Sitting alongside the Whitworth Art Gallery on Oxford Road, Whitworth Park is a welcoming green space in the heart of Manchester with open lawns, a children's play area and a fascinating piece of Victorian history on its doorstep.

Whitworth Park | Parks in Manchester

What to expect at Whitworth Park:

• Open green lawns and peaceful walking space
• Adventure play area for children aged 12 and under
• Statue of Edward VII by sculptor John Cassidy
• First World War cenotaph memorial to the 7th Manchesters
• Adjacent to the Whitworth Art Gallery
• Green Flag Award winner

Whitworth Park in Manchester

Whitworth Park is a pleasant and historic green space tucked between Oxford Road and Moss Lane East, just south of Manchester city centre. Opened in 1890, the park was originally established as part of the Whitworth Institute — a memorial to the celebrated Victorian engineer Sir Joseph Whitworth, who left a significant legacy to the city. The Institute secured the land, then known as Potters Field, in 1889, and the park was formally handed over on a 1,000-year lease in October 1904. Today the University of Manchester owns the park, with Manchester City Council as its lessee.

History and heritage

The park carries a quiet but significant sense of history. A statue of Edward VII by the sculptor John Cassidy stands within the grounds, alongside a First World War memorial dedicated to the 7th Manchesters — a cenotaph that gives the park a reflective, commemorative quality alongside its everyday role as a green retreat. The Whitworth Institute itself was taken over by the University of Manchester in 1958 and became the Whitworth Art Gallery, which now sits immediately adjacent to the park and is well worth combining with a visit.

Play area

The adventure play area is a good draw for families visiting with younger children, catering for those aged 12 and under. It sits within easy reach of the open green space, making it easy to combine a play session with a picnic or a relaxed walk around the park.

The Whitworth Art Gallery

One of the great advantages of a visit to Whitworth Park is its proximity to the Whitworth Art Gallery, one of Manchester's most celebrated cultural venues. The gallery is free to enter (some exhibitions may be ticketed) and offers a wonderful complement to time spent outdoors — particularly useful if the weather turns.

Important information

• Opening times: Open every day from dawn to dusk
• Address: Oxford Road / Moss Lane East, Manchester, M14 4PW
• Admission: Free
• Play area: Adventure play area for ages 12 and under
• Dogs: Must be kept on a lead in all areas
• Good to know: Barbecues are not permitted in Manchester parks
• Getting here: Visit www.tfgm.com for transport links
• Contact: parks@manchester.gov.uk

Find out more: Manchester City Council — Whitworth Park

Photo credit: MCRparks Facebook