HACK GREEN SECRET NUCLEAR BUNKER, off the A530 Whitchurch road, Nantwich.

Discover the secret world of nuclear government by entering the massive blast doors into the 35,000 sq ft complex where you will be transported into the chilling world of the Cold War. The tour includes many audio visuals and the Soviet Spy Mouse Trail. Open daily all year round from 11am. Tel 01270 629219.

JODRELL BANK SCIENCE CENTRE, PLANETARIUM AND ARBORETUM, Macclesfield, Cheshire. A creepy crawly tent featuring stars of the insect and animal world and a galaxy of astronomical themes featuring a grove of yew trees. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10.30am to 5.30pm. Admission £4.60 for adults and £2.30 for children, concessions £3.30. Family tickets priced at £13.50. Tel 01477 571339.

THE WORLD OF GLASS, Chalon Way East, St Helens, Merseyside. The World of Glass explores the story of glassmaking from its discovery by ancient civilisations to the modern multi-use material we know today. State of the art effects shows visitors how one material has changed the world and how it is utilised in modern society in technology. Visitors can explore the underground maze of tunnels showing the oldest glass making tank furnace in the world. Open seven days from 10am to 5pm. Admission £5 for adults, £3.60 for children, £15 for a family ticket for two adults and two children or £10 for one parent and two children.

THE MUSEUM OF HATTING, Wellington Mill, Wellington Road South, Stockport. Tel 0161 355 7770. David Shilling and Fred Dibnah have opened a stunning display of hats through the centuries featuring top hats, baseball caps and some of the hottest contemporary fashions. Open Mon to Sat 10am-5pm and Sun from 11am to 5pm. Admission adults £3.95, children £2.50 or family tickets £11.

MACARTHUR GLEN DESIGNER OUTLET VILLAGE, Cheshire Oaks, Junction 10, M53, Ellesmere Port. A variety of shops offering designer labels. Open seven days a week, Monday Tuesday Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10am to 6pm, Thursday, 10am to 8pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. Tel 0151 348 5600.

TATTON PARK, Knutsford, Cheshire. Explore the grandeur of the terraced Italian garden and fine glass fernery to the famous Japanese garden built in 1910 as well as touring the mansion and farm. Park open daily from 10am top 7pm. Gardens open Tuesday to Sunday from 10.30am to 5pm, Mansion and Farm open Tuesday to Sunday from 12 noon to 4pm. Admission to park £3.50 per car. Admission to garden and mansion £3 for adults and £2 for children. Family tickets £8. Admission to farm for adults £2.50 and £1.50 for children. Family ticket £8. Tel 534400.

STAPELEY WATER GARDENS, London Road, Stapeley, near Nantwich, Cheshire. Wander around the gardens and view the Palms Tropical Oasis. Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. Admission to Oasis £3.65 for adults, £2.85 for OAPs and £1.85 for children. Tel 01270 623868.

STOCKPORT AIR RAID, 61 Chestergate, Stockport. Experience daily life of 1940s war-torn Britain by wandering around reconstructed tunnels. Open Monday to Saturday 11am to 5pm and Sunday 1-5pm. Tel 0161 474 1940.

North west event information from the North West Tourist Board:

EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY, Bury. Details 0161-764 7790.

TATE GALLERY, Albert Dock, Liverpool. Details 0151 702 7400

WINTER GARDENS AND OPERA HOUSE, Church Street, Blackpool.

ARLEY HALL AND GARDENS, Arley, Northwich. Details 01565 777284.

ARROWE COUNTRY PARK, Arrowe Park Road, Upton, Wirral. Details 0151 678 4200.

THE LOWRY, Salford. For all events ring 0161 8762000.

EMPRESS BALLROOM, Blackpool. Details 01253 763134.

MARTIN MERE WILDFOWL AND WETLAND TRUST, Burscough. Open daily 9.30am to 5.30pm. Details 01704 895181.

NORTON PRIORY, Tudor Road, Runcorn. Details 01928 569895.