On weekdays, Jenny Kozyra, who lives in Holmes Chapel with her husband, Paul, and their daughters, Megan, aged 14, and Robyn, 11, runs Jenny’s Cleaning Service. But at weekends the family gets up and goes out to explore Cheshire. Here are 10 of their favourite outings.
‘Like so many parents, I know that familiar feeling of waking up on a weekend morning with no idea where to take the kids, whether you’re desperate for some fresh air or searching for something fun when the rain won’t stop,’ she says.
‘That’s why I started reviewing the places we visit as a family and creating every sort of what’s on guide you could need. From what’s on this weekend, to the best ice-cream parlours, ideas that will get teenagers out of the house to family-friendly walks with a café. There are hidden gems and must-visit attractions, the best events and money-saving offers, so every weekend and school holiday can feel a little easier and a lot more fun.
We are incredibly lucky in Cheshire to have so many wonderful places to visit. As well as being home to historic and iconic buildings and beautiful views across the lush, green Cheshire Plain, our county is full of fantastic places for a family day out, ensuring fun for everyone, whatever their age, and I’m on a mission to help families discover what’s on in Cheshire. These are 10 of our favourite family-friendly days out.
TEGG’S NOSE COUNTRY PARK
Big views, fresh air and a well-earned coffee
Exploring Tegg’s Nose in Macclesfield is one of my favourite walks and one that keeps children engaged and motivated every step of the way. There are a couple of routes to choose from. The short 2.5km walk takes you past old quarry machinery, up to the top of Tegg’s Nose, where a viewing wall offers incredible views and the chance to spot landmarks in the distance. The longer route goes even further, down to the reservoir below, across stepping stones and back up to the car park, where a well-earned treat awaits at Nose Coffee. Think bacon butties, homemade cakes and warming hot chocolates by the fire.
What makes the walk even more fun for our family is that my girls love scrambling up the hills and veering off the marked paths on a mini adventure where they can explore freely while staying safe. The mix of scrambles, open space and interesting features along the way keeps everyone entertained and there’s something special about watching them discover little nooks and crannies along the trails.
Why it’s so good
Tegg’s Nose works perfectly for both short and longer walks, with incredible views, fun scrambles and plenty of features to keep children interested. And who doesn’t love a walk that ends with a cosy, welcoming café where everyone can warm up and refuel?
Top tips
Arrive early or later in the day to avoid the car park being busy. If you’re hoping to catch the sunset, this is one of the best spots, with a bench perfectly positioned for a sit-down with a hot flask and a snack as you watch the sun dip over the gorgeous views.
JODRELL BANK DISCOVERY CENTRE
Big science for young inquisitive minds
One of the most iconic features of the Cheshire landscape has to be the Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank. I love spotting it in the distance whenever I’m out on a Cheshire walk with the view
rising unexpectedly above the fields, like something from another world. Even if you’ve never visited, chances are you’ve seen it and wondered what goes on there.
Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre is a brilliant family day out, striking that rare balance between education and genuine fun. If you haven’t visited recently, then there has been a big improvement to the site with the First Light Pavilion, which is the home of an impressive planetarium-style auditorium – the Space Dome, complete with a curved projection screen and nine digital projectors. The team is constantly introducing new dome shows, which are truly mesmerising. Children don’t even realise they’re learning fascinating facts about space as they sit back, heads tilted, absorbed by the incredible images projected above them.
During the school holidays, especially, there’s so much going on to encourage families to spend the day exploring. Science shows are packed with fire, explosions and gasps from the audience, while simpler activities such as crafts, SEN-friendly toys and the outdoor playground help break up the learning and keep little minds engaged.
Why it’s so good
Your children will get more from it than you might expect. We’ve visited many times over the years, and my older daughter still gets excited spotting hands-on science exhibits she’s played with and explored on previous visits. It’s one of those places that grows with them, revealing something new each time.
Top tips
Visit during the school holidays when all the extra activities are running, when there is so much more to see and do. Plus, if you book your tickets online, you’ll receive 10 per cent off, and your ticket also becomes an annual pass. That means plenty of opportunities to return, helping to reinforce the experiments and information over time.
