The park was purchased in 1890 by the City Council after sustained pressure by locals to prevent building. It features picturesque cloughs and deep ravines, and also the athletics track which was restored for use as a training ground during the commonwealth games.

The word 'Boggart' relates to an evil spirit or goblin commonly found across Lancashire and Yorkshire folklore. Boggarts were known to snatch children's bread and butter, tip over milk churns and pinch babies. The local folklore has it that a farmer was driven to distraction by the activities of a Boggart in the area, and packed up all his things to leave. On his way off with his loaded cart, he passed a neighbour and let him know that he was leaving. He heard his words echoed from nowhere. He then realized that leaving was futile, as the Boggart was planning to follow him, so he returned to his farm!

Manchester's parks and open spaces