Ranger Richie’s 6 guided Winter walks to get you feeling festive

Former Liverpool park ranger Richie Baker is getting ready to ramble again with December walks that’ll get you in the mood for Christmas, and beyond.

He’ll be heading out throughout the month on his regular treks – and there’s definitely a festive feeling in the air.

Richie says: “It’s too easy at this time of year to settle in the armchair, telly on, remote at your side while you try to keep warm. And there’s nothing wrong with that, as long as you mix it with a bit of the great outdoors as well.

“To me, nothing beats the feeling of getting wrapped with plenty of layers and setting out for a brisk, invigorating outdoor adventure. We’re so lucky in our region that, no matter where we live, we don’t have to travel too far to reach a green space or a local woodland area.

“In winter, I have two favourite walks. One is Childwall Woods. Walking through any woodland on a winter’s day is a delight, with the sound of your feet crunching through fallen leaves, the shafts of wintry sunlight drifting through the tree branches, the sounds of a woodpecker or crows … it all adds to a magical winter walk.

“One of my other favourite winter walks is the Wirral Coastal Path, an amazing place. I usually start at the Gunsight Car Park at the bottom of Green Lane. The walk has bits of everything, like beautiful beaches with the Irish Sea creating amazing waves as it lashes up to the shore.

“I head towards Leasowe lighthouse, with the fresh winter breeze and crisp sea air giving that ‘good to be alive’ feeling; and by the lighthouse is a small cafe, the Green Hut, which makes the best mug of tea for miles (and nothing tastes better than a steaming cuppa with the sound of the waves in the distance).”

Richie adds: “So, while staying indoors in winter is tempting, after a winter walk the warmth of a night by the telly will feel more well deserved.”

You can join Richie on any of his planned selection of winter walks this month and they’re all guaranteed to get you in, and keep you in, the spirit of the season.

Port Sunlight at Christmas – Thursday, December 14: 1pm

A chance to discover the beautiful village of Port Sunlight, exploring the amazing architecture of the village with its beautiful houses. Richie says: “We learn of its fascinating history and you can also take the opportunity to visit the Lady Lever Gallery.” It’s a great time of year to visit, adds Richie. Meet outside Port Sunlight Train Station.

Chester at Christmas – Tuesday, December 19: 12noon

Join Richie for a ‘delightful start to Christmas’ as he guides you around some of the fascinating history and architecture of this beautiful city. There’s also the chance to visit the spectacular Christmas Tree Festival at Chester Cathedral and the legendary Chester Christmas Market. Booking needed again with only 10 places and there’s an additional £3 for entrance to the Christmas Tree Festival.

Winter Trees of Sefton Park – Thursday, December 21: 1pm

Wrap up warm for a gentle walk that discovers some of the beautiful trees that can be found in Sefton Park. The walk discovers some amazing and unusual specimens such as the Dawn Redwood, the Weeping Lime, Ginko and lots more. Meet at Sefton Park lake car park.

The History of Our Christmas Traditions at Calderstones Park – Saturday, December 23: 1pm

A festive walk that discovers the history surrounding our much-loved Christmas traditions. Why do we only eat mince pies at Christmas? Who sent the first Christmas card? Who invented the Christmas cracker? Says Richie: “All these and more will be explained on this delightful festive stroll.” Meet outside the Mansion House, Calderstones Park.

Boxing Day Ramble at Festival Gardens – Tuesday, December 26: 1pm

“This is a chance to burn off some calories and get some fresh air and gentle exercise on an easy ramble,” says Richie. “The walk will discover some of the delights of Festival Gardens (the old international Garden Festival site) and we also have an invigorating short stroll along the prom with its bracing river breezes. Meet outside St Michaels in the Hamlet Train Station.

New Year’s Eve Amble in Sefton Park – Sunday, December 31: 1pm

Join Richie for his last walk of 2023 and a fascinating trek that ambles through some of the lost pathways of Sefton Park. “We venture into the less used areas of the park, following ancient paths that existed while it was still a farming area,” says Richie. “We also have the opportunity to visit the intriguing Old Nicks Cave. Meet at the Eros fountain near to the café in the centre of Sefton Park.