Free outdoor things to do this Summer in Lancashire

The best part of planning your holiday is figuring out all the wonderful places you want to visit. Thankfully, a short break or day out in Lancashire doesn’t have to break the bank, as you’ll find a heap of free outdoor things to do, ideal for those sunny summer days.

Whether you are looking for perfect parks, brilliant beaches or wonderful walks, you can find it all in Lancashire. See our handy list below for some of the free things you can do this summer.

Looking for more inspiration? Head over to our What’s On page and browse some of the free events planned for these summer months. Discover more here.

Brilliant Beaches
Nothing says summer like a trip to the seaside! Lancashire is proud to be home to 137 miles of varied coastline, including beautiful sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and a range of family attractions. With 2023 being the Year of the Coast, it’s never been a better time to explore one of the beautiful seaside destinations in Lancashire.

A popular seaside attraction to visit is the Mythic Coast Artwork Trail, located in the seaside town of Cleveleys. This picturesque walk features a fascinating collection of sculptures on Cleveleys Seafront, bringing to life the children’s book ‘The Sea Swallow.’

Alternatively, the Great Promenade Show in Blackpool, is another great free outdoor art trail to add to your bucket list this summer. Consisting of ten pieces of artwork and located along Blackpool Promenade, it reflects Blackpool’s history and character with work from both established and emerging artists.

So, whether you are excited to explore one of the many eye-catching landmarks, see who can build the biggest sandcastle or simply take some time to relax, visiting the Lancashire coast is a great free day out for all ages this summer.

To discover more about the Year of the Coast and to plan your visit click here.

Perfect Parks
Lancashire boasts some of the most beautiful parks and gardens in Britain today. The fresh air and open space make them a great place for kids and adults alike to burn off some energy but they also make a peaceful escape away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life.

Compromising of 54 acres of beautiful parkland and home to enchanting walks and play areas, it’s no surprise that Williamson Park, in Lancaster, is a popular choice with visitors. On a clear day you can enjoy breath-taking views of Lancaster, the Fylde Coast and even the Lake District. The newly renovated tropical butterfly house (paid entry) is a fascinating addition to this award-winning park and is certainly a must-visit when in the area as well as the towering Ashton Memorial which is located within the park.

Another popular Lancashire park to visit this summer is Towneley Park in Burnley. Comprised of 180 hectares of landscaped parkland, full of beautiful trees, shrubs and a traditional Victorian flower garden, there’s lots to explore. You’ll find lots of nature trails in the surrounding woodland, with walks past sculptures hidden in the trees, so keep your eye out and see how many you discover.

To discover more of Lancashire’s popular parks to explore this summer click here.

Wonderful Walks
Lancashire is home to some of the best walking country in England. From short, gentle rambles to long distance treks, green countryside to beautiful coastal views, and add to that some historic canals and country parks for good measure.

Not sure where to start? Why not try one of our most popular walks, such as The Tolkien Trail, said to visit key places that may have inspired Tolkien’s Middle Earth when he stayed in Lancashire visiting his son. Another walk with history is the Pendle Sculpture Trail, which teaches passers-by about the true story of the Pendle Witches.

For a more accessible route, try Brockholes Nature Reserve, where you can find flat paths and accessible hides to enjoy Lancashire’s wildlife close up.

Check out more of Lancashire’s walking routes here.

Picnic spots
As the weather starts to get warmer across Lancashire, it’s the perfect chance opportunity to enjoy a picnic, after all dining outside is one of the best things about summer! Whether you are visiting somewhere new or heading back to an old-time favourite spot, there’s plenty of locations across Lancashire which make for the perfect picnic.

A popular choice with many visitors is Beacon Fell Country Park, with spectacular views of the Forest of Bowland and Morecambe Bay, it’s no surprise that this is a desired choice for many on a sunny day.

You’ll find a whole heap of other popular picnic destinations in Lancashire in our handy list here, so all you have to do is pack some delicious Lancashire snacks and plan your visit.

Eye- catching views at the Panopticons
Pennine Lancashire’s Panopticons are a unique series of landmarks located throughout East Lancashire to attract visitors to the beautiful countryside and to enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Each Panopticon is situated on a high-point site and commands some spectacular Lancashire views, perfect for pictures! Why not make it your aim to visit all four this summer?

1.     Colourfields Panopticon, Blackburn

2.     The Singing Ringing Tree, Burnley

3.     The Atom Panopticon, Wycoller

4.     Halo Panopticon, Haslingden

Hopefully you now feel fully inspired to experience the great Lancashire outdoors without breaking the budget. For more information on booking your next short break or day out in the county click here.