Ainsdale and Birkdale Sandhills Nature Reserve

Alright, so if you're looking for a bit of peace and quiet, or somewhere to walk the dog that isn't just the pavement, check out Ainsdale and Birkdale Sandhills. It's got a solid 4.5 stars from over a hundred reviews, so people generally rate it. It’s basically a massive stretch of dunes south of Birkdale, right on the coast.

The best thing is, it's open 24/7, so you can go whenever suits you. It's not exactly landscaped gardens, mind you – it's a proper nature reserve, so expect sand, some scrub, and the occasional bit of litter unfortunately. But if you like a good stomp and some fresh air, especially with the kids or the dog, it's a decent shout and it's free, which always helps.

You can walk for miles, and on a clear day you can see all the way to North Wales. It's a good spot for birdwatching, too, if you're into that. Just remember it can get pretty exposed out there, especially when the wind's up, so wrap up warm.

One thing to remember: there are designated dog walking areas, so pay attention to the signs to avoid a fine.