A mysterious, underground network of tunnels lies beneath Liverpool – and is one of its more atmospheric gig venues.

The northern quarter’s Frog Flowers is part florists, part artist’s studio – and is one Manchester shop that ticks all the boutique boxes.

Fellini’s does fancy ‘Vegeterranean’ food and films. What better way to treat yourself after a hard tramp in the Lake District?

Miller & Carter Steakhouse brings its traditional steak and sides to Manchester’s King Street.

Crowd-pleasing Thai casual dining at Manchester’s Spinningfields.

Hunan, a Chinese restaurant in Manchester’s Chinatown, may be a bit off the beaten track – but it’s all the better for that.

Jamie’s Italian is located in Edwin Lutyens’ soaringly elegant Midland Bank, one of the city’s treasures. The menu’s full of crowd-pleasing choices, with a huge selection of pastas, mains and bruschettas, and an appealing kids menu.The drinks range is broad and deep, with wine, beer and cocktails for all tastes and budgets.

Walkden Gardens in the Manchester suburbs has all the makings of a fairy tale garden. As a venue, it’s hard to imagine a more magical gateway, a wonderful escape only a short(ish) stroll from the Brooklands Metrolink stop..

One of the most recognisable landmarks in the UK, Blackpool Tower is an iconic tourist attraction that sits at the heart of the seaside town.

Ditch the supermarket stuff – Liverpool Cheese Company is a one stop shop for the best that dairy has to offer.

East Street Arts showcases parts of the city that many people don’t even know exist, inviting visitors to participate and engage with artists on an entirely different level.

With a wide range of craft beers and its very own on-site microbrewery, Sheffield Tap is uniquely housed within a restored railway station.