Heaton Park (Days Out and Activities for Disabled Children and their Families)

This information has been put together by two parents of disabled children with the intention of giving other parent carers some ideas for trips out around the Greater Manchester area.

Heaton Park is a huge family park four miles north of the city centre. Apart from the acres of green in which to relax, there are plenty of facilities and activities. One of the highlights of the park for children is an animal centre with resident animals and a themed play area. 

Youngsters will also enjoy the Heaton Hopper land train which takes passengers from the Hall car park to the lake and back through the summer months from 11am (small charge but passengers with a disability pass travel free).

Attractions within the park also include a boating lake with rowing boats for hire, a garden centre, pitch and putt, horse and donkey riding and vintage tram rides on selected Sundays and most Bank Holidays. During the summer there is often a fairground set up by the boating lake and regular fun days, family workshops, theatrical productions and concerts are organised.

See the website for full details of opening times for the various attractions

FACILITIES

Parking Yes, the park has three main entrances at St Margaret’s Road, Smithy Lodge and Sheepfoot Lane, all of which lead to car parks. Parking charges apply everyday but Blue Badge holders park for free.

Disabled parking Yes, bays in all car parks

Public transport The park is on several bus routes and a major tram route

Disabled toilets At the Farm Centre, near the hall and at the garden centre

Café Stables Café, The Boathouse Pavilion, The Golf Centre and The Garden Centre

Picnic area There is an outdoor picnic area near the hall