The park was named by the local poet Ben Brierley, who lived in the area and immortalized the valley in his writings.
The valley served as a major site for the Industrial Revolution, hosting several water-powered mills during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Remnants of the abandoned Hollinwood Branch Canal, which once linked local mills to the main canal network, can be explored within the park boundaries.
The site hosts a diverse range of habitats including wet woodland, which is rare in the Greater Manchester region.
The park is home to the Daisy Nook Garden Centre, which has been a staple of the local community for decades.
The River Medlock, which runs through the park, was heavily polluted during the Victorian era but has undergone significant ecological recovery.
Parts of the park are designated as a Site of Biological Importance due to the presence of specific flora, such as ancient woodland indicators.
Daisy Nook Country Park is a 40-hectare woodland and riverside park located in the Medlock Valley, spanning the border of Oldham and Tameside. The park features a complex network of paths running alongside the River Medlock and the Hollinwood Canal. It is designated as a Local Nature Reserve, providing a sanctuary for varied wildlife including kingfishers and herons. The landscape is characterized by its rolling meadows, ancient woodland, and former industrial sites that have been reclaimed by nature. Visitors have access to designated fishing spots along the canal and riverbanks. The park is historically significant for its role in the Lancashire textile industry, with remnants of old mills and infrastructure visible throughout the valley. It serves as a key green lung between the urban centers of Manchester and Oldham. Footpaths connect the valley to surrounding residential areas, facilitating recreational walking and cycling.
The stone bridge overlooking the river and the scenic views across the valley floor.
Wear waterproof footwear as the riverside trails are prone to mud after rainfall.
Bring binoculars if you intend to visit the bird-watching spots near the river.
Check local signage for designated 'no-fishing' zones before setting up equipment.
Do not attempt to swim in the River Medlock due to unpredictable currents and hidden debris.
Keep dogs under control, especially near grazing meadows and nesting areas; remove all litter.
