Achieve your new year goals in Lancashire

Whether you are looking to get outside more, learn a new skill or try to be more mindful, Lancashire has plenty to help you on your way.

Enjoy rambling walks in beautiful countryside, learn a new craft at a workshop or spend time at one of the county’s tranquil spas and truly find your zen.

Whatever you are looking to achieve in 2024, Lancashire is the place to be.

Becoming more mindful

After all the stress of Christmas, slowing down and being more mindful might be right at the top of your list. Activities like forest bathing, float pod meditation and yoga have all risen in popularity as they help you to reduce stress and be more present.

Yoga is great for supporting mindfulness, as well as lots of other benefits like physical health, flexibility and sleep improvements and you’ll find some great opportunities to take part in Lancashire.

The Spa Hotel at Ribby Hall is running a two day Yoga retreat this January. Guests can revitalise mind, body, and soul with yoga sessions, access to the award winning spa, food and accommodation within the hotel. Alternatively, The Lawrence in Padiham is hosting a Yoga and Bubbles session where guests can enjoy a yoga activity followed by two course lunch and glass of fizz with friends.

If wellbeing is important and you want to ensure your goal extends beyond January, why not sign up for one of The Rewilding’s Seasonal Retreats at Patty’s Barn; three events throughout the year which focus on getting in touch with nature with activities such as guided meditation, cold water swimming and nature crafting.

Learn new skills

If your goal is to develop your skill set and find something you enjoy doing in your downtime you can find so many fantastic things to learn in Lancashire.

Take a look at the offering from Crafty Diane in Garstang, where you can learn everything from silver jewellery making or stone carving to glass fusing. This studio is perfect for learning new crafts and purchasing a thing or two made by local makers in the shop too. Alternatively, Cedar Farm in Mawdesley has oil painting and sewing lessons, ideal for perfecting skills that you may not have used for a while.

Looking for something more adventurous? Get in touch with nature and go on one of the courses at Alternative Adventure & Outdoor Activities Service in Darwen. The outdoor activities specialist has courses on everything from caving to night navigation, hill skills, rock climbing and more.

Take time for yourself

Work life balance is important, and sometimes you might find it hard to switch off, especially if you work from home and don’t get that much needed work life separation. This year, make sure you take time for yourself and get out of the house for a few hours or even an overnight stay!

Combine your goal of learning a new skill with a much-needed getaway at Dale House Barn, where you can enjoy a peaceful break in the Lancashire countryside and a cookery course. They also host women’s mountain bike courses, perfect for meeting like minded people and gaining a new skill. Alternatively if you are looking simply to unwind, why not take a break at one of Lancashire’s spa hotels, like Stanley House or Crow Wood Hotel and Spa and enjoy the ultimate relaxation.

If time or commitments won’t allow a full overnight stay, then maybe take the time out to visit one of Lancashire’s independent cinemas like The Dukes in Lancaster, or The Flower Bowl in Garstang to watch the latest film in real comfort.

Looking to be more social? Join a local walking club, or create your own and take to one of the many walking trails that the county has to offer, check out our walks under five miles if walking is a new hobby that you want to embark on.

Spending time with friends and family

Friends and family are so important and spending quality time with them can make you feel great. It’s a perfect new year goal and thankfully one that is easy to achieve!

Why not invite them round and treat them to a meal prepped with great Lancashire ingredients – if you want to serve local produce check out places like Booths and Bowland Food Hall for all your shopping list needs.

If going out is more appealing and you want to sample great food, Lancashire has so much to offer. From Michelin starred restaurants like So-lo in Aughton and The White Swan at Fence to the UK’s “Best Independent Italian Restaurant” La Laconda in Gisburn. Gastropubs including Freemasons at Wiswell and cafes such as The Heritage Café at Samlesbury Hall, as well as top chains like PizzaExpress or Hickory’s Smokehouse.

It's not all about food, Lancashire has some great attractions too, like Level in Preston where you can take part in mini golf, laser quest, shuffleboard and even belt it out in the karaoke rooms!

If your family love theatre or comedy, you’ll find a number of great shows and comedy acts coming to the county this year, including Calendar Girls The Musical, Coleen Nolan and Brian Cox, in January and February alone!

Feeling inspired? Head to visitlancashire.com to find out more about this great county and start planning your next trip.