In need of a break away from real life for a little while? Sometimes, the world can feel a little heavy. But luckily for us, Manchester provides many forms of escapism. From botanical gardens that you can literally get lost in, to glistening water spots that were literally made for us to sit by and reflect on the world, here’s our pick of the most peaceful places in Manchester to try next time you need a breather.
1. Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
One of our favourite places to take a breather in Manchester, Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden is full of brightly coloured blooms, all as eye-catching as the next. It’s like a wonderland of plants and flowers at every turn, with tropical palm trees, peaceful meadows and looming green arches setting a tranquil backdrop that’s perfect for stressed-out Mancs. Get lost in nature, step away from technology for a while, and leave feeling way more refreshed than when you arrived.
2. Werneth Low
A beautiful location to really sit back and see the city from a comfortable distance, Werneth Low provides fantastic sights of Manchester’s growing city centre, with skyscrapers and the skyline visible from atop the peaceful hill. It’s a great place to go to remind yourself that sometimes, it’s ok to step back and take a minute for yourself, all the while appreciating how wonderful our home really is.
3. St John’s Gardens
One for those who don’t fancy leaving the city centre, St John’s Gardens is a mini sense of calm right here in the city, providing quite the contrast to its bustling neighbour, Spinningfields. The park may be small, but there’s plenty of grass to sit on on a sunny day, and it’s perfect for getting away from your computer screen during a long lunch. Part of a conservation area, the park is well groomed and maintained, and is home to some stunning flowers that really amplify the gardens and make a tranquil escape within the city.
4. Tandle Hill
Tandle Hill is the oldest country park in Oldham, and most definitely one of the most peaceful. Consisting of 110 acres of woodland to explore, the wonderful park makes for the perfect weekend walk – particularly after a long week. When you reach the hilltop, visitors are treated to vast sights across Manchester, with the city centre lying quietly in the backdrop. There’s also a perfectly placed bench at the top, too, which is a great spot to sit and reflect while taking in the views.
5. Stalybridge Country Park
Home to four water spots, Stalybridge Country Park has all the key components for a bit of peace and quiet. From the large Walkerwood Reservoir and Brushes Reservoir, to pockets of woodland and heather-covered moors, the country park provides ever-changing nature views – making for the perfect distraction. Walk or cycle around the park, or pack up a picnic and take in the scenery at your own pace, before hiking up to the top of Wild Bank and enjoying the rewarding views.
6. Chorlton Water Park
Complete with waterside picnic benches, which really are a lovely place to perch up in the summer months, Chorlton Water Park features a lovely lake and wonderful woodland which Mancs can potter around – with sunsets, in particular, coming highly recommended by team Secret Manchester. It takes around an hour and a half to potter around the entire park, which for us, is the perfect amount of time to escape from reality for a little while.
7. Reddish Vale Country Park
Perfectly peaceful and picturesque at the same time, Reddish Vale is home to wildlife, beautiful botanicals, a huge millpond and views of the nearby viaduct, which lies in the pond’s backdrop. Loved for being a tranquil spot to walk the dog, the country park offers 161 hectares to explore, as well as many walking trails, a cycling trail, and places to park your bottom if you fancy sitting back and taking it all in.
8. The Secret Lake, Levenshulme
The not so Secret Lake in Levenshulme is tucked away behind a rubbish tip, providing an unlikely slice of beauty where you’d least expect it. Offering gorgeous sunsets and attracting an array of local wildlife species, the beautiful location is perfect for locals to take advantage of – particularly due to its ‘tucked away’ location.
[Featured image: Shutterstock]