THE shops are now open as Lancashire emerges from national lockdown, but you may prefer to escape tier 3 life for a bit of fresh air.

There are plenty of beauty spots to visit as many people are seeking some socially-distanced time in the great outdoors.

Here are some of the best places to go out and explore this weekend.

1. Rowley Lake, Burnley

Lancashire Telegraph:

Rowley Lake, on the outskirts of Burnley, is in a natural setting surrounded by wildlife. Its seven acres of water offers fantastic views to visitors.

2. River Ribble, Ribble Valley

The River Ribble runs through the Ribble Valley, offering a tranquil paradise for morning strolls or long walks. The river also runs by the village of Gisburn and crosses under Gisburn Bridge which has beautiful scenery for walkers and joggers to enjoy.

3. Darwen Tower

Lancashire Telegraph:

There are two walks for visitors to undertake to reach the top of Darwen’s Jubilee Tower. Once there you will be amazed by the fantastic and stunning panoramic views that make great photographs. It is a great place to get some fresh air and exercise while taking in the view.

4. Pendle Canal

Pendle Canal offers a series of walks from two to five miles that are generally easy or moderate. These walks offer plenty of wildlife and scenery to admire and give a different walk that allows strollers to admire not only the wildlife but the narrowboats that are moored along the canal.

5. Witton Country Park, Blackburn

Lancashire Telegraph:

Witton Park has grassland and woodland for visitors to explore on a morning stroll but also the River Darwen running through as well. The park is set in the countryside, west of Blackburn.

6. Corporation Park, Blackburn

Lancashire Telegraph:

Close to the centre of Blackburn is Corporation Park, where you can walk through the Victorian parkland that opened in 1857. This park is a beauty spot with lakes, wildlife and scenery and has plenty to enjoy on your stroll.

7. Sunnyhurst Woods, Darwen

Lancashire Telegraph:

The woods offer a range of walking trails beside Sunnyhurst Brook and are a beautiful natural setting. The location is great for families who want to get the children out in the great outdoors of Darwen Valley.

8. Fishmoor Reservoir, Blackburn

Lancashire Telegraph:

A scenic route for a stroll on a weekend. This walking trail is a beauty spot and has much wildlife and beautiful views for visitors to admire.

9. Brontë’s Walk, Pendle

This 7km route is a walk through the countryside of Trawden, Pendle and is thought to have been regularly visited by the famous Brontë sisters. The walk includes a few beauty spots along the way and offers great views of the Lancashire countryside.