Transport to and from Chorlton Water Park
Chorlton Water Park is a beautiful and tranquil destination in South Manchester, popular among families, walkers, joggers, and nature lovers. The park is located along the River Mersey, it provides a mix of serene natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Getting there is convenient, thanks to a variety of transport options. Here’s an in-depth look at the ways you can travel to Chorlton Watrpark, whether you’re coming from within Manchester, Chorlton, Didsbury or further afield.
Travelling By Car
Driving to Chorlton Water Park is one of the most straightforward options, especially for families or those carrying equipment like bicycles, picnic gear, or fishing supplies. The park is easily accessible via the M60 motorway, which encircles Manchester and connects to numerous major routes.
Directions:
- From Manchester city center, take Princess Road (A5103) southbound. then take a right onto Barlow Moor Road (A5145).
- From other areas of Greater Manchester, use the M60 to reach Junction 5 or Junction 6, both of which lead to roads directing toward the water park.
Chorlton Water Park has a large free car park which is located just off Maitland Avenue. This is a popular option, but the spaces can fill up quickly during weekends, bank holidays, and sunny days. Arriving early is advisable if you plan to drive. Additional street parking is available in nearby residential areas. Visitors should be mindful of restrictions to avoid fines or inconvenience to locals.
Advantages of Driving:
- Flexible timing
- Convenient for carrying supplies
- Ideal for group travel
Considerations:
- Traffic congestion during peak times
- Limited parking availability on busy days
Cycling to Chorlton Water Park
Cycling is an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to reach Chorlton Water Park. The park itself is part of the National Cycle Network, making it accessible from various parts of Manchester and the surrounding area.
Cycle Routes:
- The Fallowfield Loop, a popular traffic-free cycle path, connects to the park. It runs from Chorlton to Gorton, offering a scenic and safe journey for cyclists.
- The Trans Pennine Trail also runs nearby, offering another picturesque route for those coming from further afield.

There are bike racks near the park entrance, so you can securely park your bike while you explore the area on foot or enjoy the lakeside.
Advantages of Cycling:
- Environmentally friendly
- Free from parking concerns
- Great exercise and scenic routes
Considerations:
- Weather dependency
- Limited options for carrying bulky items
By Public Transport
Public transport is an affordable and sustainable way to visit Chorlton Water Park. Manchester boasts an extensive network of buses, trams, and trains, making it easy to reach the area from almost anywhere in the city.
By Bus: Several bus routes serve the area near Chorlton Water Park. The 86 and 23 buses are particularly convenient, as they travel through Chorlton and stop close to the park’s vicinity. These buses can be boarded from Manchester city center and surrounding neighborhoods.
By Tram: Manchester’s Metrolink tram system offers another reliable option. The nearest tram stop to Chorlton Water Park is Barlow Moor Road on the Manchester Airport line. From there, it’s approximately a 15-minute walk to the park. Trams run frequently, with connections available from key hubs like Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria.
By Train: If you’re traveling from outside Manchester, trains to the city’s main stations, such as Manchester Piccadilly or Oxford Road, are widely available. Once in the city, you can transfer to a tram or bus for the final leg of your journey to Chorlton Water Park.
Advantages of Public Transport:
- Cost-effective
- Reduces carbon footprint
- Accessible from multiple locations
Considerations:
- Timetables and potential delays
- Walking distance from tram and bus stops to the park
On Foot
Walking to Chorlton Water Park is a fantastic option for those living nearby or looking to combine their visit with a pleasant stroll. The park is well-connected to a network of footpaths, including routes along the River Mersey and the Trans Pennine Trail.
Popular Walking Routes:
- From Chorlton town center, it’s a 30-40 minute walk via Barlow Moor Road and Maitland Avenue.
- A riverside walk along the Mersey Valley provides a scenic approach, particularly for those starting from Didsbury or Sale.
Walking allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the River Mersey and enjoy the journey as part of their overall experience.
Advantages of Walking:
- Free and healthy
- Scenic approach to the park
- No parking or transport concerns
Considerations:
- Limited to those living within a reasonable distance
- Weather dependency
Accessibility Considerations
Chorlton Water Park is committed to being inclusive and welcoming to all visitors. Transport options can accommodate individuals with varying mobility needs:
- Car: Disabled parking spaces are available in the main car park, close to the park entrance.
- Public Transport: Many buses and trams in Manchester are wheelchair-accessible, with designated spaces and ramps.
- Walking and Cycling: The paths leading to and within the park are generally well-maintained, but some may find uneven terrain challenging. Cycling provides an alternative for those with mild mobility concerns who can comfortably ride a bike.
It’s always a good idea to check transport providers’ accessibility features in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Choosing eco-friendly transport options like cycling, walking, or using public transport helps reduce the environmental impact of your visit to Chorlton Water Park. The park’s management encourages visitors to prioritize sustainable travel whenever possible, aligning with its ethos of preserving natural beauty and minimizing carbon footprints.
Tips for Sustainable Travel:
- Plan your route to include walking or cycling wherever feasible.
- Use carpooling apps or share rides with friends to reduce the number of vehicles.
- Opt for electric or hybrid vehicles if driving is necessary.
Local Transport Services and Apps
Manchester is well-equipped with modern transport services and apps to help plan your journey:
- Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM): This service offers live updates on buses, trams, and trains, along with route planning tools.
- Metrolink App: Provides real-time tram schedules and ticketing options.
- Citymapper: A user-friendly app for planning journeys across multiple modes of transport.
- Bee Network: An integrated system for Greater Manchester’s buses and trams, emphasizing convenience and affordability.
Using these tools ensures a seamless and efficient trip to Chorlton Water Park.
Whether you prefer the convenience of driving, the eco-friendliness of cycling, the affordability of public transport, or the simplicity of walking, there are plenty of options to reach Chorlton Water Park. Each mode of transport offers its unique advantages, catering to different needs and preferences. By planning your journey in advance and considering factors like sustainability, accessibility, and convenience, you can make the most of your visit to this delightful oasis in South Manchester.