It’s so important, now more than ever, to get out and about for some fresh air and headspace whenever we can.
Getting active outdoors does wonders for the mind, and the body, and there are lots of beautiful places to explore in and around Greater Manchester.
And remember, now that the ‘Stay Local’ message has officially been lifted, you can head out with up to five people from other households (rule of six), or two households of any number (and your pet pooches, of course).
So, grab your coat and your sunscreen and get ready to explore your local parks and scenic hotspots…
Heaton Park
Just 15 minutes away by bus or Metrolink from Shudehill, Heaton Park is a 600 acre park in Prestwich, famous for its live gigs and festivals. And whilst there aren’t any events in the pipeline at the moment, Heaton Park still offers a wealth of attractions and walking routes for you to explore. Meander around the grounds of Grade 1 listed Heaton Hall and head up to the observatory with a flask of hot coffee to enjoy views across the whole of Manchester. You can also take a pleasant stroll around the impressive boating lake and feed the ducks, or see what’s growing over in the Kitchen Garden.
Heaton Park, Prestwich, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M25 2SW
Chorlton Water Park
Manchester’s first designated local nature reserve is one of the most popular outdoor spots in South Manchester. Set on the banks of the River Mersey in Chorlton, just 5 minutes from Barlow Moor Road tram stop, the Waterpark has a beautiful central lake which is great to walk or cycle around, with different paths that will lead you through woodlands and across wildflower meadows. Look out for lots of birdlife on the lake such as kingfisher, herons and geese.
Chorlton Water Park, 74 Maitland Ave, Manchester M21 7WH
Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
Fletcher Moss in the heart of Didsbury is a beautiful spot to wander, relax and admire an array of different winter trees and flowers. This local nature reserve has easy walking trails that allow you to stroll around the scenic setting at your own pace whilst taking in the plant and animal life that thrives there.
Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens, 18 Stenner Lane, Manchester, M20 2RQ
Holcombe Moor
A bit further afield over in Ramsbottom in Bury you’ll find a challenging (but very rewarding!) circular walk that has it all – spectacular views, riverside rambling and perfect picnic spots. Starting in the centre of Ramsbottom you can begin your climb up Holcombe Hill to the historic Peel Tower which was built in 1852 to commemorate Sir Robert Peel, Prime Minister of Britain (1841–1846) and founder of the modern police force. Catch your breath once you reach the top and take in views over the West Pennine Moors all the way over to Wales on a clear day. Your journey back down will take you along the River Irwell. There’s parking available and the full route takes around 2-3 hours.
Ramsbottom Station Car Park, Railway Street, Ramsbottom, BL0 9AL
Dovestone Reservoir
Set on the edge of the Peak District National Park in Greenfield, Oldham, Dovestone Reservoir is surrounded by miles of picturesque countryside and is the perfect place to blow away the city centre smog. A leisurely stroll around the reservoir takes around 2-3 hours and takes you up into the beautiful Chew Hills and rambling moors of Dove Stone Moss before bringing you back to the serene shores of the reservoir. Just a 30-minute drive from Broadside, you’ll feel like you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle of Manchester. It’s also a great destination for dogs!
Dovestone Resorvoir Car Park, Greenfield, Oldham OL3 7NE