Autumn in Greater Manchester is a wonderful thing.
And our region is filled with places to appreciate the beauty and rich colour of this much-loved season.
Walking is one of the best ways get out into nature and experience everything it has to offer, and now that many of us have developed a new-found love, or rediscovered an old passion for walking over lockdown, there couldn’t be a better time to round up some of the best autumn routes in each of Greater Manchester’s ten boroughs.
Of course, in the times that we are currently living in amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and with Greater Manchester having recently entered into Tier 3 restrictions, it is crucial to stress the importance of social distancing, adhering to any guidelines that the grounds or facilities may have implemented, leaving the place as you found it, and just generally being considerate of other people.
As per the travel guidelines for areas under Tier 3 restrictions, each walking route featured on this list remains within Greater Manchester county borders.
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Some of the walking trails on the list may be more popular than others and therefore attract more visitors at peak times throughout the day/week, so this may require you to take a little bit of extra care to avoid creating any over-crowded areas.
With the cooperation of everyone, each place featured can be a perfectly COVID-safe walk for all.
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So, let’s get walking then, shall we?
Here’s our picks for the best place to go for a walk in each Greater Manchester borough this autumn.
Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens is one of the most beloved green spaces in the city region.
This 21-acre park in the affluent suburb of Didsbury – which has three entrances on Wilmslow Road, Millgate Lane, and Stenner Lane – was acquired as a gift from Alderman Fletcher Moss in 1914, and the gardens are renowned for their botanical beauty with many antiquated and unusual plants and flowers, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll for the family this autumn.
The park has also retained many of its original features, and there is an Alpine house in the gardens adjacent to Fletcher Moss, which together form a picturesque and tranquil haven for visitors.
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There’s also a visitor’s centre onsite, along with tennis courts, a pond, orienteering and nature trails, and a cafe which has recently just reopened to the public with a number of COVID-secure and social distancing measures in place to keep staff and visitors safe.
You can find more information about Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens here.
Honourable Mentions: Manchester Green Trail, Manchester Wharf City Trail, Alexandra Park, Whitworth Park, Chorlton Water Park, and Clayton Vale.
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Salford
Worsley Village
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Walkden Road, Worsley, Salford, M28 2QT
Wikimedia Commons
Worsley was once the heart of the transport revolution in Greater Manchester.
Now it’s home to this well-trekked three-mile circular walk, which gives you the opportunity to take in the picturesque village, the Bridgewater Canal, its fascinating heritage, and explore the rich woodland area of Worsley Woods, each of which look all the more beautiful during the colourful autumn months.
Important buildings worth spotting on your way include the Bridgewater Estate Offices, the Alphabet bridge, the humpback bridge, the Nailmakers House, Rock House, Packet House, Court House, the former Police Station (The Old Nick), and of course the famous The Aviary mock tudor house.
There’s also a wealth of restaurants, eateries, cafes and pubs to stop off at, making this a worthy top choice walking spot for all abilities.
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You can find more information about the Worsley Village Circular here.
Honourable Mentions: The Salford Trail, Buile Hill Park & Hall, Salford Quays, Peel Park, and Blackleach Country Park.
Jumbles Country Park opened in 1971 following the construction of Jumbles Reservoir – one of a number of major reservoirs in/bordering Bolton – and has an easily-accessable path around the reservoir, making it a popular walking trail for all abilities.
It boasts beautiful parkland and picturesque walking routes through a network of footpaths radiating up the valley and across adjacent hills. The grounds can be entered from a number of locations/starting points, and there are two designated carparks, with the main one located off Bradshaw Road.
The onsite Jumbles Country Park Café also provides food and light refreshments for visitors.
You can find more information about Jumbles Country Park here.
Honourable Mentions: The Last Drop Village, Moss Bank Park, Doffcocker Lodge, Moses Gate Country Park and Queens Park. (Rivington Pike, Turton Tower, Wayoh Reservoir and Entwistle Reservoir – each cross the Lancashire border).
