EXPLORE SALFORD’S GREEN SPACES

Did you know that Salford has 74 parks - eight with Green Flag status. So this winter, why not don your big coat and wellies, pack a hot ask and sandwiches and explore one you’ve not yet tried. Here are some suggestions.

Peel Park

Peel Park, which includes Salford Museum and Art Gallery, is the oldest; opened in 1846, it was the rst truly public park in England. From 2016 to 2017, it underwent major redevelopment and was restored to its former Victorian glory. The park is also part of the 33 mile long Irwell Sculpture Trail, from Salford Quays to Bury. Find full details of the trail at www.irwellsculpturetrail.co.uk.

Kersal Wetlands

Kersal Wetlands, off Littleton Road, is a stunning new outdoor space to enjoy, created as part of a £10 million ood protection scheme. It is a haven for birds and wildlife. The views includes the skyline of Manchester, the woodlands of Kersal Dale and the shimmering River Irwell. There are cycle paths and wonderful dog walks as well as ten hectares of wild ower habitat to explore.

Clifton Country Park

Clifton Country Park, further up the Irwell river valley, has 48 hectares of open space as well as the remains of the Wet Earth Colliery, sunk in 1740. Here you can explore acres of open woodland and meadows, enjoy lakeside walks, bring a picnic, go fishing or discover the hidden remnants of the city's industrial past. Bring children to play and enjoy refreshments in the visitor centre café.

Blackleach Country Park, just half a mile from Walkden town centre is also a haven for birds and other wildlife and a peaceful picnic spot. Explore the reservoir, meadows and woodlands. Dukes Drive, located next to the historic Bridgewater Canal, is situated in the centre of Monton. This green oasis has excellent links to surrounding areas and is linked by canal tow paths and cycle routes (66) to Worsley and further a eld. Walk along the adjacent former railway lines (‘the looplines’) to Worsley Woods and back down the Bridgewater Canal, then reward yourself a takeaway brunch or coffee and cake in Monton Village!

Worsley Woods, covers 30 hectares of woodland, brook and wetland habitats with Old Warke Dam at the southern end of the site. The Dam was built originally as a private boating and fishing lake for the first Earl of Ellesmere and much of the woodland was planted to create a game reserve. Now there’s a new jetty for great views over the Dam, new footpaths and seating. There’s a brand new adventure play area off Sefton Drive and a spring Wildflower Trail.

The addition of RHS Garden Bridgewater, which is set to open on 11th May next year, will make the city an even greener and more beautiful place.

You can watch a series of short lms demonstrating Salford’s green credentials, plus a video on RHS Bridgewater, on the Visit Manchester website: www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/ countryside/salfords-green-spaces

For more parks go to www.salford.gov.uk/parks