LION SALT WORKS, Ollershaw Lane, Marston, Cheshire. Ring 01606 41823.

An example of a pre-Roman industry producing white salt from wild brine established in 1842. Features include a timber-framed manager's office, horizontal steam engine, nodding donkey brine pump and 1900 pitch roofed salt van on its original private siding. Open all year, daily, 1.30pm-4.30pm.

THE OLD GRAMMAR SCHOOL TRUST, Boarshaw Road, Middleton, Manchester. Ring 0161 643 2693. Established by endowment from Queen Elizabeth I in 1572 and completed in 1874 features include marvellous oak beams and a local history and reference library and much more. Open all year, Tuesday to Thursday, 2pm-4pm.