Manchester's 16 best parks and green spaces celebrated in new walking route featuring historic and new sites

Living in a busy, vibrant city like Manchester can be a lot of fun, but sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle. And while Manchester may not be the greenest city in the country, there are some lovely parks and green spots where you can find peace and quiet within walking distance of the centre. 

As part of the Manchester Flower Festival, which is taking place across the city centre during the 24-27 May bank holiday, Manchester Accommodation BID has put together a new, free walking trail featuring 16 gardens and water spaces. Here’s what you need to know about it. 

How does it work?

To start the walking trail, you can either  download the map for free via cityco.com, or visit the Manchester Flower Festival information booth, which will be located at St Ann’s Square during the festival on 24-27 May. Copies will also be available at the Tourist Centre in Manchester Central Library. 

The map features information about each location on the Manchester Green Trail, compiled by tour guide Jonathan Schofield. The aim is to encourage tourists and Mancunians alike to take the time to discover and explore the city’s green, blue and outdoor spaces. 

Which parks and gardens are on the trail?

The trail covers Manchester city centre and Salford. There are a variety of different locations on the list, including places of historical interest like Angel Meadows and Ordsall Hall, as well as new green spaces like Mayfield Park and Aviva Studios. 

Here is the full list: 

• Cotton Field Park
• Mayfield Park
• Sackville Gardens and Kampus,
• Bridgewater Hall canalside
• Castlefield and Castlefield Viaduct
• St John’s Gardens
• Parsonage Gardens
• Cathedral Gardens and Glade of Light
• St Michael’s Flags and Angel Meadow Park
• Greengate Gardens
• Peel Park and The Meadow
• Middlewood Locks and Aviva Studios
• Ordsall Hall and gardens
• Hulme Park and Deansgate Square
• All Saints Garden
• Brunswick Park and University Green