Chester Zoo is home to over 21,000 endangered and exotic animals based in beautiful, award-winning gardens and is the nearest large zoo to Manchester. With over 500 different animal species in their 125 acres, visitors are sure to have an adventure discovering and learning about the amazing wildlife. Conservation and education are at the heart of everything at Chester Zoo. They are committed to providing the highest standards of care for their animals as well as protecting native and international wildlife. Their team of expert and knowledgeable staff work hard to prevent extinction and are passionate about connecting visitors to the natural world. Chester Zoo has a variety of tours and hands-on experiences as well as daily animal talks to guarantee a day full of animal adventure. Stop for a snack at one of their many restaurants, cafes, and kiosks, including their recently refurbished contemporary British pub, The Oakfield. It's a huge zoo, but there are plenty of options for getting around, including the Zoofari Monorail and the Lazy River Boat Trip on the Islands. Don’t forget to stop in at the gift shop on your way out for a souvenir of your trip.

Ordsall Hall is Salford's 'hidden gem'. Dating back over 600 years, it is one of the region's finest examples of an Elizabethan black and white half-timbered manor-house. Wander back through time soaking up the atmosphere of its fully-furnished Great Hall and Star Chamber Bedroom. Get the low-down on Tudor lifestyles; maybe reminisce in its Victorian showcase and kitchen, or unearth the wealth of new discoveries to be made in its exciting and informative family events and exhibitions programme.

Art and nature intertwine in the spectacular setting of the Volcano House, managed by the César Manrique Foundation. Built into an old lava flow, this former home of renowned artist César Manrique offers a unique insight into his life and creative vision. The upper storey of this 3,000 square metre building showcases traditional Lanzarote architecture, while the lower storey is ingeniously built around five natural volcanic bubbles connected by tunnels. Marvel at the swimming pool, ballroom, and barbeque area, all surrounded by abundant plant life and striking basalt. The foundation houses an array of Spanish paintings and exhibition pieces, alongside fascinating photos, magazine articles, and audio clips that shed light on Manrique's life and artistic philosophy. Embrace the awe-inspiring blend of nature and creativity, and leave inspired by the harmony achieved in this remarkable volcanic abode.

Venture 27 kilometres north of Arrecife to discover some of the world's most awe-inspiring caves. The Jameos del Agua subterranean complex, formed 3,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, boasts an array of volcanic formations, including lakes, caves, courtyards, and even a subterranean auditorium that regularly hosts concerts. Adjacent to Jameos del Agua, you'll find the remarkable Cueva de los Verdes, a lava tube situated within the protected area of Monumento Natural del Malpaís de La Corona. This tourist attraction features 7-kilometre-long tunnels and a mesmerising subterranean lake in its largest cave.