Lancashire has always been a place of escapism, with visitors flocking to the seaside resorts of Blackpool and Morecambe, while residents enjoy out of the ordinary pastimes such as clog dancing and gravy wrestling. A new offer on the entertainment scene in this historic county favours the modern over the traditional - laser tag (also known as Laser Quest). If you’ve ever wanted to experience the excitement of sci-fi combat or want to imitate video games like Fortnite or Halo, you’ll find the action in Lancashire. Laser tag is also a cutting edge team building activity, where cooperation and strategy are key.

Lancashire offers a range of laser tag experiences at attractive prices. Indoor arenas boast special effects such as fog, sound effects and innovative set design, whereas outdoor battlefields let you take the action to the woods and hills and play over a wider area. Within easy reach of Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool, Lancashire is the ideal adventure destination in the Northwest, rain or shine.

Where are the best places to play laser tag in Lancashire?

• Rochdale: located on the outskirts of Greater Manchester, Rochdale boasts an immersive laser tag experience. Imagine pursuing your opponents through the haze of smoke machines or hiding in a bunker as thunder sound effects rumble above your head - this is a total sensory onslaught. Or try out the outdoor battlefield, which has obstacles and a variety of cover to test your strategic abilities.

• Preston: lead your team to victory or go it alone in a free-for-all deathmatch in the arena in Preston. The Laser Labyrinth features mazes, cat walks and light effects, but don’t let that distract you. Your goal is to shoot your enemies before they shoot you - because while taking out an opponent scores you points, your score will go down if you get hit. Bring your child and their friends to celebrate their birthday - the birthday girl or boy plays for free!

• Blackpool: there are so many leisure activities to choose from in Blackpool that it can be hard to decide what to do, but we know that you can’t go wrong with Laser Quest. Children, teens and adults will enjoy exploring this arena - complete with castle turrets, ramps and visual and sound effects - and competing to be the top gun. Another option in Blackpool is outdoor laser tag in wild woodland. This is the preferred training regime of the military because it hones your aim and tactics, without the danger of getting hurt or bruised.

• Burnley: despite its modest size, Burnley has some of the best laser tag experiences in the area. You’ll find an indoor arena with a post-apocalyptic New York theme. Do you have what it takes to beat the opposition against the backdrop of smashed skyscrapers, overturned yellow cabs and the fallen statue of liberty? Burnley also has state of the art laser equipment: lightweight, accurate and very cool, this will elevate your laser tag experience to the next level.

• Chorley: laser tag is taken seriously in Chorley. The outdoor arena has been specially designed to accommodate a variety of complex mission adventures that go beyond a simple shoot ‘em up and require teamwork and tactics. Purpose built to mimic real combat situations, the centre in Chorley has the kit to match - red dot snipers and zoom scopes ensure pinpoint accuracy. This experience is not to be missed for team building events, for any size up to groups of 70.

What kinds of games are available?

A wide variety of play styles is on offer in Lancashire. Indoor laser tag battles are usually 20 minutes to half an hour long. This gives you time to find the best vantage points in the arena and get to grips with the equipment. Packages available for multiple games in a single visit if you want to hone your skills and dominate your opponents. In some centres you can immerse yourself in a 60 minute game - see how your strategy changes when you’re in it for the long term.

Outdoor laser tag experiences are usually longer. Take the fight to the battlefield of the woods for up to three hours, allowing for more game types and team bonding opportunities. It’s also easier to take a time out and catch your breath in the open air arenas than in the intense enclosed environment inside a centre.

Whether you want to take part in an all against all challenge or clash of teams - as many as four teams at once, you’ll find it in Lancashire. You’ll also find more specific laser tag game types, with activities such as zone defence or capture the flag to put your tactics to the test.

Requirements to do this activity

Laser combat is a very safe sport - no arrows, projectiles or paintballs go whizzing through the air. That makes it the perfect choice for a family activity in Lancashire. A minimum age of 6 years old is standard for most indoor arenas, as younger children might not understand the equipment and rules of the games. But some places will allow even younger children, so long as they are over 1m tall. In outdoor settings, 8 years old is more common as the game area is larger and may not be suitable for the youngest players.

Laser tag is perfect for family, friend and corporate groups. Work together to strengthen the bonds between you, or engage in some friendly competition on opposing teams. Laser tag centres can be booked out for groups of up to 70 to give you and yours free reign of the arena.

What should you bring the day of the experience?

The safety equipment associated with similar activities such as paintball isn’t necessary with laser tag - and neither are the risks. The lasers detect a direct hit without causing harm, and you will be informed that you’ve been shot by the display on your gun. It’s important, however, to wear good, closed shoes and comfortable clothes.

You’ll be given a laser vest to wear as well as a gun and both of these have flashing targets for your opponents to aim at. If you’re playing outside you’ll use a camouflage jumpsuit to blend in with the surroundings and protect your clothes - but please wear shoes that can handle the terrain and weather conditions!

A fun packed laser combat simulation is waiting for you - let us know what your preferences are and we’ll make it happen for you!