The Best Places to See Autumn Trees in Manchester // Manchester Family Photographer.

Manchester Family Photographer’s recommendations for the best spots in Manchester for autumn trees!

I often get asked where the best places in Manchester for autumn colours are. So I thought I’d share a few of my favourite spots - for walks and/or for shoots. These are locations I’ve photographed families in over the years, and every time, they deliver.

If you’ve been dreaming about an autumn family photoshoot in Manchester, you’re in the right place. This is my absolute favourite time of year to shoot (and in general!!). The colours, the crunchy leaves, that soft golden light… it’s magic.

I’ve also included coffee stops in each suggestion - essential! Especially in autumn to cosy up after your brisk walk - the best combo.

1. Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens (Didsbury)

Fletcher Moss is an absolute gem in the autumn months - and the spot I shoot at the most year round. The gardens explode with colour, and the infamous tree-lined path are just gorgeous for family photos. It is so vast that there are a variety of different spots within a short walk, and also means that you’re always going to be able to find a quiet spot away from passers by (helpful for anyone a little nervous to be photographed - especially in public). The park and the botanical gardens put on an autumnal show with its beautiful colours. The Alpine Tearoom by the botanical gardens is lovely to grab coffee and sit outdoors - or nearby inside options are The Didsbury (where there’s a cosy log fire!) or the brand new The Wild Alderman (I haven’t been yet but heard good things).

2. Marie Louise Gardens

Marie Louise Gardens is another of my personal favourite parks - we even chose to have our own family shoot there. It’s so lovely all year round but in autumn, it really comes into its prime. The autumnal colours start early here and last. It also tends to be a little quieter than many other Didsbury parks (there’s no playground and it’s pretty small). There are so many beautiful trees here so prepare to be wowed when you show up between late September and late October! You’re right between Burton Road and Didsbury Village here for coffee stop afterwards (new fave is Hikari in the village - what a treat!).

3. Chorlton Ees & Ivy Green

This one is a bit of a more rustic and wild suggestion - it’s much more untamed than the other options, with lots of winding paths and trees that look gorgeous in autumn. It’s a really lovely walk (with Chorlton Green right on its doorstep for so many great options for coffee and treats afterward - literally just walk down Beech Road and pick the one you fancy!).

4. Worsley Woods

If you’re up for a little adventure, Worsley Woods is stunning in autumn. There’s a mix of tall trees and little trails, and when the leaves start to fall, it’s gorgeous. It’s also a slightly quieter option if you’d rather avoid the busier city parks. End at The Flower Stop for gorgeous, canal side coffee too! Cutest place ever for a babyccino (my daughter still talks about their flower marshmallows months later!).

5. Dunham Massey (Just Outside Manchester)

Okay, technically not in Manchester, but it’s worth the short drive. Dunham Massey is breathtaking in autumn with its huge trees, deer wandering around, and those long pathways that are dreamy for photos. It does get super busy on weekends, so I always recommend early morning, late in the day, or a weekday if you can manage it. There’s loads to see and do in this park, including the cafe for coffee! You can see all the details here.

6. Alexandra Park

Alexandra Park has a beautiful tree lined pathway which makes it perfect for those beautiful autumn leaves - a stunning backdrop for your photos. There’s also plenty of variety with the gardens and the pond too. There is a cafe on site too, making it a really easy, one stop location!

Why Autumn is the Perfect Season for Family Photos

There’s just something about autumn. The light is softer, the colours are warm, and everyone gets to wrap up in cosy layers (hello, chunky knits and boots!). Life slows down a tad and everything just gets a little cosier, more hyggelig. It’s also a brilliant time for kids because there’s so much for them to do - throwing leaves, running through the woods, finding conkers. Those playful, candid moments and family cuddles are my absolute favourites.

If you’d love a cosy family photoshoot surrounded by beautiful autumn colours in Manchester, click the link to book now!

📸 Click here to check my availability for autumn family shoots