Summer is finally upon us, and Manchester beckons you to step outside and soak up the sunny delights of its parks and gardens. Whilst the hustle and bustle of the city is great, it can sometimes be nice to have a relaxing stroll surrounded by greenery and unwind in the more serene spots of the area. Here’s our list of parks and green spaces in and around Manchester that you can go and visit this summer:
Jump to:
- Heaton Park
- Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens
- Platt Fields Park
- Wythenshawe Park
- Alexandra Park
- Peel Park
- Philips Park
- Chorlton Water Park
Heaton Park
Heaton Park, spanning over 600 hectares, stands as one of the largest parks in Manchester. Its vast expanse of parkland and woodland provides an idyllic setting for a myriad of activities. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, go for a run, or cycle through scenic paths, Heaton Park is an ideal location to do it all.
Address: Heaton Park, Middleton Road, Higher Blackley, M25 2SW
Contact: 0161 773 1085
Opening Times: 8am - dusk every day
Toilets: Toilets near Heaton Hall are available from park opening until 4pm (weekdays) or 6pm (weekends, bank holidays & school holidays)
Cafes at Heaton Park
The Stables cafe: Opening times may vary
The Lakeside cafe: Opening times may vary
The Hidden Gem cafe: Open 9:30am - 4:30pm everyday
Heaton Park Golf Centre cafe: Open 8am - 4pm everyday
Path into Heaton Park by David Dixon, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What’s on at Heaton Park this summer?
Events
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Sunday 25th June 2023 |
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Saturday 1st July 2023 |
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Saturday 1st July 2023 |
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Sunday 2nd July 2023 |
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Saturday 8th July 2023 |
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Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th July 2023 |
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Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th July 2023 |
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Thursday 20th July - Sunday 6th August 2023 |
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Saturday 22nd July - Sunday 3rd September 2023 |
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Sunday 3rd September 2023 |
Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens
Nestled in the charming neighbourhood of Didsbury, Fletcher Moss Park is a serene and picturesque retreat. Its enchanting botanical gardens invite visitors to immerse themselves in a world of vibrant flowers, tranquil ponds, and winding paths. Take a leisurely stroll, find a peaceful spot for a picnic, or simply bask in the beauty of the well-tended gardens. Fletcher Moss Park is a true haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.
Address: 3 Park Entrances: Millgate Lane M20 2SD, Stenner Lane M20 2RQ & Wilmslow Road M20 2SG
Parsonage Garden Entrance: Stenner Lane M20 2RQ
Contact:0161 434 1877
Opening Times: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Toilets: Open from 9:30am - 4pm at Parsonage and 9am - 4pm (or until the café closes) at the Park.
Cafe at Fletcher Moss Park: The Alpine Tea Room is open every day from 8am until 4pm (weekdays) or 5pm (sat/sun).
Fletcher Moss Gardens, rockery by Mike Faherty, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What’s on at Fletcher Moss Park this summer?
Events
| Sunday 18th June 2023 | How to Help Endangered Birds, Bird Walk & Balsam Walk |
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Every Monday at 2pm (Excluding bank holidays) |
Monday Health Walk |
| Every Tuesday at 9:30am | Volunteering at the Parsonage Gardens |
| Every Wednesday at 1:30pm | Volunteering at Fletcher Moss Park |
| Every Saturday at 9am | 5K Park Run |
Platt Fields Park
Situated in Fallowfield, Platt Fields Park offers a dynamic and inclusive outdoor space that caters to a diverse range of interests. The park's expansive green spaces, boating lake, and playgrounds make it a popular choice for families and recreational enthusiasts. Lace up your running shoes or hop on your bike to explore the dedicated cycling routes, or simply relax and soak up the sun in this vibrant community hub.
Address: Wilmslow Road, Fallowfield, Manchester, M14 6LA
Contact: 0161 224 2902
Opening Times: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Toilets: Available
Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What's on at Platt Fields Park this summer?
