We asked ChatGPT to make an itinerary for when your parents come to visit Lancs

It’s a story as old as time – your family are coming to visit Lancaster, and you have absolutely no idea what to do with them. Your mum won’t appreicate a trip to Spoons, your dad will be unimpressed if you take him to the Pendle Witch, it’s a no win situation. As many students have done before, you turn to the wonders of AI to help you out. Here’s what ChatGPT came up with in response to the prompt: “Create a day out for me and my parents when they come to visit me at university in Lancaster, UK.”

“That sounds like a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your parents. Lancaster, UK, has a rich history, charming streets, and beautiful countryside. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a memorable day out:

1. Breakfast at The Radish

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Radish, a cozy café known for its hearty and healthy breakfast options. It’s located in the city centre, making it a convenient spot to fuel up for the day.

Ermmm, someone clearly needs to let ChatGPT know that The Radish closed in 2020… Though, to it’s credit, the pictures on Google look lovely.

2. Lancaster Castle

After breakfast, head to Lancaster Castle. This historic site offers guided tours that provide insights into its fascinating history, including its use as a prison and its connection to the famous Pendle witch trials. The castle offers stunning views over the city and the River Lune.

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To be fair, this is a great way to show your family that you have been engaging in some local culture and not just going to Atkinsons’. Plus, there’s an opportunity to get your siblings locked in a dungeon on the tour, so at that point it’s immediately worth it.

3. Stroll along the Lancaster Canal

Take a leisurely stroll along the Lancaster Canal. The towpath is picturesque and peaceful, offering a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. You can walk south towards the university or north towards the city centre, enjoying the serene views.

Well, we’re really packing it in aren’t we? A nice walk sounds like a good idea, as long as you haven’t been blessed with the famed Lancaster rain.

4. Lunch at The Borough

For lunch, visit The Borough, a popular gastropub that offers a variety of delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed meal with your parents.

It’s certainly on the bougier end, but if the parents are paying, I’ll take it!

5. Visit the Lancaster City Museum

After lunch, explore the Lancaster City Museum. This museum showcases the history of Lancaster and its people, with exhibits ranging from the Roman era to the present day. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and its heritage.

If your family are museum people, then it might be worth a whizz around – plus, it’s next to Cafe Nero, so if you’re not bothered you can grab a drink and leave them to it.

6. Williamson Park and Ashton Memorial

Next, head to Williamson Park, a beautiful park with 54 acres of stunning parkland and the iconic Ashton Memorial. The memorial offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the city of Lancaster. The park also has a butterfly house and a mini zoo, which can be a delightful experience.

Now we’re getting somewhere! A trek up to Williamson Park will blow away the cobwebs left by the museum. Plus, the views are an absolute must to show off your home.

7. Coffee and cake at Atkinsons

Stop for a mid-afternoon coffee and cake at Atkinsons Coffee Roasters. They have a charming café on China Street that serves excellent coffee and delicious cakes, perfect for a relaxing break.

Not a bad shout, and there’s multiple Atkinsons’ to choose from. Point to you, AI.

8. Dinner at Merchants 1688

I mean, come on. Wouldn’t this Herbarium grub be better?

For dinner, dine at Merchants 1688, a unique restaurant housed in 17th-century wine cellars. The atmosphere is cozy and historic, and they offer a great selection of dishes, including traditional British fare and modern cuisine.

The cheapest main meal is £19, and if we’re going here, my student loan certainly isn’t going to be covering it.

9. Evening walk along River Lune

End your day with an evening walk along River Lune. The riverside paths offer beautiful views, and the tranquil setting is perfect for a pleasant end to a busy day.

I’ve seen more rats on the Lune path near Sainsburys than anywhere else – combine that with the lack of streetlights and the darker evenings, it might not be the best spot for a post dinner walk with the parents.

Well, ChatGPT clearly has our idea of a day out spot on – the canal, Williamson Park and the Castle? Hell yeah, I’m down! But is my dad really going to cope with that when he’s going to be stopping to take pictures every five minutes? We’re never going to get through it all. It’s a little overambitious.

Also, the food. I mean, come on AI.  If we’re going to Merchants, we’re clearly made of money. If ChatGPT can get into my bank accounts and is adding figures, it should be able to tell what is open.