If you’re looking for an affordable day out, then this Merseyside park could be an option
May half-term break has arrived, and many families will be searching for ways to keep their children entertained at an affordable cost. Fortunately, Merseyside has many brilliant parks that let little ones blow off some steam, without a hefty price tag.
One park that ticks all the boxes is The Botanic Gardens in Churchtown, which is located around a 10-minute drive from Southport town centre. The park is home to a café, Victorian gardens, children’s park, and other hidden features.
Originally opened in 1874, Botanic Gardens is open all year round and is free to visit. Its current opening hours are 7am to 8pm on Monday, and 7am to 8.30pm on Tuesday to Sunday, according to the Visit Southport website.
What sets this park apart is its free aviary, which is home to several exotic birds including Rosellas, Lovebirds, Amazons and more. There are also three Macaw parrots named Harley, Leo, and Lola – who loves to dance to music.
There are some Guinea pigs and rabbits in another enclosure, too. If children haven’t had enough of them, then Botanic Gardens Aviaries is on social media, where they can keep up with the birds and animals’ antics.
A play area that features slides, climbing frames and more, is a great place for children to burn off some energy and there is a lot of open space for them to run about and play.
Among the space are beautiful flowers and plants that bring the gardens to life and make it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
When it’s time for a quick break, Botanic Gardens has a lovely, little café that offers hot drinks, homemade cakes and other delicious treats.
One thing to note is that the café does not have toilets inside. However, there are toilets – costing 20p a time – at the side of the building, so you might want to dig out a few coins ahead of your visit.
Something children will love is all of its unusual features, such as hidden ladybird statues, a grand bridge over the lake and tunnels to explore. It’s bound to let their imaginations run wild with its fairy-tale book vibe.
Visitors can walk alongside the lake and will find ducks, as well as other birds.
Further information can be found on the Visit Southport website.
