Riverside Park

Riverside Park offers a clue within its name; grassland meets waterside here in a pleasing alignment of differing natural habitats. The survey of the land is that it is broad and resourceful; a traverse over its soiled ridges and gaping fields shows how wide and extensive the options for walking and picking up on unfolding routes here are. Scenery unfolds with movement, too. The traditional picture of classic tree species and height en-masse is vivid. The complexion of the environment captures the definitive textbook definition of what a walk in the woods looks, sounds and feels like.

The River Bollin is lined with mature woodland and well maintained paths. The woodland itself is divided into two main areas: Sycamore and Tytherington. What was once agricultural land now gloats with an abundance of herbage, leafage and verdure, optimising the space to a premium. The site is pulsing with the undercurrent of natural activity, habitat to an excess of wildlife. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in Butterfly Garden; a space dedicated to paying homage to these delicate winged creatures. Wildflower Meadow, a community orchard, picnic sites and free car parking complete the site, with trails expertly designed and suitable for dog walking, guided walks and wilderness-watching.

Longhorn cattle pervade the area; an ancient and docile breed used to the quiet tranquility of the meadows. Their grazing helps to preserve the plants, allowing for higher diversity in species. Gridlocks and metal fences make pathways easily accessible regardless, with each opening on to a new field edged with rising trees and bracken. The unique interlocking of different walkways and routes means walks can disperse and branch off into vying trails, giving hikers and ramblers the chance to vary their direction each time, finding new areas and realms to scout as they go.