During the summer months, Greater Manchester’s parks become a haven for families, especially in the school holidays. Free to visit, they let children run free, burn off energy and use their imagination. Attractions are spread across all 10 boroughs, whether that’s Zip World in Heaton Park or the lakes and mill ponds that make up Etherow Country Park.
Wythenshawe Park may look from the outside as if it offers just a few fields and woodland paths, but it is packed with activities – many completely free.
Play area, pumptrack and sports courts
It has a large play area with climbing frames and slides for little ones. Older children can use the dedicated pumptrack, ideal for mountain biking and BMX. Tennis courts, football pitches, basketball courts and a multi-use games area cover other sports.
A working farm open to all
The park is also home to a working farm that is completely free to visit. Located next to the free car park in the centre, it is easy to spot from the pig sties at the entrance. Inside the farmyard are sheep and cows, while the walled garden at the back has chickens, turkeys, ducks and goats. It can be explored at your own pace, giving children a chance to get up close to different animals.
Farm shop, cafe and Horticultural Centre
The farm shop sells small tubs of ice cream for £2, usually cheaper than the cones from the ice cream van parked outside. The park’s cafe, Pebble and Friends, is a short walk away in a stable block, serving breakfasts, burgers, pizzas and more.
Another free attraction is the Horticultural Centre, which has greenhouses filled with plants from across the globe and a koi carp pond. If you simply fancy a family walk, there are plenty of paths, including one that loops around the park’s perimeter.
Wythenshawe Park, Wythenshawe Road, M23 0AB.
