Despite having an industrial heritage, east Manchester is an oasis of green space. There are a total of 40 parks in the area, ranging in size and facilities.

Philips Park, in Clayton, is one of Manchester’s largest parks and reputedly the oldest Municipal park in Europe. Clayton Park, comes complete with its own 12th Century Hall and ghost, and Openshaw Park is one of the many recently refurbished to include excellent play facilities.

Alongside the parks, the Medlock Valley, featuring the River Medlock and Clayton Vale, runs from the city centre through Philips Park to Clayton Bridge and the border with Tameside.