Five of the best parks in Cumbria to meet up with friends – News & Star

The days are getting longer and the weather is hopefully soon going to get warmer meaning it'll be the perfect time to go walking in the park.

From today (March 29) restrictions eased meaning larger groups can gather outdoors.

Immediate changes on March 29 mean the rule of six applies again, along with a new household rule.

This means you can meet in groups of six or two households with larger numbers can meet outside, provided they stick to Covid guidelines and social distancing rules.

We've rounded up some of the best parks to meet up across Cumbria.

Barrow

South Walney Nature Reserve

COASTAL: Karl Hillman took this beautiful shot of South Walney Nature Reserve

If you live near Barrow you will have undoubtedly visited this nature reserve. If not, its well worth the visit.

The reserve boasts stunning views across Morecambe Bay, which you can enjoy as your tuck into your picnic spread.

There is even a designated picnic area in the reserve.

To work up an appetite, you can embark on one of the reserves walking trails which are outlined by waymarkers.

If you are an animal lover, then the nature reserve is also a great place to go bird watching or admire some seals.

Their new seal and bird-watching shelter is currently open and its next to Braithwaite Hide.

Kendal

Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve

Ospreys at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve, near Grange-over-Sands in south Cumbria. Credit: Cumbria Wildlife Trust

This is somewhat of a hidden gem nature reserve in Cumbria.

If you look carefully, you can spot an abundance of wildlife including lizards and adders- some rare butterflies have also been found in this area too.

What It lacks in facilities, it more than makes up for in terms of beauty and nature.

Penrith

Aira Force

MYSTIFYING: This atmospheric snap at Aira Force was taken by News & Star camera club member Scott Lynan

As well as having plenty of walking routes, there is also a lot of wildlife to admire and spot in the area.

Aira Force is home to the iconic red squirrel as well as Ring Ouzel and Peregrine Falcons.

While it isnt the most obvious choice for a picnic spot, some people have set up theirs on the rocks and watched the waterfall while they ate.

Carlisle

Rickerby Park

SERENE: Rickerby Park looking glorious in this stunning effort by News & Star camera club's Shweta Shweta

Rickerby Park is a traditional Victorian parkland located on the banks of the River Eden, in the grounds of Rickerby House. Within the park is an impressive War memorial.

There's plenty of open space for you to meet friends, socially distanced, for a walk and a picnic outdoors.

Rickerby Park is a natural park in the old landscape tradition. There are footpaths, and a car park, with a riverside walk.

Keswick

Hope Park

Hope Park, Keswick.

There's plenty to see and do in Keswick and Hope Park is an ideal place to sit and relax for a catch up with friends.

After you can take a walk to the lake and enjoy the view too.

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Five of the best parks in Cumbria to meet up with friends - News & Star