The weird and wonderful world of Skelmersdale
Situated in West Lancashire Near Ormskirk and Wigan, Skelmersdale, or Skem to locals, was rebuilt as a new town in 1961 and is truly unique. Its looping roads contain no traffic lights, only roundabouts - including one of Europe's largest. It's also home to the UK's Transcendental Meditation utopian village. The practice was made famous in 1967 thanks to The Beatles' endorsement of meditation. There's even a concept album about Skem - The Magnetic North's Prospect Of Skelmersdale.
Go on safari at Knowsley
Around 8 miles from Skelmersdale, Knowsley Safari Park is one of the most renowned of its kind in the UK. At 5 miles long, the safari drive is the country's longest, and offers a chance to see lions and baboons, among other exotic animals. Go on the walking safari tour and you can meet the roaming giraffes and elephants, as well as bathing sea lions.
Rural shopping at Heskin Farmers Market
Seven miles away Near Chorley is a great chance for some unique retail therapy. Spend the day shopping at over 40 establishments at this fine farmers market, with a craft centre and boutique shops thrown in for good measure. And if all that leaves you with an appetite and a thirst, there's a tea room and a wine bar too. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Skelmersdale? Travelodge Haydock St. Helens Hotel is 7 miles away from Skem. If you're visiting for the day from Liverpool, you may want to try Travelodge Liverpool Stonedale Park Hotel.