Lancaster canal footpath

The Lancaster Canal footpath runs for 41 miles through Lancashire, and honestly, it's one of those walks that sneaks up on you. You'll find yourself on a proper towpath - flat, easy-going, lined with water on one side and countryside on the other. The stretch near Preston is particularly good for families because there's no hills to speak of, and the paved sections mean pushchairs aren't a nightmare.

What you actually get is a chance to walk at your own pace, spot narrowboats doing their thing, and maybe see some decent birdlife if you're patient. In spring the banks come alive. Summer's busy with other walkers and cyclists, which is fine if you like company, less so if you want solitude. The whole appeal is the simplicity of it - no entrance fees, no opening hours nonsense, just a canal and your own two legs.

Based near Preston, it works brilliantly as part of a wider park holiday. Gibson's Barn and North View Caravan Site sit within easy reach, making this a proper base for exploring the towpath in sections rather than trying to tackle it all at once. Walkers will genuinely love it, especially those who find traditional hiking trails a bit much. Kids generally don't complain - ducks, water, the occasional narrowboat - it ticks boxes. Allow a couple of hours for a decent stroll, longer if you're in no rush. Go midweek if you can. Weekends bring the crowds.