The best: Scenic walks near Manchester ending in a pub for a frosty pint

Fancy a rural walk conveniently located in South Manchester’s Didsbury village? Look no further! Wedged between the River Mersey and Stenner Woods, this 90-acre park offers beautiful botanical gardens and an independent cafe, The Alpine Tea Room, filled of snacks and soft drinks suited for walking. Make sure to look out for the parakeets along the River Mersey and the rock gardens. On exiting the park, recline back with a bev in the beer garden of the traditional pub, Ye Olde Cock Inn. With vegan-friendly options and a dog and family-friendly vibe—this is the perfect welcoming place to end your summer walk.

Take in the hidden rural areas of the city as you embark on the Salford Trail. Stumble upon abandoned railway tracks, moss lands and the iconic Greater Manchester landmark, the Barton Swing Aqueduct. Walk along the Quays into the city centre to find yourself at The Wharf Pub in canal-laden Castlefield. With cosy alcoves, buzzy open areas and stunning views over the basin, reward your walk with a choice of over 60 gins, 100 malts, and a daily updated menu for a perfect end to a long, scenic, and historic walk.

Check out one of Manchester’s best nature reserves nestled in the bustling suburb of Chorlton. If you’re looking for a shorter, more social walk then pack your picnic blanket and shades. At only a mile long, you’ll coast past garden parties and alfresco barbecues as you circle this reclaimed farmland. With convenient transport links, this paradisiac location is super-accessible for anyone in the Manchester area and beyond. When the sun goes down and you’re tired from your 2, 500 steps and sunbathing, haul yourself over to the cool French bar and restaurant, Man Bites Frog. If you can, grab a seat in the quirky back garden filled with road signs, vintage wall-art and mummified heads.

A little longer than the previous recommendations, Tatton Park is a great pick for anyone interested in wildlife and the history of Manchester. The historic estate is home to a Tudor hall, a neo-classical mansion, beautiful gardens, a playground for kids and a deer park. With The Stables restaurant and takeaway, a tuck shop and a gift shop, this spot makes for a great family day out. Be sure to check out the park’s website for an up to date list of all the upcoming festivals, including the RHS Flower Show, the Foodies Fest and Milkshake! Live’s pop-up festival. End your jam-packed day in Knutsford’s Wine and Wallop with a fresh cocktail and kick-back amidst the cool and quirky decor!

Located in the heart of Altrincham, Dunham Massey’s gardens feature the historic Orangery, Pump House, Victorian Bark House and the remains of an old Elizabethan Mount. Wander through the 300-acres of ancient and beautifully landscaped parkland which makes for a great walk for your four-legged friend. Be sure to look out for the Giant Chinese Lilies and the rare late flowering azaleas. Browse through the shop where you can purchase plants, eco-friendly kitchenware and second-hand books where a percentage of profits go towards maintaining the National Trust heritage site. Feeling peckish? Check out the Stamford Cafe, The Parlour or the Stables Restaurant to enjoy a slice of stone-baked pizza and a pint. Equally, you could wind up in The Rope and Anchor pub in the idyllic beer garden as the sun sets.