This circular walk climbs to the Peel Monument on Holcombe Hill, which is an impressive landmark that stands at a height of 1,100 feet (335 m) above sea level and offers some really wonderful views over the surrounding countryside and towns. The recommended best starting point for this walk is from the car park just to the south east of the tower on Lumb Carr Road, and from there you head west.
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For the best views, don’t forget to head up to Millennium bench, and then continue to explore the expansive Holcombe Moor if you still have the energy.
There’s also a number of places for well-earned refreshment along the extended route, or you can instead head into the historic market town of Ramsbottom, which is home to a wealth of independent cafes, restaurants and pubs.
You can find more information about Holcombe Moor & Peel Tower here.
Honourable Mentions: Heaton Park, Burrs Country Park, Nuttall Park, Prestwich Forest Park, and Hawkshaw & Affetside.
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Rochdale
Hollingworth Lake
Hollingworth Lake, Littleborough, Rochdale, OL15 0AQ
Hollingworth Lake is a man-made lake which spans 118 acres.
It was originally built as the main water source for the Rochdale Canal during the 19th century and in Victorian times was known as “The Weighvers’ Seaport”, becoming a much-loved attraction for those living nearby shortly after.
Hollingworth Lake itself has an easy access footpath trail around, and the wider country park area then also has plenty of walking routes, which range from easy strolls, to sturdier treks in the surrounding hills.
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As the lake is known to attract a large number of visitors at peak times, Rochdale Borough Council says: “We’re asking you to consider the safety of yourself and others. If the area looks busy, please consider visiting at an alternative time, or perhaps visit somewhere else that is local to your home.”
You can find more information about Hollingworth Lake here.
Honourable Mentions: Blackstone Edge, Healey Dell Nature Reserve, Greenbooth Resevoir Circular, Queens Park Heywood, and Hare Hill Park.
Dovestone Resevoir sitting in the heart of Saddleworth Moor is a beloved gem among many Mancunians.
This picturesque spot has good links to areas of open access moorland and an extensive network of easy access footpaths which makes it simple for the whole family to take a stroll round the reservoir, or stop on the way at Chew Brook to explore the rocks and paddle in the stream. If you’re feeling adventurous though, the site also includes two more reservoirs to walk round – Greenfield and Yeoman Hey – from which you can explore Saddleworth moor and the crags above.
Given its beauty and subsequent popularity, this area is also known to attract crowds and so taking extra care to ensure necessary social distance when visiting at peak times is always advised.
You can find more information about Dovestone Reservoir here.
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Honourable Mentions: Tandle Hill, Daisy Nook Country Park, Strinesdale Country Park, Besom Hill, and Crompton Moor.
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Tameside
Werneth Low Country Park
Higham Lane, Hyde, Tameside, SK14 5LR
Wikimedia Commons
Werneth Low in Tameside offers what is one of the most spectacularly expansive and panoramic views of Manchester and beyond, and the dark blue silhouette of the Welsh mountains can even often be seen on clear days too, as can the Pennine hills close by.
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The country park – which is both a haven for wildlife and an area for visitors to find peace and relaxation – extends for 200 acres across the northern and western slopes of Werneth Low.
The number of well-surfaced footpaths, horse riding and cycle routes, picnic areas, view finders, informal gardens, and seats provided at many locations throughout the trail designed for visitors to rest and take time to appreciate this unique area, also make this one of the most worthwhile walks in the region.
Make sure to stop off at the Hare & Hounds Inn in Hyde if you want a little extra time to appreciate this unrivalled view.
You can find more information about Werneth Low Country Park here.
Honourable Mentions: Lover’s Alley Trail, Stalybridge Country Park, Harridge Pike, Haugton Green Circular, and Haugton Dale Nature Reserve.
The extensive 190-acre deer park and gardens in Altrincham boast over a thousand winter shrubs, trees and evergreens, making it the perfect place for a family-friendly autumnal stroll, or to take a moment to sit, listen to the seasonal sounds, and take in the beauty of nature’s changing colours.
