The Carrs

The Carrs is a large, 70-acre park on the edge of Wilmslow that’s worthy of a day-trip even if you’re not a Cheshire native. There’s a mix of riverside walks and open grassy areas as well as footpaths leading to Quarry Bank Mill.

Getting there is easy with two car parks; a pay-and-display outside the Parish Hall which is more conveniently located for facilities, and a free car park off Styal Road, just past the prison.

Amenities include a decent kids’ play area, a coffee kiosk, and a picnic area which is particularly popular in summer thanks to its proximity to the beach. Not Blackpool or St Anne’s, but where the River Bollin meanders through the park. There’s a sandy area, an island to wade out to, steps to jump off and the water is usually deep and slow-moving enough for paddling. It’s a lovely spot as long as children are well supervised.

The Carrs is also a good choice on snowy days. You don’t get much of the white stuff in Manchester but head out to the countryside and the temperature drops. If you need somewhere to sledge close to the city, there are usually kids flying down the hill at The Carrs.

On quieter days, head there for wildlife-spotting. Herons are a regular sighting and if you’re lucky, you might glimpse a kingfisher.