St Johns Gardens, Manchester

Where there is St James's Park in London, there is St John's Gardens in Manchester. This small and cosy public garden, tucked between Museum of Science and Industry, Quay St, and Deansgate, was created on the place of St John's Church and burial ground. The site of the demolished church and 20,000 buried people is marked by a small monument at the park's entrance.

The park is discreet enough to remain unnoticed for those who only walk in big streets. It is best accessed from Lower Byrom Street that runs past MOSI, between Liverpool Road and Quay Street. St John's Gardens are particularly serene in summer and early autumn when roses bloom. Apparently, they practise tai chi there informally, but I've never seen it, so cannot testify. The gardens, however, should provide some inspiration to those interested in the old Manchester and ghost stories. At any moment of your walking in the park or frolicking on the grass, there are the remains of 20,000 people underneath you. The concept of vain life has never come to life so amply!