You can then treat yourself to a warm drink, snack / bite to eat at the Stables Restaurant or Stamford Café, and there’s even a wood-fired pizza van onsite seven days a week now too.
Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Dunham Massey and the National Trust has introduced a number of safety measures, meaning visitors now need to pre-book a ticket for a half-hour timed entry slot prior to their visit, with non-National Trust members required to pay £8.
You can find more information about Dunham Massey here.
Honorable Mentions: Wythenshawe Park and Gardens, Trans Pennine Trail, Banky Meadows and Ashton upon Mersey, Urmston Meadows & Old Ees Brook, and Sale Water Park.
Bramhall Park – which sits in the grounds of the historic 14th century timber-framed Bramall Hall in the Stockport suburb of Bramhall – is a magnificent and beautifully-landscaped greenspace of woodland and walking trails, which makes it another ideal location for an easy stroll, or a brilliant spot to appreciate all the colours autumn has to offer.
The onsite Stables Kitchen Cafe is also a great place to grab refreshments.
The landscaping of the park began in the 1890s – when the onsite ponds were first made – and the park is now also home to a variety of wildlife, as its woodland and lakes provide an excellent environment for habitats to develop.
The park has a pay and display carpark on site, and is also close to rail and bus routes.
You can find more information about Bramhall Park here.
Honourable Mentions: Reddish Vale Country Park, Lyme Park, Fred Perry Way, Heaton Mersey Common, and Etherow Country Park.
Pennington Flash Country Park is a 490-acre park located between Lowton and Leigh in Wigan, and it offers an easy and family-friendly autumnal walk for all abilities.
As well being great for walkers, with the Pennington Flash Circuit (Jubilee Legacy Gold Route) being the most popular, thanks to the ‘flash’ – referring to the lakes on the site which were formed over time as a result of the mining subsidence – the park is also considered to be one of the most premier bird watching sites in the North West, with over 200 species to lay eyes on.
A nine-hole golf course is also open to the public, as well as fishing permits available and a children’s play area.
While there’s no permanent place for refreshment within the park’s grounds, food trucks and an ice cream van are known to visit, and there’s plenty of amenities at the nearby Parsonage Retail Park too.
You can find more information about Pennington Flash Country Park here.
Honourable Mentions: Haigh Country Park, Fairy Glen, Borsdane Woods, Worthington Lakes, and Mesnes Park.
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There’s no doubt that we’ve missed some other spectacular walks off this list across Greater Manchester, so which routes would you add into the mix?
What’s your pick for the best place to go for a walk in our region?
Let us know.
What's On
The best things to do in Greater Manchester this week | 6 – 12 July 2026
Emily Sergeant
It’s official – July is here, and that means we’re over half way through the year.
Summer has arrived, and that means there are, of course, loads of things happening across Greater Manchester this week. If you’re finding it a bit tricky to pick what to do, no worries, as we’ve chosen a few of the highlights for another edition of our ‘what’s on‘ guide.
Both free things and those that’ll set you back a few pennies are featured.
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Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos
Science and Industry Museum
Monday 6 July – onwards
Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos / Credit: BBC | Science Museum Group (Drew Forsyth)
Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos has made its world premiere at the Science and Industry Museum, and is inviting visitors to explore our wondrous Solar System.
Fresh off-the-back of the new BBC Children’s and Education TV show, Horrible Science, the ‘thrilling’ new exhibition encouraging visitors to ‘do science the horrible way’, and join both scientists and supervillains to unveil the secrets of space.
The new exhibition propels families up into space where mystery, intrigue, and rocket-loads of silly and surprising science await. You’ll get to venture through a series of cosmic zones, walk in the shoes of astronauts, explore the life-giving energy of the sun, marvel at mysterious moons, and discover far-off weird worlds.
Manchester is bringing 14 weeks of free activities for children to parks across the city this summer.
Thanks to additional Council funding that was allocated earlier this year, Manchester’s biggest-ever Parktastic programme has now launched – expanding from the summer holidays alone to include after-school sessions before schools break up, activities throughout the holidays, and even sessions continuing into September.
