Play areas in the North West

Discover some of the best play grounds and natural play areas for kids in the North West. Across Cheshire, Liverpool, the Lake District and beyond, it's time for an adventure!

Adults and two children taking an autumn walk amongst the trees

Which places are open and what you need to know before you visit 

More than 100 gardens and parks and hundreds of coast and countryside places are open in England and Northern Ireland. Many historic houses are open in England. To avoid disappointment please book in advance, especially at weekends and school holidays. In line with Welsh Government legislation, all places in Wales will close from 24 October to 9 November. Please check the property webpage of the place you wish to visit before you travel. Read this article to find out how to book and what to expect from your visit.

Plan your visit
Visitors exploring the Play Trail at Speke Hall, Liverpool

Speke Hall 

Whether you want to get lost in a giant hedge maze, cross the stepping stones in the play area or take to the zip wire, there are great places to play all over Speke Hall. A firm family favourite in Merseyside.

Explore the outdoors at Speke
Visitors exploring the Play Area at Dunham Massey, Greater Manchester

Dunham Massey 

Let their imaginations run wild at Dunham Massey in the epic Log Pile. Build a den, walk the tight rope or play hide and seek in the parkland. And once you've finished, don't forget to treat yourself to something sweet at the ice cream parlour.

What will you build at Dunham Massey?
Child enjoying the play area at Lyme Park, Cheshire
Lyme   Cheshire

Lyme

The kids can let off steam in the magical Crow Wood playscape at Lyme, with its giant slide, badger den and rope walks for children aged five to 12. There's even a high-level walkway, sandpit and a tree house with a fireman’s pole.

It's play time at Lyme
Children exploring the gardens at Quarry Bank

Quarry Bank 

Head to the natural play area at Quarry Bank to learn all about nature through play. Take a look under the logs - can you see any bugs? Look up into the trees - what birds can you see?

Family fun at Quarry Bank
Children exploring the Adventure Playground at Tatton Park

Tatton Park  

Enjoy exploring and testing your limits in Tatton Park's Adventure Playground. With over 30 rides children of all ages are promised hours of fun.

Explore Adventure Playground at Tatton Park
A child playing on the rope swing at Wray Castle
Wray Castle   Cumbria

Wray Castle

This gothic castle in the Lake District is a true family favourite. Venture outside to the play area and see how fast the tyre swing really goes! Or head into the castle to take a creative adventure inspired by the world of Beatrix Potter.

Play at Wray