Almost two fifths of Trafford is countryside. With excellent transport links it doesn’t take long to get here and you can return to civilisation in the blink of an eye. Dunham, Dunham Woodhouses and Warburton lie alongside The Cheshire Plain, most of the area is owned by The National Trust and there are a range of things to see and do. Other rural areas run alongside Traffords two rivers The Mersey & The Bollin and the Bridgewater Canal offering walking, cycling and horse riding opportunities.
Alkrington Woods Nature Reserve
Once part of the Alkrington Hall estate, this area of mature woodland provides...
Moorside Grange Hotel & Spa
Spectacular views of the moors above Higher Disley are one of the attractions...
Dunham Massey and the Winter Garden
A seven acre winter garden (paid entry), the largest of its kind in the UK opened at Dunham Massey in autumn 2009. The garden offers, colour, scent and sound from autumn through to late spring. Access to the parkland is free, rabbit and deer spotting is a favourite activity. Under 5’s can cycle in the park.
Red House Farm
One of many great places to eat. Drop in at Red House farm for good food to eat, to make a picnic or take home. There is a farm themed playground for children which includes mini tractors and diggers. If you’re lucky Dexter the football playing dog will make an appearance. During holiday times there are special activities for families.
Sale Water Park & the Mersey Valley
Do you know your Gadwalls from your Goosanders can you spot a Nuthatch or Reed Bunting when you see one? All these and many more birds have been spotted in the Mersey Valley. Why not see what you can spot and share your results with the wardens who will publish them on their website.
The Bollin Valley & The Bridgewater
The Bollin Valley Project run a series of events throughout the year and you can download guided walks direct from their web site. The Bollin transects both The Bridgewater Canal and the Transpennine Trail in Dunham offering the opportunity to branch off and follow other traffic free routes.
Trans Pennine Trail
Part of European Footpath E8, the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) crosses Britain from Southport to Hornsea. A largely traffic free route for walking, cycling and horse riding. The TPT enters Trafford through Dunham and is traffic free up to Broadheath. There are lots of places to stop and visit on this section of the trail.
