The whole of Blackpool revolves around fun for people of all ages with the Pleasure Beach, three piers and exciting entertainment.
Those in search of plenty to do but a safe area to explore should not miss Stanley Park.
On one side of the park is the zoo and on the other a Model Village. The circular walk around the park is the perfect place to allow the eager youngsters to explore without having to be watched closely.
Blackpool, since the railway came in the 1850s, has been built to let thousands of people enjoy themselves. Stanley Park has proved to be a haven for visitors and residents alike. Constructed from 1926, partly to provide labour for the unemployed, the park has everything an active family could want.
From the roadside car park keep to the metal railings and the lake on the right. Just before the model village there is a sign for the De Vere Hotel.
Almost opposite the De Vere sign turn right into the park. The lake is soon reached and is very popular with anglers who can buy day tickets. There are lots of fishing pitches including the anglers platform. The views of the lake out to the right reveal wildfowl and small motor boats slowly chugging along in perfect harmony.
Approach the Band stand, now magnificently restored on the left. Footpaths from this area lead to football and cricket fields and to the model village. Views across the lake show the boat hire jetty and the cafe. The substantial path sweeps to the right.
At the boat jetty take time to watch the colourful little road train. This gives tired limbs the chance to recover as well as getting your bearings. Turn away from the lake and bear left to a set of stone steps.
At the top of the easy-to-negotiate steps is the lakeside terrace pond with fountains, statues and surrounded by gardens. This is a really exciting splash of water and colour but there are plenty of seats from which to enjoy views of the flowers. From the terrace turn right and pass an area of fencing on the right. Then sweep right and descend the gentle incline to the cafe. Bear left and keep the lake on the right. Look for the Wildfowl Barrier which is kept free from boats and anglers and allows the birds a sanctuary.
Approach two substantial white bridges over the boating lake.
Turn right and pass over the first of thee bridges.
There is a picnic site to the left and then cross the second bridge. To the right is a picnic area for anglers. Head towards the exit from the park.
Look out to the left to see the entrance to the Nature Trail which runs alongside the lake.
Taking this trail would add another half a mile to the walk but leisure time should be allowed to stop, stare and perhaps fee the birds.
Continue to the A587 and turn right to the roadside car park.
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