Not many people realise how much of Halton is made up of open spaces, waterways and canals. In fact, nearly a third of Halton’s land is designated green belt! We don’t want to brag but there 3 Green Flag Award winning parks, 47 local wildlife sites, 10 local nature reserves, 3 sites of special scientific sites of interest, 1 Ramsar site and 1 special protection area on the Mersey Estuary. So, what better way to spend a sunny day out, than to get out and about and explore Halton’s wild side. 

Play all day

 Widnes 

Victoria Park Butterfly House and Garden

Spend the day at Green Flag Victoria Park, where there is so much to see and do. Be sure to step into the tropical oasis of the Butterfly House for a flutter of excitement. Take walk around the lake and see what wildlife you can spot and let the kids run free at the child play area. Whilst you’re there treat yourself at Esposito’s Cafe to a scoop of authentic Italian gelato, coffee and delicious, yummy treats.

Spike Island

Spike Island was once home to the iconic Stone Roses gig but now is home to the tranquil sounds of the local wildlife. This is a great spot for a walk with the wetlands, woodlands, TransPennine Trail there is lots to discover. Also, there is a great play area for the kids.

You can also visit the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre whilst you are there. They have great hands-on exhibits and a cafe to grab refreshments.

Pickering’s Pasture Local Nature Reserve

Head to Pickering’s Pasture and see the colourful carpet of wildflower meadows in the Spring and Summer months. It is also home to the rare marsh orchids. Enjoy the views across the River Mersey

 Hale and Hale Lighthouse

Just a short drive from Pickering’s Pasture is the quaint village of Hale, which has thatched roofed cottages and a statue of local legend, the Childe of Hale. It is a charming village to wander and then stroll down to find the Lighthouse and take in the views.

Runcorn

Runcorn Hill Park offers so much for a day out. Enjoy great views of the estuary, the kids play area will keep your wildlings entertained. Refuel at Esposito’s deli and check out the dinosaur footprint which is displayed in the cafe.

Halton Miniature Railway at Runcorn Town Park

Another Green Flag park is Runcorn Town Park and is set in formal gardens and woodlands. There is also a miniature train which is run by local volunteers and is suitable for all ages. The track is nearly a mile long and goes around the park. Take a picnic and spend the day. 

Wigg Island

Wigg Island is the perfect place to let your imagination run free. See if you can spot a hog or a fairy hidden in the woods with the sculpture trail, It is hard to believe that this used to be industrial land. Now it is a fantastic open space and woodland home to lots of wildlife, flora and fauna. It has plenty of picnic tables for a pit stop and chance to soak up the surroundings.