1. The mysterious spring at St James' Gardens, Liverpool

This natural spring – the only one in Liverpool – is a bit of a puzzle. Nobody seems quite sure where the water comes from.

And to make matters even more mysterious, some believe the water is haunted. Yikes!

2. Southport Bijou Cinema

If you enjoy intimate cinemas that are full of character, you’re going to want to pay Southport Bijou Cinema a visit. This artsy picture house plays a mix of classic, independent and world cinema, as well as some carefully chosen blockbusters.

3. England's smallest house

Squidged between a pub and betting shop on a street in Wavertree is a house that once held the title of the smallest in England.

Rumour has it that eight kids were raised in this teensy house, which seems unbelievable when you see it in person. Built around 1850, it’s mostly used for pub storage nowadays.

4. Britain's smallest pub

Let’s carry on the diminutive theme and head on over to The Lakeside Inn.

This legendary Southport pub was once the smallest in Britain – and it’s still one of the smallest pubs in the country today. It’s also very popular. Don’t be surprised if you see people queuing outside.

Don’t be fooled by its cute and quaint appearance, though. The Lakeside Inn serves proper pub grub, along with a range of specially chosen cask ales.

5. A password-protected pub

Hidden in plain sight on Old Hall Street in Liverpool’s business district, Tailors is only accessible to those with the password. A mere 50 people can dine and drink at a time – and its windows are covered to deter shoppers looking for suits.

6. A low- and no-alcohol bar

Whether you’re teetotal, cutting down on your alcohol intake or simply curious about the world of no- and low-alcohol drinks, SipSin on Gradwell Street in Liverpool City centre is ready to give you a delicious education.

From wine cocktails and beer to “functional drinks” that help you relax and enhance your mood, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

7. A pub with its own island

Nestled between the River Mersey and the River Sankey in Warrington is a pub with its very own island. It’s called The Ferry Tavern and it’s full to the brim with character.

Talking of “full to the brim”, the Ferry’s ice-cold drinks and majestic beer garden make it ideal for summer afternoons. And if the weather’s a bit ropey, you can head indoors and cosy up by its real fire.

Whatever the weather, it provides a welcome respite after hikes, rambles, bike rides and horse rides along the Trans Pennine Trail.

8. A street full of fossils

It’s not often you can find ancient fossils while walking down the street. However, you can on William Brown Street in Liverpool.

Keep your eye out for one fossil in particular. Found in a sandstone block, this ancient artefact looks a bit like a prawn and is thought to be 280 million years old.

9. The roof terrace at Liverpool Central Library

Take in awesome views of the city from this secluded terrace. Not many people know about it, so it’s usually pretty quiet.

10. The fairy glen at Sefton Park

Many Scousers and visitors will have visited Sefton Park at least once – but few have ventured to the fairy glen nestled within it.

What is it, exactly? It’s a series of pretty waterfalls that look like they might host a magical creature or two. You’ll find it on the east side of the park, close to the Palm House.

11. Speke Garston Coastal Reserve

Get moving and breathe in that fresh coastal air with a walk along the coastline at Speke Garston Coastal Reserve.

Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including goldfinches, butterflies and swallows, while you admire the wildflowers and coastal scenery.

12. Speke Hall

While you’re in Speke, be sure to check out the National Trust-maintained Speke Hall. This pretty (and pretty rare) Tudor House is surrounded by lush greenery.

13. Ness Gardens

If you fancy a relaxed stroll around beautiful green scenery, you have to visit Ness Gardens in the Wirral. It has multiple themed gardens to explore, including a Victorian-style potager garden. You’ll also find a cafe on site.

14. Red Rocks Marsh (the best place for sunset spotting)

Rust-coloured sand dunes and perfect placement guarantee breathtaking sunsets at Red Rocks Marsh. Head to Hoylake on the Wirral Peninsula to find it – and stop to enjoy the picturesque view of the Hilbre Islands.

You can also explore rock pools, which are home to natterjack toads.

15. Fazakerley Bluebell Woods

This magical bluebell forest is close to Aintree Hospital. It offers a sight to behold in springtime when delicate violet flower bells decorate the ancient woodland floor.

And yes, we really do mean “ancient”. Some of the land is said to be 1,000 years old or older.

16. Shipwrecks at Sefton

The waves at Formby Beach in Sefton have a bad reputation. More than 300 ships have fallen victim to them since the Middle Ages.

When the tide is low, you can see the wrecks of at least 10.

17. Southport Model Railway Village

If you love trains, model railways or both, you’re in for a treat. Southport Model Railway Village is the perfect place to take a breath, relax and watch a miniature world go by.

See if you can spot all of its many different trains. All run on time and without cancellations – now that’s unique.