Kirkham Library

Local libraries rarely make holiday itineraries, but Kirkham's branch deserves a mention for families staying at nearby parks like Ribby Hall Village or Mowbreck Park. This compact community library serves the market town of Kirkham, just outside Preston, and proves particularly useful on those inevitable rainy days that punctuate Lancashire holidays.

Families with young children will find the children's section well-stocked with picture books and early readers - proper lifesaver when the little ones have burned through their holiday reading. The staff know their local area well and can point you towards walking routes and family attractions you might have missed.

What makes it genuinely handy for holidaymakers is the free WiFi and quiet space to plan your next day's adventures or check weather forecasts. Parents often duck in here while exploring Kirkham's market square, and it's a decent spot to shelter if caught in a downpour.

Given its proximity to several caravan parks including Stanley Villa Farm and Sea View Caravan Park, it's worth knowing about even if you're not naturally drawn to libraries on holiday. The opening hours vary seasonally, so best to check before making a special trip, though it typically follows standard library schedules with some weekend provision.