Chorlton Water Park Manchester
A serene natural oasis in Manchester with a large lake, woodland trails, and playgrounds for family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Enjoy tranquility
Chorlton Water Park Manchester
Best Time
Enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural oasis in Manchester with a large lake, woodland trails, and playgrounds for family fun.
"A hidden gem offering a perfect escape into nature with a serene lake and well-maintained trails."
Bridge is still shut
The bridge to Kenworthy Woods remains closed. Use Jackson's or Parkway bridges as alternatives.
Bring your own food
Facilities are limited, so pack snacks and drinks to enjoy your day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Lake Views
Central lake
A large, tranquil lake with ducks and swans, perfect for feeding and peaceful contemplation.
Children's Playgrounds
Various locations
Two play areas offer fun for kids, with one suitable for ages 6+ and another slightly further uphill.
Woodland Trails
Surrounding woods
Explore reclaimed farmland and woods with well-maintained paths for walking and cycling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Closure Alert
Pack Your Snacks!
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Chorlton Waterpark
Bridge is still shut
The bridge to Kenworthy Woods remains closed. Use Jackson's or Parkway bridges as alternatives.
Bring your own food
Facilities are limited, so pack snacks and drinks to enjoy your day.
Swimming in NW - no car!
Wild swimming spots near Manchester?
Great for dog walkers
The park offers fantastic opportunities for dog walking with plenty of space.
Accessible paths
Paths around the lake are flat and suitable for buggies and mobility scooters.
Is the bridge from Chorlton Water Park to Kenworthy Woods open?
Tips
from all over the internet
Bridge is still shut
The bridge to Kenworthy Woods remains closed. Use Jackson's or Parkway bridges as alternatives.
Bring your own food
Facilities are limited, so pack snacks and drinks to enjoy your day.
Great for dog walkers
The park offers fantastic opportunities for dog walking with plenty of space.
Accessible paths
Paths around the lake are flat and suitable for buggies and mobility scooters.
Feed the wildlife
Bring some suitable food to feed the ducks and swans on the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chorlton Water Park is praised as a tranquil, hidden gem offering beautiful lake views and peaceful walks. Visitors appreciate the free entry and parking, the accessible paths suitable for prams and scooters, and the playgrounds for children. However, some note that on-site facilities like toilets and the cafe can be inconsistent.
"Actually a lovely place for a stroll, fish or sit with nature for a while.
Small park half way round.
Plenty of parking
Lovely cafe near the front, so can stroll with a nice warm drink on these winter days. Dog friendly."
Stacey day
"We went on an Autumn day and spent a couple of hours here walking around and then playing in the park. There is carparking on site and cafe. For the toilets take your own soap and toilet paper, there wasn't any . We always bring some with us."
Abi Carless
"Lovely park nice and quite not alot of people around so you can enjoy this tranquil space the lake is really big with ducks and swans to feed. Nice little park for the kids to play in and it's also nice and clean too. Lots of paths and clear signage so you know where you are walking to we spent a total of 2 hour here it was lovely 😍 👌"
tay may
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chorlton Water Park is accessible by car with a large, free car park. It's also reachable via public transport, though specific routes may vary. Consider checking local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is a large, free car park available for visitors. It's conveniently located near the main park entrance.
Cycling is a great way to reach the park. You can join the Transpennine Trail from the Mersey if you wish to extend your ride. Be aware that the bridge to Kenworthy Woods is currently closed, so plan your route accordingly.
Absolutely! The paths around the lake are flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for buggies and robust mobility scooters.
Yes, the park is a lovely destination for a walk. You can connect to the Mersey and the Transpennine Trail to extend your stroll if you're coming from surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Chorlton Water Park is free to enter and explore. The car park is also free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
Chorlton Water Park is generally open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time to enjoy its natural beauty. Specific opening times for facilities like toilets may vary.
No booking is required for Chorlton Water Park as it's a public park. You can visit anytime during its open hours.
Yes, there are toilets available on-site, though reviews suggest they might not always be in the best condition.
The cafe's opening status can be inconsistent. Some visitors report it being shut, while others mention a nice little cafe. It's best to check for recent updates or bring your own refreshments.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks around the lake, feed the ducks and swans, explore the woodland trails, and let children play in the playgrounds. It's also a great spot for bird watching and relaxation.
Yes, the park is a haven for wildlife, including various bird species. Bringing binoculars is recommended to get the most out of bird watching opportunities.
The description mentions fishing in a gravel pit, suggesting it's a possibility. However, specific fishing regulations or permits would need to be checked with local authorities.
Yes, there are two playgrounds for kids. One is centrally located, and another is a bit further uphill.
It's often described as a hidden gem and a tranquil space, with not a lot of people around, especially on weekday mornings. It can get busier during good weather and on weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
The serene lake with its wildlife, the lush woodland paths, and the children playing in the playgrounds offer great photographic opportunities. The changing seasons also provide beautiful backdrops.
Definitely. The diverse flora and fauna, especially around the lake and in the woods, make it an excellent location for nature photographers.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the local council or park authorities regarding any restrictions on drone flying before your visit.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, creating a softer, more atmospheric feel.
The main lake itself, with its swans and ducks, is a focal point. The bridges (when open) and the mature trees in the woodland areas also make for picturesque shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to pack some snacks and drinks, as on-site facilities are limited, but the chance to feed the ducks and swans on the serene lake is a guaranteed hit with the little ones. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors, get some fresh air, and let the kids burn off some energy in a beautiful natural setting.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Cyclists
Be aware that the bridge connecting to Kenworthy Woods is currently closed, so you'll need to use alternative routes like Jackson's or Parkway bridges if you're cycling and planning a shortcut. Despite this, the existing paths provide a lovely experience for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially near the lake and wildlife, and always clean up after them to help maintain the park's cleanliness for everyone to enjoy. The varied terrain, from open paths to wooded areas, provides stimulating walks for dogs of all energy levels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Nature
The woodland areas provide a different atmosphere, with mature trees and a sense of seclusion. While the bridge connecting to Kenworthy Woods is currently closed, the existing trails within the park are ample for a satisfying stroll or bike ride. The park's accessibility is a key feature, with flat paths around the lake making it suitable for prams, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural beauty.
Beyond the main lake and woods, the park also includes a pond-dipping platform, offering a chance to observe aquatic life up close. This feature, combined with the general tranquility of the area, makes Chorlton Water Park a valuable green space for both recreation and appreciating the local environment.
Family Fun and Play Areas
The open spaces around the lake and playgrounds are perfect for family picnics or simply letting children run around in a safe environment. The presence of wildlife, such as ducks and swans on the lake, also adds an educational and engaging element for kids. Visitors are encouraged to bring suitable food to feed the birds, which is often a highlight for families.
While the park offers a natural setting, the inclusion of these play facilities makes it a well-rounded destination for a family day out. The accessibility of the paths also means that parents with prams or strollers can easily navigate the park and access the play areas without difficulty.
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