Bunbury Staircase Locks

Three locks drop the Shropshire Union Canal down through this quiet stretch between Bunbury and Winsford, creating one of those proper working waterway scenes that canal enthusiasts love. You can walk right up to the lock gates and watch narrowboats navigate the staircase - though you might wait ages before one turns up. The towpath makes for a lovely stroll either direction, with decent views across the Cheshire countryside once you're away from the immediate lock area.

Families will find it interesting enough for half an hour, especially if there's boat activity to watch. The kids can spot the lock mechanisms and learn how it all works - though they'll get restless quickly if nothing's happening. Walkers get the better deal here, using the locks as either a starting point or waymarker for longer canal rambles.

It's free to wander around and the towpath's accessible year-round, though muddy after rain. From the nearby holiday parks around Winsford - there are several within five miles including New Farm Cheshire Holidays and Elm Cottage Touring Park - this makes a pleasant morning out combined with a canal-side pub lunch. Not exactly thrilling, but properly peaceful and a nice change from theme parks and attractions that cost a fortune.