Are you looking for the best dog walks in Manchester? We are here to help! Manchester is a very dog friendly city and there are many things you can do in Manchester with your dogs.
One of the most obvious ones is going for a walk.
Between the numerous parks, canals and hikes available, you will be in for a treat.
While everywhere is not dog friendly, there are still a lot of places where you can take your furry friend for a stroll.
In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the best dog walks in Manchester. Ready? Let’s get started!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!
Heaton Park
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 30 mins / 3 miles
For dog-friendly walks in Manchester head to Heaton Park. You will first head towards the 18th century Heaton Hall which leads you on a path around the wooded hills.
Along this walk, you will pass by the Orangery, Heaton Hall, the animal centre, the children’s play area and the bowling green. It also passes by the picturesque Heaton Park Boating Lake.
This is a lovely gentle walk that you and your dog will enjoy. It’s also great if you are traveling with children because they can pause to explore the playground.
Heaton Park welcomes dogs and their owners as long as they are on lead, however, there are some areas where dogs are not allowed, for example at the animal park.
Please note that the pedal boat hire company also allows dogs on their boats so if you want to do something fun, head there!
HOW TO GET THERE: It is easiest to reach Heaton Park by car via the A576. There are five car parks around the park. You should park by the car park in the northwest of the park.
It is possible to take the 59 buses from Victoria Station Approach to Victoria Avenue. Then you’ll need to walk for 10 minutes.
Platt Fields Park
Platt Fields Park might be on the periphery of Manchester in Fallowfield, but it’s a very popular spot for dog walkers.
This park is great for providing your dog with a ton of stimulus as there are pathways, a grass area and woodlands.
Though dogs aren’t allowed at the playing area, the bowling green or the Shakespeare or rose gardens there are so many other places they can play and explore.
You can easily walk for two miles and longer if you twist and wind your way around the entire park.
The main loop trail starts close to the Platt Field Market Garden, circles the pond and heads outwards towards Wilmslow Road.
HOW TO GET THERE: One of the easiest ways to reach Platt Fields Park from central Manchester is to take the 143 West Didsbury bus to Old Hall Lane (30 minutes) and then walk for about five minutes.
It takes around 15 minutes to drive to the free Platt Fields Car Park (M14 6LA).
Daisy Nook Country Park
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 30 mins / 2.1 miles
The Daisy Nook Country Park is in Failsworth in Greater Manchester. You can begin your walk as soon as you get off the bus or from the car park which is located off Newmarket Road.
You and your four-legged friends will first pass by the pond and continue through the woodland. With so much to smell, see and touch in the woods, your dogs will be wagging their tails in no time.
You will then travel along parts of the canal and cross over the River Medlock bridge. This is a circular loop so you will pass through a final stretch of woodland before reaching the car park again.
With amenities like toilets and cafes, you can take it easy and enjoy your time at Daisy Nook Country Park. Despite being close to Manchester you will instantly feel like you’re in the countryside.
HOW TO GET THERE: It’s possible to drive there via Oldham Road and A62 taking around 30 minutes from central Manchester. It is also possible to hop on the 230 or 231 bus from Piccadilly Gardens (Stop D) direct to Daisy Nook Country Park.
Manchester Bolton and Bury Canal
Canal walks are a great thing to do in Manchester and dogs always love it!
If you want to get away from the crowds and discover some hidden gems, head to Radcliffe in North Manchester.
You can start from the MetroLink and head to the canal nearby.
From there, you can walk all the way to Bury.
It’s a beautiful place with loads of ducks, swans but also horses in the fields.
It’s also a beautiful sunset spot so if you go there late afternoon, you will love seeing the colours.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can drive to Radcliffe and park at the MetroLink. From there you just need to cross the road and start the walk.
If you’re taking public transport, you can take the tram with your dog and start from there.
Tyldesley Loopline
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 20 mins / 3.3 miles
The Tyldesley Loopline starts in Little Hulton towards Worsley Woods. It’s a paved walking and cycling route that is also suitable for dog walkers.
