Jul 23, 20232 min read

3 hidden gems in Manchester that you NEED to visit

Everyone loves a good hidden gem, and I always find that when I discover one in my own hometown, it feels even more special. As someone who doesn't drive yet, places that I can find near to where I live and get to easily through public transport are my absolute favourite.

So, let's look at some hidden gems in Manchester that you need to go to:

Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens

The perfect place to visit in Spring/Summer - the botanical gardens are absolutely incredible and such a gem to find in Manchester. The park is a haven for wildlife, where you can see a wide range of animal species and beautiful greenery.

Located in Didsbury, the site was opened to the public in 1915 and spans 90 acres. Within the park you'll find the Alpine Gardens, Parsonage Gardens, the Nature Reserve of Stenner Woods, Millgate Fields and the River Mersey - so there's definitely more than enough to explore!

Edenfield Plunge

Looking for a more secluded spot? Edenfield Plunge is the place to go! Located in Rossendale, this waterfall is such a tranquil hidden gem, and the perfect spot for a bit of wild swimming if that takes your fancy. If you do plan on swimming though, make sure you're being careful.

When we visited, we had the whole place to ourselves for around 45 minutes, and following this there were only a couple of people walking their dogs who joined us briefly before moving on for a longer walk through the adjoining clough.

Check out my full post about Edenfield Plunge here.

Healey Dell Nature Reserve

I might have only posted about Healey Dell last week, but it absolutely deserves a spot on this list. Every time I've been in the past, friends have always reached out to ask where it is - despite them all living in Manchester too, so it must be a hidden gem.

It truly feels like you're up in the Yorkshire Dales or the Peak District, but if you're in Manchester it's much less of a journey to get to Healey Dell. The waterfalls, particularly the one in the Fairies Chapel, are so peaceful and provide the best spot to sit and unwind after a long week in work.

Check out my full post on visiting Healey Dell Nature Reserve here.