Chorlton Water Park: A Tranquil Urban Nature Reserve in Manchester
A peaceful 170-acre nature reserve in Manchester featuring a central lake, woodlands, playground, and accessible trails for family-friendly outdoor enjoyment.
Chorlton Water Park, located off Maitland Avenue in Manchester, is a serene 170-acre Local Nature Reserve centered around a large lake formed from a former gravel pit. Surrounded by woodlands, grasslands, and wildflower meadows, it offers accessible walking paths, a small playground for children, picnic benches, and coarse fishing opportunities. This peaceful green space provides a natural retreat within the city, ideal for families and nature lovers seeking relaxation and outdoor activities.
A brief summary to Chorlton Water Park
- 74 Maitland Ave, Manchester, M21 7WH, GB
- +441618815639
- Duration: 1 to 3 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 a picnic to enjoy at one of the many benches scattered around the park’s scenic lake and meadows.
- Coarse fishing is available with tickets from Chorlton Carp Anglers; swimming is not permitted for safety.
- The small playground is ideal for children aged 12 and under, making it a great family outing spot.
- Explore the accessible walking paths that circle the lake, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the Manchester Metrolink tram to St Werburgh's Road stop, then a 20-minute walk along quiet residential streets to Chorlton Water Park. Trams run every 12 minutes, and a single ticket costs approximately £3.50.
-
Car
Drive to Chorlton Water Park via Maitland Avenue; free parking is usually available but can fill on weekends. The park is about a 20-minute drive from Manchester city centre. Note that parking is limited and no overnight parking is allowed.
-
Bus
Bus services 85 and 86 from Manchester city centre stop near Chorlton Water Park on Wilbraham Road, followed by a 10-minute walk. Buses run every 15–20 minutes with a fare around £3.
-
Walking
From Chorlton centre, enjoy a 25-minute flat walk along quiet streets and green spaces to reach the park, suitable for all fitness levels and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Chorlton Water Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Chorlton Water Park
Origins and Natural Setting of Chorlton Water Park
Chorlton Water Park stands on the historic site of Barlow Hall Farm and was created during the 1970s when gravel was excavated for the construction of the nearby M60 motorway. The flooded gravel pit formed the central lake that defines the park today. Spanning approximately 170 acres, the park comprises a mosaic of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, and wildflower meadows. This blend of environments supports diverse wildlife and plants, making it a valued Local Nature Reserve within the urban fabric of Manchester.Recreational Features and Visitor Facilities
The park is designed for accessible enjoyment with a network of well-maintained paths suitable for all ages and abilities, including wheelchair users. A small playground caters to children aged 12 and under, while picnic benches scattered throughout invite visitors to relax and dine amidst nature. Coarse fishing is permitted on the lake with day or season tickets available through Chorlton Carp Anglers, though swimming is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Free parking is generally available nearby, enhancing convenience for visitors.Community Engagement and Conservation Efforts
Chorlton Water Park benefits from an active community group, the Friends of Chorlton Water Park, who regularly organize events and collaborate with Manchester City Council to maintain and improve the park. Their efforts help preserve the park’s natural habitats and promote environmental education. Visitors can often spot memorial benches and signage reflecting personal stories and local heritage, adding a layer of community character to the tranquil setting.Wildlife and Seasonal Highlights
The park’s diverse habitats attract a variety of birds, insects, and small mammals, making it a rewarding spot for wildlife observation and nature photography. Seasonal changes bring vibrant wildflower displays and the blooming of orchids, such as the common spotted and northern marsh orchids. These natural spectacles enhance the park’s appeal throughout the year, offering different experiences with each season.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Open from dawn to dusk every day, Chorlton Water Park offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. Its accessible paths and family-friendly amenities make it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. The park’s calm waters, scenic woodlands, and open meadows provide a restorative environment for walking, picnicking, and quiet contemplation. Dogs are not permitted in the children’s play area, ensuring a safe space for young visitors.Location and Nearby Attractions
Situated in South Manchester’s Chorlton area, the park is easily reachable by car and public transport, with nearby amenities including cafes and other green spaces like Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens. Its proximity to urban conveniences combined with its natural charm makes it a favored destination for locals and tourists seeking a nature escape within the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Clement's Parish Church
2.1 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
Stretford Weir
2.7 km
Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.
LS Lowry birthplace
4.3 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
4.5 km
Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.
Sky Hook Statue 1
4.7 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
The Old Quadrangle
5.3 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur where academic tradition meets architectural magnificence in Manchester's heart.
The Queen's Arch
5.3 km
The Queen's Arch: Manchester’s iconic Gothic gateway to a rich academic and architectural heritage on Oxford Road.
Manchester Histories
5.4 km
Uncover the vibrant history of Manchester at Manchester Histories, where stories of the past come alive through engaging exhibitions and community events.
John Dalton Statue
5.8 km
Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
Friedrich Engels Statue
5.8 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
5.8 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Castlefield historical zone
5.8 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Hotspur House
5.8 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
5.9 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
5.9 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marie Louise Gardens
1.9 km
A Victorian memorial garden where rare heritage trees and urban wildlife create Manchester's most peaceful green sanctuary.