You can start this walk just off Hough Lane along the A5082.
One of the best things about this route is that it is relatively quiet so you won’t encounter too many people. It is best to keep dogs on leads though because it’s also a mountain biking route.
That being said there are sections of the route where it is suitable to allow your dog off lead. You will first head north and pass over the A577 Manchester Road.
You will mostly be walking on well-maintained paths that are tree-lined, as well as a small section running parallel to the railway line.
On the return leg of the walk, you will pass by small brooks and through the market town of Tyldesley.
The Tyldesley Loopline is a super accessible dog walk that wheelchair users and young children will love, as well as your pet dog.
HOW TO GET THERE: To reach the start of this walk it’s easiest to drive via the M602 and it takes less than 30 minutes.
It is also possible to take the V1 or V2 Vantage bus from St Peter’s Square (Stop SD) to Hough Lane. The bus takes around 30 minutes.
Chorlton Water Park
Chorlton Water Park is in Greater Manchester on the banks of the River Mersey. The park is a local water reserve and has a lake surrounded by beautiful woodlands and grasslands.
This is another of the best dog-friendly walks in Manchester. Dogs are welcome everywhere except for the toilets and children’s play area. This is another great park for you and your pooch to enjoy all year round.
There are a series of pathways that meander around the park and you are welcome to walk your dog along. Watch as anglers catch fish and people bask in the sun.
There are several park benches and picnic tables for you and your dog to take a break and hydrate.
Instead of one set walking route, it’s best to see where your feet (or your dog) take you and explore the whole park.
On summer weekends Chorlton Water Park does get quite busy so it’s important to keep your dog on the lead as you navigate the people.
HOW TO GET THERE: From the city centre it takes around 25 minutes to drive to Chorlton Water Park where you will find a car park on Maitland Avenue (M21 7WH).
It’s not so practical to take public transport but you can take the tram to Barlow Moor Road (Navy Line) and walk around 20 minutes to the park.
Rochdale Canal Towpath from Piccadilly
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 30 min / 4.3 miles
For dog walks in Manchester city centre try walking along the Rochdale canal towpath.
If you want to be in the heart of Manchester but not be walking your dog on the busy streets, then the canal is a great place for a morning or evening walk.
Not only is the Rochdale Canal a great place for dog walking it’s also steeped in history. From Piccadilly station take the Station Approach ramp and walk for around 100 metres until you see the canal.
You will then want to turn left onto the road running next to the canal, this is the Rochdale Canal towpath.
You will pass locks and then a tunnel at Deansgate and into the Castlefield area of Manchester.
You can take a detour down Bridge Street, past Manchester town hall until you will eventually reach Piccadilly Gardens.
You will then eventually connect back with the Rochdale Canal towpath and finish at your starting spot.
HOW TO GET THERE: If you are traveling from outside of Manchester, chances are you will arrive at Manchester Piccadilly where this walk begins.
If not, it’s super close to popular places like the Northern Quarter (9 minute walk) and the Arndale Centre (15 minute walk).
Sale Water Park
- Time / Distance: 50 min / 2.1 miles
For excellent dog walks near Manchester check out Sale Water Park.
The park is in the south of the city and provides visitors and dog walkers with access to beautiful countryside, woodlands, and meadows; all just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Manchester.
There’s a great circular dog-friendly walk you can take at Sale Water Park.
You can start at the car park and head towards the Manchester Dragon Boat Club.
The walk then follows a beautiful meander in the River Mersey (which will be on your left).
Not only will your dog enjoy the new environment but if they are so inclined, they can cool off in the water as well.
During the summer there’s plenty for you to see as well as your dog. People launch their sailboats and even jet skis on the water.
HOW TO GET THERE: Sale Water Park can be reached by the tramway from St Peter’s Square (Navy Line) to Sale Water Park stop.
Then you will have to walk around 10 minutes to the main part of the park.
Alternatively, you can drive which takes just under 30 minutes via the A56. You can park at the main water park car park on Cow Lane.
