Eastham Country Park Visitors Centre

The visitors centre at Eastham Country Park sits right on the Mersey, and it's the sort of place that sneaks up on you - proper useful if you're staying at one of the caravan parks near Chester and fancy stretching your legs without going far. The centre itself is modest, done out with the usual interpretive panels about the local wildlife and industrial heritage, but the real draw is what's beyond the walls.

You get access to the country park's walking trails, which wind through woodland and along the riverbank with decent views across the water towards Runcorn. It's flat terrain, so families with younger kids won't struggle, and there are benches dotted about if someone needs a sit-down. The park covers 90 acres, so you can easily spend two or three hours wandering without feeling rushed.

Historically minded types will appreciate the old quarry workings and evidence of the area's industrial past - this was limestone country once. The birdwatching can be good too, especially if you time it right with the tides. It's not dramatic or particularly wild, but it's a solid half-day outing.

Based at Chester Fairoaks or Oakwood Farm, you're only five or six miles south, making it an easy drive or even a bike ride if you're feeling keen. Free entry from what we can gather, though it's worth checking ahead. Go on a clear day - the views are considerably better when you can actually see across the Mersey.