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While Greater Manchester is more renowned for its vibrant cityscapes, it also has plenty of scenic outdoor spots perfect for dogs that love the water. From hidden riverside havens to peaceful reservoirs, there are plenty of places where your dog can enjoy a swim without leaving the metropolitan area. Here are the top five dog-friendly swimming spots in Greater Manchester for a refreshing day out.
1. Sale Water Park
Sale Water Park, located near Trafford, is a popular spot for outdoor activities with a beautiful lake that welcomes dogs in designated areas. This large lake, originally a gravel pit, is now a peaceful retreat surrounded by trails and greenery, making it a perfect swimming spot for dogs. The water is calm and has easy access points, so it’s safe for dogs to wade and splash around.
With walking trails through surrounding meadows and woods, Sale Water Park is an ideal destination for a scenic stroll after a swim.
Nearby Amenities: Sale Water Park has parking, a café with outdoor seating, picnic areas, and restrooms.
Google Maps Address: Sale Water Park
2. Clifton Country Park
Clifton Country Park, located near Swinton, offers a beautiful lake with dog-friendly swimming spots along its banks. Known for its peaceful setting and lovely lakeside trails, this park is a great choice for dogs who love to explore both land and water. The lake has shallow edges, providing a safe entry for dogs, and the paths around the water make for a scenic walk after a swim.
The park’s open meadows and wooded trails offer plenty of opportunities for dogs to run and play, adding to the adventure.
Nearby Amenities: Clifton Country Park offers parking, a visitor center, picnic areas, and restrooms.
Google Maps Address: Clifton Country Park
3. Dovestone Reservoir
Dovestone Reservoir, on the edge of the Peak District near Oldham, is a scenic spot surrounded by moorland and hills. The reservoir offers designated dog-friendly areas where dogs can swim, with shallow edges that make it safe and accessible. The breathtaking landscape of Dovestone, with its rolling hills and wide-open water, makes it feel like a true escape from city life.
After a swim, explore the trails around the reservoir, which provide panoramic views and a chance to enjoy Greater Manchester’s natural beauty.
Nearby Amenities: Dovestone Reservoir has parking, picnic spots, and trails, with cafes and pubs nearby in the village of Greenfield.
Google Maps Address: Dovestone Reservoir
4. River Irwell at Burrs Country Park
Burrs Country Park, situated near Bury, is a historical park that offers a stretch of the River Irwell where dogs are welcome to swim. The river here is calm, with shallow areas perfect for paddling, and the surrounding green spaces make it a great spot for a day out with your dog. Burrs Country Park is also home to remnants of old mill structures, adding an interesting historical element to your visit.
Take a walk along the river trails and enjoy the park’s views of the countryside, with plenty of open areas where your dog can roam and explore.
Nearby Amenities: The park offers parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and a visitor center.
Google Maps Address: Burrs Country Park
5.Heaton Park
As one of the largest parks in Greater Manchester, Heaton Park offers a beautiful lake where dogs are welcome to cool off in specific areas. The lake’s shallow edges make it ideal for dogs to wade and swim, while the surrounding parkland offers an abundance of paths through woodlands and meadows. Heaton Park also has several historical structures, including Heaton Hall, which add character to the scenery.
The variety of landscapes in Heaton Park make it a fantastic spot for an active day out, with plenty of space for both swimming and walking.
Nearby Amenities: Heaton Park has on-site parking, restrooms, cafes, and picnic areas.
Google Maps Address: Heaton Park
Essentials for a Day Out in Greater Manchester with Your Dog
To make the most of your adventure, don’t forget to pack:
- Training Collar: A training collar from Calmshops helps keep your dog secure in open spaces.
- Portable Water and Bowl: Fresh water is essential, especially if your dog has been swimming.
- Towel: A quick dry-off keeps your dog comfortable for the ride home.
5 More beautiful dog swimming spots:
Chorlton Water Park
Description: Chorlton Water Park, Manchester's first designated local nature reserve, features a central lake surrounded by meandering paths leading into woodlands and wildflower meadows. Dogs can enjoy the water in designated areas, and the park offers a serene environment for both pets and owners.
Nearby Amenities: Parking, restrooms, and picnic areas are available on-site.
Gaddings Dam (Todmorden Beach)
Description: Located near Todmorden, Gaddings Dam boasts England's highest beach at approximately 1,100 feet above sea level. This hidden gem offers a sandy shore and clear waters, making it a popular spot for wild swimming. Dogs can enjoy the water alongside their owners in this tranquil setting.
Nearby Amenities: Limited facilities; it's advisable to bring your own provisions. Parking is available at the nearby Shepherd’s Rest Inn.
Formby Beach
Description: Formby Beach, a National Trust site, offers miles of sandy dunes and beaches, along with acres of woodland. It's a lovely spot for a dog walk, and dogs are welcome year-round. Owners are advised to be mindful of other wildlife in the area and keep dogs on a leash when necessary.
Nearby Amenities: Parking, restrooms, and dog-friendly cafes are available near the beach.
Heaton Park
Description: Heaton Park, the largest park in Manchester and the largest municipal park in Europe, covers over 600 acres. It features play areas, cafes, an animal center, a boating lake, and Heaton Hall, an 18th-century neoclassical Grade I listed building. Dogs can enjoy all that Heaton Park has to offer on an easy, 3-mile walk.
Nearby Amenities: On-site parking, restrooms, cafes, and picnic areas are available.
Boundary Water Park
Description: Boundary Water Park is known for its relaxed family atmosphere and warm, shallow lake, making it a perfect spot for novices and their dogs to enjoy the water. Sessions are overseen by qualified coaches, ensuring a safe experience for all.
Nearby Amenities: Parking and restrooms are available on-site.
Final Paw
From the serene waters of Dovestone Reservoir to the charming River Irwell at Burrs Country Park, Greater Manchester has plenty of beautiful spots for dog-friendly swimming. These locations offer a perfect escape into nature without venturing far from the city, allowing you and your dog to enjoy a refreshing day in the water. Grab your essentials and explore these dog-friendly swimming spots across Greater Manchester for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