Outwood Country Park
- Time / Distance: 1 hr / 2.6 miles
Another of the best places for dog walks in Manchester is Outwood Country Park. You may also see the Outwood Country Park being referred to as the Outwood Trail.
This Manchester dog walk starts just off Ringley Road West outside The Urban Cycle Centre CIC.
The walk heads north towards the River Irwell, navigates the Outwood Country Park, past the Hare & Hounds pub and back along Ringley Road West.
This country park dog walk doesn’t just meander through natural scenery but it’s also part of the Irwell Sculpture Trail.
This sculpture trail is actually the largest public art scheme in England and includes 28 art sculptures between Salford Quays and the Pennines.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can reach Outwood Country Park from Manchester city centre via the A56 and it takes around 30 minutes.
Burrs Country Park, Bury
- Time / Distance: 1 hr / 2.1 miles
If you are searching for dog walks in north Manchester, head to Burrs Country Park. This country park is in Greater Manchester in the town of Bury.
You will definitely feel like you’ve left Manchester with this dog-walking spot.
It’s a lovely place to stroll with your dog and on warm days your furry friend can enjoy a dip in the river.
What is more, after your walk you can head for a drink or a bite to eat at the Brown Cow Pub which is also dog-friendly.
It’s nice knowing there’s a guaranteed space inside and out where you can relax with your dog.
For a lovely hour long walk, try the circular 2.1 mile walk that starts at the entrance to Burrs Country Park.
Along the walk, you will enjoy a variety of habits that will be pleasing to both you and your dog. From woodlands to ponds and waterways and the River Irwell there is plenty to see.
Nearer the end of the walk, you will pass along the East Lancashire Railway.
You’ll want your dog on the lead here as there may be a steam train that passes by.
HOW TO GET THERE: From Manchester’s city centre it takes around 45 minutes to drive to Burrs Country Park. You can park on Woodhill Road.
The Wharf Manchester City Walk, Castlefield
- Time / Distance: 1 hr / 2.1 miles
For another of the best dog walks in Manchester city centre head to The Wharf.
The walk starts at The Wharf pub in Castlefield.
This dog-walking route in Manchester is popular among locals and tourists alike. You will need to keep your dog on the lead and prepare for more than a few sniffing stops!
You will first head towards Merchants Bridge and then pass down the side of the Rochdale Canal just off Castle Street.
The walk takes in all the nooks and crannies along the canal and the area is brimming with things to see. You will then pass over a bridge on Princess Street and head towards Chinatown.
This is a wonderful walk for those who are new to Manchester and want to exercise their pooch whilst also exploring some of the famous city centre sites.
Dog walkers on this route particularly like the Castlefield section and the fact the route is easy to follow.
HOW TO GET THERE: If you are arriving from other parts of Manchester or outside you will want to take the train to Deansgate train station from here it’s super close to the start of the walk.
Phillips Park
- Time / Distance: 1 hr / 1.3 miles
Phillips Park is an excellent family and dog-friendly park on the River Medlock. Of the dog walks around Manchester city centre this is one of the quickest to get to.
The park offers dog walkers a variety of landscapes, including grassland, woodland, the river and rolling country hills.
Your dog will love this open space and you’ll love the convenience.
One of the most popular walks in the park is the 1.3 mile loop around the park. It’s an easy and quick walk if you are short on time for your dog walk.
Dogs must be on the leash but it’s usually a peaceful route with few people.
The walk starts at the Philips Park Lodge and follows a circular path except for a detour across the River Medlock in the north of the park.
One of the park’s best features is the line of cherry blossom trees, which provide a welcomed injection of pastel pink to Philips Park.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can drive to Philips Park via the A662.
You will find parking if you head to the main entrance on Stuart Street. It is also possible to reach Philips Park in 30 minutes via the 216, 230 or 231 buses from Piccadilly Gardens stopping at City Football Academy.
From there you will need to walk for about 10 minutes to reach the park.
Fletcher Moss Park and Gardens
- Time / Distance: 1 hr / 2.6 miles
For dog walks in south Manchester head to Fletcher Moss Park and Gardens. This is another great park in the Didsbury area and an excellent place for dog walking.
