The area that now makes up Chorlton Water Park was once a gravel pit -the gravel was extracted from the site between the 1930s and 1950s and used for construction in the surrounding area. After all the gravel had been extracted, the pit was left to fill with water, creating a large lake, and in the 1970s, the area around the lake was developed into a public park.

The park was officially opened in 1985 and has since become a popular destination for local residents and visitors. The lake is used for fishing and boating, and the surrounding wetlands and woodland provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, otters, and bats.

In the 1990s, a nature reserve was established within the park, with the aim of preserving the area's unique wildlife and habitats. The reserve is managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including great crested newts and water voles.

In recent years, the park has undergone further improvements, including the addition of new footpaths and wildlife viewing platforms. The park also hosts a range of educational activities and events, aimed at promoting the conservation and protection of the area's natural heritage.