The park 30 minutes from Manchester with its own free zoo

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

When the sun is shining there's nothing better than taking the kids out for a day at the park. And while some places can be a bit hit and miss, there's one park that's guaranteed to keep the little ones happy.

Not only does Walton Hall and Gardens in Warrington have some great play equipment for all ages, it's also home to its own zoo, which is free to visit. Read more: Families can stay in a Sea King helicopter at Yorkshire glamping site The attraction includes animals such as goats, donkeys, pigs and its iconic peacocks, who are known to be unfazed by the many visitors and stroll around the paths as people are walking through.

Families can meet There are our three alpacas, Jim, Mally and Topaz and the jovial rescue donkeys Lenny and Charlie. There's a colourful mix of birds and you’re also likely to catch a glimpse of the native red squirrels playing inside purpose-built runs and cages.

The zoo is open daily, including this bank holiday Monday, from 10.30am to 5pm, with the park itself open 8am to 8pm. Next to the zoo is the children's playground, featuring all kinds of equipment, from a commando anthill climber to a tree-top towers multi-play unit and wheelchair accessible roundabouts.