Lytham Dog Fields

Off the beaten track near Kellamergh, Lytham Dog Fields is exactly what it says on the tin - a proper spot for letting your four-legged mate run about without a lead. It's the kind of place that doesn't get written up much, which means it stays refreshingly quiet and dog-friendly rather than turning into a free-for-all.

The fields themselves are open grassland, ideal if your dog needs a proper gallop after being cooped up in the caravan. You'll see locals who clearly know the routine - they arrive, their dogs vanish into the long grass, and everyone stands around chatting while the chaos unfolds. There's no faffing about with rope or contained areas, just open space and trust that your recall is decent.

If you're staying at any of the nearby holiday parks - Pipers Height, Sea View, or Ribby Hall Village are all within spitting distance - this is a handy release valve when the kids have had enough of the caravan site. Dog owners with working breeds or anxious dogs will get the most from it. Non-dog people probably won't find much reason to visit, and there's not much infrastructure to speak of, so don't expect facilities or even a proper car park.

It's free, and you can basically turn up whenever. Allow twenty minutes to half an hour unless your dog is the type that wants to explore every rabbit hole twice. Not a destination in itself, but genuinely useful for park holidays in the area where dogs need serious exercise.