CHESTER
History, cobbled streets and hidden gems
A day exploring the historic city of Chester is always welcome and it’s perfect for keeping the whole family entertained with plenty to interest everyone. Start by walking along the city walls, taking in the views and soaking up centuries of history. From there, a relaxing 30-minute boat trip along the River Dee on the Lady Diana gives a fresh perspective of the city, then stroll over to Grosvenor Park with its miniature train and play area. History comes to life at the Deva Roman Experience, where kids can learn about the city’s Roman past. When it comes to food, the options are endless, from street food at New Chester Market to the countless independent restaurants tucked along the city streets.
Why it’s so good
Chester isn’t just beautiful, it’s full of experiences that appeal to all ages. The Roman tours are brilliant for children, the Rows are fascinating to explore and feel like secret little worlds and the food options let you uncover hidden gems throughout the city.
Top tips
Pre-book your boat trip online to get 10 per cent off – or you can book while waiting at the riverbank. Visit on a sunny day for the full effect – the riverbank has a holiday vibe, especially if you grab an ice cream from one of the little stalls and watch the boats, pedal boats and canoes glide by.
DELAMERE FOREST
Fresh air, forest trails and the Gruffalo
Just outside of Chester, Delamere Forest is a place that kids will love to explore, with fun trails and characters to find. It has miles of walking routes, a play area for little ones and undulating bike tracks for older kids and adventurous parents and. of course, after-walk treats in the café.
One of the things we love most about Delamere Forest is how flexible a day there can be. If you want a more challenging walk, head up Old Pale Hill, with the historic ring of county stones pointing in their general direction and a large stone in the middle signifying Cheshire.
If you have Julia Donaldson fans, there is a wonderful new interactive Room on the Broom trail. It is free, but it’s well worth buying an activity pack for £4, which includes stickers, a wand-making kit and a lanyard. It turns a simple walk into something much more exciting, giving little ones a sense of purpose and encouraging them to spend time outside.
For even more Julia fun, there is the long-standing Gruffalo trail, with sculptures to find, including an impressive six-foot Gruffalo. We have done this walk numerous times and still love it when we spot him in the forest.
For both walks, you can park at Barnsbridge Car Park or at the main visitor centre. We always pop into the café for a cup of tea and a slice of lemon drizzle.
Near the café, there’s a playground, making it easy to combine a walk with some playtime. Delamere Forest is in the process of building even more playground areas, meaning you’ll want to stay for the whole day.
Why it’s so good
The forest feels calm and spacious, even on busier days, and there’s something refreshing about spending hours surrounded by trees and birdsong. There are short walks, long walks, easy walks for pushchairs, interactive walks for kids and more challenging walks for the best views.
Top tips
Park for free at Yeld Lane, Tarporley, CW6 0TB or Barnsbridge Car Park, WA6 6NY. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. And always have a pocket full of snacks.
THE ICE CREAM FARM
Cheshire’s sweetest day out
Strawberry-themed adventure golf, a tree that blows bubbles and a marshmallow bouncing pillow. The Ice Cream Farm at Tattenhall is one of those places that feels made for childhood, packed with activities, space to play and the freedom to have fun. We’ve been visiting for years and it’s a firm favourite, especially when we bring friends along too.
Entry works a little differently here: you pay a small fee to get in, then pay separately for each activity. While that might sound fiddly, the play pass cards make it much better value. The more plays you buy, the cheaper each one becomes, and honestly, this is the best way to do it.
There’s plenty to keep children of all ages entertained, from sand and water play and adventure golf to bouncing pillows, go-karts, indoor play areas and an arcade room for older kids. And of course, no visit is complete without sampling one (or two) of the many ice-cream flavours.
Why it’s so good
It’s fun for a wide range of ages and ideal for meeting up with friends. This is one of those proper days out where everyone goes home tired but smiling – always a good sign.
