Ribbleton Park

A proper slice of Lancashire countryside that's been left to do its thing. Ribbleton Park is a nature reserve just outside Preston, the sort of place where you actually see birds rather than just hear them mentioned on a nature programme.

It's mainly woodland and grassland - nothing dramatic, but genuine. The paths wind through without being overly manicured, which is refreshing. You'll find patches of wildflowers in season and enough quiet corners to make you forget Preston's just down the road. Walkers get the most from it, especially if you're the type who actually carries binoculars. Kids won't find it thrilling - there's no playground or cafe - but primary school age ones doing a school project on local wildlife might get something out of it.

Go early morning if possible. The light's better and you'll have the place almost to yourself. Spring and early summer are worth timing your visit around; that's when the reserve actually sings. Allow an hour to two hours depending on how slowly you move.

For a caravan holiday based at one of the nearby parks - Beacon Fell View is your closest at six miles - Ribbleton makes a decent half-morning wander before you head somewhere with a bit more going on. It's free and unstaffed as far as I can tell, so just turn up. Park carefully on the approach road and don't expect facilities. It's the sort of place you visit because you want to, not because it's on the must-see list.