Trafford Ecology Park is a beautiful & peaceful green space hidden in the industrial area of Trafford Park, Manchester. As a registered Site of Biological Importance it is home to a variety of wildlife including Herons, Newts, Kestrels, Bullfinches, Dragonflies, Bees and more!

What to expect at Trafford Ecology Park

Trafford Ecology Park is an 11-acre nature reserve in the middle of Europe’s largest industrial estate, Trafford Park.

Turning right off Lake Road you’ll arrive in a small car park in front of the Groundwork Greater Manchester office. Unfortunately this is not a visitors centre and is not open to the general public.

Please explore the grounds at your own leisure keeping to footpaths and tracks at all times. We suggest you explore:

Please be aware the site comprises natural woodland and pond areas and therefore there are associated natural hazards. Please dress appropriately, especially footwear. Children must be supervised at all times.  

Opening Hours

Monday:9am – 4pm
Tuesday:9am – 4pm
Wednesday:9am – 4pm
Thursday:9am – 4pm
Friday:9am – 3pm
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed
Bank Holidays:Closed

The parks main feature is a large lake which is bordered by a circular path. This path leads to a woodland area where our forest school sessions take place.

Fishing rights are reserved for members of Altrincham Anglers – please visit their website for more information.

The park is a public green space which contains two ponds and a forest school shelter. There are a number of picnic benches scattered throughout the park which can be used by visitors.

Unfortunately, as the site is maintained by volunteers, there are limited bin facilities so we request that visitors take all their litter home. Unfortunately there are no toilets on site.


Corporate volunteering & meeting room hire

As our most centrally located nature site, Trafford Ecology Park is our most popular and well maintained nature site so unfortunately volunteering opportunities are limited.

Volunteer days at Trafford Ecology Park are typically based at The Meeting Place, a stand-alone space with a kitchen and toilet facilities.

The Meeting Place can also be hired for your own work events for just £295 a day + VAT.

For businesses looking to connect with nature whilst at the park, our half day Nature Connection Wellbeing activities are a perfect add on.


Getting to Trafford Ecology Park

If arriving by car there is a small car park within the Ecology Park, however, spaces are limited. There is street parking available on Lake Road if spaces aren’t available within the main car park.

Use Lake Road, M17 1TU for Sat Nav.

The nearest Metrolink stop is Village on the red line, which is then followed by a 15min walk.

There are a number of Bus routes in the area, please visit Transport for Greater Manchester for the latest information about getting here by bus.

Bicycles can be locked securely in our on-site bike store which also features a free to use bike pump.