It doesn’t matter whether you live at the top of an apartment block in the city centre, or in a cottage surrounded by rolling countryside, everyone can enjoy National Picnic Month this July.
Now that lockdown rules have been relaxed, people can finally reunite with their loved ones, socially distanced of course.
Luckily, the UK has seen some summery weather recently, and where better to spend time after being locked indoors for so long, than local greenspaces.
CitySuites, the Manchester-based apart-hotel, has contacted 114 parks, gardens and reservoirs to be able to share the important details you need when planning your picnic.
From which greenspaces are open, to when the best time to visit is if you want the place to yourself, picnickers can be sure to enjoy any space they choose to visit.
Safety is always important during these difficult times, so nearly half of all those CitySuites contacted, detailed what coronavirus restrictions have been put into place to keep visitors safe.
Here is a breakdown of all the greenspaces that are open in Greater Manchester for visitors to enjoy:
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Alkrington Woods Nature Reserve in Middleton is currently far busier than normal throughout its opening times.
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Brabyns Park in Marple Bridge is exceptionally busy throughout the day on weekends.
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Bramhall Park in Stockport is best before 9.30am is best if you’re looking for peace and quiet.
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Cale Green Park in Davenport is slightly quieter on weekdays.
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Clifton Country Park in Salford is at its quietest in the early morning.
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Etherow Country Park in Romiley is quietest early in the morning and in the late afternoon.
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Fletcher Moss Park is currently far busier than usual throughout its opening times.
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John Leigh Park in Altrincham is very busy throughout its opening hours.
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Marie Louise Gardens in West Didsbury report that their quietest times are early to mid-morning and during the evening.
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Marple Memorial Park in Marple is much quieter early in the morning.
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Seymour Park in Stretford is quiet early in the morning, but it becomes more crowded in the late afternoon and evening.
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Stalybridge Country Park in Stalybridge is at its quietest mid-morning and at its busiest around lunch time.
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Tandle Hill Park in Royton has exceptionally busy weekends, though there is a lot of space for social distancing.
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Three Sisters in Ashton-in-Makerfield is quiet most of the time, besides a number of early morning dog walkers
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West Leigh Park in Leigh is at its busiest around midday, while early mornings and evenings are quiet.
Cafes
CitySuites received the following details on cafes in Greater Manchester’s parks:
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The Stables Cafe at Bramhall Park, Stockport: operating as a takeaway
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Orrell Water Park, Wigan: cafe operating as a takeaway
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Alexandra Park, Oldham: cafe operating as a takeaway
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Tandle Hill Country Park, Royton: cafe open
All of the above are operating under strict social distancing measures.
More information about all local parks and gardens including parking, booking visits, facilities that are closed or open can be found here.
