One visitor said it was a ‘lovely place for a nice walk’
Etherow Country Park(Image: Manchester Evening News)
It can be tempting to stay inside during the winter months, but a walk outside offers a host of benefits even when it’s still a bit chilly. Spending time outdoors can clear your mind and boost your mood, as well as offering health benefits.
Now that the freezing cold weather of last week has moved on, the dry spells forecast this week offer the perfect chance to explore some of the green spaces and parks we have here in Greater Manchester. When it comes to parks, the borough of Stockport has more than its fair share.
There’s Reddish Vale Country Park which has an impressive viaduct, the picturesque Vernon Park and Bramhall Park with its gorgeous hall. On the outskirts of the borough you’ll find Etherow Country Park
Spanning 200 acres, the park features a mixture of woodland, grassland and marshland. Flowing through the park is the River Etherow, from where it gets its name.
The park spans 200 acres (Image: Manchester Evening News)
In the centre of the park you’ll find an impressive lake, which is used by the Etherow Country Park Sailing Club, which offers courses to both adults and children. But one of the highlights of the park is the magnificent weir-cum-waterfall which reflects the history of the area.
The park actually began life as the estate of mill owner George Andrew, who built the lake to power the water wheel for the mill, as well as nearby houses to support the mill’s workforce. Etherow became one of England’s first country parks in the 1960s.
Today there are trails you can follow through the park and along the River Etherow, which provides a scenic backdrop no matter what the season. There are several picnic benches dotted throughout so if you fancy bring along a flask of something warm and sweet treat.
The park’s magnificent weir(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Etherow Country Park has dozens of five star reviews on Google from visitors. One reviewer, Christopher, wrote: “Lovely place for a nice walk round, we started at the cafe with a coffee and a butty which were very nice with lovely friendly staff too….
“The walk was full of wildlife and friendly walkers happy to say hello or good morning that makes the stroll round that much nicer. Definitely take a camera if you’re into wildlife and photography as there’s plenty of opportunities, there’s also a weir so far down as well.”
Another reviewer, Lauren, wrote: “Natural beauty spot! Lots of wildlife to view and a lovely maintained garden. Nice walking or running route, car park and cafe at the beginning with public toilets. Great for dog walking, family trips or just getting out.”
Etherow Country Park, Stockport, SK6 5JD
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