Back by popular demand and aimed at children ages six-12, Parktastic offers sports, games, arts and crafts, dance, drama, nature activities, storytelling and messy play.
Sessions are free, no booking is required, healthy snacks are provided, and children can simply turn up and join in.
Manchester’s biggest exhibition of local artists is back again for the summer.
Taking place every two years, Manchester Open is a celebration of local talent, showcasing the work of 420 artists inside the gallery space over at HOME. The exhibition includes work from artists in all media formats who have been selected from each of Greater Manchester’s 10 boroughs, ranging in age from four to 80 years old.
Oh, and the whole thing is completely free to visit. Find out more about the return of this incredible exhibition here.
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Looking for somewhere to watch the World Cup in Greater Manchester?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is currently well underway, and England is still in it to win it.
But if you didn’t grab tickets to catch a game in person over in North America or Mexico, and you don’t fancy sitting at home watching on your own, then thankfully, our region is filled with places where you can catch all the action surrounded by hundreds of other football fans.
FIFA World Cup 2026 / Credit: Road to Victory
You’re absolutely spoiled for choice this year, as there’s plenty of places in Manchester city centre and beyond screening all the games.
Will England bring football home though? Only time will tell.
Check out our round-up list of all the best places to watch the World Cup in Greater Manchester here👇
World Cup Playground / Credit: Sophia J Carey (Supplied)
A massive World Cup ‘playground’ has now opened in Greater Manchester.
MediaCity has announced its biggest programme of events to date to celebrate, from a baller league-style football pitch, to big name creator takeovers, and much more – but at the heart of all the action is the new World Cup ‘playground’, where football fans will be able to play five-a-side on a bespoke pitch, while watching matches on giant screens.
As the home of the BBC’s World Cup coverage, MediaCity says it’s ‘going big’ this summer, and that includes bringing some of the UK’s biggest Gen Z creators down for full takeovers and tournaments, and even getting the BBC pundits involved in the action too.
Thrill seekers, this one’s for you – as Zip World Manchester has launched its new Forest Tubing experience, and it’s bringing the UK’s longest outdoor tubing slide is coming to Heaton Park.
The new family‑friendly outdoor adventure gives visitors the chance to soar along two slides, winding through woodland at one of the largest parks in the North West.
Suitable for children aged four and above, visitors can book an hour-long session – with unlimited rides during that time slot – and either ride solo, or share the experience with fellow adventurers.
National Trust x Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trails
North West
Monday 6 July – onwards
National Trust x Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trails / Credit: James Dobson | Annapurna Mellor
National Trust and Pokémon have teamed up for an exclusive trading card game and immersive trail.
The partnership is set to bring together the places the National Trust cares for and Pokémon’s spirit of play and discovery.
Exclusively designed for the National Trust, the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trails are going to be running throughout summer at 14 National Trust places nationwide, combining ‘imaginative play’ with ‘gentle physical activity’ inspired by Mega Evolution Pokémon.
Find out where to get involved and book tickets here.
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GRUB On The Docks
MediaCity
Tuesday 7 July – onwards
GRUB On The Docks / Credit: Supplied
GRUB On The Docks has returned for the summer.
MediaCity’s waterfront site has been transformed into a vibrant open-air destination built for warm weather and big moments across the season, as GRUB On The Docks returns later this week.
Running across the summer months, you can expect some of Greater Manchester’s best street food traders to be serving up global flavours and summer-ready drinks, alongside live music, DJs, and just an all round laid-back atmosphere turning daytime hangouts into evening sessions.
Greater Manchester’s iconic heritage railway is currently hosting one of the most unique fine dining experiences in the region this summer.
Running on selected Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through the year, East Lancashire Railway’s ‘Red Rose Diners’ are described as being ‘the ultimate first class foodie experience’, as they start with a glass of fizz and stretch over an almost three-hour steam train journey through the Irwell Valley.
The experience includes a four-course dinner with complimentary sparkling wine, followed by tea or coffee and after-dinner chocolates.
