Boxing Day is here which means sandwiches stuffed with leftover turkey, indulging in yet another mince pie and arguing over who should eat the toffee penny in the chocolate tin.
But it also marks another tradition: the Boxing Day walk.
It’s time to wear the new hat and scarf you got from your mum, squeeze yourself into a warm coat and head outside into the great outdoors.
Nothing perks you up like a stroll in nature on a cold winter’s day and it’s even more inviting on Boxing Day when there’s still a lot of Christmas cheer in the air.
There’s the added benefit of renewing your appetite for all those leftovers stored in the fridge, and a chance to diffuse any tension between family members as you step away from the Monopoly board.
READ MORE: Walks to do in Lancashire on a crisp winter’s day
From urban strolls along canals to hikes up hills, there are some amazing places in Greater Manchester for a festive wander.
Bury
Peel Tower, Holcombe Hill, Ramsbottom
Offering spectacular views across Manchester on a clear day, the walk up Holcombe Hill to Peel Tower is certainly worth it.
Peel Tower itself is an impressive sight, although it remains closed to visitors except on rare occasions, but you can still appreciate the views from the hilltop.
High up on the moorland you may even be treated to some snow if it’s cold enough.
There’s several routes you can take to the top, you can start at the Shoulder of Mutton pub and head towards the track going to Peel Tower.
If you fancy more of a challenge you can follow a 6mile circular route beginning in Ramsbottom, which takes you up to Peel Tower, then across the moor through Buckden Wood and into Stubbins.
Wigan
Wigan Pier to Appley Bridge
For a walk that combines industrial history with beautiful nature, set off from Wigan Pier and follow the Leeds and Liverpool canal to Appley Bridge.
Admire the old mills and warehouses which were once buzzing with activity at Wigan Pier before heading along the canal towpath.
On the way you’ll pass the Scot Lane Ponds where you may catch sight of swans and geese from the path.
The walk leads through the charming Crooke Village and passes alongside areas of woodland.
You can follow the path all the way to Appley Bridge which is just over five miles, or choose a shorter section of the route.
Rochdale
Watergrove Reservoir, Wardle
With stunning views of Manchester and Cheshire, rugged moorland and beautiful reservoirs, this walk has it all.
If you’re after a short stroll take the circular route around Watergrove Reservoir, which is around 2miles.
For a more challenging hike, walk through the stunning moorland and climb up Brown Wardle Hill, one of the highest points in Greater Manchester where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular scenery.
You may even find yourself surrounded by snow-topped hills if the weather’s turned cold.
Extend the walk even further by following sections of the Pennine Bridleway or climb Dobbin Hill.
Trafford
Sale Water Park and Priory Gardens
A tranquil oasis in Trafford, Sale Water Park is perfect for a relaxing stroll - and when the water’s frozen over on a cold day it makes for a lovely wintry scene.
Follow a circular route which takes in the Water Park and Priory Gardens, a small yet charming area of woodland.
Starting at Sale Water Park, walk in an anti-clockwise direction where you’ll pass Broad Ees Dole, Trafford’s first local nature reserve.
As you loop back round go to Priory Gardens via the underpass, and walk along an avenue of mature beech trees before re-joining the southern section of the Water Park.
Oldham
Dovestone Reservoir
Situated on the edge of the Peak District, Dovestone Reservoir is an absolute beauty.
With rugged hills gently sloping down to the water’s edge, it’s stunning on clear day with blue skies and even better with a dusting of snow.
There’s a circular route around the reservoir which is just over two miles.
For an extra challenge extend your walk with a hike up Dovestones Edge for some impressive views.
Bolton
Wayoh Reservoir and Entwistle Reservoir Loop
Located on the outskirts of Bolton near to Turton and Edgeworth, Wayoh and Entwistle reservoirs provide some beautiful walking routes.
There’s paths which run along the water’s edge or you can venture into the surrounding woodland.
The reservoirs provide some beautiful scenery and look out for the impressive Entwistle Viaduct.
Follow a circular route around either of the reservoirs or both for an extended route.
Salford
Worsley Village
Take a stroll through Worsley Village on Boxing Day and you’ll feel as if you’re in a scene from a Christmas card.
The village itself is full of pretty buildings, including the timber-framed Packet House, while nearby Worsley Woods is perfect for a wander.
Start your walk at the Court House and follow the Bridgewater Canal, then crossover the bridge to The Green before entering the woods.
Look out for the mock Tudor lodge at the Old Warke Dam. Follow the path under the M60 bridge and loop back round to the village when you reach Walkden Road.
Tameside
Werneth Low Hilltop
A hike up Werneth Low Hilltop rewards you with breath-taking views of Greater Manchester, Derbyshire and even as far as the Welsh Hills.
There are several paths to choose from depending on how long a walk you fancy.
A good starting point is the Lower Higham Visitor Centre car park where you can follow a 3mile circular route that takes you up to the top of the hill where the war memorial is, around the golf course and pass Radcliffe Fold Farm where it loops back round.
Manchester
Fletcher Moss Park
Fletcher Moss Park is one of Manchester’s hidden gems and ideal for a relaxed stroll.
Begin your walk through the botanical gardens, where you’ll wind your way through the rockery and around the pond, before entering into the park itself where you’ll find grassy meadows.
From there you can head through the woods, which will take you on a path up towards the River Mersey for a waterside walk.
Stockport
Reddish Vale Country park
Covering 161 hectares, Reddish Vale Country Park offers plenty of different walks and places to explore.
Have a wander along the River Tame which flows through the park, take a path through the woodland areas or explore the two ponds which are home to a huge variety of wildlife.
Check out the impressive viaduct which cuts through the park.
The visitor centre and car park is a good place to start, with several routes to follow from there.
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