Top tips
If you can, buy a play pass bundle during one of the sales. I picked up a huge 20-play pass that lasts across several visits and because it was bought ages ago, each day out feels surprisingly cheap. Another little secret? Don’t wait for summer ‒ the Ice Cream Farm is a brilliant winter destination, too. Many of the activities are indoors and it’s much quieter out of peak season, which is always a bonus.
BEWILDERWOOD CHESHIRE
A magical adventure in the woods
BeWILDerwood is the magical home of Boggles, Twiggles, Thorny Crocklebogs and plenty of other quirky woodland characters. From the moment you step into the trees, it feels like a world built entirely for imagination, adventure and outdoor play.
With treehouses, towering structures and long metal slides tucked throughout the woods, BeWILDerwood encourages children to explore, climb and play freely. Storytelling shows add to the magic and the cute craft tent lets you catch your breath and do something while seated. The setting itself makes it easy to forget about screens and focus on family time. This is easily a full day out and one that really works for the whole family. It’s perfect for toddlers who are confident walkers and runners and adults won’t be left sitting on the sidelines either – have a go on the slides, get lost in the maze or join your child in building a stick shelter in the woods.
Why it’s so good
A day spent running around the woods after the kids somehow feels as if you’ve genuinely been out in the fresh air. Playing at BeWILDerwood is proper outdoor play: make-believe, den building and lots of movement. Kids will be climbing back into the car tired, muddy and happy.
Top tips
It can get surprisingly cold under the trees, especially outside of summer, so layers are a must. Waterproof trousers are always a good idea, too, and as a bonus, they make you go down the slides even faster.
Pack a picnic if you can. While there are a couple of places to buy food and drinks, this is the perfect spot to save some money and bring lunch from home, with plenty of picnic tables dotted throughout the woods.
THE CROCKY TRAIL
Mud, mayhem and proper family fun
Just outside of Chester, the Crocky Trail is an outdoor adventure park that promises toddlers, teenagers and parents one of the best days out. Packed with activities, games and equipment, it’s a place where getting muddy is all part of the fun and children of all ages can run, climb and explore in a truly adventurous place. The day is filled with shrieks, squeals and laughter as you play football, tumble off spinning discs, slide down slides as big as a house and generally have an amazing time outdoors.
This is one of our favourite full days out.
We arrive at opening time and are usually among the last to leave. As our girls have grown older, the Crocky Trail has really come into its own. Now they’re too old for soft play, it offers that same sense of freedom and play, but in a far more adventurous environment. It’s the kind of place where even young teenagers happily put their phones away and throw themselves into every challenge.
The site is split into two main areas. The trail itself winds around a huge field, with activities every few metres, from rope swings, bridges and mazes to basketball challenges such as an oversized Connect Four. It’s designed so there’s always something new just ahead, encouraging children to keep going and explore the whole loop.
The main site is home to the famous slides, which start gently before gradually building up to enormous drops. They’re fast, slippery, and impossible to resist, with a constant buzz of excitement as children (and adults) race back up for another go. Beyond the trail and slides, there’s even more to enjoy, including football skills areas, spinning challenges that test your balance, inflatables and magic shows during the warmer months.
Why it’s so good
We’ve visited many times and still find ourselves spending the entire day there. There’s an incredible amount of equipment, much of it unlike anything we’ve seen elsewhere, and it really isn’t just for children. Adults can join in on so much of the fun, making it an immersive family experience rather than somewhere you simply watch from the sidelines.
Top tips
Take a full change of clothes and wear sturdy shoes. The trail can get muddy after rain and even on dry days, the slides have trickling water running down them to make them extra fast, so expect wet clothes, muddy knees and very big smiles.
QUARRY BANK MILL
A Cheshire favourite bringing history to life
Quarry Bank Mill is easily my favourite National Trust property in Cheshire and one we return to again and again. There’s so much to explore that every visit feels rewarding, whether you’re stepping back in time inside the mill or enjoying the gardens in warmer months, when the flower beds are at their best. You can also walk to Styal village, which has the most gorgeous row of cottages.
