Featured image: Dylan Meek

Manchester is such a vibrant and lively city and as much as this brings excitement to our lives, it’s always good to find that balance by opting for a more peaceful environment. With some of the country’s most beautiful and natural scenery on our doorsteps, the city’s versatility is like no other. The public transport links in the city will always come in handy when wanting to escape the  liveliness. So, whether you’re looking for a place to unwind or a chance to spend some quality time with your friends, here are some of the best natural spots less than an hour away from the city centre.

Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens

South of Manchester in Didsbury, these gardens provide a picturesque setting without you having to travel far out of the city. With the River Mersey nearby, this makes the perfect secluded space to unwind without the inconvenience of travel as the area is accessible by tram, train or bus. The botanical gardens have features such as mini waterfalls, vibrant flowers and a pond, with curious squirrels and robins checking you out — making it an ideal stress-free environment.

Lyme Park, Cheshire

Part of the National Trust, Lyme Park is in Disley, Cheshire and only a short 15-minute walk from the village’s train station. The park is home to Lyme Hall, known to be one of the largest stately homes in Cheshire and is surrounded by 1,400 acres of beautiful grounds, providing incredible views around its home and gardens, along with a variety of scenic walking routes. It is also a great spot for Pride and Prejudice fans, as the park was featured as a filming location in the BBC’s 1995 series adaptation. But leave before dark — local legend tells of a headless horseman cantering through the woods.

The Edge, Alderley Edge

With beautiful views of the Pennines and over the Cheshire Plain, Alderley Edge is located a 30-minute train journey away from Manchester Piccadilly. The hike provides three viewing points showing the skylines of Manchester and the Peak District, along with plenty of countryside wildlife and a tearoom to enjoy afterwards. This location is also perfect for those with an interest in history — there was an Armada beacon here to warn of the approach of the Spanish fleet – and the area was previously mined for copper, right back to mediaeval times. Before you go, read The Weirdstone of Brisingamen by Alan Garner.

Lumb Hole Falls, Hebden Bridge

Lumb Hole Falls is a hidden gem of West Yorkshire thanks to its stunning scenery, secluded waterfalls, and a plunge pool — for those feeling a little more adventurous. The walk follows a footpath through the wooded valley to Hardcastle Crags, making it the perfect trip for a weekend getaway out of the city. Situated approximately a one-hour walk from the small town of Hebden Bridge, which is 30 minutes by train from Manchester Victoria.

Edale, The Peak District

Located in the Peak District on the other side of Kinder Scout, Edale is the southern end of The Pennine Way, one of the longest walking trails in the UK. A picturesque 40-minute train journey down the Hope Valley line from Manchester Piccadilly, this tucked-away village has long been popular with walkers and students due to its great location, making it an ideal spot for a weekend hike in the countryside. If you’ve never climbed Mam Tor, this is the place to start. There is also the bonus of local pubs and a village shop to pay a visit to before the journey home.