While the city provides plenty of activities and things to do, it can often become overwhelming, especially if you live there.
To help you decompress from the hustle and bustle of city life, we've compiled some of the best parks and nature walks in Wigan which can provide some much-needed peace and quiet.
Most of the locations on this list aren't too far from the city centre so you won't have to take too much time out of your day to visit and relax.
Whether you want to explore nature on your own or want to get the whole family involved for a little adventure, one of the parks or walks on this list will cater to your needs.
Here's a breakdown of the best parks and nature walks in Wigan.
Mesnes Park
Located on the edge of Wigan's town centre, Mesnes park is great to walk around with the family while admiring the sights and scenery.
Adorned with a bandstand and waterfall there are plenty of things to appreciate when visiting the park - you can also keep the kids busy at the children's play area.
If you're visiting on a hot day, or just fancy a sweet treat, the pavilion building houses Frederick's ice cream parlour.
Mesnes Park is near the town centre. To find it the postcode is WN1 1TU
Haigh Woodland Park
Haigh Woodland Park offers a wide range of exploration activities for kids and adults while promoting a fun and healthy lifestyle.
Activities include high rope courses, adventure golf, a miniature railway, and wooded hiking trails.
The park is not too far away from the city centre and is only a small driveway with a spacious car park included for large vehicles.
Open from 8am to 6pm every day of the week.
Haigh Woodland Park is located on School Lane, WN2 1PE.
Borsdane Wood
Located on the border of Wigan and Bolton, Borsdane Wood is a nature reserve that is not only relaxing to walk through but holds a lot of history.
The woodland itself is believed to have been relatively unchanged since 1600AD while also being home to plenty of wildlife such as deer.
With a public footpath running through the middle of the woodland the area is accessible and easy to walk through.
Borsdane Wood is between Hindley and Aspull. To find it the postcode is WN2 2SR.
Elnup Wood
Elnup Wood provides the perfect space for a casual walk with your family or your pet dog.
With a fully constructed public footpath situated around a small river, your children will be able to spend a decent amount of time exploring the woods.
The wood also acts as a nice detour if you're visiting the nearby Standish.
Elnup Wood is located near Standish. To find it the postcode is WN6 0YQ.
Fairy Glen
Fairy Glen is a nice little patch of greenery in Wigan which is perfect if you want to spend a bit of time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
No payment is needed to enter the forest and is a great way to spend a quiet weekend.
It's important to note though that there is no car park at Fairy Glen and street parking is limited, therefore it may be a good idea to take public transport.
Fairy Glen s near Parbold. To find it the postcode is WN8 7TG.
