Hidden away behind the not-so-picturesque rubbish tip is Levenshulme's beautiful secret lake. The name is a slight oxymoron considering it's not really a secret and it's not an actual lake, but it is still beautiful.
When I asked my parents about it they told me they used to go there long before they even had kids, but recently with the input of Facebook groups the lake has been re-discovered and has become something of a community project. After it's re-discovery the community came together to clean up the spot and to keep it clean with the introduction of bins and signs encouraging the picking up of litter.
Accessible either by the Fallowfield Loop (check my article) or via Longford Lane (though the Loop is a much nicer access point) the lake seems to appear out of nowhere as you come out through the trees surrounding it; you're taken aback by the surprising beauty of nature in the middle of essentially an industrial estate.
If you get lucky you might spot one of the family of swans who live on the lake or the occasional heron who takes nest there. There's also the opportunity of fishing if that's what takes your fancy.
The lake is a beautiful and serene spot in the middle of Levenshulme, lovely to go to when you just need a bit of time out.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Manchester guide.
"Whitworth Park and Gallery" Manchester has art even outside in the park, with regular exhibitions out in the open. It also has a play park with a zipline!
By
"Heaton Park" in Manchester is a historical park that's much bigger than it seems at first. My favorite part is the animal centre, but there's tons to do!
By
"Islington Mill" in Salford, close to Manchester, it's one of my favorite industrial hubs-turned-creative spaces. Its events deserve a special mention!
By
"Longford Park" in Manchester simply has everything! Playparks, a cafe, sports courts... One of my favourite details is the stone mounting block.
By
"Vinyl Fiction" in Manchester has a simple concept: they sell vinyl and books. I love how it's not stuffed to the gills and doesn't feel claustrophobic...
By
"The Peterloo Massacre Memorial" in Manchester marks the 200th anniversary of when 18 people were killed & 700 injured protesting for parliamentary reform.
By
"Highfield Country Park" in Manchester is a nature reserve I've been going to for as long as I can remember. It makes me feel like I'm outside the city.
By
"Frog and Bucket Comedy Club" in Manchester is great, whether you want to see recognised comedians or new up-and-comers. I love 'Beat the Frog' events!
By
"Homeless Jesus" is a recently revealed sculpture in Manchester. It challenges the passerby to reflect on the growing homelessness crisis in the city...
By
The "Blue Bell Inn" in Manchester has been a constant in my life. Wonderful food, cheap drinks, dog-friendly... It offers an authentic pub experience.
By
"Namaste Nepal" is my absolute favourite place to go for a curry in Manchester -- very reasonably priced, too! Go for the Aloo Chilli if you like spicy.
By
63 Insider Tips from Locals
Authentic Stories
Escape the Crowds
Full Access to our Manchester Blog & App!
✓ 63 Hidden Gems only Locals know
✓ Full Access to the Manchester City Blog & App!