AM

Start your day at the birthplace of Alice in Wonderlands author, Lewis Carroll. Take a self-guided walk around the area he grew up, marked by the National Trust. From there wander through the nearby Lewis Carroll Centenary wood, before exploring the story at the Lewis Carroll Centre, which is alongside All Saints Church. Don’t forget to take a moment to take in the stained-glass memorial window which pays tribute to the much-loved fantasy wonderland.

En- route you can grab a scoop or two of the delicious Daresbury Dairy Ice Cream, made with love and care on the local farm nearby. Must try flavours are the Taste Award winners– Stem Ginger, Raspberry Ripple and vanilla!

PM

From Daresbury take the short drive to Widnes over the impressive Mersey Gateway Bridge and head to Spike Island. This man-made island made rock and roll history with the iconic Stone Roses gig in the 1990s. Now you can soak up the picturesque views of the River Mersey and visit Catalyst Science and Discovery and Museum. Experience interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, perfect for curious young minds, to discover the wonders of science and technology like never before. Unleash your inner scientist as you explore interactive displays and engage in exciting experiments. There is also a great outdoor play area and cafe to sit back and relax, For stunning views of the surrounding area, head to the Observatory Gallery on the fourth floor to soak it all in.

Evening

From Widnes, hop over to Runcorn and the award-winning Brindley Theatre. Since opening in 2004 this state-of-the-art theatre and arts centre has hosted notable names such as Gary Barlow and Peter Kay. Top tip – when at The Brindley and feeling peckish then try their famous scones for afternoon tea.

From The Brindley take a short stroll along the canal to the Wat Phra Singh Buddhist Temple, which was the setting of TV classic Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps as the Archers Pub. Now it has transformed into a tranquil Buddhist Community. Adjacent to the temple is the community Peace Garden, which is home to an impressive six-metre tall bronzed ‘Chedi’ statue, which is the first of its magnitude in the UK. Quickly becoming the most photographed object in Runcorn. Get your cameras ready, you don’t want to miss it!

If you have more time why not take a look at some of our other culture seekers hidden gems:

• Spike Island: Go and explore the island with its footpaths, cycle paths, canal walks, taking in the views of the River Mersey. This island in the middle of Halton hosted indie legends The Stone Roses back in 1990, where 30,000 concert goers cemented this milestone night in British music history.
• The Studio: Based in Widnes this music venue hosts live music events as well as fostering talent and promoting events.
• Hazlehurst Studios in Runcorn is a collective of local artists that offer workshops and sell handcrafted items.