Take the lead, and explore the outdoors
One of the best things about being a dog pawrent is that dogs need to get outside every day come rain or shine! Although they’re not always super convenient (like first thing on a Monday morning or in the middle of a typical Manchester rainstorm…) these daily plods help keep us fit, healthy and connected to the great outdoors.
Did you know that spending time in nature is linked to a range of mental and physical health benefits like lower blood pressure and reduced stress levels?
Thankfully in Manchester there are loads of amazing green spaces we can visit with our pooches that don’t require us jumping in the car all the time. Check out this list for a few of our favourite dog walking gems:
Heaton Park: this park is massive and a classic, with lots of open space to let your dog run, play fetch, and loads of greenery for you to unwind in too. The Heaton Park tram stop makes this an accessible spot for dog walkers, now that dogs are allowed on the entire tram network. All aboard!
Mayfield Park: Have you had a wander through Manchester’s newest city centre park yet? If not, we’d really recommend it! Located close to Piccadilly station and loads of dog friendly bars and cafés in the nearby Northern Quarter, this is the perfect place for a weekend afternoon stroll and an ideal spot to unwind, plus it’s only a short walk from town.
Ancoats Marina: Another popular city favourite, this small slice of green can be found nestled in between the bustling Ancoats and New Islington, and it’s a great waterside spot for a dog walk. It’s a great place to meet other dog owners and make some new four-legged friends, especially in the summer when the sun is shining.
Alexandra Park: just a short bus ride away from the city centre, and pretty close to Chorlton, Fallowfield, Whalley Range, Moss Side and Hulme, Alexandra Park is a great spot for a wander with the dogs.
Extra bites
If you’re interested in getting to know more dog owners and exploring some new spots, take a look at EX-PAW – one of Manchester’s best canine communities!
And while you’re exploring the great outdoors, why not put together a little picnic and make a day of it? Check out our ultimate sustainable picnic guide to get started.
A social pup is a happy pup
For new puppies, getting outdoors and visiting different places is crucial in helping them to gain confidence, experience new things and make friends (with humans, dogs and other animals too). So, the more we can get out and about with them in these early weeks, the more likely they are to grow up to be happy and friendly.
Check out this list of some of our top dog friendly spots around Manchester (plus, they’re pretty fun for people too!):
Feel Good Club (Northern Quarter)
Seven Brothers (Multiple)
Pollen (Ancoats)
Brewdog (Multiple)
Crazy Pedros (Multiple)
Mackie Mayor (Great Ancoats St.)
Rudy’s Pizza (Multiple)
The Black Friar (Salford)
Cask (New Islington)
Trof (Northern Quarter)
Federal (Northern Quarter)
Ducie Street Warehouse (Northern Quarter)
All aboard!
Knowing where you want to go is one thing, but what about actually getting there?
Thankfully in Manchester there are a bunch of ways you can get about with your pets without getting in stuck in the infamous city centre traffic.
Dogs are now allowed on Manchester’s tram network which means it’s easier than ever to explore the city, discover new parks and save money while travelling. If you’re new to trams or Manchester’s Bee Network, head here to learn more and start planning your journeys by downloading the Bee Network app.