There’s a popular walking loop that goes around Fletcher Moss Park. The walk starts at Millgate Lane and heads northeast around the park.
Dogs are allowed in the park, but they are not allowed in the gardens for obvious reasons…we all know one of those plant-digging, soil-flinging Jack Russells.
There’s also a café at the park which welcomes dogs. The walk passes along Stenner Lane before the corner and hugs the River Mersey.
With plenty of picnic benches and places to stop and rest with views of the quaint church, this is a lovely walk. There are also a few cafes and pubs en route which are perfect for refuelling.
HOW TO GET THERE: It takes around 30 minutes to drive to Fletcher Moss Park via the A34.
Alternatively, you can take the northern line from Manchester Piccadilly to East Didsbury and walk around 10 minutes to the park.
Wythenshawe Park
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 15 min / 1.9 miles
Wythenshawe Park and Gardens is another location for dog walks in south Manchester.
This park offers a great circular walk around the 109 hectares of land the park has to offer.
Along the way, you will pass through woodland, grassland, and meadows. Your dog will love running around on the open grass and sniffing its way through the woods.
This walk starts at the car park heading south before joining Baguley Brook. You will pass by several sports pitches before heading between Mere Wood and Fir Coppice.
Before heading back down to the car park you can pass by Wythenshawe Hall which was built in the 16th century in the Tudor timber-framed style.
Stop by the Courtyard Café for a coffee on your way back to the car park.
HOW TO GET THERE: To reach Wythenshawe Park by Metrolink you can take the Navy Line from St Peter’s Square to the Wythenshawe Park stop.
You can also drive which takes around 40 minutes via the A5103. You can use the postcode M23 0AB to find the main car park.
Worsley Woods
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 30 min / 3.4 miles
Worsley Woods are in northwest Manchester in a place called…Worsley! You guessed it. After your walk in Worsley Woods, it is highly recommended to visit the charming village of Worsley as well.
The Worsley Woods circular uses public footpaths to explore the beautiful woodland.
If you’re looking for fantastic dog-friendly walks in Manchester in summer, then hiding among the trees for some shade is a good idea.
The walk starts at the car park which is situated just off Greenleach Lane in the northern part of the woods.
Then you will take the path along Kempnough Brook towards the Old Warke Dam. You will pass by the Worsley Canal Basin as well as the historic Bridgewater Canal.
If you are bringing the dog and the kids, then this is a great location for a walk.
There are several recreational activities for kids to enjoy along the pathway including monkey bars, climbing nets and wobble boards.
HOW TO GET THERE: Worsley Woods is around 40 minutes drive outside of Manchester’s city centre.
You can also take the V1 or V2 Vantage bus from St James Square (Stop CP) to Old Clough Lane and then you’ll need to walk for around 15 minutes to reach Worsley Woods.
Clifton Country Park
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 15 min / 2 miles
Clifton Country Park is ideal for dog walks in north Manchester. Clifton Country Park is a serene nature reserve in the Irwell Valley.
The park covers 119 acres and includes open fields, woodland and a lake that your four-legged compatriots will love.
This easy dog walk starts at the car park and loops around the Clifton Marina which is next to the River Irwell.
Your dog will have the freedom to run wild and really enjoy the fresh air. If you are looking for a longer walk you can extend the walk for another mile or elongate your walk further to Moses Gate Country Park.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can take the number 8 bus from Barton Arcade (Stop NA) to Cedar Drive, then it’s a 10 minute walk to Clifton Country Park.
Alternatively, you can drive via the A56. The postcode M27 6NG will take you to the car park.
Peel Park
Another of the best dog-walking places in Manchester is Peel Park in Salford.
Peel Park is the oldest public park in the city, so it is a good visit not just for your furry friend but for you as well. It should be noted that dogs must stay on the leash at Peel Park.
There are a number of great dog walks in Peel Park and the surrounding area. Peel Park and the meadow is a short walk that only takes around 35 minutes.
