Instead of going out for a meal at a fancy restaurant, why not do something a bit different this Valentine’s Day and visit one of Greater Manchester’s beauty spots. From grand country houses which look like they’re out of a Jane Austen novel, to hills with panoramic views, there are lots of romantic locations you can visit with a partner.
Enjoy a romantic stroll round a reservoir with a loved one, or have a wander around a picturesque village. Even if Valentine's Day isn’t for you, these locations are still worth visiting for a trip over the weekend.
We’ve rounded up some of the most romantic beauty spots in Greater Manchester (plus a couple nearby) to visit at this time of year.
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Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens, Didsbury
Fletcher Moss is a lovely green oasis you can explore in Didsbury with gorgeous scenery. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore all year around, with narrow paths which weave their through the plants and a charming pond.
You can even go for a longer walk through the park and along the River Mersey. After taking a stroll round the garden you could always head into Didsbury for that romantic meal.
Worsley Village, Salford
Worsley Village is one of the most picturesque places in Salford. There’s a lovely canal side walk you can do which takes in the village’s pretty scenery.
With mock Tudor buildings this village is full of character and provides a gorgeous backdrop for a romantic stroll. There are several pubs nearby too where you can enjoy a cosy drink drink or two.
Dunham Massey, Altrincham
Enjoy a wander around the grounds of Dunham Massey and you’ll feel as if you're in a Jane Austen adaptation. The gardens themselves are simply stunning and will leave you feeling inspired.
It has a 7-acre winter garden so there's plenty to see even in February, and you may even spot a deer or two in the grounds.
Rivington Terraced Gardens, Rivington
With romantic follies and tranquil ponds, this is a magical place to visit and unlike anywhere else in Greater Manchester. There’s lots of hidden gems to discover around the gardens and you can take your time exploring the different areas.
The Italian Lake and Japanese Gardens are particularly beautiful. The Pigeon Tower is a unique place to visit and really does feel like it's straight out of a fairytale.
Lyme Park, Disley
If you were a fan of Colin Firth in the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice then you visit the place where the iconic wet shirt scene was filmed. A stone’s throw away from Stockport, Lyme Park is located near the village of Disley and it was used as Pemberley in the TV series.
The famous scene wasn’t actually filmed in the lake in front of the house, but at a second, much deeper lake elsewhere in the grounds. Enjoy a walk around the grounds and imagine that you’re in your own Jane Austen novel.
Tandle Hill, Oldham
Offering impressive views, this is definitely a romantic location overlooking Manchester and the Pennine Hills. You can take a walk through woodland areas but climbing to the view point at the war memorial is a must.
It’s the perfect spot to take a loved one and share a special moment. The hike to the top is worth it and will be sure to leave your partner impressed.
Denzell Gardens, Altrincham
Hidden behind Dunham Road in Altrincham is a beautiful ornamental garden, centred around a grand Victorian house. Denzell Gardens is filled with a range of plants, trees and pretty details.
Take a wander around and you’ll discover a beautiful sunken garden, a Peace Garden which features seasonal flowers and a beautiful pond overlooked by trees. The gardens have even been used as a backdrop for wedding photos.
Dovestone Reservoir, Oldham
With dramatic views of the surrounding moorland and the reservoir mirroring the sky, Dovestone is a gorgeous spot to visit. Improvement works are currently underway so you can't do a full circuit of the reservoir, but you can still enjoy a walk along sections of the reservoir edge.
If you really want to push the boat out, head to the Trinnacle, a towering rock formation which overlooks the reservoir creating a picture-perfect location.
Hartshead Pike, Ashton-under-Lyne
Another gorgeous viewpoint, Hartshead Pike has impressive views of Ashton-under-Lyne, Mossley, Saddleworth, Lees and Oldham. On a clear day you can even see as far as Snowdonia in Wales.
At the summit is the tower, a Grade II listed building to commemorate the marriage of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales and Princess Alexandra of Denmark in 1863 - so it’s a location which certainly has a romantic history.
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