Five Manchester Great Parks To Take Your Elderly Loved Ones To This Easter

*Collaborative Post

Easter is the time of the year where families often really come together. From young to old, we see the sun come out, the temperature climb and the days get lighter and all around a bit more positive.

For elderly loved ones it can be a really important time of the year, with the bleak winter behind them. Whether they’re living in residential care homes for elderly people, alone or with family, getting out and enjoying the Easter period really can be good for their soul.

Across Manchester, loneliness can be a real problem for the elderly. 40% of those considered elderly in the region live alone and that can increase mental health conditions such as isolation and loneliness. Therefore, it’s important to either reach out to loved ones or even volunteer at multiple charities such as Chatterbox and Befriending Networks to decrease that chance.

The spring is the perfect time to do that and getting out to one of Manchester’s many parks provides a good opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and create some memories. Of course, you still need to ensure they are accessible and suitable for those with mobility troubles.

Castlefield Viaduct

We’re starting with the new and a place your elderly loved ones may never have been before. Castlefield Viaduct opened just last year and has been completely transformed from the derelict bridge it once was.

The ‘sky garden’ is operated by the National Trust and is Manchester’s take on the High Line in New York. Of course, we don’t have the Empire State Building, but it will allow your loved one to get a brand new take on what is an ever-changing city.

It’s completely free to visit but it is advised you book a time. You can do so here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cheshire-greater-manchester/castlefield-viaduct

Chadkirk Chapel

Out towards Romiley you’ll find Chadkirk Chapel, a nice short walk that will really surround you in the countryside. It’s especially good to visit during Easter, when there are lots of activities going on at the chapel.

The chapel itself dates back to the 16th century, while the walk itself you can make as long or short as you want from the car park, with the trail up to the chapel along the road not too troubling for people of all mobility.

RHS Garden Bridgewater

Opened in 2021, RHS Garden Bridgewater is only the fifth public display garden from the Royal Horticultural Society and has earned rave reviews not just for the gardens on display, but also its accessibility.

Located in Worsley, the gardens are perfect for a day out, with beautifully landscaped gardens and a cafe that really will bring you a top notch coffee and cake.

Hollingworth Lake

Littleborough is like a seaside town without the sea. Instead, replacing it is Hollingworth Lake, an attraction many of us will remember from childhood.

It’s great for access and the perfect spot to spend a sunny day, enjoy a short stroll and finish that off with some fish and chips from Mr Thomas’. Need we say more?

Etherow Park

Another Goyt Valley option alongside Chadkirk Chapel, Etherow Park is nestled between Romiley and Marple and is actually one of England’s first country parks.

There are tons of trails, including some gentle and accessible options around the boating lake, while you’ll also find a small on-site garden centre, a cafe and plenty of geese.

Pennington Flashes

Over in Wigan, Pennington Flashes is an impressive country park with the industrial heritage of the borough transforming into a stunning location for wildlife.

There are more demanding routes but there are also walks that are fully accessible and wheelchair friendly and a great option for truly immersing yourself and your loved ones in nature this Easter.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.