Skelmersdale

Few places in Lancashire divide opinion quite like Skelmersdale. This new town, built in the 1960s to house overspill from Liverpool, sits on elevated ground between the West Lancashire plains and the rolling countryside towards Wigan. Love it or loathe it, Skem has a unique brutalist character that's undeniably fascinating.

The town's concrete heart might not win beauty contests, but venture beyond the roundabouts and you'll find proper Lancashire countryside. Billinge Hill offers cracking views across the region - on clear days you can see right to the Welsh mountains. It's a fair trek from the town centre, mind, but well worth it for the panoramic vistas.

Moss Wood provides a lovely escape into ancient woodland, while Beacon View Lake is popular with anglers and dog walkers alike. The Millenium Needle stands as a modern landmark, though locals remain divided on its artistic merits. For a proper historical curiosity, seek out Skull House Skull - the name alone makes it worth investigating.

Connections are excellent. Multiple railway stations serve the area, including Appley Bridge, Upholland, and Orrell, making day trips to Liverpool, Manchester, or the coast straightforward. Wigan Wallgate provides the main link to larger cities.

Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around the area makes perfect sense. You're ideally positioned for exploring both the industrial heritage of West Lancashire and the gentler countryside beyond. The Secret Garden Glamping and Four Seasons Glamping offer alternatives to traditional camping, while Leisure Lakes provides outdoor activities alongside accommodation. From here, you can easily reach the coast at Southport or delve into the former mining communities that shaped this corner of Lancashire.