After last week’s rainy weather, Greater Manchester is set to bask in the sun over the next few days. The Met Office has forecasted wall to wall sunshine for Tuesday, with highs of 15C expected.
Sunny intervals are predicted for Wednesday and Thursday, although it will turn cloudier over the weekend - so it's a good idea to make the most of the fine weather while it’s around. Of course, the best place to head on a sunny day is your local park.
Whether you visit one for your lunch break or go for a post-work walk, nothing beats getting outside and soaking up the rays on a sunny day. We’ve rounded up some of the best parks in Greater Manchester to go to during the glorious weather this week.
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Mayfield Park, City Centre
Nestled by Piccadilly Station, Mayfield Park might not be on your radar when you think of green spaces in the city - that’s because it’s not even a year old. The 6.5 acre park only opened its gates to the public last September, making it Manchester’s newest public park in 100 years.
It boasts grassy areas, paths and views of the River Medlock. There’s a fun play area for kids too, which includes seven slides and sunken trampolines.
Walkden Gardens, Sale
A proper hidden gem, Walkden Gardens is a beautiful green oasis not to be missed. Tucked away off Marsland Road in Sale, it’s a small but perfectly formed garden which features several ‘rooms’ you can walk around.
There’s a fuchsia garden, a mini-arboretum and a Japanese garden to name but a few of the features Walkden Gardens has to offer. In the coming weeks the gardens’ 70ft wisteria arch will be in bloom so make sure you plan a visit.
Mesnes Park, Wigan
A few minutes’ walk away from Wigan town centre is Mesnes Park which dates back to 1878. The 28-acre park is Grade II listed and is packed full of Victorian features.
Featuring spacious paths, smooth lawns and formal flower beds, it’s perfect for enjoying a relaxing stroll. Time your visit just right and you can enjoy a sweet treat from Frederick’s Ice Cream parlour, housed in the stunning pavilion and open from 9am until 6pm daily.
Alexandra Park, Oldham
If you’re looking for a green space with picturesque features, then Alexandra Park in Oldham certainly delivers. Located on the edge of the town centre, the park is like stepping back in time with plenty of period charm.
Created in around 1861, it has a boating lake, an impressive green house made up of three conservatories and an ornate shelter known as the ‘Lion’s Den’. There’s a cafe in the boathouse, which is open from 10am until 3pm.
Etherow Country Park, Stockport
For a slice of the countryside without having to travel, head to Etherow Country Park in Stockport. Sandwiched between Marple and Romily, it offers around 200 acres of green space consisting of woodland, lakes, marshland and a river.
The lake is home to the Etherow Country Park Sailing Club as well as model boat club - so keep your eyes peeled for boats both big and small on the water. The park’s scenic weir is worth looking out for, too.
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