Park life: National Trust areas allowing free access to space, ft. Quarry Bank Mill, Lyme Park & more

There’s loads to do at the super-accessible Lyme Park (the train station is only half a mile from the entrance to the park, and there’s parking on-site if you’re driving). You can walk one mile of the Gritstone trail (starting at the northern end) which brings you to Lyme House and Gardens, with beautiful foundations and views of the moorland. There’s a 1400 acre deer park within the grounds too – perfect to explore on a spring day.

Dunham Massey is home to one of Britain’s largest Winter Gardens making it a great spot for a Sunday walk. The gardens boast over a thousand winter shrubs, trees and evergreens delivering a delightful variety of sensory experiences throughout winter. There is a magnificent Georgian Mansion and well stocked deer park too. Treat the family to a tasty meal at the Stables Restaurant or grab a snack at the Stamford Café. Pooches are welcome at the dog-friendly ice-cream Parlour.

Quarry Bank is an industrial heritage site, springing from the cotton mill established in Styal at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. At Quarry Bank, you can see this historic mill for yourself (both inside and outside) and learn about the early industrial way of life. Make sure you take a stroll through Quarry bank’s stunning grounds, meadows and gardens to see the spring plants and wildlife beginning to emerge.

Head to Tatton Park and you’ll be inundated with greenery and the first signs of colourful spring while you take a relaxing stroll across its 50 acre gardens. If you’re after something really peaceful, why not lose yourself in their introspective Japanese Gardens, complete with water features and countless flora and fauna. Likewise, a relaxing stroll across Tatton’s airy grounds is bound to do wonders for your mental wellbeing during difficult times.