Call us:
0151 522 5800
Call us:
0151 522 580010th November 2025
Mark Barrow
As a student in Liverpool, you’re perfectly positioned to explore some of the UK’s most stunning destinations without breaking the bank. From dramatic mountain ranges and pristine lakes to historic cities and classic seaside resorts, the Northwest offers incredible variety, all within easy reach of your student home.
Whether you’re craving a beach day, a cultural city break, or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, these ten day trips from Liverpool prove you don’t need to travel far (or spend a fortune) to make unforgettable memories.
Liverpool’s central location in Northwest England makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. With excellent rail connections, frequent coach services, and easy motorway access, you can reach mountains, beaches, and major cities within 1-2 hours. Plus, with a 16-25 Railcard offering 1/3 off most train fares, student travel has never been more affordable.
Best for: History lovers, architecture fans
Distance: 25 miles (45 minutes)
Cost: £3-10 return on the train
Step back in time with a day trip to Chester, one of England’s best-preserved historic cities. Walk along the ancient Roman walls that encircle the city centre, dating back nearly 2,000 years while enjoying panoramic views of the medieval town. The impressive Chester Cathedral and Roman Amphitheatre offer student discounts or free entry.
Don’t miss The Rows, Chester’s unique two-tiered medieval shopping streets where independent boutiques nestle in Tudor-era buildings. Animal lovers can visit Chester Zoo (£25-30 with student discount), housing over 35,000 exotic animals.
How to get there: Direct trains run hourly from Liverpool Lime Street (39-45 minutes), or take the bus for as little as £3.
Top tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and explore the free Grosvenor Museum.
Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers
Distance: ~60 miles
Cost: £25-40 for coach tours
Experience Wales’ dramatic mountain landscapes with a day trip to Snowdonia National Park. Most tours include stops at Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking views, and the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno. You’ll also visit Betws-y-Coed village and enjoy a mini-hike through Snowdonia’s stunning valleys, no serious hiking experience needed!
How to get there: Student-friendly coach tours depart from Liverpool city centre. Companies like Daytripper and BusyBus offer full-day tours (around £35-40).
Top tip: Book tours at least a week in advance and layer your clothing as mountain weather can change quickly.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, Instagram lovers
Distance: ~90 miles (2 hours)
Cost: £15-40 depending on transport
Escape to the Lake District, England’s largest and most beautiful national park. Start at Lake Windermere, where you can take an optional boat cruise (around £10-15) for unbeatable views. Explore Ambleside with its independent shops and affordable cafes, then head to Grasmere for the famous Grasmere gingerbread. The park offers hiking trails for all abilities.
How to get there: Take the train from Liverpool Lime Street to Windermere (approximately 2 hours with one change, £15-25 return) or join an organised coach tour (£35-45).
Top tip: Pack walking boots and waterproof clothing, the Lake District is notorious for sudden rain showers!
Best for: Foodies, culture vultures, music fans
Distance: 35 miles (35-55 minutes)
Cost: £5-15 return
Liverpool’s friendly rival Manchester, is bursting with culture, world-class museums, and an incredible food scene. Start in the Northern Quarter, filled with colourful street art, vintage shops, and independent cafes. Visit Manchester’s FREE museums, including the Museum of Science and Industry and Manchester Art Gallery. Book lovers must visit John Rylands Library, its neo-Gothic architecture gives serious Harry Potter vibes!
How to get there: Frequent direct trains run from Liverpool Lime Street to Manchester Piccadilly or Victoria (35-55 minutes).
Top tip: With a 16-25 Railcard, you’ll save £5+ on your journey. Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
Best for: Thrill-seekers, beach lovers
Distance: 56 miles (1.5 hours)
Cost: £10-20 return train + £34+ park entry
Experience quintessential British seaside fun at Blackpool, home to the iconic Blackpool Pleasure Beach. With over 125 rides and attractions, you’ll find everything from white-knuckle rollercoasters to classic fairground rides. Don’t miss The Big One, Britain’s tallest rollercoaster at 235 feet.
Beyond the theme park, enjoy fish and chips on the beach, try the arcades, or visit Blackpool Tower. Between late August and early November, catch the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations, a spectacular FREE light show.
