Peel Park, Salford: A Historic Urban Oasis by the River Irwell
Historic Victorian park in Salford offering riverside walks, family fun, and rich cultural heritage beside the River Irwell.
Peel Park in Salford is one of the UK’s oldest public parks, established in 1846 and named after Prime Minister Robert Peel. Nestled beside the River Irwell and adjacent to the University of Salford, this Victorian park offers scenic riverside walks, vibrant flower beds, historic monuments, and family-friendly amenities including playgrounds and sports courts. It also hosts cultural highlights like the Grade II listed Peel Building and the Salford Museum and Art Gallery, making it a rich blend of nature, heritage, and community activity.
A brief summary to Peel Park
- The Crescent, Salford, Salford, M5 4WU, GB
- +441617932500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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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
- Download the Salford Tree Trail map to explore 25 different tree species throughout the park.
- Visit the nearby Salford Museum and Art Gallery to complement your park experience with local history and art.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching along the River Irwell, where you can spot robins, woodpeckers, and more.
- Use the pay-and-display car park at Salford Museum for convenient parking; disabled spaces are available.
- Check the park run schedule if you prefer a quieter visit, as event days can be busier.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Salford Crescent station, located between Peel Park and the University of Salford. Trains run regularly from Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria, with journey times from central Manchester around 10-15 minutes. The station is fully accessible. Tickets cost approximately £3-£6 depending on origin.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Salford city centre area near Peel Park, with frequent services from Manchester city centre. Journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes. Tickets typically cost £2-£4 for a single fare. Buses operate throughout the day but check schedules on weekends.
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Car
Parking is available at the Salford Museum and Art Gallery car park adjacent to Peel Park. Charges are £2.50 for up to 3 hours, £5.50 for 3-6 hours, and £9 for over 6 hours. There are also three disabled parking spaces accessible at all times. Be aware of potential congestion during events.
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Walking
Peel Park is approximately a 25-minute walk from Manchester city centre, crossing the River Irwell and passing landmarks such as Salford Central train station and Salford Cathedral. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers, though some urban street crossings are involved.
Peel Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Peel Park
A Storied Beginning and Enduring Legacy
Peel Park is a landmark of public green space history, opened in 1846 and named in honor of Sir Robert Peel, a British Prime Minister. It stands as one of the earliest public parks in the United Kingdom, embodying Victorian ideals of accessible nature and recreation for all social classes. The park’s design and layout reflect this heritage, featuring traditional gardens, statues, and monuments that pay tribute to Salford’s past and its notable figures.Natural Beauty Along the River Irwell
Set on the floodplain of the River Irwell, Peel Park offers serene riverside walks perfect for birdwatching and quiet contemplation. The park’s well-maintained flower beds and mature trees create a lush, tranquil environment. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of birds such as robins, blackbirds, and woodpeckers, as well as squirrels and rabbits. The Salford Tree Trail invites visitors to discover 25 different tree species, enhancing the educational and sensory experience.Family-Friendly Recreation and Sports Facilities
Peel Park caters well to families and active visitors, boasting a large children’s play area with slides, climbing frames, and sand diggers. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy tennis courts, a basketball court, and open fields suitable for football, frisbee, or casual picnics. The park regularly hosts community events and activities, fostering a lively atmosphere while providing baby changing facilities and a nearby café for convenience.Architectural and Cultural Highlights
Within the park grounds stands the Peel Building, a Grade II listed structure that was part of the original University of Salford campus. This historic building, along with several statues and monuments scattered throughout the park, offers visitors a glimpse into the local heritage. Adjacent to the park is the Salford Museum and Art Gallery, further enriching the cultural landscape and providing indoor exhibits that complement the outdoor experience.Accessibility and Amenities
Peel Park is open all day, every day, welcoming visitors year-round. It is centrally located in Salford with multiple transport links, including nearby Salford Crescent train station and bus routes. Parking is available at the Salford Museum car park for a fee, with designated disabled spaces. Facilities include restrooms, baby changing, a café, seating areas, and information boards, ensuring a comfortable visit for all.Community Engagement and Events
The park is a hub for local community life, hosting events such as park runs, fairs, and seasonal celebrations. Interactive activities like the "Find It In The Park" game engage children and families in exploring the park’s features. The vibrant atmosphere combined with peaceful natural spaces makes Peel Park a versatile destination for relaxation, exercise, and cultural enrichment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Salford Lads Club
1.2 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
Bahnhof Manchester
1.5 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Roman Gardens
1.7 km
Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
1.7 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
1.7 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
1.8 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Dalton Entry
1.8 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
1.8 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
1.9 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Castlefield historical zone
1.9 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
John Bright Statue
1.9 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Free Trade Hall
1.9 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Albert Memorial
1.9 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Robert Owen Statue
2.0 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
Manchester City Council
2.0 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Statue of Joseph Brotherton
0.0 km
Honoring Salford’s first MP and social reformer, the Statue of Joseph Brotherton stands proudly in historic Peel Park.
