AS our roadmap to freedom extends, and we can see a few more familiar faces in the flesh as opposed to on a screen, what favourite spots are you hoping to visit with your loved ones again?

Getting together outdoors in a group is one of a series of measures allowed again from today, Monday March 29, as England takes the next step out of lockdown and the rule of six is reinstated.

Here’s some of the places you might be looking forward to catching up with family and friends.

Knutsford Guardian:

Marbury Country Park, Northwich

From today you can get together with a companion other than your dog to enjoy the lime avenues and the arboretum at this popular Northwich site – a legacy of the days when Marbury was a grand estate. Stroll through splendid woodlands and enjoy views across Budworth Mere. If you feel like stretching your legs as a group after being cooped up for so long, the park is also conveniently connected to Carey Park, Anderton Nature Park, plus Ashton’s and Newman’s flashes. 

Knutsford Guardian:

Tatton Park, Knutsford

Tatton Park’s Parkland, Stables take-away and Housekeeper’s Store remained COVID-safe during lockdown and with its gardens now reopening, there are lots of family-friendly spring adventures planned – from Easter Weekend with Percy the Parkkeeper, to seasonal scavenger hunts.

For the latest updates and events visit the Tatton Park website.  

Knutsford Guardian:

Dunham Massey, Altrincham

Just to the south of Manchester, this glorious house, garden and 300-acre parkland, is also home to a herd of 150 fallow deer.

While the house remains closed, the gardens and deer park at Dunham Massey are open for local visitors.

As signs of spring into life lift your spirits why not reawaken your senses by taking a stroll in the magnificent grounds where you’ll be able to see blossoms, daffodils, tulips and bluebell.

An advanced booking system is in place, so visit the Dunham Massey website to find out more.

Knutsford Guardian:

Arley Hall and Gardens, near Northwich

A place of enormous character, charm and interest these are amongst some of the finest in Britain, and renowned for their vitality, variety and historical interest and are particularly celebrated for the magnificent double herbaceous border.

The gorgeous gardens, grove, woodland walk and children’s play zone at Arley Hall have remained open in lockdown.

Visit Arley Hall and Gardens website for information if you are planning to visit soon.

Knutsford Guardian:

Quarry Bank, Styal

Leaves are unfurling, and buds are bursting into colour at Quarry Bank so shake off those winter blues and lift your spirits in a fresh spring garden.

One of Britain’s greatest industrial heritage sites, this location is also home to more than 400-acres of woodland and pasture which you can explore on foot. It’s not only a great place to visit with your dog but if you have a budding photographer amongst your group of six, there is plenty to capture on your camera.

An Easter adventure nature trail has been lined up for the holidays, so be sure to book your place in advance by visiting the Quarry Bank website.

Knutsford Guardian:

Delamere Forest

An evergreen favourite, now is a great time to visit Delamere and maybe enjoy a self-led forest bathing session with your nearest and dearest.

This ancient Japanese process of relation is helps you feel calm and quiet can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.

Research has shown that viewing an image of a forest scene on a screen causes changes in the body and brain that make us feel more relaxed, so why not enjoy some of the health and wellbeing benefits that forests bring.

Visit the Delamere Forest website for its up to date visitors guide with guidance around parking and leaving the forest as you find it.

Please remember to check with sites beforehand as in some places booking is essential and site-specific restrictions may still be in place.