Wildlife, history and art in the great outdoors. Here's five things you must do next week

Lancaster Castle, open daily

Lancaster Castle, a Grade I Listed Building, occupies a city-centre hilltop location on the site of three successive Roman forts where England’s dark history with tales of persecution, incarceration, punishment and execution, has been lived out over the centuries. Now, after almost 1,000 years as an imposing and impenetrable place of penance, the castle’s magnificent John o’Gaunt gates have been swung open to unlock a veritable vault of intrigue, interest and interaction for visitors of all ages. See www.lancastercastle.com for more.

Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail, Clitheroe, open daily

The first of its kind to be established in Lancashire, the Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail, the now includes over 20 permanent works of art. Free to enjoy, selected artists have created unique artworks inspired by the local environment and it’s rich heritage. Just a mile from Clitheroe town, the trail travels through Brungerley Park (pictured) and Cross Hill Quarry, a nature reserve managed by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust. See www.ribblevalley.gov.uk.

Powerwalk, Capitol Centre, Preston, Wednesday, March 25

Step into spring with some healthy fresh air! Join Jen Benson Pilates from 9am for a one hour bracing walk from the Capitol Centre, Walton-le-Dale to Brockholes Nature Reserve. It’s free to take part, just take some money for a cuppa at Brockholes cafe. See www.facebook.com/JenBensonPilates for more.

Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Burscough, open daily

Open seven days a week, 364 days a year, there’s always something to see and do at Martin Mere Wetland Centre. Step into a wilder world where wilderness and family-friendliness combine - from dainty ducklings to fabulous flamingos, you’ll be amazed at how close you can get to fantastic wetland wildlife. There’s full details online at www.wwt.org.uk.

Williamson Park, Lancaster, open daily

Williamson Park is home to the iconic Grade I Listed Ashton Memorial. There are 54 acres of beautiful parkland to explore with enchanting woodland walks, play areas and breathtaking views to the Fylde Coast, Morecambe Bay and the Lake District fells and mountains. Open all year round, admission is free. For more information see www.lancaster.gov.uk.