Step Into Springtime!

‘When the spring came, even the false spring, there were no problems except where to be happiest’

Ernest Hemingway?

There’s nothing like spring to put a bounce back in your step after a long, cold winter, and I feel spoiled for choice there are so many great local walks on our?doorstep.?

From country parks to manor houses with gardens and walks with a pub stop along the way for good measure, I’ve put together a few of my favourites that are perfect for a family day out.?

As the sun starts to come out, it’s the perfect way to blast off the cobwebs and enjoy all Preston and Lancashire have to offer.?

Avenham Park and the River Ribble?

One of Preston’s most picturesque spots, Avenham Park, is one my family and I like to visit often. The walk along the River Ribble is mostly flat, so is great for families. Generally considered an easy route, you don’t have to do the full two hours. If you want lunch at the end, book a table at The Continental, which has one of Preston’s finest beer gardens.?

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Hoghton Tower, Preston?

A great one for the whole family, especially if you have three little ones like me, is Hoghton Tower. Have a truly historic day out at this local gem, which dates back to 1109 and has played hosts to royalty, artists and authors such as Shakespeare and Dickens over the years. Its hilltop location is so special it guarantees amazing views to the Lakes, Wales and the Irish Sea. Watch battle re-enactments, walk around the gardens, tour the house or have afternoon tea. They even have a Farmers’ Market on the third Sunday of every month, so you can stock up on fresh fruit and veg while you’re there.?

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Formby Red Squirrel Reserve

About an hour outside Preston, you’ll find the Red Squirrel Reserve in Formby, a National Trust site that is one of the only places left in England where you can still see red squirrels. A great one for adults and kids alike, this is one of the most special nature-inspired walks that is close to us. One of the shortest walks on this list, it’s pushchair friendly and takes about an hour to get round the two-mile trail. You can buy cakes and hot drinks on the way round or in warmer weather, stop and have a picnic at one of the many spots along the way.?

Tarn Hows, Coniston?

For a full family day out, explore the magical woodland and panoramas around Tarn Hows in Coniston in the Lake District, another National Trust site that is a great country walk for little ones. In case you didn’t know, the estate was once owned by Beatrix Potter, and there are several easy walks around the lake that have pram-friendly pathways and baby changing facilities should you need. Be aware this is a scenic route and there are no places to grab food and drink on the way, so pack a picnic and enjoy those views.?

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Clifton Country Park, Salford?

If your kids are fans of the Gruffalo, then they will love the family-friendly trail around Clifton Country Park in Salford. One of the area’s best green spaces which sits along the banks of the River Irwell, there are miles of open woodland and meadows to explore. Look out for the animal structures as you walk around the lake – and spot the full-size Gruffalo. There is a cafe at the end for tired legs to rest and stock up on refreshments. The walk takes about an hour. See what to expect here.

More family walks here

Have I missed any great walks off this list? Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear your recommendations.?

Thanks for reading,

Michael

M - 07828 630194

T? -?01772 382181

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