10 free parks
activities
to try
this summer

Summer is here, and there’s no better time to get outside, get active, and make the most of the beautiful green spaces all around us.

Yes, there are no fewer than 35 urban parks and formal gardens in Wigan Borough and they’re fabulous spots to go for a walk or catch up with friends.

But did you know there’s a lot more you can do at your local park than simply get your steps in?

In fact, from tai chi to tennis there’s something for everyone – and the best part? None of it will cost you a penny!

Here are 10 FREE parks activities to try with Be Well this summer…

Disc golf and foot golf

Disc golf puts a new spin on outdoor fun. Never heard of it before? Think golf, but with frisbees! The aim is to land your disc in a series of metal baskets in as few throws as possible.

Likewise in foot golf, rather than using a club you kick a football towards the hole – again, the fewer goes it takes you the better!

Perfect for families or groups of friends looking for a laugh and a bit of friendly competition, both are great for getting your steps in without even realising it.

As with all our activities, there’s no need to bring your own equipment as we’ll provide everything for you… so just show up and join the fun!

Run challenge

Looking for something that makes running a little more interesting? You’re in luck!

With our ‘Run challenge’ you test your navigation skills and race against the clock to find checkpoints scattered throughout the park, using an app on your phone.

Go solo or as part of a team… the choice is yours! Exactly how seriously you take it is completely up to you, whether you’re in it to win it or just want to enjoy a scenic run with a twist at your own pace.

Tai chi and Pilates

In search of something a little more zen? You can restore balance and find your inner calm with tai chi and Pilates. These classes focus on gentle movement, balance and breathing – ideal for improving flexibility, posture and mental clarity.

Tai chi is especially great for older adults or anyone recovering from injury, while Pilates offers a core-strengthening workout that’s still easy on the joints. Both are enhanced by the soothing sights and sounds of a peaceful park setting.

Outdoor gym

If you’re a gym lover looking to get more fresh air, or a newbie who’s a little bit nervous about heading into a ‘real’ gym, our outdoor gym sessions may be the answer!

Our instructor will guide you through a circuit-based workout that includes a variety of exercises for all fitness levels, using light weights, the park’s open air gym equipment, or your own body weight as resistance (think sit-ups and squats) – all set to motivational music.

Simply bring a bottle of water and plenty of enthusiasm!

Bowls and pétanque

If you prefer your activities a little more laid-back, why not give bowls or pétanque a go? These classic lawn games are all about precision, patience, and a bit of friendly competition.

Crown green bowls might have something of an unfair reputation as an older person’s game, but absolutely anyone can join in – and you may be surprised how quickly you get hooked!

Pétanque, meanwhile, adds a certain je ne sais quoi and French flair to proceedings, with hollow metal balls you toss towards the target (a bit more like boules). Both great for socialising and gentle movement, especially if you’re easing into a more active lifestyle.

Tennis

Whether you’re a total beginner or a tennis ace, our free sessions at Pennington Hall Park in Leigh are a smashing way to stay active – with friendly coaches to help you improve your skills and confidence.

If you’re looking for a more casual hit-around with friends or family, you can also hire the courts for a few quid… or book a court and play for free over at Jubilee Park (Ashton) or Morley Street Park (Atherton).

Pickleball

If you still haven’t heard of pickleball then you must have been living under a rock! This fast-growing sport is a fun, fast-paced mix of tennis, badminton, and ping pong that’s super social and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Our fitness members absolutely love it and our indoor sessions at our leisure centres are always packed, so now we’re taking things outdoors with park sessions perfect for newbies.

Scoring can be a little confusing at first, but don’t worry about that – you’ll soon pick it up and right from the start you’ll love the quick rallies and friendly vibes.

How to get involved

It’s super easy to join in the fun at our parks this summer.

If you already have the Be Well Wigan app, simply scroll to the ‘Free parks activities’ tab and you can browse everything we have to offer and book a session as you usually would.

Alternatively, you can check our timetable and book online by choosing ‘Community Venues’ and ‘Parks’ from the drop-down menus. New to Be Well? You’ll just need to create a free booking profile when you checkout your first activity.

Love Parks Week 2025

Monday 28 July to Sunday 3 August is officially Love Parks Week and we’re celebrating with a special line-up of events across the borough. Expect even more free activities, family fun, and opportunities to connect with your local community in the great outdoors.

Find out more