Today marks the first day of autumn in the UK and for many it is one of the most beautiful seasons thanks to its warm-toned hues and falling leaves.
There's nothing better than enjoying a beautiful walk through the park and feeling the crunchy leaves beneath your feet as you take in your picturesque surroundings. Here in Liverpool, we're spoiled for choice when it comes to scenic spots to go walking. What's more, many of our parks also have an on-site coffee shop - perfect for grabbing a warming cup of hot chocolate to enjoy whilst you make your way around the park.
We've compiled a list of some of the best places for your autumnal walks in and around Liverpool and you can share your favourite spots in the comments.
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Sefton Park
With 235 acres to explore, Sefton Park is an ideal choice for a nice, long walk. The park is a lovely place to visit all year round, but the autumn leaves really enhance its beauty.
The Grade 1 historic park is a Green Flag and Green Heritage awarded site and offers plenty of things to do and see. Children can let off steam on the park's large playground, which features swings, slides, climbing frames, a roundabout and a multi play area.
The Palm House is free to visit and is home to a historic collection of plants from around the world, as well as the venue for a range of events and activities. You can also stop for a hot or cold drink at the Aviary Café or Lakeside Café - perfect for refuelling after a long walk.
Address: Sefton Park, Liverpool, L17.
Calderstones Park
This 94-acre family park in South Liverpool boasts a woodland, lake and fields, along with scenic Japanese and old English gardens. Children can enjoy the playground and wooded play area in addition to paying a visit to the Storybarn, an interactive story centre where young people can explore, share and discover their love for books.
Calderstones Park also has a miniature railway, which can be found at the Harthill Road end of the park and runs every Sunday from 2pm, weather permitting. Rides are free with donations welcome.
The park is also home to The Reader Café, which offers breakfast, lunch, sandwiches, snacks and desserts. The café also has two bookshelves full of books available to enjoy whilst you eat.
Address: Calderstones Mansion House, Calderstones Road, Liverpool, L18 3JB.
Croxteth Country Park
This 500 acre country park has plenty of stunning features to explore as you make your way through its network of trails and paths. Take in woodland, pastures, ponds and trails as you enjoy some fresh air and look out for wildlife.
You can visit Croxteth Park Farm, a traditional working Victorian farm which has plenty of things for families to see and do. The more adventurous visitors can enjoy an adrenaline-fuelled visit to Jungle Parc, where you can experience tree trekking, tarzan swings, zip wires and an X-Plorer course in an action-packed family day out.
There's also the opportunity to purchase food and drink at the park. Larkin's Café at Home Farm and the Old Riding School Café sell a range of local produce and snacks.
Address: Croxteth Hall and Country Park, Off Muirhead Avenue East, Liverpool, L11 1EH.
Birkenhead Park
Birkenhead Park is located in the centre of Birkenhead and is said to have influenced the design of Central Park in New York, as well as Liverpool's Sefton Park. The Grade 1 historic landscape is a great place for an autumnal woodland walk, with something on offer for all the family to enjoy.
The park offers a children's playground, fitness trail, Roman boathouse and Swiss bridge to explore. You can also enjoy some much-needed refreshments in the visitor centre, where you can find a café.
Address: Park Drive, Birkenhead, CH41 4HY.
Hesketh Park
Hesketh Park in Southport is a picturesque place to take in some scenic autumnal views. The park's gardens and ornate fountains have been restored and reconstructed to bring the park back to its former glory.
There's also numerous nature trails, plenty of wildlife, a large lake and a children's play area. You can also enjoy some refreshments in the park's café.
Address: Park Crescent, Southport, PR9 9NW.
Otterspool Promenade
Otterspool Promenade is a stunning riverside walk and accompanying area of parkland in South Liverpool. Boasting stunning views across the River Mersey, the promenade is a great spot to enjoy an autumn walk.
You can find an action sports hub for skateboarders, BMX and scooter riders, along with an adventure centre with climbing, abseiling and high ropes. Children can enjoy a playground, soft play centre and bouncy village.
In terms of places to eat and drink, you can choose from the Otters Café in Adventure Centre, or the Harvester and Britannia Inn restaurants.
Address: Otterspool Drive, Liverpool, L17 5AL
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a 111 acre, Grade II listed park which is known for dividing the home grounds of Liverpool and Everton Football Clubs. The park has plenty of impressive features to explore, ranging from grand sandstone pavilions to idyllic gardens and wildlife habitats.
Children can enjoy the park's playground, which includes swings, a multi-play area, roundabout and seesaw. Stanley Park is also home to the iconic Isla Gladstone Conservatory, which features Victorian architecture dating back to 1870.
The Isla Gladstone Conservatory is also home to the Café in the Park Bistro, perfect for enjoying some lunch after a walk. The bistro serves a home cooked menu including breakfasts, lunches, daily specials, cakes and sweet items.
Address: Walton Lane, Anfield, Liverpool, L4 2SL.
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