10 Things to Do with an Elderly Parent in Wigan

Finding things to do with an elderly parent in Wigan doesn’t have to mean planning a huge day out from start to finish. In fact, sometimes the best days are the ones where you have one or two things planned and plenty of time to stop for a coffee, have a chat or simply head home when you’ve had enough.

Wigan has plenty to offer, from parks and gardens to museums, historic buildings and waterside walks. And because many of the best days out can be enjoyed at your own pace, they’re easy to adapt if your parent gets tired or doesn’t fancy doing quite as much as they used to.

Here are ten ideas to get you started.

Take a Gentle Walk Around Mesnes Park and Gardens

Mesnes Park is a lovely place for a gentle wander, particularly when the weather is behaving itself. There’s no need to turn it into a serious walk. Take your time, stop on a bench and enjoy the gardens, or simply find somewhere pleasant to sit and watch the world go by. If your parent enjoys gardening, you might find yourselves taking longer than expected. There’s always something to point out, whether it’s a particularly nice flower, an interesting tree or just a spot that reminds them of somewhere from years ago.

Visit the Museum of Wigan Life

For something a little more interesting than simply going for a stroll, head to the Museum of Wigan Life. It’s a good option when you want somewhere indoors, particularly on one of those very British days when the weather can’t make up its mind. The museum explores Wigan’s history and local heritage, with exhibits that can provide plenty of conversation. This is one of those outings where you don’t need to see absolutely everything. Have a look around, stop when something catches your parent’s attention and don’t worry about ticking every room off the list.

Relax by the Water at Haigh Woodland Park

Haigh Woodland Park gives you the chance to get outdoors without having to commit to a strenuous countryside walk. There are woodland areas, open spaces and places to sit and enjoy the surroundings. Pick a route that suits your parent rather than trying to conquer the whole park. A short wander followed by a drink or something to eat can make a perfectly good afternoon. It’s also a nice place for conversation. Sometimes having something to look at while you chat makes spending time together feel much more natural.

Explore Wigan Parish Church (All Saints’)

Wigan Parish Church, also known as All Saints’, is well worth a visit if your parent enjoys history, architecture or simply appreciates beautiful old buildings. You don’t need to know anything about the church beforehand. Take a look around, admire the architecture and give yourselves time to sit quietly for a few minutes. For some older people, places like this can also bring back memories of churches they’ve visited throughout their lives. You might learn something you never knew about your parent.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at a Traditional Wigan Café

Sometimes you don’t need an attraction at all – afternoon tea, or simply tea and cake in a nice café, can be the highlight of the day. Find somewhere comfortable, order something your parent particularly enjoys and settle in for a proper chat. There’s something about sitting down with a pot of tea that encourages conversation. You can talk about what you’ve been up to, look through old photos on your phone or, if you’re lucky, get onto one of those family stories you’ve heard approximately 400 times before.

Browse the Shops at Grand Arcade Shopping Centre

If your parent enjoys shopping, Grand Arcade is an easy way to spend a few hours without having to brave the weather. You don’t have to make it a shopping mission. Browse a few shops, look at things you don’t need and stop for a coffee when your feet start telling you it’s time. For older parents, having somewhere to sit and take a breather can make a big difference, so don’t feel you need to rush from one shop to the next.

Discover Trencherfield Mill and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal Area

Trencherfield Mill is an interesting reminder of Wigan’s industrial past and its connection to the canal network. The surrounding area is particularly nice for taking things slowly. You can enjoy the canal, look at the historic buildings and talk about how different the area would once have looked. If your parent has lived locally for many years, this can be a good opportunity to ask what they remember about Wigan when they were younger. You might get a history lesson you weren’t expecting.

Take a Peaceful Stroll Along Wigan Pier

Wigan Pier is one of those names that has become firmly woven into the town’s identity. The area around the canal provides an opportunity for a gentle stroll and a look at Wigan’s industrial heritage. You can make the walk as short as you like and there’s no need to turn it into an endurance test. Take a few photos, stop for a rest and enjoy being outside together.

Visit Haigh Hall and Its Accessible Grounds

Haigh Hall makes another good option for a relaxed day out. The hall itself has an impressive setting and the surrounding grounds give you plenty of opportunities to enjoy some fresh air. Rather than trying to explore everything, choose the parts that are easiest for your parent to enjoy. A short walk, a sit-down and something to eat can be more enjoyable than squeezing too much into the day.

Spend Time at Pennington Flash Country Park

Pennington Flash is a great choice if your parent enjoys being outdoors and likes watching wildlife. The open water and surrounding countryside create a peaceful setting, particularly if you visit at a quieter time. Bring binoculars if they enjoy birdwatching, or simply find a bench and watch what’s going on around you. And if the weather turns? That’s your excuse to head home for a cup of tea.