News | Tuesday, 2nd May 2023
The best parks and gardens in Manchester to take a study break
There’s an open space to suit everyone
The weather is finally starting to get warmer, and the nights are getting lighter – so, why not make the most of it by taking a break from studying to get some fresh air?
Studying for exams and assessments is all about creating balance. This is why it’s important to take regular breaks to help you reset and increase your energy levels. And what better way than to get outside and enjoy some local green spaces in Manchester.
Here’s our selection of outdoor spaces close to campus to take a break, have a picnic, hang out with friends, or do something more active.
Seven of the best parks and gardens in Manchester
Whitworth Park becomes awash with colours in the springtime and is a lovely place to rest and relax, and the added bonus is, it’s right by Oxford Road. It has a gallery, café, and glass observatory. You might even find the missing meteorite which landed in the park in 2015 that no-one has managed to locate…yet!
Location: Oxford Road, M14 4PW
Heaton Park offers more than just a walk in the park. If you fancy doing something a bit more energetic, this is the park for you. Swap your studying for an hour’s rowing on the boating lake, a round of golf or you can even go horse riding.
Location: M25 2SW
Cathedral Gardens is Manchester's newest public open space providing a green oasis within the busy city centre. The perfect space to get away from the hustle and bustle – make sure you take a look at the impressive water feature.
Location: The Cathedral Gardens, M4 3BG
Platt Fields Park is another great open space right in the heart of the city. Set on 70 hectares, the park offers plenty of space to relax and chill, but if you want to be a bit more adventurous you can have a go on the BMX track or skatepark.
Location: Wilmslow Road, M14 6LA
Cotton Field Park is a perfect example of how nature can be used to bring people together in an urban environment – it’s even brought the beach to the city!
The eco-park has water, a boardwalk, an ‘urban beach’ and distinctive islands that are great spots to just stop, relax and enjoy the environment.
Location: New Islington, M4 6LN
Mayfield Park offers an oasis of green space and beautifully landscaped river walkways in the heart of the city. Opening in 2022, it surrounds the bank of the River Medlock and offers something for everyone. There’s plenty of seating to pause and meet up with friends.
Location: Baring Street, M1 2PY
Chorlton Water Park local nature reserve boasts 17 acres of green space. It’s set around a central lake with paths leading into pretty woodland and wildflower meadows
Location: Maitland Avenue, M21 7WH
Want to make a weekend of it?
For those of you who are really committed to getting more fresh air and enjoying the great outdoors, why not go further afield and take a cheap weekend trip outside of Manchester.
Take a look at student Emily’s trip to Edale in the Peak District:
