The days may be getting shorter and the leaves browner, but there’s no shortage of things to do with little ones in and around Manchester around this time of year. We asked some local parents for their favourite activities in Manchester to get the whole family in the Autumn spirit.
Into the Wild Coffee Shack
Olivia (@foodiefreya_) recommends taking a stroll down cobbled pathways and over fields to this snug little set up in the middle of the woods, located in Altrincham. They serve delicious stonebaked pizzas and hot drinks, so it is sure to be a hit with the kids (even picky eaters!).
Woodland Farm Alpaca Trail
Perfect for older kids, Olivia loves this trail where you can take an alpaca for a short walk, and feed donkeys and horses. You can find the Woodland farm alpaca trail in Warrington.
Risley Moss
Risley Moss is another of Olivia’s favourite autumnal activities in Manchester. This short, pram friendly woodland walk in Warrington has a trail with carved wooden animals to find.
Lightopia Festival
This visually spectacular light and lantern festival is a favourite of both Ghazal (@Ghazalbee) and Simone (@mummy_without_a_clue). Taking place in Heaton Park each year, this magical light trial runs from 18th November to 22nd January and is the perfect way to get the whole family into the festive spirit.
The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
Another of Simone’s favourite autumnal activities in Manchester is the Lanterns at Chester Zoo. Transformed into an enchanting wonderland filled with lanterns, you can visit this stunning lights display at Chester Zoo from the 12th November to the 23rd December.
Looking for an after school nanny?
Welly Walks at Whitworth Art Gallery
For puddle jumping little ones, Christabel (@mamafoxup) recommends downloading the free ‘welly walk’ guide on Whitworth Art Gallery’s website.
Dunham Massey
Kelly’s (@orlaith_fiadh_and_us) favourite spot to take the family in Autumn is Dunham Massey, a National Trust Park just on the outskirts of Manchester. It’s pathed throughout, so perfect for buggies and scooters for kids. Dunham Massey has a house, gardens, cafe and even deer onsite to keep the little ones entertained!
Smithills Open Farm
If you’re local to Bolton, Christabel recommends taking the kids to this open farm. Featuring over 1000 animals ranging from emus to alpacas, it’s the perfect day trip for animal lovers.
Gauntlet Birds of Prey
Another spot for animal lovers, Gauntlet have a large selection of birds as well as goats and meerkats. Their spectacular flying displays are a must-see.
Lightwaves Festival at the Salford Quays
This annual 10-day interactive light festival from 3rd – 12th December at Salford Quays is free to visit and highly recommended by Christabel. As part of the Salford Quays Culture Program, this trail of illuminated installations animate and transform the Quays.
Quarry Park
Quarry Bank, in Wilmslow, is another national trust property recommended by Olivia. The gardens are huge with plenty of gorgeous scenery to take in.
Fletcher Moss Park
Located in Didsbury, this beautiful park has a woodland walk, rock garden, botanical garden and onsite cafe to enjoy a hot chocolate.
Looking for an after school nanny?