Events
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Sunday 9th July 2023 |
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Friday 28th - Sunday 30th July 2023 |
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Saturday 29th - Sunday 30th July 2023 |
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Every Saturday at 9am |
Wythenshawe Park
Wythenshawe Park, located in the Wythenshawe district, is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 270 acres, this park boasts a delightful blend of open spaces, woodlands, sports facilities, and formal gardens. Take a leisurely stroll along the park's scenic paths, enjoy a game of tennis or football, or visit the community farm to get up close with adorable farm animals. Wythenshawe Park offers a perfect balance of relaxation and recreation.
Address: Wythenshawe Road, Manchester M23 0AB
Contact: 0161 998 2117
Opening Times: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Toilets: Available at Stable Block, Horticultural Centre and Courtyard Café.
Café at Wythenshawe Park: The Courtyard Café is open Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm and Weekends 9:30am - 4pm.
Wythenshawe Park by David Dixon, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
What's on at Wythenshawe Park this summer?
Events
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Saturday 17th June 2023 |
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Friday 25h August 2023 |
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Sunday 20th August 2023 |
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Saturday 26th August 2023 |
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Every Saturday Morning |
Wythenshawe Park Bee Club |
Alexandra Park
Located in Moss Side, Alexandra Park is a historic green space that holds a special place in Manchester's heart. This park offers a tranquil retreat with its lush gardens, picturesque lake, and charming pavilion. Take a peaceful walk around the park's perimeter, admire the vibrant floral displays, or simply find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy nature's embrace. Alexandra Park is a hidden oasis that invites visitors to unwind and connect with the beauty of their surroundings.
Address: 180 Russell Street, Moss Side, Manchester, M16 7JL
Contact: 0161 234 4343
Opening Times: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Toilets: Available during café opening hours.
Café at Alexandra Park: Coffee Cranks Café is open 11am - 4pm Tuesday to Friday and 9:30am - 4pm Saturday and Sunday.
Ornamental lake in Alexandra Park, Whalley Range, Manchester by Stephen Taylor, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
What's on at Alexandra Park this summer?
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Saturday 17th June 2023 |
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Saturday 17th June 2023 |
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Saturday 12th & 13th August 2023 |
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Every Sunday at 9am |
Alexandra Junior Parkrun |
Peel Park
Situated in Salford, Peel Park is a historic park that holds great significance as one of the first public parks to be opened in the country. This green haven offers a serene atmosphere with its well-manicured lawns, scenic water features, and mature trees. Take a leisurely stroll along the park's pathways, admire the captivating sculptures, or enjoy a picnic while taking in the peaceful ambiance.
Address: The Crescent, Salford M5 4WU
Contact: 0161 793 2500
Opening Times: Open all day everyday, inc. bank holidays.
Toilets: Available at Salford Museum Art and Gallery.
Richerman, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
What's on at Peel Park this summer?
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Saturday 17th June 2023 |
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Friday 23rd June 2023 |
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Thursday 13th July & Friday 14th July 2023 |
Wild Wanderings and Creative Cultivations: Engaging with nature in the city |
Philips Park
Found in the heart of East Manchester, Philips Park is a picturesque green space that provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its wide-open spaces, woodlands, as well as the River Medlock that runs through the park, Philips Park offers ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Explore the park's well-maintained trails, enjoy a family picnic, or visit the Tulip Valley towards the back of the park
Address: Stuart Street, Manchester, M11 4DJ
Contact: 0161 231 3090
Opening Times: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Toilets: Available downstairs in the Visitor Centre
Gerald England / Philips Park, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
What's on at Philips Park this summer?
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Sunday 25th June 2023 |
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Every Saturday at 9am |
Chorlton Water Park
Chorlton Water Park is a delightful retreat for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. This urban wetland reserve boasts a serene lake, reed beds, and meadows, providing a sanctuary for various bird species and wildlife. Take a leisurely walk along the park's nature trails, spot colourful birds, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you reconnect with nature.
Address: Maitland Ave, Manchester M21 7WH
Contact: 0161 881 5639
Opening Times: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Toilets: Available
Darren Lewis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
What's on at Chorlton Water Park this summer?
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Saturday 2nd July 2023 |
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Every Friday at 11:15am |