Day Trips from Manchester

In Brief.  For something completely different from a day trip to a civilised National Trust property, the Hack Green Nuclear Bunker in the Cheshire countryside provides a glimpse into the somewhat bygone age of the Cold War and the threat of nuclear devastation. Hack Green was to have been a government regional headquarters in the event of a nuclear war, and contains the minimum infrastructure for communication, coordination and life support for 160 civil servants. It's a stark reminder of how very bleak everything could quickly have become. Afterwards, the historic town of Nantwich is close by, with an opportunity to have lunch in a 400 year old hostelry and to both find out about and take home some Cheshire cheese. British air-dropped nuclear weapon. What's Here? Hack Green is approached down typical country lanes, and is a large, windowless concrete building, designed to withstand some measure of bomb damage.  Inside it is substantial, hosting among other things a canteen ...

In Brief. With its Roman origins and a medieval cathedral, the walled city of Chester has a long and varied history. The historical sites and the attractive Victorian town centre, mean that Chester is a popular tourist destination, with extensive shopping and eating temptations alongside more worthy pursuits. Not being a serious shopper, I took a boat trip on the river, walked the walls, visited the Cathedral, and ate rather too much. There is plenty to fill a day in Chester while still leaving its famous Zoo  for a return visit. Chester Cathedral from the city walls. What's Here? Though Chester has a population of around 80,000, and thus occupies a considerable area, the historic centre is compact, and delimited by essentially complete defensive walls . Seemingly started by the Romans, but completed in their current location in the 12th century, the walls now provide a walking route that gives excellent views of the main streets, the cathedral, the race course and the river. ...