Ainsdale Sands

On a glorious summer's day, we set the sat-nav for Ainsdale, one of the largest areas of wild duneland left in Britain. You can enter the reserve from the beach or one of the numerous access points. We actually drove onto the sands, which was great fun for the little ones, though at one point we were concerned we'd get stuck (don't worry, there's a jeep going up and down pulling out any stranded vehicles!).   Thankfully we didn't, and plonked ourselves down at the furthest point along the beach. In hindsight, this perhaps wasn't the best location as the refreshment van and toilets were ...

Southport Funfair Pleasureland

Pleasureland is somewhere I used to go as a child so it was great to head back and see how it had changed (early risers do note that the park doesn't open until around midday). There are three car parks surrounding the funfair (prices range from £2-£5 depending on the time of year) so that is nice and easy. Entrance is free, then once inside you buy tokens for the rides which for the little ones cost between £1 and £2 each.   There is quite an old-fashioned feel about the place, which I like. There are a good few rides for toddlers, from the Toyset Carousel (lots...