There are dozens of green spaces in Greater Manchester which are amazing to visit all year round. But some of them are rather scenic in the winter, particularly if there’s been a heavy frost or it’s a bright, clear day.
A woodland walk is especially magical when the weather is chilly and you don’t have to travel far to find one. Located just outside of the M60 on the border of Rochdale is Alkrington Woods.
It’s a quiet, green oasis sandwiched between Manchester Old Road and the Outer Ring Road. Although its larger neighbour Heaton Park is more well-known, Alkrington Woods is the place to go for tranquil woodland walks and pretty waterside views.
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A designated nature reserve, the woods occupy the former Alkrington Hall estate. The land was the site of a manor dating back to the 12th century and it was bought by the Lever family of Bolton in 1627. In 1735 the hall was rebuilt in the Palladian style and today the Grade II* listed building is a private residence.
The land was developed considerably by the Lever family and housed a large calico print works, mills and factories. The estate was sold in the 1830s, with some of the land being used for homes while the industrial land was regenerated into woodland.
Today the nature reserve is a place where you’ll find several ponds, grassy meadows and areas of woodland. It’s especially pretty after a heavy frost when the water is frozen over.
The River Irk flows through the site and there’s an impressive weir towards the west of the reserve. A footpath follows the river which takes you all the way to Heaton Park, around a mile and a half away.
Alkrington Woods is a haven for wildlife, especially for waterfowl, and swans, coots and herons are among those which can be found here. Keep your eyes peeled for parakeets too.
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