When the snow sweeps in and Cheshire’s hills turn into fleeting playgrounds, it’s time to drop your plans, grab your sledge and make the most of the white stuff!
Sledging or Sledding – whatever you want to call it, there are few more enjoyable winter family activities than throwing yourself and your kids down a steep hill with only a thin piece of plastic between you and the snow covered ground! Next time it snows wrap up warm and head to one of the below locations in Cheshire.
Lyme Park
Lyme Park in Disley is within the boundary of the Peak District National Park. The park is known for its rolling hills and open, grassy parkland – providing long and steep slopes, often with dips, bumps and makeshift jumps!
Access can be an issue after heavy snow so check before you travel! Entry is free for National Trust members. The park has a cafe and toilets.
Location: Lyme Park
Delamere Forest
The steep and open lower slopes of Old Pale Hill close to the visitor centre and main car park at Delamere Forest are your best bet for some family sledging action.
Arrive early if you want to park close by, as a decent dumping of the white stuff draws in the crowds. Cafe and toilets at the visitor centre.
Location: Delamere Forest Visitor Centre
Castle Park
Castle Park in Frodsham has a short slope suitable for families, and a sloped playing field at the top of the park. These open grounds provide a solid option for sledging.
There is a small car park at the park, otherwise park in Frodsham and walk.
Location: Castle Park
Walton Gardens
The open, hilly grounds of Walton Gardens in Warrington has some gentle slopes suitable for younger kids. Head up to the mini golf kiosk where there are a number of options of varying lengths and gradients – including the pitch and putt course (watch out for the trees!).
Large council run car park, cafe and toilets onsite.
Location: Walton Gardens
Hazards
Sledging can be dangerous, take care out there and in particular look out the trees!
Remember – we cannot highlight all potential hazards when out in the great outdoors. Safety is ultimately down to you. Educate yourself in safety, weather reports, navigation and equipment specific to the activity you intend to undertake and conditions/terrain you may encounter! Check out adventuresmart.uk for general outdoor safety considerations – and activity specific guidance for hill walking, paddle boarding, mountain biking and open water swimming.
