Visit Lancashire Christmas guide 2026

SEA LIFE Blackpool

For food lovers and aspiring chefs Forget another box of chocolates. Why not gift an experience that teaches new skills and creates delicious memories? At La Locanda in Gisburn, guests can learn authentic Italian cookery from Chef Maurizio before sitting down to enjoy their creations, or why not try some Michelin Star inspired creations at Northcote Cookery School? These hands-on classes cover everything from seasonal dishes to restaurant–quality techniques. For those who enjoy discovering how their favourite drinks are made, a behind-the-scenes tour at Bowland Brewery's Holmes Mill in Clitheroe provides fascinating

insight into the brewing process alongside tastings of award-winning ales. Alternatively, spirits enthusiasts can explore the art of distilling on a guided tour at Lancaster Spirits Company, learning about whisky production and sampling expertly crafted Lancashire spirits along the way.

For animal lovers Some of the most memorable gifts come with four legs, feathers or even fins, but if you don't want a new addition to the family, these animal experiences offer a great alternative. Young horse enthusiasts can spend a day living their dream with HAPPA's Own a Pony Day in Burnley, learning how to care for and handle horses alongside experienced staff, or if you are looking for something a little larger Blackpool Zoo offers a variety of animal experiences that allow visitors to get closer to some of their favourite animals. For someone looking for a truly unique adventure, SEA LIFE Blackpool's Shark Snorkelling Experience provides the chance to come face-to-face with sharks, rays and sea turtles in a fully supervised environment. Or maybe inspire a new hobby with The Bee Centre's Beekeeping Experience. It offers a fascinating introduction to the world of honeybees, and sustainable beekeeping.

Lancaster Spirits Company

For creative minds For the crafty person, Cedar Farm brings together a community of artists and makers who often offer creative classes and demonstrations, whether you want to learn glass fusing, calligraphy or mosaic. Alternatively, Holden Clough offers a range of different workshops throughout the year, from upholstery and sculpture to terrariums and mushroom growing, perfect for those who like to try something new. Know someone who is a fan of The Great Pottery Throw Down? Fired 4 U in Preston offers clay-based workshops that are perfect for beginners and are often themed around the seasons. Or if just decorating ceramics is more their style, the newly opened Potting Shed Studio, at Barton Grange Garden Centre, offers a wide range of premade pottery to paint.

Go Ape

For adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts If your loved one prefers muddy boots to slippers, Lancashire has no shortage of outdoor experiences to choose from. Inch Perfect Trials near Clitheroe offers motorcycle trial experiences for all abilities, providing expert tuition and plenty of thrills against the backdrop of the Ribble Valley countryside. Prefer to getting wet to muddy? The Anderton Centre near Chorley specialises in outdoor adventure activities, including paddle sports, sailing, canoeing and team raft building. They also have a host of on land activities too when you want to dry off. For family adventures, Go Ape's treetop challenges in Blackburn and nearby Rivington promise a mix of zip wires, rope crossings and confidence- building fun high above the forest floor.

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