This content is adapted from the Visit Manchester Insider’s Handbook. Packed with ideas and inspiration for things to do, see, eat, as well as places to stay, the 40-page handbook includes dedicated pages detailing what's new and coming soon as well as maps and spotlight pages on Greater Manchester's towns, boroughs and coolest neighbourhoods. It’s the perfect resource for planning your next visit.

Etherow Country Park 


Covering the site of an old cotton mill, Etherow Country Park is home to over 100 species of birds and offers a haven for birdwatching, rambling, sailing, and angling.  

Healey Dell 


Take in the views from a 100-foot high disused 1800’s railway viaduct or enjoy the wildlife sanctuary with delightful scenery and spectacular waterfalls just two miles from Rochdale town centre. 

Woodland

Burrs Country Park 


Located just outside of Bury, Burrs Country Park is the ideal spot for riverside walks, fishing, and birdwatching. You can also follow the Irwell Sculpture Trail, which will lead you to the quaint town of Ramsbottom.   

Werneth Low 


Only 9.5 miles from the city centre, Werneth Low Country Park extends over 200 acres, providing panoramic views of Manchester, beyond to Liverpool, and on a clear day the mountains of Wales. 

Peel Park 


The first public park in the UK funded entirely by the people’s subscription, Peel Park has been bringing Salford residents together since 1846. The neighbouring Meadows and Kersal Wetlands are excellent add-ons for walking and wildlife spotting.  

Haigh Woodland Park 


Set over 250 acres of parkland, Haigh Woodland Park is ideal for families – as well as beautiful scenery, the park offers mini-golf, a miniature railway, and aerial climbing activities.  

Dove Stone Reservoir  


Situated on the edge of Oldham and the Peak District, Dove Stone offers dramatic landscape surrounded by hills, with woodland walks and tracks surrounding the four main reservoirs.  

Walker in Dovestone Reservoir with spectacular views of lake and countryside.

Rivington Pike 


Offering stunning views as far as the Isle of Man and Cumbrian Fells, Rivington Pike and its tower on Winter Hill can be seen from miles around and is a popular destination for walkers.