RHS Garden Bridgewater in Salford has been named the most cost-effective family day out in the North West, according to a new list compiled by outdoor experts at Go Outdoors. The ranking analysed destinations in the region based on admission costs for a family of four, the number of visits in 2025, Google review scores, and search volume for 2025.
Top score and cheapest family admission
Each destination was given an overall score out of 10, with RHS Garden Bridgewater ranking first with a score of 9.5. The 154-acre site in Worsley features formal gardens, woodland walks, and ponds. Admission for a family of four costs £46.40, the cheapest price on the list.
Highlights include the Chinese Streamside Garden and the Weston Walled Garden. For children, there is an extensive Woodland Play area with mud kitchens and fairy houses.
Summer events at the gardens
Until August 31, the Brick Explorers trail is running at the gardens, featuring colourful sculptures made from hundreds of thousands of bricks inspired by plants, animals, and fungi. Visitors can pick up an activity book with fun facts and challenges.
Dunham Massey in Altrincham came second on the list. The 300-acre deer park offers space for children to play, with family admission costing £50. Until September 6, it is taking part in the National Trust’s Summer of Play, supported by Pokemon, including outdoor games and Pokemon zones.
Other top destinations
Liverpool’s Speke Hall took third place, followed by WWT Martin Mere in Ormskirk. The Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement rounded off the top five.
