Irlam Linear Park is a hidden gem where nature meets history.

The woodland trail runs for around one kilometre through the centre of our industrial heritage, from Preston Avenue in Irlam to Cadishead Bypass .

Built in 1873 as a railway line, the site became derelict towards the end of the 20th Century. Its fortunes changed, though, in 1986 when Salford and Trafford Groundwork Trust launched a transformation programme to create Irlam Linear Park.

It was reopened as a nature trail and cycle route in 1987 by Sir Richard Branson.

More recently Hamilton Davies Trust (HDT), in partnership with several local businesses and volunteers, have introduced a range of new initiatives to continue to improve the area for all to enjoy, e.g. pathway maintenance, litter picking and installation of benches.

In 2018 Hamilton Davies Trust (HDT) initiated the formation of a Friends of Irlam Linear Park group engaging with local volunteers and businesses who were interested in helping to sustain, improve and maintain the local gem on their doorstep.  Ongoing maintenance such as pathway clearance and litter picking is undertaken as required. Three benches were made by local businesses and installed by HDT along the upper main pathway.

In 2020 funding was secured by the Friends group to complete an ambitious project to install wooden steps and undertake lower pathway groundworks to improve access to further areas of the woodland. Several local businesses have also been keen to help the Friends group.

At present the group is not active but you can see images of the Linear Park by visiting their Facebook page by clicking this link  https://www.facebook.com/linearparkirlam/

Alternatively you can contact Hamilton Davies Trust on 0161 222 4003

Take a walk, cycle or run the length of linear park – a true place of nature in the heart of Irlam.