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Woodland & Forest in Preston

Woodland isn't the first thing you'd link with Preston, and here it means a longer trip out to Formby, over in Liverpool. Formby Beach Woods sits behind the dunes and it's free to wander, so there's no gate fee to weigh up before you go. It's known for its red squirrels, and depending on the season you'll spot snowdrops or autumn fungi along the paths. There's parking on site, which helps if you're coming with buggies or wellies for smaller ones. It suits older children who fancy a proper squirrel hunt as much as toddlers happy to potter along flatter paths near the dunes. Given the distance, it's one for a day when you've time to make the journey worthwhile rather than a quick after-school stop.

✓ 1 place✦ 1 free to visit