Chorlton Ees Nature Reserve
2.0 km
A peaceful 58-hectare nature reserve near Manchester, blending woodlands and meadows for tranquil wildlife encounters and scenic walks.
Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
2.9 km
Historic botanical gardens and wildlife haven in Manchester, blending rich conservation heritage with serene landscapes and community charm.
A Better Tomorrow - Together We Stand Mural
3.9 km
A vibrant mural in Old Trafford celebrating unity, hope, and community strength through bold street art.
Sunny Alley
4.1 km
A vibrant, community-driven alley in Manchester’s Rusholme, alive with culture, art, and local spirit.
Platt Fields Park
4.1 km
Historic green oasis in Manchester’s Fallowfield, blending heritage, nature, and vibrant community recreation.
Ashburne Tree Man
4.3 km
Discover Fallowfield’s iconic Ashburne Tree Man, a living sculpture blending nature and art in a serene urban setting.
Open Mural
4.4 km
Explore the Open Mural in Old Trafford, Manchester – an artistic gem showcasing vibrant local creativity and culture in a stunning outdoor setting.
Reflective Passage
4.4 km
Discover Reflective Passage, a tranquil, greened alley in Manchester’s Moss Side where community spirit and urban nature beautifully converge.
The Quays Practice
4.4 km
A trusted community medical practice offering comprehensive healthcare services in Salford’s vibrant Lowry complex.
The Journey Mural
4.5 km
Explore the Journey Mural in Manchester, a vibrant public artwork that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of the community.
Alexandria Library
4.5 km
Discover Alexandria Library, a vibrant second-hand bookshop and community hub in Manchester’s Curry Mile, offering free English classes and local art exhibitions.
Fortitude Mural
4.6 km
A vibrant mural in Old Trafford symbolizing Manchester’s enduring spirit, unity, and rich industrial heritage.
Al-alam Palace Manchester
4.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Al Alam Palace Manchester, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Hulme’s peaceful gardens.
Old Trafford
4.6 km
Explore Old Trafford, the iconic 'Theatre of Dreams' and largest football club stadium in the UK, home to Manchester United's legendary legacy.
Essential places to dine
No 4 Dine & Wine
2.7 km
Intimate modern European dining in Didsbury with seasonal menus, expert service, and genuine warmth.
Quay House Beefeater
5.5 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
5.5 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
The Banyan Tree
5.5 km
Bohemian bistro in Castlefield serving fusion bites, brunch, cocktails, and live events amid murals and canal vibes—Manchester's go-to for eclectic dining.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
5.5 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
5.5 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Unagi
5.6 km
Experience the North West’s largest sushi bar with vibrant pan-Asian street food, crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere at MediaCityUK’s Unagi.
Lime
5.6 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Nando's Salford Quays
5.6 km
Savor flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in a lively, accessible setting at Nando's Salford Quays, where Portuguese and South African flavors meet Manchester’s vibrant quayside.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
5.7 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
Dukes 92
5.8 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester
5.8 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
The Botanist Media City
5.8 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
Dom's Italia
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Manchester at Dom's Italia, where tradition meets vibrant city dining.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
5.8 km
Experience Simon Wood’s innovative fine dining and artisan pairings in a stylish yet relaxed Manchester setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A Curious Collection
3.1 km
Discover Withington’s charming boutique gift shop offering unique, locally crafted treasures that celebrate Manchester’s creative spirit.
SPAR Salford Quays
5.2 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
5.4 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
The Body Shop
5.5 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
Flock and Gaggle
5.5 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
Utility Gift Store
5.5 km
Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
M&S Outlet
5.5 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Sweet Emporium
5.5 km
Discover UK's vastest sweet collection at The Sweet Emporium in MediaCityUK—a family-run paradise of nostalgic candies, retro treats, and global confections that sparks joy for every sweet tooth.
Next Outlet
5.5 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
The Works
5.6 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
INFINITE RUNNING
5.6 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
ItsFetch
5.6 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
5.6 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
5.6 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Branded Like A Boss
5.6 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Matchstick Man
5.3 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
11 Central
5.5 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Craftbrew
5.6 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
Bar Eight
5.7 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
The Wharf
5.7 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.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
5.8 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
5.8 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
The Dockyard
5.8 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
Atlas Bar
5.8 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
5.8 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
Lock 91
5.9 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
The Deansgate
5.9 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
The Britons Protection
6.0 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
Gorilla
6.0 km
Manchester's ultimate hybrid haunt: brunch by day, beats by night in a funky bar-club fusion with live gigs and roasts.
Cloud 23
6.0 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ark Manchester
5.9 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
5.9 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Kable
5.9 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Bliss Club Manchester
5.9 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Viva Manchester
6.0 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Royal Vida Night Club
6.2 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.
History Nightclub
6.2 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
6.3 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Satans Hollow
6.4 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
6.4 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.
Venue Nightclub
6.4 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
The Cockatoo Club
6.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
Club Liv Manchester
6.6 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Twenty Twenty Two
6.9 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.
Aatma
7.1 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
