Boggart Hole Clough: Manchester’s Ancient Woodland with Enigmatic Folklore

Explore Manchester’s ancient woodland where nature’s beauty meets eerie folklore and steep wooded ravines at Boggart Hole Clough.

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Boggart Hole Clough

Boggart Hole Clough is a sprawling 190-acre ancient woodland and park in Blackley, Manchester, known for its steep wooded ravines, boating lake, and rich folklore surrounding the mischievous boggart spirit. This green oasis offers dense trees, walking trails, playgrounds, and tennis courts, blending natural beauty with eerie legends dating back to the Bronze Age.

A brief summary to Boggart Hole Clough

Charlestown Rd, Manchester, Blackley, Manchester, M9 7DH, GB
+441617952650
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Bring sturdy footwear for walking the uneven, steep trails through the clough’s wooded ravines.
Keep a close eye on children near wooded areas due to the park’s folklore and natural terrain.
Visit the boating lake for a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the water views.
Dogs may react nervously in some wooded areas—leash them and stay alert to their behavior.
Explore the tennis courts and playgrounds for family-friendly activities within the park.

Getting There

Bus

Take the Number 88 or 88A bus from Manchester city center to Blackley, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single adult fare costs around £2.50. The stop is within a 10-minute walk to the park entrance.
Tram and Bus Combination

Use the Metrolink tram to Bury Line, alighting at Moston tram stop, then transfer to bus number 88 towards Blackley. Total travel time is about 40 to 50 minutes. This option is suitable for those preferring tram travel with a short bus connection.
Car

Driving from central Manchester takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Limited on-site parking is available near Charlestown Road. Parking is free but can be busy on weekends. Narrow and steep paths within the park may limit vehicle access.
Walking

For local residents, walking to Boggart Hole Clough is possible with routes ranging from 20 to 45 minutes depending on starting point. Terrain includes some steep and uneven paths, so suitable footwear and moderate fitness are recommended.

Boggart Hole Clough location weather suitability

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Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Windy Conditions

Discover more about Boggart Hole Clough

Ancient Woodland Steeped in History and Nature

Boggart Hole Clough is a vast expanse of around 190 acres of ancient woodland located in Blackley, on the northern edge of Manchester. The term 'clough' refers to a steep-sided wooded valley, and here it describes the dramatic ravines and dense tree cover that define the landscape. The area has roots tracing back to the Bronze Age, making it one of the region’s oldest natural spaces. A small stream, Boggart Hole Brook, meanders through the clough, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. The park features a boating lake, open grassy areas, and well-maintained walking paths, making it a popular spot for locals seeking respite in nature.

Legend of the Boggart: Folklore and Haunting Tales

The clough’s name comes from the legendary boggart, a mischievous and sometimes malevolent spirit from Lancashire folklore. Said to resemble a troll or goblin-like creature, the boggart is believed to inhabit an old, crumbling farmhouse hidden deep within the woods. Folklore attributes eerie powers to the boggart, including souring milk, making objects disappear, and unsettling dogs, which often react nervously in the area. The boggart is also known for lurking under bridges, in muddy holes, and around sharp bends—features abundant in the clough’s rugged terrain. Historically, the boggart was feared especially for its supposed penchant for children, with stories of missing children dating back to the 18th century adding to the site’s spooky reputation.

A Blend of Recreation and Mystery

Despite its eerie legends, Boggart Hole Clough today is a lively green space offering many recreational facilities. Tennis courts and playgrounds are scattered throughout the park, inviting families and sports enthusiasts. The dense woodland and steep gullies provide a sense of adventure for walkers and nature lovers. The juxtaposition of the park’s peaceful natural beauty with its dark folklore creates a unique atmosphere that intrigues visitors. The thick tree lining, creaking branches, and whispering winds contribute to an immersive sensory experience that can feel both calming and haunting, especially on quiet days.

