One of the best ways to make the most of longer daylight hours and (slightly) warmer temperatures is take a refreshing summer walk – and we’re lucky to have a range of options both within the city and slightly further afield. We’ve rounded up a few of the best, so read on to find out the best places for a spring walk in and around Manchester. Additional safety and social distancing measures may be in place at some of our picks – so be sure to check in with their websites before your visit.

Quarry Bank Mill

Quarry Bank is an industrial heritage site, springing from the cotton mill established in Styal at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. At Quarry Bank, you can see this historic mill for yourself (both inside and outside) and learn about the early industrial way of life. Make sure you take a stroll through Quarry bank’s stunning grounds, meadows and gardens to see the spring plants and wildlife beginning to emerge.

Styal Road, Styal, Wilmslow, SK9 4LA
Chorlton Water Park

One of the most accessible walks in Manchester, located well within range of the city’s best transport links, Chorlton Water Park is a nature reserve which consists of a central lake surrounded by grasslands and woodlands. There’s a small playground, and a series of paths for you to explore the area.

74 Maitland Avenue, Manchester, M21 7WH, Tel: 0161 881 5639
Heaton Park

There’s something for everyone at Heaton Park, with play areas, cafes, an animal centre and even a boating lake. If the weather changes (as it’s apt to do here in Manchester), you can check out the tram museum or the gorgeous interiors of Heaton Hall, an 18th century country house.

The Farm Centre, Prestwich, Manchester M25 2SW, Tel: 0161 773 1085
Rivington Pike

If you’re up for a slightly more challenging hike, then give Rivington Pike Walk a try. The route starts at Rivington Hall Barn and meanders though gardens and meadows – you’ll pass a Japanese Garden and the ruins of a stone bothy. There are plenty of benches along the way, as the final ascent to Rivington Pike itself is quite steep – but once you get there, you’ll be able to see as far as Chesire, the Lake District and the Isle of Man on a clear day.

Rivington Lane, Rivington, BL6 7SB
Lyme Park

There’s loads to do at the super-accessible Lyme Park (the train station is only half a mile from the entrance to the park, and there’s parking on-site if you’re driving). You can walk one mile of the Gritstone trail (starting at the northern end) which brings you to Lyme House and Gardens, with beautiful foundations and views of the moorland. There’s a 1400 acre deer park within the grounds too – perfect to explore on a spring day.

Disley, Stockport, Cheshire, SK12 2NR, Tel: 01663 762023
Tue 1 Sep
Words:
Amy Callaghan
Published on:
Tue 11 Aug 2020