Providing you’re all wrapped up and there’s a break in the rain, sometimes there’s nothing nicer than a winters day walk. It’s a great way to take a break, fresh air is wonderful for clearing the mind, and you can always discover somewhere new no matter how far you want to go!
Whether you’re new to Manchester this year or an Oxford Road veteran, there’s always a different way to see the city, here’s a few ideas:
Discover campus treasures
When you have a campus like ours on your doorstep, you don’t have too venture far from home for a peaceful wander amongst both heritage and nature.
Blue Plaque Tour
It’s hard to miss the stunning architecture across campus, however you may not have noticed that several of our buildings have blue plaques on them, signifying their historic significance. Established in 1824, the University is steeped in history and you can follow in the footsteps of our heritage heroes. Visit where Rutherford split the atom, where Marie Stopes (the first female lecturer in the Faculty of Science) taught, and see where the first stored-program computer was built. Follow student blogger Lena’s blue plaque tour of campus for a lovely walk and a chance to learn about the greats that have gone before you.
Manchester Tree Trail
Did you know the University campus has its own tree trail? There are over 1,500 trees across the University campus and Whitworth Park. Follow the route and interactive map online to find out about the different types of trees along the trail, and more about the University’s living campus.
Explore the City
Walking round any city is a great way to discover something new and an organised tour can be a great way to see fresh things. Free Manchester Walking Tours were set up by History alumnus Josh. They take place every day, no matter what the weather and cover the main attractions as well as some lesser known places.
Invisible Manchester is a walking tour with a bit of a difference. Set up by another Manchester grad, Alice, the tour is headed by guides who share their experiences of homelessness in Manchester city centre, offering very personal insights into the city.
If an organised tour isn’t for you, there are so many other walks you can take. Discover a colourful side of the city with the fantastic abundance of street art in the Northern Quarter. Costing nothing, you can create your own little tour by just having a wander through the streets taking in the beautiful street art.
Or, you could spend some time walking along the Manchester Ship Canal, or discover Victorian Manchester. A walk round Salford Quays is nice way to get just outside the city – and if you fancy extending your walk you can wander along the canal to get there!
Visit a park
A walk doesn’t have to be from A to B, you could spend some time in some of the city’s parks. From the very near Whitworth Park on Oxford Road and Platt Fields Park on Wilmslow Road to Heaton Park north of City or Fletcher Moss to the South, you’re spoilt for choice. Take a look at these 60 parks and gardens and you’ll see what we mean!
Venture further afield
If you want venture further out of the city and take in the country side, why not enjoy some scenic walks. Get some fresh air and have a look at some of the winter walks in Greater Manchester with stunning views.
Just remember to warm up, wear the appropriate footwear and enjoy!