How to get there: Trains depart hourly from Liverpool Lime Street to Blackpool North (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes).
Top tip: Book tickets online in advance to save up to 25%.
Best for: Adrenaline junkies, adventure lovers
Distance: 20 miles (45 minutes)
Cost: £10-15 transport + £33-40 experience
Get your adrenaline pumping at Go Ape Delamere Forest, one of the UK’s premier outdoor adventure parks. Swing through the treetops on zip wires, tackle aerial obstacles, and challenge yourself on Tarzan swings, all surrounded by beautiful ancient woodland. The classic Tree Top Adventure features zip wires up to 426 metres long and crossings up to 12 metres high.
Delamere Forest also offers free walking and cycling trails if you want to extend your day out, plus a cosy cafe for post-adventure refreshments.
How to get there: Grab a mate with a car (20 miles, 45 minutes) or take the train to Delamere station (1 hour with one change), then walk for 15 minutes.
Top tip: Book online in advance as spots fill up quickly on weekends. Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes.
Best for: Hikers, nature photographers
Distance: ~75 miles (1.5 hours)
Cost: £20-40 for tours or car share
Discover the rugged beauty of the Peak District, Britain’s first national park. Visit the magnificent Chatsworth House with its beautiful gardens (student entry around £20), or explore charming villages like Castleton and Bakewell, home to the legendary Bakewell tart. The dramatic scenery offers excellent hiking opportunities for all abilities.
How to get there: Organise a car share with friends or join an organised day tour (£30-40). Public transport is limited within the park.
Top tip: Check the weather forecast and wear sturdy walking shoes.
Best for: Beach days, art lovers, wildlife spotters
Distance: 10-15 miles (30-40 minutes)
Cost: Approx. £5 on the train
You don’t need to travel far for a refreshing beach day. Crosby Beach features Antony Gormley’s “Another Place”, 100 cast-iron figures spread across the beach, creating a unique sight (especially at sunset). Entry is completely FREE.
Combine your visit with nearby Formby, home to a National Trust nature reserve where you can spot endangered red squirrels and explore dramatic sand dunes.
How to get there: Take the Merseyrail from Liverpool Central to Hall Road (for Crosby Beach) or Formby station (30-40 minutes).
Top tip: Time your visit with the tide times at Crosby Beach for the best views of the sculptures.
Best for: History fans, relaxed explorers
Distance: 10 miles (30 minutes)
Cost: £2-5
Discover Port Sunlight, an extraordinary Victorian model village built in the 1880s. This architectural gem features over 900 Grade II-listed buildings surrounding beautifully maintained parks and gardens, all completely FREE to explore. Visit the Port Sunlight Museum (£6-8) to learn about this fascinating social experiment.
How to get there: Take the Merseyrail from Liverpool Central to Port Sunlight station (approximately 30 minutes).
Top tip: Perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll and picnic, no crowds and no entry fees!
Best for: Beach lovers, relaxed day trips
Distance: ~60 miles
Cost: £15-25 return or included in North Wales tours
Experience Victorian seaside elegance in Llandudno, Wales’ largest seaside resort. Stroll along Britain’s longest pier, browse traditional shops, and relax on the sandy beach. Take the cable car up the Great Orme for spectacular views across the Irish Sea (£8-10 return).
How to get there: Direct trains run from Liverpool to Llandudno (approximately 1.5-2 hours with one change) or join a North Wales day tour.
Top tip: Combine your visit with Conwy Castle (just 5 minutes away by train) for a full day exploring North Wales.
Maximise your student budget with these practical tips:
For more budget travel inspiration, read our complete guide: 7 Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas for University Students.
From the Roman walls of Chester to the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia, treetop adventures at Delamere Forest to the thrilling rides of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, these day trips from Liverpool prove that incredible adventures don’t require big budgets. With advance planning, student discounts, and a railcard in your wallet, you can experience the best of England and Wales without compromising your finances.
Come home to a student house you love after your adventures! Luxury Student Homes offers premium student accommodation in Liverpool city centre and Wavertree. Our all-inclusive studios and flats come fully furnished with high-speed Wi-Fi, social lounges, and modern amenities, the perfect base for your Liverpool adventures.