As Greater Manchester braces for a fifth heatwave, with temperatures expected to peak at 32C and health alerts issued for parts of the UK facing 36C, Drinkwater Park in Prestwich offers a shaded retreat. Located west of Prestwich, this woodland and meadow area feels like the countryside despite lying inside the M60.
A Natural Haven with Riverside Trails
The River Irwell flows through the park, and a reservoir sits among the trees. Historically, the river supplied water to the Clough Bleach and Dye Works. The park is criss-crossed with walking trails, forming part of the wider Prestwich Forest Park, which includes Philips Park, Mere Clough, Prestwich Clough, Forest Bank Park in Pendlebury, and Waterdale Meadow. The National Cycle Network 6 and the Irwell Sculpture Trail also run through the site.
Home to native woodland, open meadows, and riverbanks, the park prioritises rugged beauty over manicured lawns, with shaded paths and opportunities to disconnect. Habitats range from the central reservoir to wooded areas, supporting frogs, toads, kingfishers, herons, foxes, rabbits, and occasionally deer.
Activities and History
Popular with walkers, runners, dog walkers, and cyclists, the park also offers horse riding and fishing in a shallow three-acre lake. Its history dates to the 1970s when textile mill owner Peter Drinkwater bought the land, staying at Irwell House, a Georgian mansion on the riverbank. After his son died, the land was left to his daughters and later bought by Salford and Prestwich councils in 1902. Irwell House became a smallpox hospital but was abandoned and fell into disrepair.
In 1958, the house was damaged in a fire during a civil defence exercise and demolished a few years later. Today, the foundations, remnants of walls, and overgrown gardens remain as nature reclaims the site.
Access and Facilities
Access from Prestwich centre is via St Ann's Road and Lowther Road, or Ruskin Road down to Prestwich Clough and a route to Drinkwater. A 7.5km Drinkwater Park Nature Reserve Loop starts from Salford. The park is open 24 hours, 365 days a year, at Rainsough Brow, Prestwich, M25 9XW.
