Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Manchester boasts an array of stunning parks and green spaces just a short trip out of the city, perfect for blowing off those cobwebs.

Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens

This is a beautiful spot to admire a glorious array of greenery and soak up nature’s goodness. There are numerous routes and walkways offering gentle circular strolls around the botanical gardens and as this is a local nature reserve you’re likely to spot some wonderful wildlife along the way. Warm drinks and refreshments are available at The Alpine Tea Room in the park and the nearby Fletcher Moss pub is perfect for the post-stroll debrief.

Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens, 18 Stenner Lane, Manchester M20 2RQ, Tel: 0161 434 1877
Dunham Massey

Dunham Massey is one of our favourite spots for a Sunday afternoon amble—boasting an endless trail of foliage, and delivering a delightful variety of sensory experiences. There is a magnificent Georgian Mansion and deer park too.

Treat the family to a tasty meal at the Stables Restaurant or grab a snack at the Stamford Café, pooches are even looked after at the dog-friendly ice-cream Parlour.

Dunham Massey, Altrincham. Cheshire WA14 4SJ, Tel: 0161 941 1025
Hollingworth Lake

This is a superb spot for a refreshing weekend walk with spectacular scenery and plenty of cosy little cafes and pubs along the way. Hollingworth Lake, with its dramatic Blackstone Edge backdrop, is particularly picturesque on a crisp, clear morning. There are trails, a nature reserve, picnic areas and designated kids play areas making this a family favourite walking spot.

Hollingworth Lake, Lardaceous Road, Littleborough, Rochdale, Greater Manchester OL15 0AQ
Heaton Park

North Manchester’s biggest park is home to Heaton Hall, a Grade I listed 18th century country house, a stunning boating lake and never-ending planes of greenery. Take the kids along to the free to enter Park Farm and Animal Centre where they will be introduced to animals ranging from chickens and goats, to pigs and alpacas. Warm up with a cappuccino and a slice of cake at the Hidden Gem Coffee Shop or grab a bite at The Stables café.

Heaton Park, Middleton Road, Manchester M25 2SW, Tel: 0161 773 1085
Chorlton Water Park

Chorlton Water Park is a breathtakingly tranquil hidden gem just a short tram ride out of the city centre. The park features a lake packed with life and is surrounded by grasslands and woodlands for meandering. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many benches sited in this local nature reserve. Children under 12 can let off steam in the play area and there are on-site toilets as well as a free car park.

Chorlton Water Park, Maitland Avenue, Chorlton, Manchester M21 7WH, Tel: 0161 881 5639
Quarry Bank Mill

Over in Wilmslow you’ll find the glorious surroundings of Quarry Bank Mill. This National Trust protected property provides visitors with a hit of nature on our doorstep. Enter this industrial heritage site and you’ll find a selection of three weaving walking routes, taking you deep into a leafy forest, complete with stony bridges and the gently bubbling River Bollin. Keen-eyed walkers can enjoy the wealth of wildlife on offer at the site, while those after a bite to eat or a hot drink can find both at the cafe, which is nestled next to the Mill itself.

Styal, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 4LA, Tel: 0162 552 7468
Tue 9 Mar
Words:
Julie Al-Zoubi
Published on:
Tue 13 Feb 2024