Community and Conservation Efforts

Over the years, Boggart Hole Clough has been a focal point for local activism and community engagement. In the late 19th century, it was a site for open-air meetings and protests, reflecting its importance as a public space. Managed by Manchester City Council, the park is maintained as a protected natural area, balancing conservation with public access. Efforts to preserve its ancient woodland and wildlife habitat continue, ensuring that this historic green lung remains a vital part of Manchester’s urban landscape.

Experiencing Boggart Hole Clough Today

Visitors to Boggart Hole Clough can enjoy a variety of activities, from peaceful walks along shaded trails to more energetic sports on the courts. The park’s varied terrain, including steep ravines and open meadows, offers scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The boating lake adds a charming focal point for relaxation. While the boggart legend adds an element of mystery, the park remains a safe and welcoming environment for families and solo adventurers alike. The blend of natural beauty, folklore, and community spirit makes Boggart Hole Clough a distinctive destination within Greater Manchester.

Preserving a Unique Urban Wilderness

Boggart Hole Clough stands as a rare example of ancient woodland surviving within a major city. Its preservation allows visitors to connect with nature and history simultaneously. The park’s dark folklore enriches its character, inviting curiosity and storytelling. As a green oasis with steep valleys, dense foliage, and a haunting past, it offers a compelling experience that is both relaxing and thought-provoking, embodying the complex relationship between nature, myth, and urban life.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Tonge Hall

3.0 km

Discover Tonge Hall, a rare Elizabethan timber-framed manor in Middleton, blending Tudor grandeur with poignant history and ongoing restoration.

Lowry Footbridge

3.8 km

A Victorian iron bridge immortalized in art, connecting Manchester's industrial past to its present.

Heaton Park Temple

3.8 km

Discover the tranquil neoclassical Heaton Park Temple, perched atop Manchester’s largest park with stunning city views and rich historic charm.

Manchester Old Town Hall Colonnade

4.0 km

A neoclassical relic of Manchester’s first Town Hall, relocated and preserved as a serene monument in Heaton Park.

Heaton Park Papal Monument

4.2 km

A granite testament to faith and history where 200,000 gathered for a papal milestone in 1982.

Murrays' Mill

4.7 km

Explore Murrays' Mills, the world’s oldest urban steam-powered cotton mill, where industrial heritage meets modern living in Manchester’s historic Ancoats district.

Robert Owen Statue

5.0 km

Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.

Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) east portal

5.0 km

Historic tram tunnel portal in Manchester’s industrial Ancoats district, linking past mill heritage with modern urban regeneration.

Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) east portal

Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal

5.1 km

A historic tram tunnel portal in Ancoats, symbolizing Manchester’s industrial heritage and urban transformation.

Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal

Statue of the Duke of Wellington

5.3 km

A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.

The Undamaged Red Post Box

5.3 km

A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.

Victory Over Blindness

5.5 km

A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.

Arch of Chinatown

5.7 km

Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.

Connaught Building

5.7 km

Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.

Dalton Entry

5.7 km

Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.

Unmissable attractions to see

Uniquely Manchester Ltd

3.1 km

Modern, secure, and flexible self-storage and workspace solutions in the heart of Middleton, Manchester.

Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester

3.2 km

Explore Greater Manchester’s rich public transport heritage through one of Britain’s largest collections of historic buses, trams, and trolleybuses.

Heaton Park Tramway

3.6 km

Step back in time with vintage tram rides and a charming museum nestled in Manchester’s scenic Heaton Park.

Heaton Hall

3.9 km

Explore Heaton Hall’s exquisite neoclassical architecture and rich history nestled within Manchester’s expansive Heaton Park.

Philips Park

3.9 km

Historic Philips Park offers 31 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows, and riverside trails in Manchester’s vibrant urban landscape.

Heaton Park

4.0 km

Explore Manchester’s largest park with historic Heaton Hall, vast green spaces, family attractions, and year-round events in a stunning natural setting.

