Victoria Park

The Salt Union heritage and nature reserve at Victoria Park in Northwich is a proper reward for anyone who's done their homework on Cheshire's industrial past. What you get here is a genuinely interesting walk through woodland and grassland that's been reclaimed from old salt workings - the ground itself tells the story of what came before, with scattered evidence of the mining that shaped this corner of the North West.

It's not a manicured country estate. The paths wind through natural habitat rather than flowerbeds, which means the appeal really depends on what draws you outdoors. Keen walkers will appreciate the network of trails and the chance to spot woodland birds and wildflowers. History types will find the interpretation boards genuinely informative rather than glossy. Kids might get restless after an hour unless they're the type who'll hunt for insects and splash through streams - it's not a playground replacement.

The reserve is free to roam, which is no small thing. Allow a couple of hours if you're taking it slowly, less if you're just threading through to the far side. Spring and early summer work best, when the woodland floor is busy with life.

If you're staying at Kisswood Cabins just down the road or Belmont Hall Camping, Victoria Park fills a morning nicely without demanding a big commitment. It pairs well with Northwich's town centre for lunch, and it's one of those places that repays a second visit once you know where the best corners are.