Charity Super.Mkt is heading to the Arndale for its very first Manchester city centre pop-up.
The UK’s first multi-charity pre-loved fashion store will be strutting its stuff in central Manchester when it opens in Manchester Arndale for three days this weekend.
Shoppers can expect a vibrant, carefully curated edit of pre-loved clothing sourced from both national and local charities. From standout vintage pieces and coveted band tees to forgotten football tops, desirable denim, and everything in between.
It’s strawberry season, and Kenyon Hall Farm has officially opened up its strawberry fields (plus plenty of other pick-your-own produce) for the season for you to frolic amongst, with loads of summer treats in its cafe and award-winning farm shop too.
Strawberries have been growing at Kenyon Hall Farm for nearly 50 years now, and it’s proven as popular ever since.
Did you know you can visit Chester Zoo for just £10 this summer?
For the past three years running now, Chester Zoo has officially been named the UK’s best zoo thanks to tens of thousands of positive TripAdvisor reviews, and now this summer, you’ll get to see exactly what makes it such a special place worth visiting for a cut price, as £10 tickets are now available to book for a limited time only.
With the offer only applicable to afternoons this summer, Afternoon Tickets allow entry to Chester Zoo from 2pm onwards – with the last entry being one-hour before it closes.
You can visit Chester Zoo for just £10 this summer / Credit: Chester Zoo
Without this offer, standard admission tickets to Chester Zoo usually cost up to £38 for adults, £37 for students, and £28 for children, all including a 10% donation to the zoo’s conservation efforts, so it really is worth making the most of these limited-time £10 tickets while you can.
Find out more and book your tickets in advance here.
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Stuck for somewhere to have a bite to eat?
Just like we do every month, we’ve rounded up some of the best things we got to eat in June, so if you’re on the hunt for somewhere new in July, then we’ve absolutely got you covered as there’s plenty of places across the city region.
It’s been another jam-packed month of insanely delicious eats, and we’ve been lucky to have a bunch of new openings too.
Featured Image – James Dobson / Artem Kniaz / Unsplash
What's On
The best graduation deals and freebies in Manchester this celebration season
Danny Jones
To all those completing their university degrees this year, first off: congratulations – and second of all, we’re sure you’re looking forward to making the most of all those graduation deals, offers and free stuff you can grab in Manchester this year.
We know we were when it was our time (longer ago than we’d like to admit…)
The post-graduation ceremony meal – hopefully at least one final meal your parents are happy to cover the bill for before sending you out into ‘the big wide world’ – is a truly special one, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t still look for savings where you can.
So, without further ado, here’s a list of graduate deals and freebies available in central Manchester for the class of 2026.
15 of the best offers and free things for 2026 graduates
1. Fenix – St. John’s
What is it: One of the best restaurants in Manchester, serving up plates featuring plenty of Greek heritage as well as modern-Mediterranean, elevated cuisine from one of the city centre’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
The offer: Special lunch menu noon until 3:45pm set at just £37.50 or sit down for dinner from £45.50; both include a complimentary glass of Prosecco, and you can even walk away with an engraved bottle of Champagne to take home with you. Available 1 July until 1 August – reserve your table while you can.
2. The Alchemist – Central, Spinningfields and Salford Quays
What is it: Manc-born mixologists and cocktail bar chain which started in Spinningfields, before opening on New York Street and beyond and going on to be a staple of the UK hospitality scene.
The offer: A complimentary ‘Cosmic Oyster’ for everyone around your table when booking ahead – you can do so HERE.
What is it: Stylish London-centric seafood and grill with Japanese and Robata-inspired cuisine, best-known for sushi, steak and their famous caramelised black cod dish.
The offer: Extensive sharing-style menu priced at £55 a head, including all the highlights and a gratis glass of Henriot Champagne for every guest, available until 24 July; you can reserve your spot now.
What is it: A canalside cornerstone of the Castlefield community, with a large outdoor terrace and beer garden, complete with a dedicated cocktail hut on busy sunny days, and two cosy floors inside.