Manchester Jewish Museum

4.0 km

Explore Manchester’s rich Jewish heritage in a beautifully restored 19th-century synagogue, now a vibrant museum and cultural hub.

Ancoats Green

4.3 km

Ancoats Green: a vibrant, sustainable city park blending nature, community, and urban renewal in Manchester’s historic district.

Etihad Stadium

4.4 km

Explore Etihad Stadium, Manchester's iconic venue for football and events, where passion meets modern architecture.

Old Naval Yard

4.5 km

Discover the Old Naval Yard in Ancoats, a historic gateway to Manchester’s rich maritime and industrial heritage nestled in a vibrant urban district.

St Michael's Flags & Angel Meadow Park

4.5 km

A historic green oasis in Manchester, where serene parkland meets the poignant legacy of 40,000 paupers buried beneath St Michael's Flags.

Clayton Hall

4.5 km

Explore Clayton Hall, a rare medieval moated manor in Manchester with Victorian rooms, living history, and rich heritage.

Hallé at St Michael's

4.7 km

Historic church transformed into a vibrant music and community venue in Manchester’s cultural heart of Ancoats.

SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Ancoats

4.7 km

Explore SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE in Ancoats—where craft beer meets delicious food in a vibrant pub atmosphere.

Cutting Room Square

4.7 km

A vibrant urban square in Ancoats blending industrial heritage, contemporary dining, and cultural art installations.

Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.

Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.

Velvet seats, craft cocktails and live jazz in a 1920s‑inspired Manchester speakeasy with a stage for cabaret and private hire.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing

4.7 km

Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.

Hidden at Downtex Mill

5.0 km

Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.

Mint Lounge

5.0 km

Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.

Funkademia

5.0 km

Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.

Aatma

5.0 km

Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.

Cargo

5.1 km

Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.

Twenty Twenty Two

5.2 km

Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.

Bijou Club

5.2 km

Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.

Club Liv Manchester

5.7 km

Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.

Club Tropicana

5.7 km

Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.

Satans Hollow

5.7 km

Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.

Venue Nightclub

5.9 km

Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.

42's

6.0 km

Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.

FAC251 - Factory Manchester

6.0 km

Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.

History Nightclub

6.1 km

Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Boggart Hole Clough: Manchester’s Ancient Woodland with Enigmatic Folklore

A brief summary to Boggart Hole Clough

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Tram and Bus Combination

Car

Walking

Boggart Hole Clough location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Boggart Hole Clough

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Boggart Hole Clough

Ancient Woodland Steeped in History and Nature

Legend of the Boggart: Folklore and Haunting Tales

A Blend of Recreation and Mystery

Community and Conservation Efforts

Experiencing Boggart Hole Clough Today

Preserving a Unique Urban Wilderness

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Tonge Hall

Lowry Footbridge

Heaton Park Temple

Manchester Old Town Hall Colonnade

Heaton Park Papal Monument

Murrays' Mill

Robert Owen Statue

Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) east portal

Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal

Statue of the Duke of Wellington

The Undamaged Red Post Box

Victory Over Blindness

Arch of Chinatown

Connaught Building

Dalton Entry

Unmissable attractions to see

Uniquely Manchester Ltd

Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester

Heaton Park Tramway

Heaton Hall

Philips Park

Heaton Park

Manchester Jewish Museum

Ancoats Green

Etihad Stadium

Old Naval Yard

St Michael's Flags & Angel Meadow Park

Clayton Hall

Hallé at St Michael's

SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Ancoats

Cutting Room Square

Essential places to dine

Vermilion

The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle

RIGATONI'S Ancoats

SUD Pasta Ancoats

mana

Elnecot

Erst

The Counter House

Jimmy's Manchester

Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Ancoats

Canto

Viet Shack Restaurant

Street Urchin

TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar

63 Degrees

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

GRACIOUS APPARELS

Crown HQ

HighMidLows

Annea Veleta

Twisted Smile

The Norah Store

Ancoats General Store

Store Retail Group Ltd

Nordic Muse Lifestyle Store

Kiku Boutique