In recent years JHogg and I have been inspired to travel more within our own country. My 5 Things To Do In… series is all about discovering new ideas for trips within the UK and what you can do in each place. Today’s post is from Nicola at Mummy To Dex, who brings us 5 things to do in West Lancashire.

Welcome to West Lancashire, an historic borough with so many family friendly attractions, you could spend months here and not get bored. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a historic building aficionado or just a lover of being outdoors, West Lancashire has got something for the whole family.

When it comes to food you are truly spoilt for choice. The prosperous market town of Ormskirk is thriving with pavement cafes and bars alongside highly rated restaurants, and don’t forget the famous gingerbread for which Ormskirk is renowned for.

This borough will welcome visitors with open arms and with so much to see and do, why haven’t you already planned your trip here?!

Somewhere Free – Fairy Glen, Parbold

Hidden just off A5209 at the top of Parbold Hill, Fairy Glen is the most fantastic place to bring little ones who are looking to find a little bit of magic and fairy dust. We love exploring the picturesque hiking trail, climbing the bridges over the stream, capturing photos in front of the waterfalls and stumbling upon fairy doors whilst looking around for the fairies who inhabit this enchanted forest. A truly magical place to bring toddlers, and a picnic of course!

5 Things To Do In West Lancashire | A young boy explores some flowers in a fairy glen www.oddhogg.comRelated Post: 5 Ideas For Getting Outside With Kids

Somewhere for the Whole Day –  Windmill Farm

If you’re looking for a family attraction that will keep you busy for the full day, then look no further than Windmill Animal Farm, based just outside of Burscough.

Offering indoor soft play, a light railway, outdoor play areas, access to a huge range of farm animals, cute furry pets and a lovely cafe with coffee and cake to die for, Windmill Animal Farm keeps our energetic toddler busy for hours on end.

There’s an array of farming events throughout the year including pumpkin picking in October and the lambing season in March – two events not to be missed.

5 Things To Do In West Lancashire | A young boy sits in a green chair and pets a guinea pig. He is wearing a blue gilet www.oddhogg.comRelated Post: Swimming In The School Holidays

Somewhere Outdoors – Mere Sands Woods

Located just outside the historic village of Rufford is Mere Sands Woods, a nature reserve which sits where the huge Martin Mere, which was the largest body of fresh water in England, until it was drained in the mid-19th century, was. The name Mere Sands comes as this location was the shoreline of Martin Mere.

Within the reserve are lakes, sandy wet meadows, forest, six bird hides and several walking path routes which are accessible for both wheelchairs and prams.

As well as using the bird hides to look out for magnificent kingfishers, woodpeckers and sparrows, you can also see foxes, squirrels, deer and water voles around the reserve.

Truly a nature lovers paradise, I love bringing my toddler here to safely spend a couple of hours exploring the paths of the reserve while learning all about the insects, mammals and birds we stumble across.

Somewhere to Eat – The Kicking Donkey

Located in Scarisbrick, in between Burscough and Ormskirk, The Kicking Donkey is relaxed pub dining at its finest.

Come along for one of their delicious Sunday roasts or try your luck on Wednesday evening’s pub quiz. With delicious food, a warm welcome and a great selection of ales on tap, The Kicking Donkey is one of our favourite eateries in West Lancashire. We love how they welcome children, their rural location and the beautiful menus they offer.

Somewhere for Rainy Days – Jollie’s Barn

Definitely my toddler’s favourite day out in the whole of West Lancashire is Jollie’s Barn. Located at Leisure Lakes, Mere Brow, it is the ultimate soft play for toddlers, especially those under 3. What I love most about Jollie’s Barn (aside from the price which is a bargain!) is they also have an outdoors play area for those hot summer days. There’s also a cafe on site so you can chill with a coffee while your toddler goes mad in the soft play!

It looks like there are loads of family friendly things to do in West Lancashire! Follow Nicola on Instagram if you want to see what she comes up to there.

Things To Do In West Lancashire | Pinterest Image www.oddhogg.com

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