Family days close to the cottage

There's plenty to see and do for all the family, as the saying goes 'We have it all in West Lancashire'.

Here are a few suggestions that are 10 minutes or less from Top Locks Cottage!

Martin Mere Wetland Centre

Open wide spaces, wetlands, the sounds and sights of nature, this is a great day out for all of the family. Martin Mere is an excellent example of a Lancashire wetland, a place where land meets water. People and wildlife have relied on wetlands for thousands of years to survive, and 40% of wildlife relies on freshwater wetlands to survive. The work at Martin Mere is essential for the preservation of the wetlands, and provides activities

for children and adults to enjoy that showcase one of natures marvels.

Highlights to experience at Martin Mere include the canoe safari and boat tours, one of my nephew's favourite activities when they were younger. There are outdoor playgrounds, walking routes and seasonal activities like talks and tours and pond dipping.

Tickets start from 14.50 per adult, 7.70 per child or a family ticket for 37.86 (under 4's are free)

To find out more check out the Martin Mere website: https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/martin-mere/

Windmill Animal Farm

Owned and operated by a local farming family The Slingers since 1938, they opened their doors to the public in 1992 and have shared their love and passion for farming and raising farm animals.

This is the perfect way to experience everyday working life on a farm, and get up close with the animals with the opportunity to feed and touch them. This is a must see when visiting Lancashire with children, I have many happy memories of visiting Windmill Animal Farm over the years including the playground and picnic areas. They even have a train ride!

Be sure to check out their seasonal offerings such as pumpkin picking, the Santa Train, where's woolly, lambing season, and charity events. To find out more visit their website: https://www.windmillanimalfarm.co.uk

Mere Sands Woods

Described as a tranquil oasis of lakes and woodland, Mere Sands Woods really does feel like an escape in nature. Nestled amongst the peaceful agricultural landscape of Rufford, Mere Sands Wood is a true wildlife haven, home to dragonflies, kingfishers, bitterns and so much more!

There are walking routes to explore, and hides to sit in and watch the wildlife. To find out more visit their website: https://www.lancswt.org.uk/nature-reserves/mere-sands-wood-nature-reserve

Rufford Old Hall

A fine Tudor building, the home for stories of romance, wealth and 500 years of Hesketh family history. Step into this fine Tudor and Jacobean building and see fascinating artefacts from the magnificent and rare carved screen to an eclectic collection of objects from rural Lancashire, there's plenty to discover.

For families, there is a two wheeled balance bike adventure, dress up and play pretend in the great hall, a sensory trail included in the '50 things to do before you are 11 3/4'.

Owned by the National Trust, this is a visit worthy attraction in the local area, and they do host seasonal events. Whilst you are in Rufford, you can visit the canal boat marina and have some breakfast/lunch in the Boathouse Brasserie:

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/rufford-old-hall

https://theboathouserufford.co.uk

Canoe and Paddleboard down the Leeds Liverpool Canal

Make the most of the canal network by using a canoe or the paddle boards to gently and peacefully explore. You gain such a different perspective of the waterways, and get up close and personal with the wildlife. My personal favourite is to kneel on the paddle board slowly drift down the quieter stretches of the canal network.

If you are a guest at Top Locks Cottage, you will have access to a Canadian canoe and two paddle boards. If you are looking for a place to get some training, instruction, or book a group activity then I would recommend Spirited Paddleboarders in Halsall as your first port of call. Check them out on instagram @spiritedpaddleboarders