The mill itself is the real highlight. Watching the machinery in motion, hearing the stories of those who worked there and looking up at the vast chimney brings the Industrial Revolution vividly to life. Equally powerful is a visit to the Apprentice House – learning how child workers lived and worked is deeply moving and leaves you thankful that laws and protections have changed.
Quarry Bank also excels in its year-round programme of events. From theatre performances to the Halloween trail and beautifully understated Christmas lights, there’s always something extra to enhance a visit, particularly during school holidays.
The staff and volunteers are outstanding. Their passion for the site shines through, especially when they engage children by asking their ages and explaining what jobs they might have done in the past. It’s history told in a way that truly sticks.
Why it’s so good
It’s one of my daughter’s favourite places too. She loves the mill, the familiar stories and seeing the machinery at work. For me, Quarry Bank is at its best when it sparks curiosity, encourages questions and helps children learn without realising they’re doing so.
Top tips
Check in at the visitor centre to see what extra activities are on that day. This is also where you can book the Apprentice House tour and pick up any trails. It gets a bonus point as National Trust members can enjoy a full day out here for free.
CHESTER ZOO
A day that never disappoints
A firm favourite for many families and maybe an obvious one for my list. But honestly, it ticks so many boxes that it had to be in my top 10. With animals from every corner of the globe and beautifully designed spaces both indoors and out, it’s a place that has always interested visitors of all ages. Beyond the animals themselves, Chester Zoo excels at keeping days fresh and engaging. Adventure playgrounds provide welcome breaks for younger visitors, while seasonal events such as their Lanterns and Light at Christmas and school-holiday trails and activities ensure no two visits ever feel quite the same. It’s this constant evolution, paired with the sheer number and diversity of species, that makes Chester Zoo such a standout attraction.
Our favourites include coming face-to-face with the majestic Sumatran tigers, watching chimpanzees at play and lingering in the Butterfly House hoping for a gentle landing. It’s another place where children learn without realising they’re learning.
Why it’s so good
While a visit doesn’t come cheap, Chester Zoo offers excellent value for money. It’s easy to spend an entire day here, from opening time to closing, exploring the vast site and seeing towering elephants to the tiniest beetles. Those moments when you finally see an animal up close are pure magic; watching the orangutans casually sitting just inches away on the other side of glass is an experience that feels truly unforgettable.
Top tips
Arrive early and head straight to the furthest part of the zoo, working your way back towards the entrance to enjoy quieter enclosures. Download the digital map in advance to plan your route and consider bringing a picnic; there are plenty of lovely places to stop and refuel.
Follow Jenny on her social media at DaysoutandMealsout or her website, daysoutandmealsout.com, to discover more ideas
CASTAWAY PLAY
Where imagination runs wild
Castaway Play in Congleton is a vibrant indoor play centre for younger children, from toddlers to 10-year-olds, offering a safe, colourful and imaginative space where they can explore, climb and play to their heart’s content. It’s a place we’ve visited many times, often meeting friends there.
Designed for little adventurers, the space is packed with opportunities to climb, slide, dig in the sand, drive go-karts and enjoy plenty of active play. Being indoors, it’s ideal for rainy days and the impressive Tropical Beach, made of 60 tonnes of sand, really does feel like being on a mini holiday.
Castaway Play also goes all out during the school holidays, with events that get better and better each year. From Alpine Christmas experiences and a spooky Halloween show to summer fun packed with characters and foam parties, there always seems to be something special happening.
Why it’s so good
One of the things we love most about Castaway Play is how it’s always evolving. Each visit brings something new for the children to discover, whether that’s equipment or exciting add-ons, such as the sledge track, basketball hoops or football shoot-out zone. It is a safe, welcoming environment, somewhere we’re happy for the girls to play freely, and somewhere they’re always excited to return to see what’s new.
Top tips
Take a spare pair of socks for the water play areas and consider inviting friends along. It’s a fantastic place for children to play together, and a great excuse for parents to enjoy a coffee and catch-up while the little ones are entertained..
