With all the hustle and bustle in this city, it can be nice to escape to the great outdoors sometimes. But you don't have to leave Liverpool to get your fix of peace and quiet in beautiful surrounds, as this part of the country is absolutely packed with green spaces, from walled gardens to sprawling estates. Whether you're in the mood for a picnic, a relaxing stroll or even to learn some history, you can find it all at the best parks Liverpool has to offer.
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Sefton Park
Classified as a Grade I-listed park by English Heritage, there is plenty of nature to enjoy across the 200 acres at Sefton Park - which makes it the biggest park in Liverpool. This expansive space is gorgeous in all seasons, from the masses of daffodils and bluebells that bloom in the spring to the golden-red leaves that fall in autumn.
There's a boating lake and lots of pretty waterside spots here, alongside a bustling cafe, but the most famous aspect of the park is the Palm House: a striking glass-panelled building that dates back to 1872, restored to its former glory and now hosting all kinds of events.
You'll never run out of walking routes at Sefton Park Liverpool.
Calderstones Park
Found in South Liverpool, Calderstones Park is a 94-acre stretch that's got everything from lush green fields to thick woodland and even a lake. There's a 1000-year-old oak tree here that the Hundred Court supposedly sat under a millennium ago, whose trunk is now hollow and supported by stakes.
That's not all that dates back a long time here though, as the park gets its name from the visible ancient stone megaliths here that are said to be older than Stone Henge. Calderstones is also here you'll find the gorgeous Harthill Botanical Gardens, founded in 1802, as well as more modern additions such as cafes, ice cream parlours and a miniature railway.
Get your dose of history at this ancient park.
Croxteth Hall Country Park
Centered around the historic hall in the centre of the green space, Croxteth Hall Country Park is one of the prettiest Liverpool parks and gardens. The Country Park is open all day, everyday, and between 10am and 3pm you can visit their quaint Victorian walled garden too.
There's a diverse range of woodland, farmland, ponds and streams across estate, where you can also see West Derby Courthouse - one of Liverpool’s oldest public buildings. Whether you're admiring the wildlife or setting off one one of the orienteering trails, this place makes for a great day out.
For some seriously Bridgerton vibes, check out Croxteth Hall.
Newsham Park
Boasting a whopping 121 acres, the Grade II-listed Newsham Park has been around since 1868. The historic spot is home to Newsham Hall, where Queen Victoria once stayed, and is now used as Judges lodgings.
There are two huge lakes to enjoy here, perfect for fishing and sailing model boats, or just chilling by with a picnic. You can also grab food and drink from the kiosk overlooking the water, and there's all kinds of pretty plants to admire while you're at it.
Its name may be new, but this park has been around for well over a century.
Rimrose Valley Country Park
Found along the Leeds Liverpool canal and also bordered by the Southport to Liverpool railway line, Rimrose Valley Country Park is a popular spot among locals and visitors to the city alike.
This is the only non-coastal reserve in the area, making it crucial in preserving biodiversity in a very built-up location, and there are two Sites of Special Local Biological Interest here: Brookvale Local Nature Reserve and also Fulwood Way. Since 1993 there's been work to reclaim the site, nourishing the wildlife and preserving the many different paths for walking down.
Immerse yourself in nature at this canalside paradise.
Everton Park
Looking for the best parks in Liverpool city centre? Everton Park is situated in the neighbourhood of the same name, created in the late 80s as a respite from the bustling streets surrounding it. From Everton Brow you can look out over the city's skyline and the docks, and you might even catch a glimpse of the Welsh mountains on a clear day.
You'll also find stunning stretches of wildflowers across the 40 hectares, while the walled Everton Park Nature Garden features ponds, bridges, more flower beds and even colourful wild birds.
Though it may be best known for its football club, Everton offers some stunning scenery too.
Clarke’s Gardens
Located just south of the city centre in Liverpool's Allerton district, Clarke’s Gardens has been around since 1927 - named after the family it was donated by. This site is home to the Grade II-listed Allerton Hall, alongside an unusual-looking octagonal pillbox that was created during World War II in case of an invasion.
There's lots of wildlife to take in here, as well as stretches of woodland to explore - containing 27 acres of beautiful space to stroll around. And in the spring, you'll find lots of wildflowers here too.
Soak in the scenery at Clarke's Gardens.
Otterspool Park
If you're a fan of riverside walks, Otterspool Park is the place for you. This green space runs alongside Otterspool promenade, looking out over the Mersey with great views to take in.
This place is perfect for relaxing ambles and running routes alike, with a cafe, adventure centre and playground making it one of the best parks in Liverpool for kids too. There's also a concrete skate park, where people of all ages gather to take part in the sport.
This is a brilliant choice of play parks in Liverpool.
Festival Gardens
A hidden gem right in the heart of the city, Festival Gardens takes its name from being the site of the UK's first ever garden festival in 1984. It underwent a period of restoration in 2010, capturing beauty from all over the world in this diverse space.
You can explore the sculptured gardens that have been abandoned since 1997, or check out the stunning Japanese gardens instead, complete with a themed bandstand. There are also lots of waterside walkways, woodland trails and waterfalls to enjoy, with Festival Hall acting as a centerpiece to it all.
This spot will transport you to Japan from the heart of Liverpool.
Stanley Park
Spanning across 11 acres, Stanley Park never runs out of new things to discover. It divides the home grounds of Liverpool and Everton football clubs, just north of the city centre, having won Green Flag and Green Heritage awards for its natural beauty.
Venture to the eye-catching rose gardens for a peaceful place to relax, or take a trip to the beautiful Isla Gladstone Conservatory instead. There's also a fishing lake, Grade II-listed historic architecture, wildlife hotspots and so much more to find.
There's bucketloads of natural beauty at Stanley Park.
For more outdoor inspiration, check out our guide to the city's best beaches, and sign up to our newsletter for all the latest.
