Runcorn Hill Park, Runcorn

Runcorn Hill was a sandstone quarry from 1734, and it is now a Green Flag park and local nature reserve on the high ground above the town. The formal park has the play area, split into a traditional playground and a more natural outdoor play section, a sensory garden, a bandstand, tennis courts, a bowling green and outdoor fitness kit.

The model boating lake is the centrepiece, with its own boathouse; on a good day local enthusiasts are out with their models, which is free entertainment for anyone under five. From the top the views stretch over north Cheshire and the Mersey estuary to the Welsh mountains.

Esposito's runs the cafe in the park pavilion, open 9 to 5 every day, with coffee, cakes, sandwiches, soup, gelato and a kids' menu. A £1.2 million Heritage Lottery Fund scheme paid for work including the boat pond, the boathouse, a new car park and the pavilion itself.

What it costs: Free to visit.

Know before you go

If the model boat enthusiasts are out on the lake, that is your first half hour sorted.
The cafe does a kids' menu, gelato and milkshakes, and lists itself as open 9 to 5 every day.

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