While the city offers plenty of activities and things to do, it can often become overwhelming, especially if you live there.
To help you unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life, we’ve rounded up some of the best parks and nature walks in Wigan that can give you some much-needed rest.
Most of the places on this list are not too far from the city center, so you don’t need to take too much time to visit and relax.
Whether you want to explore the great outdoors on your own or have a little adventure with the whole family, one of the parks or walking trails on this list will meet your needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the best parks and nature walks in Wigan.
Mesnes Park
Mesnes Park is full of beautiful attractions
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Located on the edge of Wigan city centre, Mesnes Park is a great place for a family stroll while admiring the sights and scenery.
Adorned with a bandstand and a waterfall, there are many things to appreciate when visiting the park – you can also keep the kids busy at the children’s playground.
If you’re visiting on a hot day or just fancy a sweet treat, the pavilion building is home to Frederick’s Ice Cream Shop.
Mesnes Park is located near the city center. To find it, the zip code is WN1 1TU
Haigh Forest Park
The trail park at Haigh Woodland Park
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Haigh Woodland Park offers a wide range of exploratory activities for both children and adults while promoting a fun and healthy lifestyle.
Activities include high ropes courses, adventure golf, a miniature railway, and forested hiking trails.
The park is not too far from the city center and is just down a small driveway with ample parking for large vehicles included.
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Haigh Woodland Park is located at School Lane, WN2 1PE.
Borsdane wood
If you visit Borsdane Wood you may be lucky enough to see some deer
(Image: ABNM Photography)
On the border of Wigan and Bolton, Borsdane Wood is a nature reserve that is not only relaxing to wander through, but also has a lot of history to offer.
The forest itself is believed to have remained relatively unchanged since 1600 AD while also being home to many wildlife such as deer.
With a public footpath running through the middle of the forest, the area is accessible and easy to traverse.
Borsdane Wood is between Hindley and Aspull. To find it, the zip code is WN2 2SR.
Elnup wood
Elnup Wood offers the perfect place for a leisurely stroll with your family or dog.
With a fully developed public footpath built around a small river, your children can spend plenty of time exploring the forest.
The forest is also a nice detour when visiting nearby Standish.
Elnup Wood is close to Standish. To find it, the zip code is WN6 0YQ.
FairyGlen
Fairy Glen offers a lovely little escape from busy city life
(Image: Lancs Police)
Fairy Glen is a nice little piece of greenery in Wigan that’s perfect if you want to spend a little time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
No payment is required to enter the forest and it is a great way to spend a quiet weekend.
However, it is important to note that there is no car park in Fairy Glen and on-street parking is limited, so it may be a good idea to take public transport.
Fairy Glen s near Parbold. To find it, the zip code is WN8 7TG.