This walk includes The University of Salford and beautiful views of the River Irwell. For a more substantial dog walk try the Peel Park and Kersall Wetlands Circular.
This walk is around 5.7 miles. takes two hours and is an out-and-back trail.
This walk starts at Crescent Meadow, then passes through Peel Park along the River Irwell before looping around at Kersall Wetlands.
The diverse landscapes on this walk will keep you and your dog entertained.
HOW TO GET THERE: Peel Park is super accessible from the city centre. You can drive there in around 20 minutes and park at the Salford Museum Gallery car park (M5 4WU).
It is actually just quicker to get the train from Manchester Victoria to Salford Crescent and then walk for around 10 minutes.
Reddish Vale Country Park
- Time / Distance: 1 hr 25 min / 3.6 miles
The Reddish Vale Country Park is in the Tame Valley close to Reddish in Great Manchester.
These green corridors will make you feel like you’ve really left the city and it’s the perfect outdoor space to disconnect from day-to-day life.
The Reddish Vale Country Park perimeter loop is a lovely walk to take with your pooch.
This 3.6 mile loop welcomes dogs, but they must be on the leash.
The route starts just off Mill Lane and will take you right past the Reddish Vale Viaduct, and who isn’t impressed by the architectural feet of viaducts? This walk also passes by Reddish Vale fishing pond and the River Tame.
Though the walk does pass over the M60 and A6017 the rest of the walk allows you to immerse yourself in nature.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can reach Reddish Vale Country Park via train from Manchester Piccadilly to Brinnington station along the northern line and then walking around 15 minutes to the park. Y
ou can also drive via Hyde Road/A57 and the B6167. For the main car park use this postcode, SK5 7QP.
Dunham Massey
- Time / Distance: 4 hr 30 min / 10.8 miles
Dunham Massey is a village in Trafford, Greater Manchester. The Dunham Massey Circular is a lengthy walk, around 10. 8 miles, and ideal for those high-energy dogs who need to let off energy.
This walk starts from the Dunham Massey National Trust car park. You will head through fields, woodlands, and past villages.
You will also get to see Dunham Massey Hall which was built in 1730 by the 2nd Earl of Warrington, George Boot.
The route passes through Dunham Town, up along Woodhouse Lane, through Lymm and around Lymm Dam.
The latter end of the walk passes by an old church, some playing fields and a school.
Not only is walking around Dunham Massey tons of fun but dogs are well catered for.
There are dog water bowls and dog bins and plenty of walking routes to choose from. Dogs are even allowed in the Dunham Massey deer park albeit on a short lead.
The north part of the park provides lots of space for your dog to be off lead and run wild.
HOW TO GET THERE: It takes around 35 minutes to reach the National Trust car park via the A56. Public transport isn’t very feasible as it requires multiple trains and buses.
Dove Stone Reservoir
- Time / Distance: 2 hr 30 min / 4.1 miles
One of the best things about Manchester is that you can be in lovely green open spaces in less than an hour.
Did you know you can be in the Peak District National Park in just 40 minutes from Manchester’s city centre?
With this in mind, there is no better place to go for a dog walk near Manchester than Dove Stone Reservoir.
Dove Stone Reservoir is above the village of Greenfield on Saddleworth Moor in what is still technically considered Greater Manchester.
This charming Dove Stone Reservoir circular walk starts at the car park. You will first head towards the public toilets and walk anti-clockwise around the reservoir.
You will pass by the Sailing Club on your left and then there’s a track to a farm on your right.
It’s here you’ll want to take the track uphill for stunning views of the reservoir from higher up.
There are sheep in some of the fields, so you’ll want to keep your dog on its lead so as not to scare them. After a while, you will pass over a footbridge over Chew Brook.
This walk really does deliver on views a perk of Manchester being so close to the Peak District National Park.
HOW TO GET THERE: Taking public transport to Dove Stone Reservoir isn’t really feasible because of its remote location but you can drive there.
The reservoir is just 14 miles away via the A635. You can park at Binn Green car park.
You may also be interested in:
