The school holidays are here — which means trips to the seaside, days out to castles as a family, and the inevitable boredom that hits every child during their six-week break.
After a year of being homeschooled on-and-off, it might be harder than ever to convince your little ones that there’s plenty to do within the four walls of home, or the fences of a garden.
So, if you need to nip out to stop your youngster spend another afternoon in front of a screen, Stockport has a vast array of public parks to help your child burn off some energy.
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Of the borough’s 33 public parks, we’ve picked out the best five in town — with the help of local mums on social media.
Here are their five picks for where you should be heading this summer.
1. Alexandra Park, Edgeley
Affectionately known as ‘Alex Park’ by Edgeley residents, this space is a favourite of anglers and explorers alike.
That’s because as well as having three crown green bowling greens, a play area, tennis courts, a basketball area, and a skatepark, Alexandra Park also features a large body of water.
Sykes Reservoir, as it is officially known, is at the south end of the park, and perfect to discover more about nature.
Address: Alexandra Park, Edgeley Road, Edgeley, Stockport, SK1 3XE.
Free parking, five minute walk from Stockport Station, buses X69, 368, 369 and 371 run near the park.
2. Torkington Park, Hazel Grove
Some say Torkington Park is the jewel in Hazel Grove’s crown — and it’s easy to see why.
With a sublime combination of history and nature, there really is a full day’s worth of adventure packed into the park.
It has a secret garden, a formal flower garden, plenty of sports pitches, and Torkington Lodge, a grade II listed Regency building.
Address: Torkington Park, Torkington Road, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 4RQ.
Two public car parks, 800m from Hazel Grove Railway Station, Bus routes 191, 192, 199, 361, 392, 393 run near the park from Stockport.
3. Bruntwood Park, Cheadle
By far the most popular suggestion on social media, Bruntwood Park is a favourite of scores of Stopfordian families.
Its play area is one of the best in the north west, let alone Stockport. It’s also fully accessible for children with access needs.
To add to that, children can have a go on the free BMX track — provided they are wearing the right clothing.
Address: Bruntwood Park, Bruntwood Lane, Cheadle, Stockport, SK8 1HX.
Pay and display car park available, Cheadle Hulme train station is 2.5km from the park, and bus routes 309 and 310 from Stockport run near to the park.
4. Thornfield Park, Heaton Mersey
Despite being a small park at 1.8 hectares (4.4 acres), Thornfield’s play area is well-liked. That’s because it’s got a fence to keep dogs out, and full safety surfacing.
There’s also a multi-use games area, tennis courts, and a bowling green.
Address: Thornfield Park, Thornfield Road, Heaton Mersey, Stockport, SK4 3JT.
No car parking, Heaton Chapel train station is 1.5km away, buses 42A and 84 run near the park from Stockport.
5. Heaton Mersey Common
Although not a park in the traditional sense, this expanse of greenery is perfect for kids to see nature, with some park regulars spotting a family of heron and a ‘rogue terrapin’.
All paths and trails are wheelchair accessible, too.
Address: Heaton Mersey Common, Mersey Road, Heaton Mersey, Stockport, SK4 3DE.
No car parking, nearest train and Metrolink station is East Didsbury 1km away, bus route 142 goes near the park from Stockport.
Where else do you recommend? Have your say in the comments.
All information taken from Stockport Council.
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