NEW research has revealed that Lancashire is one of the best locations to visit this autumn if you have a pushchair or if you are a wheelchair user.
That’s according to research from Millets which gathered data from three accessible walks sources.
Their findings found that Lancashire is the fifth best place in the UK to head for an autumn walk if you have a pram or are a wheelchair user, finding 59 accessible walking routes in the area.
Topping the list is Somerset, which is known for its rolling hills - but there are also plenty of walks that are friendly for wheelchair and buggy users, with 119 in total.
Kiera Baxter, Millets Marketing Exec and Adventurer says: “The UK has many fantastic walks, from the Lake District to the Brecon Beacons, with some incredible sights to behold. However, many of these famous routes are lacking in accessibility as many people may find hills or rough terrain difficult to get across.
“This is why we wanted to uncover the best places for accessible walks, to ensure everyone can get outside and enjoy the outdoors. Our research reveals counties such as Somerset and Devon are the best for accessible walks.
“There are a whole range of accessible walks available across the UK suitable for both wheelchair users and pushchairs. From country parks and beautiful beaches to forest walks, there are beautiful and accessible destinations all around the UK.”
The 10 best counties for an accessible walk this autumn
Where are some accessible walking routes in Lancashire?
As beautiful as autumn is, the rainy weather means that some walking routes can become muddy and difficult to navigate.
This, coupled with uneven terrain and multiple kissing gates, can make it a challenge for wheelchair users and those with pushchairs to go for a walk.
- READ MORE: Five East Lancashire walks that end with a pub
- READ MORE: Five autumnal East Lancashire walking routes
Here are three pram and wheelchair-friendly walking routes in Lancashire for you to consider this autumn:
Witton Country Park, Blackburn
This unique walking route lets you explore the historic Witton Country Park.
The shortest walk is just 1.5 miles long but it could be extended to a 2.5 mile trek if you wanted to get some more exercise in.
On this trail, you will encounter many historic places of interest such as the Ice House which acted as an underground food store for Witton House.
There are some hills on the route, but steps and turnstiles can be avoided making it ideal for families with pushchairs.
Trip Advisor reviewers said it is a great park to visit for “all season” and posted a picture of it looking “lovely” in autumn.
They added: “I try to get to Witton Country Park at least once a week for a walk and sometimes I take my four-year-old granddaughter.”
Forest of Bowland Trampers Trails, The Bowland Fells
There are several walking trails in Bowland which are wheelchair-friendly.
A spokesperson for the Forest of Bowland said: “We want to enable access to the countryside for everyone; access for people with wheelchairs, pushchairs, limited mobility, or simply for those whose legs aren't as young as they used to be.
“All the family can now experience the unspoiled beauty of the area along trails with fantastic views, wildlife rich hedgerows and through tranquil woodlands and parklands.”
‘The Tramper Trails’ have been graded using the Disabled Ramblers 1 to 5 categories.
These vary in distance and terrain, providing a range of experiences to suit those seeking a simple ride to those looking for something more challenging.
Sunnyhurst Wood, Darwen
This area is perfect as it has a low mobility path and disabled parking.
There are plenty of walking routes in and around the wood, including the Herbert Parkinson path that does not have any steps or stiles.
It also has as well as an interactive wildlife trail for older children so they can stay entertained.
Along its 1.5 mile length clues have to be solved and animal artwork discovered along the way.
Footpaths lead up through the wood to
- Earnsdale reservoir,
- Darwen Tower
- nearby Roddlesworth woods
- the historic village of Tockholes (there are two heritage walks around Tockholes - North Tockholes heritage trail and South Tockholes heritage trail )
- the unspoilt West Pennine Moors.
Find out more on the blackburn.gov website.
Where is your favourite walking route in Lancashire?
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