Best parks in Manchester to enjoy the glorious sunshine

Manchester is basking in scorching sunshine this week which means everyone has shed their raincoats, put away their umbrellas (or turned them into parasols) and is slapping on the sun cream. There’s not a cloud to be seen and according to forecasters it’ll be hotter than Ibiza on Thursday - rather impressive for a city famous for its rain.

Make the most of the warm weather (while it lasts) with a visit to one of the amazing parks we have within the city. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy your lunch break away from the office, or a pleasant green spot for alfresco dining on a balmy evening, there’s plenty of parks to choose from.

There’s small but perfectly-formed gardens tucked away in the city centre, while if you head further out you can lose yourself in nature at one of the bigger parks. Spending time outside is a great way to boost your mood and clear your mind, leaving you more relaxed.

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Here are some of the best parks you can visit to enjoy the sunshine. If you’re planning a visit, make sure you bring plenty of water, wear sun cream and stay in the shade. Always take your litter home and be aware of others around you when playing music or games.

Tucked away behind Deansgate, St John’s Gardens is a hidden green oasis in the heart of the city. It’s full of beautiful flowers, trees and shrubs and feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

The garden itself has an interesting history, it used to be the location of St John’s Church and graveyard until it was redeveloped in the 1930s. Today it’s the perfect spot for office workers to enjoy their lunch.

Just half an hour’s walk from the city