Silk Museum, Macclesfield

Macclesfield was once a world centre of silk production, and the Silk Museum on Park Lane tells that story with historic machinery and hands-on exhibits, around 20 minutes’ drive from Lapland UK Manchester at Capesthorne Hall.

It’s a good rainy-day option for families, with interactive displays, colouring and rubbing activities for children, a film and free activity packs for young visitors.

At the time of writing it’s open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm — check before visiting.