If you’re searching for free activities to do with your family, you’re not alone
During the summer we know how difficult it is to find the right activities to entertain the kids, burn enough energy and find enjoyment for all the family. Then you have to factor in the cost, especially if you have a large family. We have taken a look around to see what’s open, talked to account holders in the three branches to find out the well-known and not-so-known days out in the area. Most of them are free but some you may have to pay to park
Singing Ringing Tree ‘Panopticon’, Crown Point, Burnley.
‘Singing Ringing Tree’, is a unique musical sculpture which overlooks Burnley from its position high above the town. Free and just outside of Burnley with brilliant views including Pendle Hill, Burnley, Hurstwood and towards the Calderdale Valley. The Sculpture makes hypnotic sounds and there are a number of short walks from the carpark. For those who like to walk, it can be taken in on 6 mile circular walk from Towneley Hall
Brockholes, Preston, close to both the M6 and A59.
Pay for parking but no entrance charge. Large 250 acres of wetland areas to observe birds, woodland area perfect to family adventures, play area, a floating village where food and drinks can be purchased, River Ribble riverbank walk and lots more. Wheelchairs and Pram friendly
Lytham St Annes, on the Fylde coast south of Blackpool.
Stunning beach, with tradition seaside pier. Children’s play park and Fairhaven Lake where children enjoy watching the boats. On a nice day you could be on the best beach in the world…
Barley village, Pendle.
There is a car park with a donation box, cafe selling refreshments and grass area which runs alongside a river perfect for a paddle and picnic. There is also the option to use Barley as a starting point to climb Pendle Hill.
Malham Cove & Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Around an hour’s drive from Pendle, Burnley and surrounding areas. Once you’ve paid to park there are a number of places to enjoy the breath-taking scenery. Harry Potter fans can walk the steps to the top of Malham Cove and stand in the same spot Harry and Hermione did in Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows. There are plenty of spots to sit and picnic next to the river, two spectacular waterfalls found at Janet’s Foss and Gordale Scar.
HAPPA, Burnley.
The Horses and Ponies Protection Association is located at Shores Hey Farm. The horse sanctuary does wonderful work in Rescue, Rehabilitation, Rehoming and Education. Due to coronavirus you now have to book and pay a £5 contribution but it is a great opportunity to get up close to the animals and see how they are cared for. There is a café on site, it is best to check whether you need to book a table but take away is usually available.
Ribble Valley Sculpture Trial, Clitheroe.
This 1 and 1/2 mile trial includes over 20 sculptures, trim trail, natural play equipment which allows children enjoy the outdoors. The trial is accessible with a pram on the main pathways, there is limited disable access.
Edisford Bridge, Clitheroe.
Parking available next to the Roefield Leisure Centre. Great place to roll out a picnic blanket and splash in the water. The Edisford Bridge Pub is back open across the river serving food and drink.
Towneley Hall and grounds, Burnley.
The park is spacious, boasting large playing fields, river and wood walks, impressive pond in front of the hall and manicured gardens, boasting a well equipped children’s play ground. Towneley Hall is now open for self tours however booking in advance is essential priced at £5. Children enjoy spotting the grazing horses from the playing fields and there’s always an ice cream van ready to please families….
Parks
The local area is lucky to have a number of award winning parks. Most have parking charges but hours of fun, with some paid attraction such as the Miniature Railway at Thompson Park which families can take or leave
Burnley Parks and Open spaces here
Pendle Parks here
Hyndburn Parks and Open spaces here
Blackburn Parks and Playgrounds here
