Looking for ideas for a winter getaway? 

Here are six suggestions for the winter season, from the county's tourism organisation Marketing Lancashire.

From stargazing to countryside retreats, explore the recommendations below.

1. Stargazing in the Forest of Bowland

One of Marketing Lancashire's suggestions is to take to the Forest of Bowland for some stargazing, including at Beacon Fell Country Park and Gisburn Forest Hub.

Due to its low light pollution, there are also "great spots" throughout the Trough of Bowland.

Longer winter nights allow for more opportunities to view constellations, and colder air allows for greater visibility.

Laytham's Holiday Retreats offers self-catered cottages for stargazers - and some of their options come with hot tubs, "meaning you can stargaze directly from the tub."

2. Festive fun in Blackpool

Blackpool Illuminations will brighten the town through to January 5, 2025.

The Christmas by the Sea village within Blackpool, open from November 15, offers a free ice rink, fairground rides, and food stalls, as well as simulated snowfall and a snow slide.

Blackpool also plays host to a variety of Christmas events, including pantomimes at the Grand Theatre and Christmas by Candlelight at the Winter Gardens.

3. Dog-friendly adventures in North Lancashire

The north of the county features a number of dog-friendly options including Tewitfield Marina, nestled on the Lancaster Canal.

The Marina offers dog-friendly accommodation and even goody bags for the four-legged friends of guests.

There are walks along the canal and the beaches of Morecambe Bay, and the Arnside and Silverdale and Forest of Bowland National Landscapes are nearby.

A spokesperson added that "a walk-up Warton Crag with a stop off for a drink at the Old School Brewery is a must, too."

4. Inclusive holidays in Wyre

The borough of Wyre sits between Lancashire's two cities, Preston and Lancaster, and counts two accommodation providers that specialise in accessible holiday properties: Estuary Riverside Chalets and Brickhouse Farm Cottages.

Nearby attractions include the Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre, which offers "one of the only dedicated curling rinks in the country," as well as mini golf, bowling, and mini pool.

5. Foodie adventure in Pendle

Destinations in Pendle for foodies include the Fence Gate Lodge, which offers guests a full English breakfast - complete with the Cumberland sausage of two-time national sausage champion, Kevin Berkin.

On the same site is the award-winning pub, the Fence Gate Inn, while Michelin-starred gastro pub, the White Swan at Fence, is in the vicinity.

For those who want to learn to cook, La Locanda restaurant offers Italian cookery courses.

6. New Year retreat in Park Hall

Park Hall Hotel & Spa offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the countryside.

The recently refurbished Grade II listed hotel offers a range of rooms and spa facilities.

Nearby walking routes include Rivington Pike, billed as "one of the best viewpoints in North West England" and apparently a traditional choice for a New Year's Day walk.

More inspiration is available at visitlancashire.com