The region boasts a number of beautiful parks, woodlands and green spaces, but there’s one in particular that’s easy to get to by car and public transport
There’s a strong argument to say that May might be one of the best months of the year. That’s because it boasts not one, but two Bank Holiday weekends.
The first, which takes place this weekend, has fallen during a glorious spell of weather, with warmer temperatures making it a great time to get outside and soak up the sun.
While some may use the three-day weekend to jump in the car and head to the seaside or countryside, there’s plenty of places nearby where you can make the most of the extended break, and without the worry of traffic jams and long car journeys.
Greater Manchester boasts a number of beautiful parks, woodlands and green spaces, but there’s one in particular that’s easy to get to by car and public transport, and it’s less than 20 minutes outside the city centre.
With its beautiful blossom, plentiful green space and numerous walking routes, Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens and Park in Didsbury is one of the most picturesque spots to spend the long weekend.
If you’re not familiar, it is tucked between the southern end of Didsbury and the River Mersey, and it is is split into numerous areas.
There’s the botanical gardens, which features a beautiful rockery, pond, tiny waterfall and a wide variety of shrubs and trees. It is named after the philanthropist Alderman Fletcher Moss, who donated the park to the city of Manchester in 1915.
The part botanical garden, part wildlife habitat, provides visitors with an open, green space to explore as well as tennis courts, rugby and football pitches, and a small tea room and outdoor food and drink truck.
Then there’s the gardens, which give way to the park itself. Here, you’ll find a rose garden, grassy areas and a woodland walk which leads you to the River Mersey.
The beauty of Fletcher Moss is you can make your wall or stroll as long or as short as you want, but wherever you end up there’s always somewhere to pop yourself down and enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings.
For a short stroll, you can explore the winding paths in the rockery, but if you’re in the mood for a longer walk, you can take the paths which lead you along Stenner Woods until you reach the river, where you can pick up the riverside path.
Near the entrance to Fletcher Moss as you head towards Didsbury Village is the tearoom, which is a charming spot to stop for a drink and slice of cake before or after your walk.
It typically opens daily around 8am and closes between 4-5pm depending on the day. It also operates an outdoor food truck called Fletcher Moss Food Truck.
On a sunny day, it’s a lovely spot to grab a seat on one of the benches or tables and chairs and enjoy some lunch, an ice cream, soft drink, or even a cocktail.
Boasting an extensive menu, those stopping off can choose from a range of subs (from £8.50), wraps (£10.50) and toasted ciabattas (from £9.25) as well as sides like Cajun spiced potatoes. They also do a children’s hot dog with ketchup as well as specials, homemade quiche and soup with bread – the latter priced at £6.
On a warm day though, a iced frappe (from £4) goes down a treat, and here they also offer refreshing options such as raspberry lemonade, homemade still lemon, fresh orange and lemon, plus coolers and a ‘Didsbury Garden’ with elderflower, mint, apple and cucumber.
There’s wine by the glass from £6.50 too, plus Prosecco (7.50), Aperol Spritz (£9.50), Pimms Royale (£9.50) and a Gin & Tonic Frappe (£8). Those who want a spirit and mixer will also find a wide range of options too.
A spring or summer stroll wouldn’t be complete without a sweet treat too. Here they offer a small selection of ice cream flavours (from £4 for a waffle cone) and ice lollies including chocolate, vanilla and strawberry as well as specials such as salted caramel and a Biscoff.
If you have time to linger, and one the way back out of the park, there’s also a horticultural gem in the form of Parsonage Gardens, which is tucked between Ye Olde Cock Inn and The Didsbury on Stenner Lane.
Unlike other parks and gardens where you can peek through wrought iron fences, the Parsonage Gardens is hidden behind high walls, but if you head through the stone archway you’ll discover a tranquil oasis with multicoloured flower beds, towering trees and velvety, grass lawns.
In the heart of the small gardens is The Old Parsonage, a Grade II-listed building with sits next to the original village green of Didsbury. It was the former home of Alderman Fletcher Moss who left the building and gardens to the citizens of Manchester, he had lived in the house with his parents and bought the house in 1885.
Fletcher Moss Park and Gardens is located at 18 Stenner Ln, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2RQ.