Salford Museum & Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Victorian life and vibrant art collections in Salford’s historic museum nestled within scenic Peel Park.
Islington Park
0.9 km
A peaceful urban park in Salford blending natural beauty, fitness facilities, and rich historical roots in a welcoming community setting.
Mural - Peterloo.
1.3 km
A vivid street art mural in Manchester commemorating the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the enduring fight for democracy.
People's History Museum
1.4 km
Britain's national museum of democracy, celebrating radical stories of people fighting for a fairer world.
Albert Park
1.4 km
Historic Albert Park in Salford blends Victorian charm with modern sports facilities and vibrant community spirit in a lush urban setting.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
1.5 km
Dive into the ultimate immersive adventure inspired by the iconic 90s TV show, where teamwork and fun collide in Manchester’s thrilling Crystal Maze LIVE Experience.
Science and Industry Museum
1.6 km
Explore 250 years of innovation and industrial heritage at Manchester’s historic Science and Industry Museum, housed in the world’s oldest passenger railway station.
Parsonage Gardens
1.6 km
A peaceful garden oasis in central Manchester, rich with history and quiet reflection amid the city’s vibrant heart.
Saint John's Gardens
1.6 km
A serene urban oasis in Manchester preserving historic churchyard remnants and offering peaceful green space near Deansgate.
Opera House Manchester
1.6 km
A historic Edwardian theatre in Manchester offering world-class musicals, opera, and vibrant cultural performances in an elegant setting.
House of Fraser
1.6 km
Discover luxury shopping and historic charm at House of Fraser Manchester, a premier department store on Deansgate.
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
1.7 km
A neo-Gothic architectural gem housing one of the UK’s largest rare book collections and a vibrant research institute in the heart of Manchester.
Once Upon a Smile
1.7 km
A dedicated Greater Manchester charity base providing child-centred bereavement support, counselling and creative memory-making programmes in a compassionate, private setting.
Barton Arcade
1.7 km
Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping in the heart of Manchester.
Essential places to dine
Tattu Manchester
1.4 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant
1.5 km
Cozy British dining with eclectic charm and seasonal flavors in Manchester’s lively Spinningfields district.
Masons
1.5 km
Elegant Modern British dining with art deco charm and a refreshingly simple menu philosophy.
20 Stories
1.6 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from 20 Stories, a glamorous rooftop restaurant blending Modern European cuisine with stunning city views.
Climat
1.6 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining in Manchester with panoramic views, a Burgundy-focused wine cellar, and inventive seasonal sharing plates.
San Carlo - Manchester
1.6 km
Experience authentic regional Italian cuisine in a stylish, celebrity-frequented Manchester hotspot known for elegance and vibrant atmosphere.
Gaucho Manchester
1.6 km
Experience premium Argentine steaks and elegant dining in a spectacular historic church setting in the heart of Manchester.
Australasia
1.7 km
Stylish Pan-Asian dining in Manchester’s Spinningfields with vibrant flavors, chic design, and a lively atmosphere for special occasions.
Hawksmoor Manchester
1.7 km
Experience exquisite British steaks and seafood in a historic Victorian courthouse with impeccable service and elegant private dining.
Gusto Italian
1.7 km
Experience elegant Italian dining in Manchester’s historic Elliot House, where 1920s charm meets fresh, contemporary cuisine.
Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester
1.8 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Annies
1.8 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the stylish, cozy setting of Annie's on Old Bank Street, Manchester.
Italiana Fifty Five Great Northern
1.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Manchester’s stylish Great Northern Warehouse setting.
El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
1.8 km
Stylish Spanish tapas in a historic Manchester townhouse with a vibrant bar, open kitchen dining, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
Dukes 92
1.8 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Salford Shopping Centre
1.1 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
1.7 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
1.7 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
1.8 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
TVSeriesJackets
1.8 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Catch my Thrift
1.8 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Søstrene Grene
1.8 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Rams Gift World
1.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.9 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Menkind
2.0 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Hoot
2.1 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Branded Like A Boss
2.1 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
ItsFetch
2.1 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
2.1 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
2.1 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Spinningfields
1.5 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
MOJO
1.5 km
Eclectic cocktail bar in Manchester’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively, urban nightlife vibe.
The Gas Lamp
1.6 km
Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
Be At One - Manchester
1.7 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
1.7 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
Arcane
1.7 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
1.7 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
cask
1.8 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
The Old Wellington
1.8 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
The Wharf
1.8 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
Speak In Code
1.8 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Corbieres Bar
1.8 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
Bar Eight
1.9 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
1.9 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
1.9 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hidden at Downtex Mill
1.4 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Bijou Club
1.7 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Club Liv Manchester
1.7 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
History Nightclub
1.7 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
1.7 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Royal Vida Night Club
1.7 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Venue Nightclub
1.8 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Cargo
2.0 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Ark Manchester
2.0 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
2.0 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Bliss Club Manchester
2.1 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Satans Hollow
2.4 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Viva Manchester
2.4 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Funkademia
2.4 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.
Mint Lounge
2.4 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
