We’ve seen the popularity of community parkruns surge over the last few years, with 1397 variations of the free events taking place across the UK every weekend.
Participants can walk, jog, run, or spectate a 5km route through nature, with the intention of building community connections through exercise. Interested in finding some of the best parkrun events in Manchester? Check out our guide below.
Stockport’s Bramhall parkrun offers a multi-lap course featuring views of the Tudor manor, Bramall Hall, as well as woodland and trail sections, and a lakeside stretch. The route is approximately 40% tarmac paths and 60% off-road, including trail paths, grassy parkland, hills, and a long wooden bridge.
The Fletcher Moss parkrun in the heart of Didsbury is perhaps one of the most scenic parkruns in Manchester, with its route including beautiful woodland and weaving around the park’s botanical gardens.
Running every Saturday morning at 9am, the Fletcher Moss parkrun differs from some in its almost trail-style route, which is completed on hard gravel paths rather than tarmac. Plus, this parkrun allows you to bring dogs along for the fun!
On the doorstep of Etihad Campus, the Philips Park parkrun is another easily reached from the city centre. The course spans three laps, moving through woodland, open grassland, and a river valley.
With an initial flat section, followed by around 78m elevation on the trail, the Philips Park parkrun is a great choice for anyone seeking a varied run.
A scenic water-based route, The Sale Water Parkrun takes in canal paths along the River Mersey, and a short stretch beside the park’s lake. The TreeTops Cafe is open for post-run recharging, too.
In the popular student suburb of Fallowfield, the South Manchester parkrun naturally attracts plenty of youngsters. While undoubtedly open to all ages, due to its location, this parkrun has accrued a reputation for attracting local university students with its weekly Saturday morning community runs.
The Stretford parkrun in Longford Park is one of the flattest and most straightforward parkruns in Manchester, with the course largely revolving around a mixture of tarmac paths, trail paths and running track.
Over in Salford, the Worsley Woods parkrun is one of the more challenging options for those seeking to stretch themselves. As well as a flat mile-long loop, the scenic woodland route at Worsley Woods includes uphill steps and trails, adding a little extra intensity.
- Words:
- Mia Hadjigeorgiou
- Published on:
- Mon 30 Mar 2026
Taking place every Saturday morning at 9am, the Alexandra parkrun in Moss Side is ideal for those wanting a run through nature without having to deviate too far from the city centre. This parkrun’s course is also largely set on a flat and wide path, meaning it’s easily accessible for everyone.
After completing the route, runners are often found chatting and socialising at the park’s Bembe Café.