Beacon Country Park, Up Holland

There's an area to the south of Parbold that's been completely unknown to me. Driving along the M6 I've often looked towards the big wooded hill which hides Skelmersdale and wondered whether it held and treasures. A little research revealed that it does indeed, with Beacon Country Park gaining the Green Flag award for 2007/8.

We decided to pay a quick visit this morning, parking at the Carr Lane Car Park, off Mill Lane. Our route led us along a well marked footpath leading right from the car car, and meandering through woods and fields to the visitor centre.

From the visitor centre we headed south, following the "nature trail" signs, and through woods to huge open fields looking down over Skelmersdale. Strange as it might sounds if you've not visited the Beacon or Skelmersdale, it's a lovely spot.

We continued south, crossing the "green" Harts Lane, and then turned North, through more fields and woods, towards Harts Lane car park. A few ponds en route tempted the dog but fortunately he decided not to risk hypothermia and remained dry!

We ended with a good run around with the many other dogs playing in the fields between Harts Lane and the Carr Lane car park.

This is another great place for dogs. West Lancashire District Council should be rightly pleased with their award. It took us about an hour to walk the circuit, all off lead.

There's a map of the park available here
Doggy rating 8/10