The bank holiday weekend is coming up and thanks to lockdown restrictions easing, people in England have a lot more freedom to visit venues and explore this county.

This means we can embark on days out once again and really make the most of the long weekend.  

Here are some free and affordable family days out to consider:

1. Pendle Sculpture Trail, Aitken Wood, Pendle

Lancashire Telegraph:

(Pendle Sculpture Trail: Reconnected 1
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Graham Hogg - geograph.org.uk/p/4535385)

Fancy a bank holiday walk?

Instead of just heading to your local woods, why not visit somewhere different.

The Pendle Sculpture trail is ideal for anyone who wants a scenic walking route with a lot of spooky history.

The trail uncovers the story of the Pendle Witches with a variety of intriguing sculptures and plaques dotted along the walk.

It’s only one mile long too.

2. Animal Quackers, Bacup

(Facebook/Animal Quackers)

This petting farm is back open and bunnies, lambs, rabbits and snakes are just some of the animals on the farm that your little ones can see and pet.

There are also numerous animal shows to watch- but you will have to wear your mask at the indoor shows.

Best of all, this is an affordable day out with ticket prices starting at just £5 and families of four can visit for £21.

Book your tickets online.

3. Thompson Park Railway, Burnley

(Facebook/ @thompsonparkrailway)

If you are looking for a quiet and affordable day out this weekend, make sure to take your kids on the Thompson Park Railway in Burnley.

This quaint attraction is well-loved by the people of Burnley- and it’s back in operation this Sunday (2 May ) and bank holiday Monday (3 May) on a trial basis.

The miniature railway takes you on a half mile scenic journey through a restored park and it’s operated by volunteers.

Rides cost £1 and the income is used to support the ongoing development of the railway.

After your ride, make sure to visit Thompson Park and consider bringing a picnic with you too.

The stunning Edwardian park boasts a boating lake, Italian gardens, Ranger centre, and playground.

4. The Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail, Brungerley Park, Clitheroe

The Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail runs from Brungerley Bridge to Crosshill Quarry along part of the Ribble Way.

It was launched in December 1993 following the seven months residency of artist Thompson Dagnall.

5. Fairhaven Lake, Lytham St Annes

If you haven’t been to Fairhaven Lake, now is the perfect chance to do so.

It’s on the sea front but is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and open, green spaces.

If the weather is on your side, you can have a picnic by the lake or even hire out a motor boat or canoe.

There is also a café next to the play park which is open over the bank holiday weekend.

Make sure to grab an ice cream if you visit.  

6. Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston

If you want to get back to nature you need to visit the Brockholes Nature Reserve.

Here, you can explore the floating visitor village or the 250 acre nature reserve itself.

Alternatively, you can take a walk along the River Ribble, explore the ancient woodland and amble around the lakes.

However, dogs aren’t welcome and people are being urged to remain in their groups of six in accordance with the government guidelines.

7. Mrs Downsons Farm Park, Clayton-le-dale

According to the company website, visitors can get involved with and learn about farming life.

With exciting events and activities such as Lambing Live, Nature Walks and Tractor Rides there is always something to do at Mrs Dowsons.

While you are here, make sure to try out their award-winning ice cream.

Tickets start from £6.79 and you can purchase yours for the bank holiday weekend by visiting their online link.

Where is your favourite affordable day out in Lancashire?