Greater Manchester has some pretty amazing parks and green spaces where people can go to exercise, relax and unwind. But not only people love to visit them, dogs love them too.

From bouncy springers to tiny Chihuahuas, you’ll see dogs of all shapes and sizes running around, bringing joy to their owners and passers-by alike. Let’s be honest, we all like to meet a dog when we go for a walk.

In honor of National Dog Walking Day on February 22, we’re rounding up some of the best walks you can take with your four-legged friends in Greater Manchester. If you have any more recommendations, please let us know in the comments section below.

The romantic walk a short distance from Manchester that seems to be taken from a fairy tale

Philips Park, Prestwich

If you’re looking for an alternative place to Heaton Park to walk your dog, then Philips Park in Prestwich is well worth a visit. It offers a mix of wooded areas and grassy fields, located just inside the M60.

There are many trails for you and your dog to explore. The River Irwell flows through the park if you want to enjoy riverside views – look out for the impressive listed viaducts.

New Islington Marina, Ancoats

For those who live in the center of the city, New Islington Marina is the ideal place to bring your dog. It’s an oasis of calm with a promenade running around the edge of the marina, with views of the colorful barges moored there.

If your dog is willing to socialize, you’re almost always guaranteed to run into a four-legged companion around here. There are also some green areas with wooden benches, where dogs can play.

Platt Fields Park, Manchester

Located south of the city, Platt Fields Park is a picturesque place to walk your dog. At the center of this Edwardian park is a stunning boating lake.

Your dog will love the large green areas and the different areas to explore.

Clayton Vale, Manchester

Clayton Vale offers you a slice of countryside just a stone’s throw from the center of Manchester. It is a beautiful nature reserve created on the site of a former garbage dump.

It is ideal for dogs who love riverside walks as the Medlock River flows through it, while there are also wooded areas. Take your dog on one of the many trails and get lost in nature.

Etherow Country Park, Stockport

For dogs who love variety, Etherow Country Park has a lot to offer. This Stockport park features 200 acres of green space with woodland, lakes, marshes, and a river.

It has a beautiful lake as well as an impressive dam. Along the sides of the valley are areas of old growth forest with trails through the trees.

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