The Best Parks in Manchester
Spring is the ideal time to get outdoors in Manchester and discover the city’s beautiful parks. Whether you're in the heart of the city or exploring a bit further afield, there’s something for everyone. If you’re after scenic routes with stunning views or a peaceful stroll, this blog post is here to help you find the perfect place for you to get outside and take in some well needed fresh air.
Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens
Fletcher Moss Park in Didsbury provides a serene escape just a short distance from central Manchester. This lovely park is home to a beautiful botanical garden and an on-site café, where you can enjoy hot drinks, beers, wine, and delicious food, perfect for a picnic with friends. Located at the end of Didsbury High Street, it’s also right next to the first pub in the famous Didsbury Dozen, in case you want to add a little adventure to your wholesome day out.
M20 2RQ.
Car: Parking is available at the park, but it can get busy during peak times.
Bus: The park is well-served by buses from Manchester city center. You can take buses 23, 42, or 50, which stop near the park.
Train: The nearest train station is East Didsbury, and from there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the park.
Tram: Board a South Manchester line tram (either the Altrincham or Eccles line, depending on where you're starting) and travel towards East Didsbury.
Heaton Park
Located to the north of the city, Heaton Park is one of Manchester’s most loved green spaces. With its peaceful and stunning views, it offers much more than your typical park. Here you can find many different features including a boating late, tennis court, animal farm, bowling green and a café. Its also a very popular venue for various concerts and events. Including the annual Parklife festival, attracting visitors from all over the UK and worldwide.
M25 2SW
Car: Heaton Park is easily accessible by car from the city center. It’s about a 15 minute drive north from Manchester city center, just off the M60 motorway.
Bus: Several bus routes serve Heaton Park. You can take buses such as 135 or 64 from the city center, which stop near the park entrance.
Tram: From Manchester City Centre, you can catch the tram from the Victoria Station stop heading towards Bury. The park is only a few minutes’ walk from the tram station.
Peel Park
Tucked away in the heart of Salford, Peel Park offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. Located next to Salford University and the River Irwell, it’s a great place to visit and unwind. Here you will find people of all ages enjoying the beautiful scenery, children’s park and spacious lawns. It’s named after Sir Robert Peel, a British politician who served as Prime Minister in the 19th century. The name reflects the the respect and recognition Sir Robert Peel had at the time and is one of the city’s oldest parks. Students often use the park to relax, study or hang out with friends.
M5 4WU
Car: Peel Park is about a 10-15 minute drive from Manchester city center. There is some street parking available around the park, though it may be busy during peak times.
Tram: Take the Manchester Metrolink tram to Salford Crescent or Salford Quays station, depending on where you're coming from.
Bus: routes like the 36 and 50 pass through the area and stop near Peel Park, connecting Salford with the city center.
Train: The closest railway station to Peel Park is Salford Crescent, which is around a 10-minute walk to the park.
Mayfield Depot Park
Mayfield Depot Park is a fresh and vibrant addition to Manchester's green spaces! Situated in the heart of the city, just south of Manchester Piccadilly station, it occupies the site of the historic Mayfield Depot, a former railway yard. It's also right next to the trendy food vendor market, Freight Island, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely day out with a walk, food, and drinks.
M1 2PF
Car: Use M1 2PF in your navigation for the most accurate route. There are parking spaces nearby, but parking in the city center can be limited.
Tram: The nearest tram stop is Piccadilly Gardens, which is about a 5-10 minute walk to Mayfield Depot Park.
Train: The park is very close to Manchester Piccadilly Station (about a 5 minute walk).
Bus: Several buses stop around Piccadilly Gardens, which is also a short walk from Mayfield Depot Park. Routes like 50 or 147 connect different parts of Manchester to the area.
Platt Fields Park
Located in South Manchester, Platt Fields Park is a spacious and beloved green space enjoyed by locals and students. Its a great spot to take a detour on your daily walk to uni to get your steps in and breathe in fresh air. The park features a boating lake, sports facilities, and playgrounds, making it a popular destination for community gatherings and family outings. It’s also an ideal spot to unwind with a book or catch up with friends and family. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events and festivals, so keep an eye on the calendar to see what's happening. In 2023, the newly renovated basketball court, funded by #ProjectSwish, was named the top court in Manchester and quickly became a favourite among local players. Platt Fields also hosts the South Manchester parkrun, a free weekly event where participants can walk, jog, or run the 5k route with the community.
M14 6LA
Car: Platt Fields Park is easily accessible by car from the city center. It’s about a 10-15 minute drive south from Manchester city center.
Tram: The nearest tram stop to Platt Fields Park is Fallowfield on the South Manchester Line.
Bus: There are several bus routes that go to Fallowfield and stop near the park. You can take buses like 111, 147, or 50 from Manchester city center or nearby areas.
Chorlton Water Park
Chorlton Water Park is a large nature reserve with a lake, green spaces, and walking paths. It’s perfect for finding a peaceful spot to spend some time outdoors. The park is also located next to a vibrant outdoor festival café, serving hot food, fresh coffee, ice cream, and more. Located next to river Mersey and Transpennine trail, you can walk along the river to Sale Water Park, a loop of both waterparks is about 10km, great for people who like to run. It’s also host to many different events including the Manchester SwimRun, Nature Quest, and Summer Tree Trail.
M21 7WH
Car: Chorlton Water Park is about a 10-minute drive from the city center of Manchester, heading south-west. Parking is available near the park, but it can get busy, especially on weekends.
Tram: The closest tram stop to Chorlton Water Park is Chorlton on the South Manchester Line (heading towards East Didsbury).
Bus: Several bus routes go to Chorlton from the city center, including routes 85, 86, and A6.
Alexandra Park
Located in Whalley Range, Alexandra Park is a historic and well loved park that has a lot to offer. The park boasts on 60 acres of land featuring beutiful lawns, large trees and a lake home to ducks and wildlife. The park is often used for local events, festivals and concerts. During the summer months, this is a must see in the city. Not only is it a beautiful park, but it also features a cricket pitch and pavilion, where you can relax and enjoy a game on the weekends.
M16 7JL
Car: Alexandra Park is just off Princess Road, and there is free street parking nearby.
Tram: You can take the tram to Whalley Range or Chorlton stations, which are both within walking distance of the park.
Bus: Bus routes like 85, 111, and 150 go close to the park, and there are stops around Princess Road and Chorlton Road.
New Islington Marina/ Cotton Field Park
New Islington Marina is a unique area offering a blend of modern urban design, waterfront views, and green space. It's the perfect place for relaxation and taking in the scenery. While it's not a traditional park with large grassy areas or sports fields, it offers a different kind of appeal. It’s also located next to the beloved Pollen Bakery, Cask, and natural wine bar Flawd. Also, seeing as your a stone throw away from the busy city, its so easy to grab a take away sit back and enjoy. It really has everything you need for a perfect summer's day.
M4 7JZ
Car: You can park around the Ancoats area or nearby streets, as there's limited parking near the park itself
Tram: You can catch the Ashton-Under-Lyne Line (blue line) from Manchester Piccadilly and get off at New Islington.
Train: The nearest train station is Manchester Piccadilly. From there, you can take a tram or bus to get closer to the park, or walk for about 20 minutes.
