems Loop

Since you're starting in St Helens, you’re perfectly positioned to hit some of the best free culture, coastal views, and mountain scenery in the UK without spending a penny on entry fees.

5days
20stops
DAY01

St Helens Central → Crosby Beach

Overnight in Crosby Beach
  1. 09:00
    St Helens Central· start
  3. 10:00
    Royal Albert Dock
  5. 13:00
    Museum of Liverpool
  7. 15:30
    Crosby Beach· overnight
Food
  • Picnic / Baltic Market · Pack a picnic for the beach. If you want a vibe, the Baltic Market area is great for window shopping and atmosphere even if you don't buy a full meal.
DAY02

Chester City Walls → Parkgate

Overnight in Parkgate
  1. 09:30
    Chester City Walls· start
  3. 12:30
    Grosvenor Park
  5. 15:00
    The Rows
  7. 17:00
    Parkgate· overnight
DAY03

Peak District National Park → Bakewell

Overnight in Bakewell
  1. 09:00
    Peak District National Park· start
  3. 11:00
    Dovedale
  5. 14:30
    Tissington Trail
  7. 17:00
    Bakewell· overnight
DAY04

Lake District National Park → Stock Ghyll Force

Overnight in Stock Ghyll Force
  1. 09:00
    Lake District National Park· start
  3. 11:00
    Bowness-on-Windermere
  5. 14:00
    Rydal Water
  7. 16:30
    Stock Ghyll Force· overnight
DAY05

Forest of Bowland → St Helens

  1. 10:00
    Forest of Bowland· start
  3. 12:00
    Trough of Bowland
  5. 15:00
    Formby Pine Woods
  7. 18:00
    St Helens
Heads Up
  • Parking is the only "sneaky" cost. Use apps like Parkopedia to find free residential streets just outside the city centers (like Chester or Liverpool) to keep the trip 100% free!