RHS Garden Bridgewater invites you on a supersized family adventure this Easter holiday as The Giant Easter Egg Hunt returns 1-16 April – try and find all the larger-than-life eggs hidden around the garden or have a go at fun planting and craft activities for the whole family. And if you’d prefer a trip without the wee ones, chill out with a coffee and cake in one of the cafes, or head to the garden centre for some treats to brighten up your own outdoor spaces.

A major new exhibition opens at the Whitworth on Good Friday. Traces of Displacement the issue of one of the greatest humanitarian crises of recent times – forced displacement through the 20th and 21st centuries. The result is a fantastic, complex and sometimes surprising survey of the issue. And while you’re at the Whitworth, do check out another brilliant exhibition, this time textile-focused: Althea McNish: Colour is Mine.

Manchester’s newest green space is well worth checking out as warmer weather (hopefully) springs into action. Tucked away behind Mayfield Depot, with its bars and oft-changing eateries, there are play facilities for the little’uns plus the chance to spot dippers and other wildlife on the newly daylighted River Medlock.

Another Hand offers an exciting menu, championing local producers, and an outside terrace for if the weather behaves itself. Mews neighbour Dormouse Chocolates feature in the desserts (and, recently, on Great British Menu), and don’t forget to head there to pick up some cocoa treats to take home…

Not only one of Britain’s most picturesque national parks, the Lake District is also brimming with culture. Take a look at our rundown of things to do over the Easter break.

Rain or shine, Goodtime Games’ shelves are piled high with hours and hours of turn-based amusement, with owners Tom and Melissa on hand to offer up a wealth of knowledge and recommendations. While you’re there, nip up the way to the Burton Road OG of Cocoa Cabana for some Easter-inspired chocolate treats, including delicious hot choc, or wheedle in a trip to La Chouquette in nearby Didsbury Village.

Chester’s historic Rows are part of the Government’s High Street Heritage Action Zones initiative, revitalising 14 historic high streets across the North West, and more than 60 across England. Stroll along the unique walkways and you’re bound to stumble across a quirky cafe or bar that takes your fancy as well as boutique shops and even some live performances and art installations as part of a spring-summer programme being rolled out this year.

With over 300 acres of freely roaming fallow deer, ancient trees to climb and wild trails to tread, Dunham Massey is one of our top go-tos for a quick city escape. And Easter – when the country estate bursts into bloom with white carpets of snowdrops and yellow coverings of daffodils – is the perfect time to visit.

April might still be a little early for a bracing dip, but it’s the perfect time to visit Formby Beach – spring being when the local native red squirrel population is most active. The beautiful National Trust reserve is bordered by a glorious stretch of coastal pinewoods. Combine with a trip to nearby Crosby Beach either, where contemporary sculptor Antony Gormley’s striking iron men gaze into the horizon.

We’ve been teased with a little bit of sun over the last few weeks, fingers crossed it breaks out into a full blown heatwave over Easter.