CATEGORY · FRESH AIR INCLUDED

Country Parks & Nature Reserves in Liverpool

If you want proper grounds to wander rather than a fenced-off play area, Liverpool's options are Speke Hall on the Mersey, where garden and grounds tickets start at about £6.50 for kids, with woodland play, a maze and a cafe once everyone's had enough fresh air. There's parking and toilets on site too, and dogs are welcome on the walks. For a bigger day out, Dunham Massey is a drive out to Altrincham, with a deer park and gardens that suit older children who can walk further, and grounds from £11. Pack a picnic or use the cafe at either site. Speke Hall works well for toddlers with its shorter paths and outdoor play; Dunham Massey is the one to save for a free afternoon when you can properly roam.

✓ 3 places✦ 1 free to visit