Escape the city – 5 walks on your doorstep

Ditch the takeaway this weekend, drag yourself away from the sofa and get exploring the wonderful area we live in! Get a picnic together, grab your family and friends and head off on a walk just a stone’s throw away from your front door. Just don’t forget your coat, it can be grim up north…

Wetlands and Waterways
If you’ve got a day free, this could be the route for you. The walk, which starts at Burscough Bridge in railway station in Lancashire, is one of the flattest walks in the area, so ideal if you’re not a fan of hills and climbing! The route uses field paths and canal towpaths, so is simple to follow whilst you pass beautiful nature reserves and quaint waterside pubs, bonus! Find out more here.

Sefton Coastal Path
The Sefton Coastal Path can be completed over a weekend based in Southport. Alternatively, it can be broken up into individual short walks. The path is a wonderful journey passing through a wide range of landscapes, from sandy beaches to pine woodlands, with views of the Irish Sea, Snowdonia and the Lake District. There are three stages to the journey, starting at Crossens to Ainsdale them from there to Hall Road and then finishing at Crosby Marine Park. Find out more here.

Maiden Castle
If you are up for a challenge, you will enjoy this walk. Set on the Bickerton Hills in Cheshire, this route offers views from the Welsh hills, the distant Dee estuary and the Wirral. The walk is a rewarding journey which takes locals across heathland of heather, bracken and billberries to the remains of an Iron Age fort. The walk also crosses with the Sandstone Trail, so you can always mix it up and see where you end up! Find out more here.

Heswall Dales and Fields
Start your journey at Bank’s Road car park in Heswall and enjoy a wonderful walk along the gorgeous coast before exploring the ancient woodland and waterfalls of Dungeon Wood. The walk offers views over the River Dee to Wales and then returns through Heswall Dales to the shoreline. Follow the fantastic route provided by Cheshire Life here.

Lancashire Coastal Way
This stunning walk is a 137-mile footpath which follows the coat from Merseyside to Cumbria and is the ultimate get-away from reality. Not only does it provide beautiful views of Morecambe Bay, the Bowland Fells and the Lake District, you will also see some of the rarest seabirds in the UK. You will also pass Arnside and Silverdale, which is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Don’t forget snacks to keep you going! Find out more here.