Partington Nature Reserve

Partington Nature Reserve sits alongside the Manchester Ship Canal, with a trail that stretches up towards Warburton Bridge. It's a genuinely lovely spot for a walk through the seasons, with an old railway embankment adding a bit of industrial history to the natural surroundings. Wildlife sightings are common here, from robins perching on fenceposts to owls roosting in the trees.

The reserve has a nature trail with wildlife sculptures along the route, which younger children tend to enjoy spotting as they go. It's worth knowing that some visitors have found broken glass in places, so it's sensible to keep a close eye on little ones and dogs while you're out on the path.

This is a good choice for families who enjoy a quieter, more rugged kind of outdoor walk rather than a manicured park. It suits older children and confident walkers best, though the trail itself is relatively accessible for most.