City Events

City Events sits just outside Bury and is Lancashire's answer to the bigger theme park circuit - though honestly, it punches well above its weight for a regional operation. The park runs a decent selection of rides and attractions that actually feel maintained rather than tired, which is more than you can say for some places. Rides range from the gentle stuff for younger kids through to proper thrill machines that'll leave your stomach somewhere near your throat.

It's the sort of place families base a day around rather than fitting in as a quick stop. You're looking at a good four to five hours minimum if you want to do the place properly without spending half the time queuing. School holidays get rammed, obviously, so weekday visits in term time are substantially better if you can manage it.

The park works brilliantly as part of a caravan holiday - Burrs Country Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is barely two miles away, so you're not faced with a trek back to camp afterwards. Dearden Wood is another option if Burrs is full, though it's a bit further at 5.7 miles. Both give you proper base camp options without the faff of driving miles for an evening meal.

Worth checking their website or ringing ahead for admission prices and current opening hours before you go - these things change seasonally. If the kids are keen on rides rather than roaming outdoors, this delivers better than wandering around another country park.