The offer: Graduation set menu, with options for two or three courses and a glass of fizz on them, running from 6-31 July. Find out more.
What is it: Boutique city centre hotel just off Market Street offering numerous luxuries, including afternoon tea packages, set menus and more from the in-house restaurant, tender by award-winning chef Niall Keating, as well as various high-end rooms.
The offer: Free glass of cava with bookings, simple as that; available all throughout July and August.
What is it: Stunning, homely gastropub and bistro with multiple rooms across two floors, as well as a large terrace with various open-air and covered areas.
The offer: Happy hour drinks for your entire party and the chance to be the one lucky winner who’ll have the ENTIRE overdraft paid off in full by the team as part of a prize draw. Book and find the full terms and conditions right HERE.
Credit: The Manc
7. Piccolino – Central, Didsbury, Bramhall, Hale, Wilmslow and Knutsford
What is it: Popular British chain of Italian restaurants operated by the Individual Restaurants Group (IRG), with numerous locations across the country.
The offer: Graduates get a complimentary glass of champagne alongside their classic recipe tiramisu on the house. Booking in advance is advised.
What is it: Another one of the IRG brands, offering similar Italian cuisine as well as great deals and an expanded drinks menu.
The offer: Freshly crowned graduates dining from the special set menu can enjoy a bonus Bellini to toast their success.
Credit: The Manc
9. The Lowry – Salford
What is it: One of Greater Manchester’s most famous hotels, located right on the edge of the city centre, with a highly-rated bar and restaurant to boot. Needs no introduction really.
The offer: Those staying in town for their ceremony can enjoy a luxurious stay with 10% off the best available rate, plus 15% off food and drink, a complimentary bottle of Champagne, AND 50% off a second room for family members, too. A perfect package for out-of-towners – you can book HERE.
What is it: One of the best curry houses in all the region, specialising in contemporary Indian food and Pakistani flavours, too.
The offer: Their popular annual graduation deal is back for 2026, with the customary welcome drink making a return alongside a signature pudding to finish off; make sure to write ‘graduation’ and add ‘dessert’ in the booking notes. They’re also right near the main uni stretch, which is always handy.
What is it: ‘Feast of the Wise’ graduation menus are available from £37.50 for lunch and £45.50 for dinner, both including a complimentary glass of Prosecco
The offer: ‘Power of Wisdom’ set menu – £37.50 for lunch and £45.50 for dinner – with graduates receiving an ‘Elixir of Life cocktail’, or a complimentary glass of Prosecco.
Credit: The Manc
12. Browns – Central
What is it: A mainstay of the King Street strip, just around the corner from Cibo and The Rex hotel (another good option for those stopping over), specialising in British and European brasserie classics.
The offer: Receive a complimentary glass of Browns’ very own Champagne for the graduate and every accompanying guest, with two courses for £29 or a trio for just £36. You can book HERE.
What is it: Authentic Lebanese cuisine in a classy city centre setting, with covered outdoor seating and some great vegan options, too.
The offer: Graduates and guests can enjoy a 25% student discount, a wrap and fries offer for £10.95, or mark the occasion with a full ‘Graduation Feast’ for £32.50, including a free glass of Prosecco or a non-alcoholic alternative. *This offer cannot be used alongside other offers, however.
Credit: The Manc
14. Chotto Matte – St. Michael’s
What is it: A sky-high rooftop food and drink spot where Japan and Peru meet in an incredible fusion that makes for a fantastic culinary experience.
The offer: ‘Nikkei’ dining experience throughout July, with a curated sharing menu (£40pp/£35 for vegetarians) and a complimentary glass of Pommery Champagne for the graduates.
What is it: The Yorkshire-born brand now serving up us locals from their New York St site and arguably one of the best places for a posh tea or meal out no matter the occasion, with top-quality steak, seafood, bubbles and more.
The offer: Three courses with a glass of Prosecco on arrival for £55; you can even upgrade to the proper stuff – pay an extra tenner for Moët & Chandon Champagne for each person.
Emily Sergeant -
23rd October 2020 
