After a very chilly start to the month we’ve been blessed with glorious sunshine this week and it’s a good idea to make the most of it before autumn truly kicks in. There’s still a little bit of warmth in the sun at this time of year, and the days are long enough to squeeze in walks on an evening after work. Parks and outdoor spaces are beautiful in September as leaves teeter on the cusp of changing colour as the season gets into full swing.

If you’re looking for a gorgeous walk to do this week then we’ve got just the place. Nestled in South Manchester, Chorlton Water Park has it all: a tranquil lake, picnic benches, woodland trails and even the River Mersey flowing nearby. Plus it’s just a stone’s throw away from the cosy coffee shops of Chorlton and Burton Road.

READ MORE: The Peak District walk with a pretty village, amazing views and a cosy pub at the end It’s especially wonderful in the autumn sunshine with the trees lining the lake transformed into a sea of golds, oranges and reds, reflected back in the water. The trees form a covered walkway around the edge of the water, which feels particularly magical when the sunlight shines through the gaps in the branches. Take a stroll along the tree-lined path around the lake (Image: Manchester Evening News) It takes around half an hour to complete a lap of the lake.

If you want a longer walk, you can extend your route along the River Mersey, either to Sale Water Park or in the direction of Didsbury . Today the p.