Best Parks & Picnic Spots in Rochdale for a Family Day Out

Falinge Park

A short walk from Rochdale town centre, Falinge Park is a lovely spot for a family picnic. There are open grassy areas where you can set up your picnic blanket, along with benches near the garden areas and café (which is open during the summer months). It’s a great park for younger children featuring a good size playground and lots of space to scoot or cycle around.

While there aren’t formal walking trails here, the park’s paths loop through landscaped gardens and pass a beautiful old bandstand. It’s easy to spend a gentle hour here, and the local community often hosts fun events and pop-ups in the summer.

Healey Dell Nature Reserve

If you’re looking for nature, trails and a picnic with a view, Healey Dell ticks all the boxes. Set in a wooded valley with the River Spodden running through it, this old railway line turned nature reserve offers plenty to explore. You’ll find scenic walking trails, old stone bridges, waterfalls and the 100 ft railway viaduct.

There are lots of great spots to stop for a picnic, just look out for clearings along the river, benches near the ruins or quiet spots by the old mill sites. It’s best for older kids or families who enjoy a bit of walking, though the trails are fairly gentle and well-marked.

Springfield Park

As the biggest park in the borough, Springfield Park has loads going on. There are several ideal picnic areas around the lake, several shady spots under big trees and grassy areas near the playground, perfect for keeping an eye on the kids.

For things to see and do, there’s a boating lake, tennis courts, a small golf course and a miniature steam railway that often runs on weekends. Trails around the park take you through open fields, tree-lined paths and past decorative gardens. You can easily spend a full day here without running out of things to do.

Denehurst Park

Just a short distance from Springfield Park, Denehurst Park offers a more peaceful vibe. It’s a quieter space with plenty of grassy areas for a picnic and a few picnic benches near the flowerbeds and orchard. It’s a good spot if you’re after something more laid-back.

There’s a short woodland trail that loops through the back of the park, and lots of wildlife to spot in the more natural areas. You’ll also find floral gardens and a fruit orchard that offer nice shade in summer. It’s a great “bring a book and relax” type of place.

Roch Wood Nature Park

For families who enjoy exploring nature trails, Roch Wood is a great option. This is a wilder green space, with woodland trails that wind through mature trees and along the Roch River. It’s perfect for nature walks, spotting birds and squirrels, and maybe even building a den or two.

While it’s not set up with benches or a café, there are a few clearings along the trails that are ideal for a peaceful picnic stop. Bring a blanket and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Queens Park

While more towards Heywood than Rochdale, Queens Park is a real all-rounder, featuring well-kept gardens, a large lake with ducks and swans, as well as two play areas. There are loads of benches and picnic spots around the park, especially by the lake, where you can enjoy your lunch with a view of the water.

There are also some nice paths to follow, including a circular route around the lake and walks through the flower gardens. It’s great for a relaxed stroll or a longer wander, with a café on site for drinks and treats. In summer, you might even catch a music event or family day at the park’s open-air theatre.

Naden Valley

For a proper countryside feel, Naden Valley is a lovely place to explore. You’ll find peaceful woodland trails, old reservoirs and views of rolling hills. The main trail follows the river, passing by old stone ruins and quiet fields that are perfect for a picnic away from the crowds.

There are no facilities here, so pack everything you need, including water and snacks. It’s ideal for walkers and families who enjoy nature with lots to discover along the way. The valley is part of the larger Rochdale Way, so you can make your walk as short or long as you like.