Family Friendly Walks Near Pontefract
With restrictions still in place, many families are finding it increasingly hard being cooped up indoors together. This is only natural as we are not used to spending so much time together. However, if you can find things to do together that everyone will enjoy the time will pass quicker. There’s nothing wrong with playing board games, baking and watching tv but you can also go out and get some fresh air too. There are plenty of places close by, you just need to know where to look.
Now that Christmas is done with for another year and we have a few months of winter ahead of us it’s time to don your sturdy footwear and winter clothing and get out in the great outdoors.
If you live in or around Pontefract, you don’t have to go far to find a family friendly walk some are right on your doorstep others are a short drive away. There are many places to visiting including:
Pontefract Park
Pontefract Park is a great place to visit for both short or long walks – you can walk around the fishing lake and/or the 2-mile racetrack should you wish (the park is closed on race days) There is also a large enclosed playground for children to play in. Pontefract Park also has sports pitches, a golf course and a Local Nature Reserve which has a range of habitats including grassland, woodland, wetland and small areas of open water.
Fairburn Ings Nature Reserve
Fairburn Ings is a short car drive away from Pontefract. The area is home to over 280 bird species including kingfishers, birds of prey and many types of ducks and geese. There are many trails for visitors to enjoy and range from a short stroll to walks that take you a couple of hours. The visitors centre is free to visit but the car park charge is currently set to £4 per car or free if you hold a blue badge or are an RSPB member. Inside the centre you will find lots of information about the species who live in the area and will find facilities including toilets, baby changing facilities and a shop. Most trails are both pushchair and wheelchair friendly.
Anglers Country Park
If your family loves a story why not visit Anglers Country Park where you will not only enjoy a lovely walk but enjoy a story together too. The unique Room on the Broom Adventure Trail has activities that provide a fun outdoor experience for all the family based around the popular children’s book. Activity packs can be purchased from the Visitor Centre for £2. From the centre, there is a trail to follow, sculptures to find, animal footprints to look out for and more. The trail is a circular route around the lake and is accessible by foot, cycle, buggy or wheelchair.
Other places that have lovely walks nearby or are a short car drive away include Newmillardam, Frickley Country Park, Howell Wood, Stanley Ferry and Pugney’s Country Park. Many of the places I have mentioned have some of their facilities closed so please make sure that you check before travelling to avoid any disappointment.
This is a collaborative post – to see how we work with brands visit our work with us page or disclaimer page
