There’s nothing better than a day at the park.
It’s cheap, usually not too far a trip, and the perfect place to make your own fun.
Taking along a football, kite or even your bike is standard park procedure, but if you can’t haul those with you, many across Merseyside have their very own play areas to keep the kids entertained.
Play areas are perfect for letting off all that energy they’d otherwise be saving up for right before bedtime - you know they do it - so here are some of the best parks to visit in Liverpool and beyond with play areas included:
Sefton Park
Anyone who knows Sefton Park loves it.
It’s got stunning views, picturesque lakes and wide open spaces that are perfect for picnics and kickabouts.
It’s also got a huge play area for the kids to go wild.
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Hesketh Park, Southport

A short walk from Southport town centre, Hesketh Park includes everything from ducks to feed, a huge lake and even a mini golf course.
The park also features several play areas, trails and hidden gardens.
Walton Hall Park
This 130-acres park in the heart of Walton features a playground with swings, roundabouts, see-saws and even football pitches to keep the kids entertained.
Walton Hall Park also features a small boating pond and a lake that’s perfect for feeding the ducks.
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Victoria Park, Southport
A popular spot in Southport, this park plays host to huge events such as the Southport Flower Show, Southport Food and Drink Festival and the British Musical Fireworks Championships.
The park is home to acres of green space perfect for ball games and there’s a kid’s play area that is popular year-round.
Calderstones Park

The park features everything from woodlands and lakes to picnic spots and playgrounds.
Calderstones Park is also home to Japanese and old English Gardens, ponds, and The Reader Ice Cream Parlour and Cafe - the perfect place to grab a bite after the excitement on the play area.
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Birkenhead Park
The park that inspired New York’s Central Park offers stunning woodland walks and plenty of ducks to feed.
There is also a large adventure playground that the little ones can make the most of, alongside tennis courts, football pitches and bowling greens.
Greenbank Park

Just down the road from Sefton Park there’s another incredible park waiting to be discovered.
Greenbank Park features a small lake, a walled garden, football pitches and a large playground with swings, roundabout, slides, and climbing frames.
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Princes Park

The Grade II listed park just next door to Sefton Park offers beautiful green spaces and views.
There are also play areas in the centre of the park which include swings, see-saws and climbing frames.
Princes Park also has perfect hills for rolling down.
Reynolds Park
Tucked away in Woolton, Reynolds Park is award-winning - and a beautiful spot with a walled garden, a yew garden, and woodland areas.
The park also features play equipment, including balancing beams and stepping stones.
Vale Park, Wirral
The perfect place for little ones who love fairy tales, Vale Park is home to a magical fairy garden and even one of the statues from the Mermaid Trail.
There is also a play area, a kick-about pitch and a beautiful rose garden.
Otterspool Promenade and Park
If the waterfront views weren’t enough, the open spaces and enormous play area should be.
Otterspool offers perfect kite-flying conditions alongside climbing frames, spinning dishes, and a sports hub for skateboarders.
Croxteth Country Park
Croxteth’s stunning park is perfect for a picnic and a stroll, but if the kids are getting a bit rowdy, they can always let loose in the play area.
The jungle park includes Tarzan swings and zip wires.
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Everton Park
Providing one of the best views across Liverpool, Everton Park is known for being one of the must-see parks.
The park offers everything from a nature garden and eye-catching lakes to outdoor gym equipment and a playground.
There is also a multi-use games area for football and other activities, and a sports hub for BMX rides and skateboarders.
Newsham Park
Well known for its haunted history, Newsham Park is home to Newsham Park Hospital which is now renowned for its ghost hunts.
The park also features a playground with swings, roundabouts, see-saws, spinning fish and multi play area.
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Belle Vale Park
Tucked away behind Lee Valley Library, Belle Vale Park is small but mighty.
The park offers a children’s play area with swings, a roundabout, climbing frames, slides and a see-saw.
Ashton Park, West Kirby

Right on the Wirral Way, Ashton Park features a rose garden, a stunning lake with fountains, and a whole host of birds to feed.
The park also has a play area, junior football pitch, bowling greens and tennis courts.
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