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Summer in Salford
If you fancy a walk in the park this summer, Salford has more than 60 to choose from.
The oldest is Peel Park, which includes Salford Museum and Art Gallery. Opened in 1846, it was the first truly public park in England, and was recently restored to its 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.
Nearby Kersal Wetlands, off Littleton Road is a haven for birds and part of Salford’s second flood basin.
Further up the Irwell river valley, Clifton Country Park has 48 hectares of open space as well as the remains of the Wet Earth Colliery, sunk in 1740. The park’s play area is great for disabled children, with wheel friendly surfaces, a basket seat swing, accessible roundabout and picnic benches. Look out for the giant swing, climbing frame with monkey bars, ropes and slides and animal themed springies. The park café welcomes dogs and offers a tasty menu of hot drinks, soup and snacks. Open Monday to Sunday, 9.30am-3.30pm
In Walkden, Blackleach Country Park, just half a mile from town centre, is a haven for birds and other wildlife and a peaceful picnic spot. Parr Fold Park, off Walkden Road, is a classic Victorian park with landscaped gardens, open lawns, tennis courts, an outdoor gym, skate park and a children’s play area. Visit their new cafe open Mon to Fri: 10am-5pm and Sat to Sun: 9am-5pm.
Dukes Drive in Monton and the adjacent former railway lines (known as ‘the looplines’) is great for a countryside walk to Worsley Woods and back down the Bridgewater Canal. Why not enjoy a stop-off at one of the many cafes, restaurants or bars in Worsley and Monton.
The Salford Rangers run free organised activities in the parks, from bat walks to conservation sessions, health walks to den building. Find out what’s on for all ages over the summer at:
Facebook: SalfordRangerTeam | PeelParkSalford
X (Twitter) @SalfordWildlife | @PeelParkSalford
RHS Garden Bridgewater
Don’t forget to take advantage of FREE entry to the RHS on Tuesdays (for Salford residents). A beautiful space for leisurely walks, entertaining the children and, of course, for lunch or coffee. Visit their website to find out what special events are taking place this summer for adults and children.
www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater
