winter day trips from manchester

11 Unmissable Day Trips from Manchester (By Train & Car!)

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The following list of day trips from Manchester is brought to you by Tilly from  TillyText , a Manchester local! Read on for her roundup of the greatest Manchester day trips, and how to access them by car or train.

There’s a reason it’s hard to drag yourself away from Manchester.

Well, there’s about nine. Music, shopping, culture and one-hell-of-a-night-out. It’s true when they say Manchester truly has everything you could wish for from a great Northern city in the UK. 

But so do the areas surrounding Manchester, too. You’ve got the swoon-worthy Lake District so beautiful that Taylor dedicated a whole entire song to it on her album – in fact, pretty much all of the cute quaint little towns outside Manchester look like they belong in the Folklore universe. 

Not to mention the bustling cities of York and Liverpool that are on hand to help you experience a distinctly different flavour of a good British knees-up!

So, if you’re lucky enough to have set aside a whole weekend to explore Manchester and its surrounding areas, why not jump on the train (or snag a lift) to do one of these fab day trips – after smashing through this 24 hours in Manchester itinerary, of course.

Save this list of Manchester Day Trips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Liverpool

The argument over which is a better city has made Mancunians and Liverpudlians even feistier over the years (an achievement in itself!). An easy way for you to settle this debate is to visit them both yourself. 

If you’re a big Beatles fan, there’s plenty of fun Beatles-themed Liverpool activities, like the Magical Mystery Tour , a fascinating 2-hour tour over every spot in the city the band ever laid eyes on. Or head to the British Music Experience Museum to fully cement the idea that no one has contributed more to British music than Northerners. 

Finish the day by testing out some of Liverpool’s incredible beer gardens and terraces, before moving onto Matthew Street or one of the city’s very many Irish bars for a night out you definitely won’t forget in a hurry. 

And yes, that photo of you and the John Lennon statue will definitely look good in the morning.

How to get to Liverpool from Manchester: The drive to Liverpool takes just over an hour if you’re willing to deal with city centre parking. Equally, you can get a direct train from either Manchester Victoria or Manchester Picadilly to Liverpool Lime Street for less than £10.

2. Crosby Beach  

Look, no one is going to the North of England for beaches. That’s what the South is for! 

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some great coastal spots up there too. One of these is Crosby Beach. 

Crosby Beach is just outside Liverpool city centre, which makes it a very doable day trip from Manchester. Come summer, the beach is full of groups of friends enjoying those endless summer evenings with a picnic blanket, music speaker, and can of supermarket gin and tonic. 

And the pièce de résistance to Crosby Beach? The 100 cast-iron figures stretching the coastline, many of which are in the water when the tide comes back in. So, no. You don’t need to call the coastguard to rescue that random person who is stuck still in the far distance.

How to get to Crosby Beach from Manchester: Unless you’re driving to Crosby Beach, the quickest way to get there from Manchester is taking a train from Manchester Victoria or Manchester Picadilly to Liverpool Lime Street, and then changing onto a train to Blundellsands & Crosby station. The beach is a 10-minute walk from there.

3. Hebden Bridge

There’s no doubt that Manchester has its fair share of vegetarian eateries, independent coffee houses, and shops full of everything and anything. 

But so does the small market town of Hebden Bridge. And some might even say it does it better!

After it was taken over by former hippies in the 1970s, Hebden Bridge quickly became home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, locally sourced and independent businesses, and a melting pot of free-thinking and liberation. 

The reason I love Hebden Bridge is because it’s one of the more unique day trips from Manchester. Where else are you able to spend hours trawling through one-of-a-kind stores stocking eco-friendly clothing, and also go wild swimming, too?

How to get to Hebden Bridge from Manchester: Direct trains from Manchester Victoria to Hebden Bridge take less than 30 minutes and cost less than £5.

4. Hope Valley (The Peak District)

Much like how Evermore is Folklore’s chaotic younger sister , the Peak District is the dramatic and all-encompassing counterpart to the more serene and cool-as-a-cucumber Lake District. 

If you’re looking to find yourself in the Peaks’ many gritstone ridges and stark moorlands (or just fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle of Manchester city centre for the day) head to Hope Valley. 

Here, you can strap on your walking boots and complete one of the many renowned nearby walks like Mam Tor and Kinder Scout. 

And the best reward after a couple of hours hiking in the Hope Valley? A cold pint of cider or a hot mulled wine in one of the local villages – depending on the season you visit. 

However, I’d argue a Sunday roast goes well whatever the weather. 

How to get to Hope Valley from Manchester: Hope Valley is a great option for those who want to explore The Peak District without a car. You can get the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Hope (Derbyshire) for about £7.50 and takes less than 50 minutes.

It’s okay that Manchester isn’t the prettiest city. Why? Because Buxton’s just over an hour away. 

Step into the set of Bridgerton (not literally – that’s Bath , but Buxton looks close!) in this quaint town full to the brim with Georgian and Victorian architecture that’s guaranteed to make you swoon. 

You could take a romantic stroll in Buxton’s Pavilion Gardens while keeping an eye out for the Duke of Hastings looking for his next wife, or rent a boat and go rowing in the lake desperately hoping that Anthony will appear soaking and shirtless on the promenade!

After trying (and sadly probably failing) to be married off into perhaps the greatest literary family out there, you can dry your tears on Buxton’s outdoor adventure Go Ape course where you’ll have so much fun swinging through the trees, you won’t even notice the humungous camel toe from your harness…

How to get to Buxton from Manchester: You can get a train from Manchester to Buxton that takes just over an hour, and starts from just £5 if you book in advance.

Small and mighty – that’s the best way to describe York. And fitting everything into only one day might be a challenge, but it’s definitely possible. 

You just have to keep an eye on the time you spend getting lost in this medieval city’s higgledy-piggledy back lanes, the number of cups of tea you drink at Betty’s Tea Rooms, and the photos you take in the 2,000-year-old Gothic halls of York’s cathedral!

If you still need convincing that York is worth the visit, why not trust the thousands of people who have voted it as one of the UK’s top tourist destinations? They probably went to the city’s Viking Centre, too… yep, you read that right.

How to get to York from Manchester: There are tons of trains that go between York and Manchester every day. The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes and can cost as little as £6.90 if you book ahead of time.

7. The Lake District 

Find out if those Windermere peaks really do look like a perfect place to cry by visiting the Lake District for a day. 

Compared to the Peaks, the Lakes are a little further out of Manchester – but they’re definitely more than worth the extra journey…

You could honestly just go to The Lake District for the jaw-dropping scenery itself, but if you’re up for it, there are also a few short-ish hikes that’ll really help you understand why Taylor kept begging to go back here. 

The Old Man of Coniston route takes you up and through some of The Lakes’ steepest and most spectacular peaks, passing the many remnants of discounted copper mines. No doubt the incredible view from the top from leave you speechless and unable to shout all the many Wordsworth puns in your repertoire. 

Finish your day trip to The Lake District by visiting some of the other imaginatively named towns like Ambleside or Lakeside. The best way to get there? Across Lake Windermere on a boat, of course. Oh, Taylor would be so proud!

How to get to the Lake District from Manchester: The easiest way to get to the Lake District is to drive, however, it is possible to get the train. There are over 30 direct trains from Manchester to Oxenholme Lake District every day. Just be wary of the walk on the other side to get to the different hotspots.

8. Stockport

If you’d asked a Mancunian about the best Manchester day trips ten years ago, they would never have said Stockport. However, this historic market town is now well and truly on the map. 

Just seven minutes on the train from Manchester Picadilly, Stockport is the definition of a great day trip destination: accessible, affordable, and different enough from the starting point 

Take Stockport’s unique hat museum, for example. That’s not in Manchester! And the gorgeous 1930s art deco theatre that does afternoon tea. You can’t find that in the city! 

Aside from some brilliant cultural landmarks and museums (don’t miss Stockport’s Staircase House, a Medieval townhouse that’s been converted into a museum), there are also tons of great places to eat and drink in Stockport. 

See here: Where the Light Gets In, an open kitchen/restaurant where the chefs aren’t separated from the diners, and the soon-to-be-opened curry banquet hall with room for 1500+ people looking for some delicious Indian cuisine across four staggering floors.

Need I say more?

How to get to Stockport from Manchester: There’s no need to drive to Stockport. You can take a direct train from Manchester Picadilly which takes as little as 7 minutes, or the 203 bus which (unsurprisingly) takes slightly longer.

Fans of the Brontë sisters, this one’s for you. Step into the world of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights with a visit to Haworth, a quintessential village just off the Yorkshire moors. 

With cobbled streets lined with shops and cafes, and majestic steam trains bringing visitors to their very own moorland adventure, Haworth belongs in every Gothic romance. 

There’s also the must-visit Brontë Parsonage Museum where keen Brontë buffs will delight in showing you around the house of these female literary legends. 

Just remember to bring your Cathy or your Heathcliffe with you…

How to get to Haworth from Manchester: The far easiest way to get to Haworth is by car. However, you can also get there by train – it’s just a little long-winded. You could either get the train from Manchester Victoria to Hebden Bridge, before taking the hourly 500 bus to Haworth over the moors. Equally (and a much more fun way) to get to Haworth from Manchester is by taking a train to Leeds, then a train to Keighley. At Keighley, hop onto the restored Keighley and Worth Valley steam train.

10. Dovestones

If you’re keen to escape the hullabaloo of Manchester city centre but have vowed never to be that person who pretends to like hiking , Dovestones is a great middleman. 

Part of the Peak District National Park, a day trip to Dovestone Reservoir will give you the chance to experience the unique beauty of the Peaks, but on a much more toned-down scale; a popular walk in the Dovestone Reservoir is a pretty flat circular route around the Reservoir edge and briefly up into the Twilight -esque forest. 

Hold on tight, Spider Monkey!

Those in desperate need of some cool countryside air often head to Dovestones with a picnic in tow, ready to be eaten near the end of the trail on the allocated picnic benches. 

If it’s chilly, you’ll also likely see many walkers warming themselves up on their flasks of tea and hot chocolate!

How to get to Dovestones from Manchester: Annoyingly, Dovestones isn’t very accessible by public transport, so your best bet is to go by car (or head to Hope Valley in the Peak District instead.)

11. Chester 

Chester is my Roman Empire. No, really. This historic city is home to the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain – not to mention some great places to grab some grub and a pint.

I often find cities that feel like you’re reading a history textbook aren’t usually as good for eating, drinking, and shopping – but that doesn’t fly with Chester. 

You could spend hours nosing about independent and high-street brands in Chester’s Tudor-style half-timber buildings or following the Roman walls along traditional boozers and local pubs!

Slightly left-field suggestions for a Chester day trip include a visit to Chester Zoo (one of the UK’s largest zoos that’s so famous it appears on British TV) and kayaking or paddleboarding along the River Dee. 

Equally, having a drink and a mooch around the Roman ruins is great, too.

How to get to Chester from Manchester: You can get a direct train to Chester from Manchester in 50 minutes for as cheap as £5.80 if you book ahead of time.

Did we miss any of your favourite Day Trips from Manchester? 

Let us know in the comments!

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Activities and Experiences | Manchester Guides | Travel

15 great places for a day trip from Manchester

Here we have a selection of some of the best places to take a day trip from the city – places not too far away so you can get enough time there.

By Emma Davidson | Last updated 21 December 2022

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As much as we love residing in one of the best cities in the world, nothing beats a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of Manchester city life and we’re very lucky to have so many picturesque retreats pretty much on our doorstep. 

From secluded spots less than an hour’s drive away, to safari parks and award-winning theme parks, it’s the time of the season for a winter staycation and we’ve rounded up our top picks for varying itineraries. 

If booze is top of your agenda, there’s some great crawls and cocktail bars that are serving up drinks difficult to contend with and there’s also a plenty places to take the kiddies, too, as we’re aware that you’re probably panicking trying to fill the next few days with worthwhile fun.

There’s no way we were starting this list with anywhere else. Blackpool holds a special place in the heart of many a working class Brit that, over the years, has gained fond memories of long, illuminated tram trips, cruel donkey rides and soggy sandy chips atop the pier. It’s the epitome of British summer time, and is very easy to get to from Manchester for a nostalgic day out.

There wasn’t a year that passed by without us making the hour round trip to the seaside destination, and Blackpool’s famous pleasure beach was always at the top of our list. The theme park attracts thousands of visitors each year seeking thrills on the iconic The Big One, Grand National, or steel shuttle coaster, Revolution, or if you don’t class yourself as a daredevil, you can always opt to hold everyone’s bags. 

The seaside town is also complete with a myriad of cracking pubs, which you’ll often catch a drag act or karaoke session in at whatever time of day – and the town’s Latin America Las Iguanas restaurant sits directly below Blackpool Tower, so drink enough Pina Coladas and you could be in Paris. 

One of the UK’s most quaint and historic cities, Chester makes for an informative but very enjoyable trip out of Manchester. Complete with city walls and the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain, there’s plenty to see and do, as you’ll find yourself standing exactly where Roman legionaries once marched to war. 

Its rows, which now house an abundance of independent and more recognised stores, also make for a unique shopping experience as the district is distinguished by 2-level covered arcades, and Tudor-style half timber buildings. There’s also an amazing range of pubs, loads of traditional boozers and some mint places to grab a bit of grub, including Shrub and Telford’s Warehouse . 

Marsden is truly one of West Yorkshire’s hidden gems. With peaks, canals, valleys and reservoirs, as well as a burgeoning, up and coming food scene, the village has become a must-visit for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, lace up the walking boots and try some award-winning grub. 

The Yorkshire village is also home to BBC’s timeless ‘ Last Of The Summer Wine ’ series, and, more recently, the BBC Three zombie drama ‘ In The Flesh ’. Namely for its picturesque setting, the inspiring endless landscape makes it a great popular with filmmakers, artists and creatives alike as its a total retreat from reality that’s complete with a rich, cultural heritage.

A destination that may not automatically spring to mind when planning your next day trip, Buxton is a town full of character that sits right on the edge of the Peak District. Known for being a ‘thermal spa town’ and housing the UK’s oldest National Park which spans stunning ornamental gardens and some incredible Georgian and Victorian architecture, you should book a relaxing getaway to the town as soon as possible!

The Pavilion Gardens are great for a romantic stroll, and the Opera House hosts a programme of one-off, world-class performances from a range of established artists, comedians and theatre companies. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, though, Buxton also has Go Ape! which will have you wading through the trees like a true wild beast (complete with a rather unsightly harness-induced camel toe).

The Pennines

There’s nowhere quite like rolling Northern hills of The Pennines, and, lucky for us, the destination is only a short journey away from Manchester. Get the train from Victoria to Greenfield and you’ll find yourself in a lovely area of the world, with stunning views, loads of greenery and plenty of sheep. 

There’s Uppermill , Delph , Denshaw and Dobcross in the area, too, where you’ll be greeted with some cracking old school boozers, some great walks and the odd fantastic restaurant.

We’re pretty big fans of The Old Bell Inn in Delph, which is a hotel, brasserie and bar with an insane collection of over 600 gins! It’s absolutely perfect for a winter walk, but make sure you also check out the The Bank’s award-winning Sunday Roast and endless list of cocktails. 

Hebden Bridge

Somewhere you’d expect to be overrun with pensioners, ancient butchers, one post office and a catholic church is actually one of the best day trips to book yourself out of Manchester. Hebden Bridge is great for walkers, and one of the town’s most exciting trails will take you past Stoodley Pike, ending up at one of the UK’s highest beaches in Todmorden, Gaddings Dam . Providing gorgeous 360º views and one of the best wild swimming spots you’ll find, Gaddings Dam has continued to become hugely popular, especially in the summer months. Back on dry land, though, there’s plenty of arts and crafts shops in the heart of the town, as well as a mint veggie brunch spot, Leila’s Kitchen and award-winning Greek and Mediterranean retreat, Aya Sophia where you’ll find traditional cuisine and some of the best cocktails in town.  

Jodrell Bank & Tatton Park

We’ve combined these two together as they aren’t too far from each other and, when paired, make for a cracking day out. Home of music, science and innovation, Jodrell Bank is a great place for an educational jaunt, especially if you have kids in tow as there’s plenty to keep them occupied, including the Lovell Telescope and the Pavilions which offer state-of-the-art exhibitions for all the family. Once you’re finished there, ​​ head on over to Tatton Park , which is home to a massive Neo-Classical stately home, award-winning gardens, a deer park with real deer and an actual working farm. You can also pre-ordered picnics full of homemade sandwiches and cakes to enjoy out on the grass during the warmer months.

Delamere Forest

Located over in Cheshire, Delamere Forest gives you a chance to be at one with nature without having to spend your evening in a cramped pop-up tent complete with she-wee. The landscape is truly breathtaking with plenty of activities to keep you busy during a full day of exploring. The forest sits very close to the town of Frodsham, which is great to stop off for some lunch and a couple of bevs after exhausting yourself with a lengthy walk. Make sure you factor Kash 22 into your day, a pub full of character that often hosts a regular calendar of live music and karaoke. The stage is yours!

Blasphemy, I hear you cry. But Liverpool is mint, and I’m happy to challenge anyone who doesn’t agree with me on that one. There’s absolutely loads to do here, from the coveted Magical Mystery Tour to the British Music Experience Museum that’s complete with Marc Bolan’s outlandish outfits and even Cilla Black’s frocks, you won’t be bored. If the sun’s out in the city, Liverpool has loads of incredible beer gardens and terraces, head on over to Bold Street and take a waltz around there, or get your drinking hat on and head to Mathew Street for a pretty enjoyable session. There’s loads more places, but I just don’t have the space. However, if the heavens have opened, get yourself to Baltic Market – a huge street food and drink venue that sees burgers, vietnamese cuisine, greek dishes and everything in between make up its menu. 

Hollingworth Lake

If water sports are your thing, Hollingworth Lake is the place to be. Many Mancs might already be familiar with the school trip destination, which allows visitors to partake in windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing and rowing. There’s a couple of decent pubs on the shoreline of the lake, with plenty cosy seating, too. There’s a bike trail that runs past the lake, which will no doubt get you a few chipper ‘hellos’ from those cycling through the area, but if you’re also a keen rider yourself, pop your bike in the car before you head down. Don’t forget your picnic either, as there’s loads of beauty spots to enjoy a disappointing ham and cheese butty.

Knowsley Safari Park

Everyone loves a zoo, especially one that allows you to drive through the enclosures and get up close and personal with a load of monkeys. Apart from your Dad, though, who won’t stop going on about the scratches on the paintwork of his precious Corsa for months after. Knowsley Safari Park also offers a trail on foot, where you’ll get a glimpse into the lives of sea lions, meerkats, giraffes, and the incredible tiger trail and a huge amusement park for kids with a carousel, roundabout and all the fun of the fair! There’s places to fuel your fun as well, with an outdoor food court and a restaurant and grill also making up the diverse offerings.

Home of the Brontë sisters, anyone with a love for the bleak landscapes and cruel beauty of Wuthering Heights or Jane Eyre should definitely give this place a try. At the top of the hill is the Brontë Parsonage Museum , where the brilliant staff will take pleasure in showing you around their house and giving you all the information you could ever need on these literary legends.

On top of that, there’s some corking pubs and food establishments, of which we found that some sort of elaborate ‘crawl’ is the best way to get the most out of the town. There’s also some great little antique shops too, which sell some random goodies – perfect for an afternoon mooch.

The Lake District

A little further out of Manchester, The Lake District is one of those places you could never get bored of. Complete with beautiful landscapes, cosy pubs, quaint little shops and some incredibly fancy hotels if you really want to treat yourself. Its a vast part of the world, so personally we would recommend heading on over to Bowness-on-Windermere, right on the banks of the lake where you can get a lovely little boat which will take you on the water and over to other imaginatively named towns such as Ambleside or Lakeside. In Bowness itself, there is a stunning Garden Terrace at The Belsfield Hotel which overlooks the lake, perfect for a few drinks and some excellent food in the sun. I would also highly recommend The Albert Pub , run by Stockport’s Robinsons Brewery – top boozer and they sell Ginger Tom which is amazing.

Macclesfield

Another destination not too far at all from Manchester city centre, Macclesfied will take you around 20 minutes to get to and, once you’re there, you’ll be spoilt for choice for things to do. Once home to Joy Division frontman, Ian Curtis, you can visit where he lived on 77 Barton Street or marvel at the new mural that was erected in the town centre this year. Aside from this, Macclesfield is home to its very own Mackie Mayor-style food hub, Picturedrome Macclesfield and loads of mint bars, which range from traditional inns to more upmarket cocktail bars. If you’re staying over, get up to Tegg’s Nose Country Park the next day for a well-needed detox. 

Finally, another beach to round off the list, Southport is only an hours train journey away from Manchester and is great for a short break or staycation. With 22 miles of coastline to explore, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty and the charm of a traditional seaside town with a number of award-winning restaurants and bars to choose from, too. Southport Market is also an incredible space, complete with Greek, Canadian, Mexican, Italian and more from ten local, independent traders who cover a variety of cuisines from around the world, and are joined by a stunning feature bar.

COMING SOON: Kong’s Chicken Shop’s New Northern Quarter Mexican Quesadilla & Taco Kitchen

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7 of the best day trips from Manchester: cities, peaks, and seaside are all within reach

Apr 4, 2022 • 7 min read

From a fun day out with the kids to hiking through the Peak District, here are the best day trips from Manchester © Maremagnum / Getty Images

With its glut of malls, museums, and music venues, Manchester isn’t a place that gets dull easily. But if you're planning a longer trip, or maybe you’re a local searching for some fresh weekend activities, there’s no shortage of intriguing attractions on its doorstep. 

National parks , handsome heritage sites, and golden coastlines all provide a little respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pack up the car or head to the train station and get ready to explore the best day trip destinations from Manchester. 

Liverpool is packed with culture

Why go: Great museums in one of the UK's best cities for nightlife

Another northern city with a distinct cultural identity is Liverpool . Locals – known as Scousers – couldn’t be prouder of their home. And who could blame them? There are plenty of attractions, including a world-renowned football club. The buzzing nightlife scene has helped elevate the city to one of the best places to go for adults near Manchester.

Liverpool was once one of the richest cities in Europe. Wander around the Georgian Quarter that’s lined with elegant townhouses or venture through the incongruously modern Liverpool ONE shopping area to the Royal Albert Dock. It’s steeped in history and home to several museums and galleries, including the Merseyside Maritime Museum and the Tate Liverpool . 

Elsewhere, you’ll spot neon artwork by Tracey Emin in the immense Liverpool Cathedral and a slew of cool bars and restaurants in the recently regenerated Baltic Triangle. Is your go-to karaoke song “Hey Jude”? Don’t skip the Beatles Story . It might be cheesy, but it’s jam-packed with Fab Four memorabilia and even has a full-size mock-up of Abbey Road Studios. 

How to get to Liverpool from Manchester: Liverpool is close to Manchester, with just 35 miles (56km) separating them. Catch a direct train from Manchester’s three major stations or drive there in under an hour.

The Peak District is perfect for a scenic day out

Why go: Epic hiking trails and cozy pubs

For fresh air and scenic mountain vistas as far as the eye can see, you can’t beat a trip to the Peak District . It’s one of several national parks accessible from Manchester and a haven for hikers of all abilities. 

Edale is the destination of choice for daytrippers thanks to its direct train route from Manchester. From there, trek up Mam Tor and walk along Great Ridge to Back Tor, or drop down into idyllic Castleton. Explore the village’s ruined Peveril Castle – a former royal hunting lodge – and tuck into a hearty pub lunch at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn . 

Alternatively, you could hike to Kinder Scout, the highest point in the region. There's a circular route from Edale station that takes around five hours to complete. It’s steep in places and sometimes unmarked, so a map is a must.

How to get to the Peak District from Manchester:  Edale is 30 miles (48km) east of the city. Trains take 50 minutes from Manchester Victoria, while the drive is about an hour. 

Hebden Bridge is a top day trip by train

Why go: Tap into your creative side

You’ll find the charming locale of Hebden Bridge tucked away in the West Yorkshire countryside. Once an industrial town that fell into disrepair, an influx of artists, photographers and writers descended upon its beautiful cobbled streets in the 1980s and revitalized the entire area. Hebden Bridge is now an eclectic gem and is one of the top day trip destinations from Manchester by train. 

In addition to its charming canalside pubs, quaint tea rooms, and independent shops (including the old mill that now houses vintage stores and artists' studios), Hebden Bridge is well-known for its creative links. Many of its past and present residents have been writers and musicians, including Ed Sheeran and Benjamin Myers. 

If you have time, walk up the hill into Heptonstall. The sleepy village is one of the oldest in the region and its cemetery – complete with an eerie yet beautiful ruined church – is the final resting place of Sylvia Plath. 

How to get to Hebden Bridge from Manchester: Hebden Bridge is 29 miles (47km) from Manchester. Trains from Manchester Victoria take around 30 minutes or you can drive in 55 minutes. 

York's interactive museums are great for a family day out

Why go: Soak up a tapestry of history

York is one of the top places to visit within two hours of Manchester, thanks in part to its incredible history. Walls that once protected the city from invading Vikings encircle a web of medieval streets, while traditional 16th-century pubs house Roman relics in their basements.  

York Minster is an unmissable behemoth on the city’s skyline and a must-see for first-timers. It’s a particularly good destination for family day trips. Kids will no doubt enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Yorvik Viking Centre and the tantalizing workshops on offer at York’s Chocolate Story .

Elsewhere, stroll down the cobbles of The Shambles where wonky, timber-framed buildings hide boutique shops selling everything from old-fashioned sweets to Harry Potter souvenirs. Hungry? Grab a homemade pie from the Hairy Fig deli or indulge in a classic cream tea at Bettys .  

How to get to York from Manchester: Despite being 74 miles (120km) northeast of Manchester, York can be reached in 80 minutes by rail and about 90 minutes by road. 

Tatton Park has acres of gardens, woodland, and parkland

Why go: Explore Tatton Hall’s leafy grounds

If lazy jaunts around elegant manor houses are more your thing, put Tatton Park on your radar. Situated on the fringes of oldy-worldy Knutsford in rural Cheshire, it’s a brilliant example of Tudor architecture and is completely enveloped by lush woodland.

While the National Trust Tatton Hall , its landscaped gardens, and farm (a hit with kids) are ticketed, the 1000+ acres of parkland are free to enter on foot or bicycle. Tatton Park hosts some brilliant events throughout the year, too. Brides- and grooms-to-be should check out the Wedding Show in January/February, while gourmands can look forward to the UK-wide Foodies Festival making an appearance in July. 

How to get to Tatton Park from Manchester: Tatton Park is only 17 miles (27km) from the city. The drive takes 30 minutes in good traffic. You can also get a train to Knutsford and either catch a bus to the hall or walk a mile through the park. 

Spend a day at the seaside at Formby Beach

Why go:  Rare wildlife in sandy dunes

Formby Beach sits up the coast from Liverpool and its rolling dunes form part of a National Trust site . On sunny days, people from far and wide flock to Formby to sunbathe, picnic, and play games on the sand. Those brave enough to face a swim in the bracing Irish Sea will find a section staffed by lifeguards between June and September. A fragrant pine forest also fringes the dunes and you might just spot rare red squirrels scampering into the trees. 

How to get to Formby Beach from Manchester: Formby sits 45 miles (72km) west of Manchester. There’s a station in Formby town, but the journey includes a change in Liverpool. Driving is much easier and takes 60–90 minutes. 

Chester is the best day out with kids

Why go:  Roman history, a beautiful riverside, and an epic zoo

Chester is one of the best days out near Manchester for families with kids. The attractive city hosts ancient Roman City Walls and a lovely riverside where you can hire pedalos and savor ice cream from locally-loved Snugburys . What’s more, Chester is the location of the UK’s largest and most impressive zoo. 

Chester Zoo sits a five-minute drive from the city center (or a 25-minute bus ride) and features over 20,000 creatures, from cheeky meerkats to rare white rhinos. In recognition of its responsibility to animal welfare, the zoo runs various conservation programs focused on preventing the extinction of numerous endangered species. 

How to get to Chester from Manchester: Chester is 40 miles (64km) southwest of Manchester. Hop on a train from Manchester Victoria, Oxford Road or Piccadilly and arrive an hour later. Or, drive in the same amount of time.

You might also like: England’s most beautiful castles: fall under the spell of these 8 exquisite fortifications    Bards and Roman baths: best places in England    Top 9 road trips in England

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Manchester

Day trips from manchester.

• Manchester to Ellesmere Port
• Manchester to Ambleside
• Manchester to Hawkshead
• Manchester to Bakewell
• Manchester to Keswick
• Manchester to Conwy
• Manchester to Llanberis
• Manchester to Bowness-on-Windermere
• Manchester to Bethesda
• Manchester to Baslow
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Windermere & Lake District Tour from Manchester Including Cruise

2. Full-Day North Wales Sightseeing Adventure from Manchester

3. Snowdonia & Chester Day Tour from Manchester Including Admission

4. Chatsworth and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

5. The Lake District from Manchester

6. Derbyshire & the Peak District from Manchester

7. MANCHESTER: Lake District Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour

8. Private Manchester Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Personalised

9. 3-Day Lake District Explorer Small-Group Tour from Manchester

10. Private Shopping Tour from Manchester City to Outlet CheshireOaks

11. North Wales from Manchester

12. Manchester One Day Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private

13. Infinity Adventure

14. Private Shopping Tour from Manchester to Outlet Cheshire Oaks

15. Private Hire: Lake District from Manchester

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

North Wales Adventure Sightseeing Day Trip from Liverpool

North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York

Lake District Adventure Sightseeing Day Trip from Liverpool

Herriot and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York

CHESTER: North Wales Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour

Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York

Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour from York

Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York

The Lake District Tour from Liverpool

Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour: 10 Lakes, Amazing Scenery & Lake Cruise

"All Creatures Great and Small" Tour from the Lake District

Private "All Creatures Great and Small" Yorkshire Dales Tour from York

Full-Day Discovering All Creatures Great and Small Tour of Yorkshire

Yorkshire Adventure Sightseeing Day Trip from Liverpool

The Brontes, Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre

What travelers are saying.

• Margaret T 4 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lakeside in the Lake District A very well organized and formulated day trip. Darren's commentary was comprehensive and enjoyable. Would highly recommend the event. Thank you for a memorable day. Read more Review of: Windermere & Lake District Tour from Manchester Including Cruise Written April 30, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Windermere & Lake District Tour from Manchester Including Cruise
• Full-Day North Wales Sightseeing Adventure from Manchester
• Snowdonia & Chester Day Tour from Manchester Including Admission
• MANCHESTER: Lake District Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour
• Derbyshire & the Peak District from Manchester
• Free Walking Tour Manchester
• Skyliner: Alternative Tours and Anti-tours of Manchester
• Pandemic Tours - Manchester
• Go Quest Adventures Manchester: Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt
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11 Best Day Trips from Manchester 

There are many exciting day trips from Manchester, from city breaks to outdoor adventures, which means you can decide based on your preferences. No matter your interests – there will be something on this list for you. 

Manchester is a great city to spend a weekend; full of exciting things to do, such as parks, free museums, nightlife, and delicious food, but its best-kept secret is its location in the North West.

Manchester boasts excellent road and rail links in the UK, which means that you can quickly access wonderful, historical, and exciting places. 

This post is a tell-all to some of the best Manchester day trips you can take, including how to get there, the distance, and whether you can or need to take public transport.

It will also cover an overview of the city or area and the list of exciting things you can do on a day trip from Manchester.

Are you wondering how this can get better? These are all places to visit within 2 hours of Manchester!

Top Tips for Day Trips from Manchester

• If you do not have access to a car, do not worry; most places in this thrilling list are accessible by public transport (with a couple of exceptions).
• If you are going on your day trips from Manchester by train, you should try to book your tickets in advance. It is the only way to ensure that you will not be paying an arm and a leg for your ticket (train travel in the UK can be expensive). 
• Most trains will leave from Manchester Piccadilly or Manchester Victoria, but check the station you need carefully.
• Due to some of these places’ popularity, they can get swamped, so if you can avoid taking your day trip on the weekend or in school holidays, you will likely have a better experience.

Best 11 Day Trips from Manchester

Peak district national park.

Distance from Manchester:  23 miles 

Train:  The Hope Valley Line stops at Grindleford, Hathersage, Bamford, Hope and Edale from Manchester. Alternatively, you can access Dovestone from either the Greenfield or Marsden stops from Manchester. (Around 1-15-minutes – depending on the destination).

Drive time from Manchester:  1 hour

The Peak District is the oldest national park In the UK and is on Manchester’s doorstep. The national park has over 10-million visitors annually, which is not surprising because there is something for everyone, from outstanding views, unique flora, grand rock formations, quaint English towns and hiking for all abilities over 555 square miles.

Some of the best and popular hikes for a day trip from Manchester include Mam Tor, Padley Gorge, Dovestone Reservoir and Ladybower Reservoir.

Alternatively, you can head to the Baslow and walk to Chatsworth House, with its 737 hectares of gardens and have an afternoon tea in the Farmhouse café. Another popular spot to walk from is Edale, where you can walk to Kinder Scout and along the Pennine Way.

Top Tip: visit at the end of August or the beginning of September to see the Peak District covered in purple and pink heather. The weather is mild, and the hiking conditions are excellent.

Distance from Manchester:  35 miles 

Train from Manchester: 40-minutes

Drive time from Manchester:  1 hour 10-minutes

Liverpool is the sister city to Manchester and is famous as it’s the home of The Beatles! It is also well known for its excellent museums and historic trading ports. For something a bit different, you should head to the Baltic Triangle, for some impressive street art that rivals Manchester’s Northern Quarter and for some fabulous cafes. 

There are a million beautiful things to do in Liverpool. For example, you can visit the Cavern Club (the Beatles’ birthplace), the Georgian Quarter, the hip Royal Albert Dock area and The Beatles Story Museum. You can also take a boat trip on the Mersey or visit the Liverpool Football Club. Whatever your interests, there is something for you in the city! 

Distance from Manchester:  72 miles 

Train:  1 hour 20-minutes

Drive time from Manchester:  1 hour 30-minutes

Undeniably, one of the best day trips from Manchester is visiting the medieval city of York. It is compact, and it’s easy to get around its narrow and cobbled streets. The city has a rich history, and there’s no better place to feel it than the grand Gothic 7th-century York Minster. 

There are many exciting things to do in York, including walking down one of the most famous streets in the world – The Shambles – the real-life Diagon Alley. You can also climb Clifford’s Tower, stroll by the riverside and walk the 13th –century walls.

You can also have an unforgettable afternoon tea at Betty’s Tea Room, learn about York’s Viking past at Jorvik Viking Centre and enjoy the York Chocolate Museum. York is one of the most magical cities in the UK and is one of Manchester’s best day trips. 

Top Tip: go on a free walking tour with a local guide to learn about the city’s history.

Snowdonia, North Wales

Distance from Manchester:  95 miles 

Drive time from Manchester:  2 hours

That’s correct. You can go to Snowdonia National Park in Wales as a day trip from Manchester. Snowdonia is one of the most beautiful national parks in the UK and is the perfect spot to escape the city for an outdoor adventure. It is also home to Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales and the second (after Ben Nevis) in the UK.

If you climb Snowdon, please be aware that it is one of the most popular hikes in the UK, and it can get bustling. However, do not be put off by the 500,000+ people that hike the mountain every year. The views are sensational, and there is a café at the summit. It also has a train that can take you to the top and back, which is a pretty unique experience, isn’t it?

Tatton Park, Knutsford 

Distance from Manchester:  17 miles 

Drive time from Manchester:  40-minutes

Tatton Park in Knutsford is the perfect example of how you do not need to go far to have a wonderful day trip from Manchester. Knutsford is a quaint market town that is home to the historic estate of Tatton Park. The National Trust owned park has over 50-acres of garden walks, a 1930s working farm and a medieval manor house. You will also be able to spot deer!

You might not need a full day to visit Tatton Park, but nearby, you can see the Penny Farthing Museum and the 18th-century Tabley House. There’s also the option to do some designer shopping on the high street. 

Lake District

Distance from Manchester:  75 miles 

Train from Manchester:  To Windermere is 2 hours

The Lake District is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an excellent Manchester day trip for those who want to hike or take incredible beauty. A day trip will only give you a taste of the experience, and on arrival, you will likely want to stay longer. 

If you are there to hike, you should head to the incredible Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, for a unique challenge. Alternatively, you can visit England’s largest lake – Lake Windermere – for a less active trip. In the area, you should make time to visit the beautiful but smaller villages in the Lake District.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Distance from Manchester:   44 miles 

Train from Manchester:  the closest central train station is 7 miles from the Yorkshire Sculpture Park – Wakefield Westgate. 2 hours 15-minutes.

Drive time from Manchester:  1 hour 16-minutes

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is the first sculpture park in the UK and is an important centre for art for Britain and beyond. It is on a 500-acre site and has ever-changing artwork to keep everyone entertained.

You can visit one of the 6 Indoor Galleries, go on a walk on the Lower and Upper Lakes, and see some incredible wildlife, including Highland Cows. Before you go, download the Sculpture Cam App to create 3D animations and if it’s a sunny day, pack a picnic to enjoy overlooking the incredible sculptures. 

Top Tip: book your tickets in advance because they can get packed, especially at weekends or in the school holidays. 

Distance from Manchester:  41 miles

Train from Manchester:  Less than an hour

Chester’s delightful city dated back to the 1st-century and was once a Roman Fortress in 79AD. It is one of the most popular day trips from Manchester, because of its rich history, as you can see a grand Roman Amphitheatre, Roman walls and Tudor style half-timber buildings called The Rows. 

You can also visit the 1000-year-old Chester Cathedral, go on a cruise down the River Dee and take beautiful pictures of Chester’s Eastgate Clock. You can feel different periods of history as you walk around the city, from the Romans to the Vikings, to the Norman invaders. 

It is also a popular destination to go shopping and has an exciting café culture. Let the people watching commence!

Distance from Manchester:   45 miles 

Train from Manchester:  1 hour 

Drive time from Manchester:  1 hour 5-minutes

Leeds is an exciting city to visit and has a lot more to offer than you might think. It is one of the most exciting day trips from Manchester because there are excellent museums, high-end shopping, and lots of independent dining.

If you are in Leeds for a day trip, you should make sure you see the best sights. These include browsing at Leeds Kirkgate Market (birthplace of Marks and Spencer), exploring the beauty of the Corn Exchange and taking a Water Taxi to Leeds Dock from Granary Wharf. 

From here, you can have a coffee at the best coffee shop in Leeds – North Star Coffee and visit the Royal Armouries, which is a free museum that displays armor from around the world and across time. If you’re hungry, transport to Thailand at Mommy Thai and enjoy a drink at the Headrow House rooftop afterward.

Distance from Manchester:  53 miles 

Train from Manchester:  1 hour 20 minutes

Drive time from Manchester:  1 hour 7-minutes

Blackpool has not got the best reputation, but many people talk the talk without visiting the town. It is the perfect day trip from Manchester city or Greater Manchester if you feel like riding thrilling roller coasters at Blackpool Pleasure Beach theme park or seeing famous faces at Madame Tussauds. 

There is also the mighty Blackpool Tower to go up to see panoramic views, or you can have ice cream on Blackpool Beach. If you need to unleash your inner child or want to go to a seaside resort, then Blackpool is the day trip from Manchester for you!

Knaresborough

Distance from Manchester:  74 miles 

Train from Manchester:  1 hour 55-minutes

Knaresborough is a historic, medieval town in North Yorkshire and is one of the most unique day trips from Manchester. When you arrive, you’ll notice the imposing Knaresborough Viaduct built-in 1851 over the River Nidd. 

The most popular thing to do in Knaresborough (especially on a sunny day) is hiring a rowing boat and taking some beautiful pictures with the viaduct’s arches. It is only open from March to October, so if you visit outside this time, go to the Knaresborough Visitor Centre and talk to the helpful staff to advise what to do.

Other memorable attractions include admiring the Norman Knaresborough Castle, the museum, Knaresborough Square, the Bebra Gardens and visiting St John the Baptist Church. There are also many independent shops and restaurants in the town to discover. If you have time, visit the 15th-century Mother Shipton Inn. You can try some food or drinks overlooking the River Nidd – it is glorious. 

Top Tip: You could stop at Hebden Bridge on the way there or back to see another beautiful town.

This list has only scratched the surface of the best day trips from Manchester. There are so many days out near Manchester to choose from – the only thing that is for sure – you will have an exciting day out (whichever one you choose)!

Author Bio: Nico is a Sardinian traveller, who has lived in Lithuania, Slovakia, Australia and the UK and runs the travel blog averagelives.com with his partner Rachel. He aims to promote a love of affordable travel and shares extraordinary travel stories. Follow his journey on Instagram . 

If you on a bigger trip exploring more of Europe check out my guides to France , Germany, Greece, Iceland , Italy , Portugal , Spain and United Kingdom .

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

To book flights, I always use flight search engine Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through  Booking.com.  I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. If you haven’t signed up with Airbnb already, you can use  this link  to get £25 off your first visit!

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Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner. 

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Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

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11 Best Day Trips from Manchester You NEED to Try

There’ve been a few times in Manchester’s history where it’s really felt like the music centre of England – the nightlife there is notorious throughout England. However, it’s probably better known worldwide for its football. Whatever your reason for being there, there are many great places to see nearby on a day trip from Manchester too. Here are just a few.

Manchester is one of the biggest cities in England . Our BBC hub is up there in Salford , there’s an airport, and it’s not far from some of the best days out in the north.

I lived in Manchester for six months when I finished uni, and, to be honest, spent most of my time partying BUT there are some great days out from Manchester you can enjoy. I definitely should’ve made more of living there when I did.

Multiple train stations cater to day-trippers, the best day trips from Manchester are accessible via the extensive train lines from Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Oxford Road and Manchester Piccadilly. From industrialised cities to nature escapes, I’ve found the best getaways within an hour or two from Manchester. 

Once you’re done with the joy of the Northern Quarter, the Manchester Art Gallery and shopping at indie heaven, Affleck’s Palace, here’s what else you can do, ‘up north’.

So, if you want the joy of a big city for your nighttime entertainment, but want to get out and about in the day, then take a look at these day trips from Manchester to keep you busy.

Day trips from Manchester

• 1. Day trip to Liverpool

Manchester Victoria to Liverpool Lime Street only take 35 minutes, making the city the perfect day trip from Manchester. We’ve set out the best itinerary for a day out in Liverpool here . Have a read to make the most of your trip!

• 2. Delamere Forest

Paved walking paths carve their way around 972 hectares of woodland, scented with musk of evergreen trees. Solid trunks angle high to spread its branches, layers of leafy growth offering shade for hikers. The Delamere Forest is one of my favourite day trips from Manchester thanks to the forest adventures you can enjoy there.

Apart from the generous trails featured within Delamere Forest, outdoor activity company Go Ape gives visitors a choice between serene strolls and tree-swinging fun. The best activity by far is the Tree Top adventure – you have to climb up platforms and travel over rope courses between elevated stations. Net climbing and zip wire stations are spread out over the estate.

To explore the area quickly, take the Segway tour.

You’ll definitely up your Segway skills since some spaces are rocky and sloped. Fun!

The Delamare Forest is about an hour’s drive from Manchester, making for the perfect day trip in Cheshire. It’s also a great spot for a date idea near Manchester .

• 3. York from Manchester

The journey to York from Manchester is a longer 2 hour journey (or 1 hour 35 mins in the car) and history buffs will fall in love with this charming trove of heritage sights.

The Shambles should be first on the itinerary, a collective of 14 th and 15 th -century houses that somehow remains standing in their crooked forms. Butchers’ shops have transformed into characterful bookstores, knick-knack stores, decorative ware and other indie attractions. It’s said to have inspired Harry Potter ’s Diagon Alley !

York has witnessed politics and warfare since 71 AD, including the rise of Constantine. Most of York’s top attractions are covered, such as the splendid York Minster (one of Northern Europe’s largest cathedrals), The King’s Manor, York City Walls, Fairfax House, York Castle Prison, Berden Hall and more. 

The list of things to see in York is endless, so go ahead and plot your own tour on your day trip from Manchester.

And if you need something to do along the way – check out my BIG Yorkshire Quiz .

• 4. Chester from Manchester

Roman roots are strong in Chester – in fact, it was first conceived as a Roman fortress in 79AD. Aptly named ‘fort’ or ‘city of the Legion’, Chester’s burnished sandstone walls remain the sole full-circuit defensive wall in Britain. 

Photographers will devour Chester’s ornate Eastgate Clock, a surprisingly solid piece formed by gold-tinted whirls and coloured pieces.

Chester Cathedral is another complex of aesthetic spaces; 14 th -century quire stalls a stately contrast to its Falconry & Nature Gardens. From there, take a languid cruise down River Dee whilst enjoying afternoon tea onboard. The historic Rows feature unique boutiques in medieval frames for the romantics’ post-meal stroll. 

Also, Chester Zoo, home to over 21,000 animals and one of the best zoos in England . Between dropping by the exotic habitats, you can grab some food and drink at the animal themed restaurants.

• 5. Port Sunlight Village

Imagining wide boulevards, picturesque cottages and landscaped parks? You need Port Sunlight Village. What was William Hesketh Lever’s project to build a village for his soap factory workers is simultaneously an architectural wonder.

Port Sunlight Village is about an hour’s drive from the city, and could be combined with a trip to Liverpool for a great day trip from Manchester.

Every single house in Port Sunlight Village has its own unique design. Also referred to as Arts and Crafts cottages, these buildings vary in colour and structure. To learn more about this purposeful, idyllic village, you can tour Port Sunlight Museum before visiting the neoclassical Lady Lever Art Gallery. The masterpieces showcased are mostly from the 19 th century, collected by Lever himself. 

Tea rooms and cosy pubs are scattered around this charming parkland for both locals and tourists to rest. One of the most chilled day trips from Manchester.

• 6. Lake District from Manchester

Everyone needs a break from city noise every now and then; a day trip to the Lake District is a gift in serenity, complete with vibrant landscapes.

Green dominates this natural reserve in forested patches, soft grasslands and manicured pastures. Delve into the mountainous ranges by train or car – it’s about an hour and 20 minutes from Manchester.

You could make a beeline for Lake Windermere on your day trip from Manchester; it’s the largest of the lakes. Walking boots are a must to fully take in the terrain, but pack water-bound shoes for a cooling ride on water. Picnics are popular among visitors too as there are plenty of fresh spaces to rest after a demanding hike. 

Cosy market towns like Kendal and Ambleside are fantastic escapes too. You can spend afternoons browsing art galleries that display local talents. Traditional inns are in abundance if you’d like to stay overnight in country comfort. Check out these great places for paddleboarding in the Lake District for a few day out ideas too.

READ MORE: 7 Great Small Towns Near Manchester You’ve Probably Never Been To

• 7. Southport from Manchester

Summer travelers shouldn’t miss out on Southport’s aquatic charms. Jam on your sunglasses and flip flops for a few hours of beachside relaxation on a day trip from Manchester. It’ll take you about an hour and 20 minutes to get here.

In Southport, canopied boulevards lined with Victorian buildings capture the eye, scalloped with scenic gardens for a balance of architectural marvel and natural charm.

If you draw into the city around noon, catch a bit at Lord Street before swanning down to the pier.

The pier area encompasses Southport’s top attractions: my vision of seaside vacation come to life! 

Stroll down to the wooden pier with a takeaway bag of fish and chips in hand – absolute dreams. There’s an arcade nearby if you’re up for a challenge, or maybe you’d fancy a ride on the carousel?

The amusement park Southport Pleasureland is great for thrill-seekers for a more diverse itinerary. 

• 8. Peak District from Manchester

Another National Park to rival the Lake District is the Peak District, featuring dramatic landscapes any photographer would love to immortalise. A day out in the Peak District is a great idea.

Pack your hiking shoes to better explore its diverse valleys and moorland plateaus. 

If I were to list Peak District’s top natural attractions, Dovedale’s endless steps carved into steep limestone takes first spot. Dark Peak and Kinder Scout embodies the wilder edge of nature; expect ragged gritstone ridges and haunting moors. 

There are plenty of treats for gentler explorers too. Lyme Park’s tranquil estate combines garden and red deer populace for an alternative ambiance. Haddon Hall and Chatsworth House are unexpected finds, mansions and manors that belonged centuries past but are no less beautiful now. 

READ MORE: The Best Day Trips from Liverpool

• 9. Bradford from Manchester

Bradford is often overlooked and it’s hard to understand why. While its grim past still lingers in monikers like the ‘UK’s most-improved city’, cultural riches run rampant, whether it is the well-respected Bradford Literature Festival or revitalised North Parade district. Saltaire, one of England’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites , preserves its manufacturing past. 

The Bradford Industrial Museum is usually first up on a visit to Bradford, and has exhibits housed in a 19 th -century mill. Fascinating right?

In contrast, the National Science and Media Museum is housed in sleek casing to discuss photography, film and television.

Bolling Hall is another lesson in medieval eras, with the manor house decorated with aged furnishings. 

Haworth Village’s tribute to the Brontë sisters is definitely worth visiting. Their family home is turned into Brontë Parsonage Museum to display the manuscripts, letters and possessions of these 19 th -century novelists. 

10. Trafford Centre, Manchester

The Trafford Centre in Manchester is humongous and one of the busiest malls in England. Like the Metro Centre, the Trafford Center isn’t just one of England’s biggest shopping malls, but also offers different activities for families to enjoy.

You can watch the latest movie at the cinema, experience marine life by swimming in the underwater aquarium, and enjoy the giant LEGOLAND .

Most importantly though, the Trafford Centre is considered as one of the best shopping experiences in England. It not only offers local brands but several international brands as well.

11. Go paddleboarding!

We’ve rounded up all the best spots for paddleboarding in Greater Manchester . Pick one and go and explore!

READ MORE: The 6 Most Scenic Train Routes in England

The Best Free Things to Do in Manchester

Best day trips from Manchester

I hope these day trips from Manchester have inspired you to get out and see more of the area. Manchester is great, but sometimes it’s nice to go off and explore, you never know what you might find. There are also some fun day trips within Greater Manchester, if you want to stay closer to home.

If you have any more suggestions for days out from Manchester – let us know in the comments below.

Quicklist: day trips from Manchester

• 10. Trafford Center, Manchester
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Hi, may i know how much is the Day trip from Manchester to Chester for 1 adult + 1 child (10yrs old)?

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13 Top-Rated Day Trips from Manchester

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley traveled to Northern England in the spring of 2022 to explore cities, including Manchester and the surrounding area.

Thanks to its ideal location in the middle of England and the fact that it's served by a major international airport and is home to plenty of great places to stay, Manchester makes an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding area on fun day trips.

Be sure to include some of the many wonderful small towns and villages within an easy drive or rail trip from the city on your day trip itinerary. If you do, you'll be rewarded with a chance to enjoy stately old manor homes, including a number run by Britain's National Trust, along with some of the country's most beautiful scenery.

Larger destinations that make great getaways or weekend breaks include cities such as Sheffield , Birmingham, and lovely Coventry . All of these great UK travel destinations are within an easy commute and deserve to be included on your Manchester travel itinerary.

Discover more of the best places to visit around what is widely regarded as one of the best cities to visit in England with our list of the top day trips from Manchester.

1. Have a "Fab Four" Time in Liverpool

2. little moreton hall, congleton, 3. salford and the art of l.s. lowry, 4. take a trip to england's lake district, 5. the old market town of altrincham, 6. take a york weekend break, 7. ashton-under-lyne, 8. the bolton and bury loop, 9. stockport's tudor mansions, 10. quarry bank mill, 11. macclesfield, 12. knutsford, 13. head to north wales, map of day trips from manchester.

Highlights : Short train ride to many Beatles attractions including museums and shopping

Just a short train ride west of downtown Manchester is another of Britain's most visited cities: Liverpool. Visitors come from far and wide to visit the birthplace of The Beatles , taking in such iconic landmarks as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields, as well as the rebuilt Cavern Club, where the Fab Four thrilled audiences in 1961 before hitting the big time.

Other related attractions include the fun Beatles Story in Liverpool's trendy Albert Dock area, with its renovated old warehouses and wharves. Also worth seeing are Paul McCartney's childhood home on Forthlin Road, now a museum with many interesting displays of Beatles' memorabilia, and the famous Beatles Shop . Here, fans can get their shopping fix with the purchase of everything from Fab Four inspired clothing to signed photos and artwork.

For those willing to explore these and other Beatles-inspired locations on foot, look into the Cavern Walks. This excellent walking tour takes in many of the above sites.

Interested in a Beatles-themed weekend break in Liverpool? Consider booking a stay in the fancy and centrally located Hard Days Night Hotel . In addition to naming its elegant suites after band members, the hotel has thoughtfully stocked each room with plenty of unique memorabilia, from photos and artwork to musical instruments.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Liverpool

Highlights : Fun guided tours by costumed characters, year-round events, afternoon tea

Little Moreton Hall is a fun excursion. Located just 35 kilometers south of Manchester in the pretty village of Congleton, this stunning old building is widely regarded as one of the most impressive half-timbered mansions in England.

Built in 1508 for a wealthy landowner and remaining in his family for over 450 years, Little Moreton Hall has been meticulously restored and preserved. It's certainly striking to look at, and consists of multiple stories featuring superb half-timbered construction and a pretty inner courtyard, a moat, and a garden that together paint an excellent picture of rural life in 15th- and 16th-century Cheshire.

Now owned and operated by the National Trust, the property offers a number of interesting interpretive tour options, including one with a court jester, as well as a variety of fun events and programs year-round. A restaurant and tearoom are located on-site, as is a well-stocked gift shop.

If you're visiting on a Sunday, consider attending one of the weekly services in the building's private chapel.

Address: Newcastle Road, Congleton, Cheshire

Highlights : Preserved canals, art museums, historic buildings

Just five kilometers west of downtown Manchester, the university town of Salford, on the River Irwell, boasts many first-rate attractions. These include Ordsall Hall, a 15th-century manor house well known for its magnificent timbered Great Hall. Also of interest is the Bridgewater Canal, one of the best-preserved historic inland waterways in England.

Another must-see is The Lowry , a beautifully designed art center and gallery, as famous for its architecture as it is for its collections. Located on the redeveloped Salford Quays, the Lowry Centre is best known for its large collection of original works by artist L.S. Lowry, famous for his unique matchstick figures set against the backdrop of everyday Salford scenes. In addition to its Lowry collection, the facility also boasts two performing arts theaters.

Address: Pier 8, The Quays, Salford

Highlight : Organized tours to this area of outstanding natural beauty include a boat ride

Located only a 90-minute drive north of Manchester and about the same time via train, England's Lake District is one of the most picturesque corners of this island nation. Fortunately, for visitors to Manchester there's an even easier way to take in the best sightseeing in this area of outstanding natural beauty: join an organized tour of Lake District National Park.

One of the best tours takes visitors to the Lake District from Manchester , with pickup and drop-off in Chorlton Street. In addition to seeing the pretty scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site from the comfort of your air-conditioned coach, your trip includes a pleasant cruise on famous Lake Windermere.

The trip also includes a lunch stop at Hawkshead, one of the prettiest of the region's many quaint old villages. Plenty of time is allocated to allow you to walk and enjoy the village's shops and landmarks as you follow in the footsteps of such legendary writers as Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.

Highlights : Historic market town with manor house, gardens, and family events

Located about 13 kilometers southwest of Manchester, Altrincham began as a market town in 1290 and makes a pleasant day trip. Attractions include Stamford Park and its numerous historic sites, as well as the town's medieval market square with its restored whipping post, a rather somber reminder of the cruel justice once meted out to thieves and those accused of witchcraft.

A must-see is the lovely Dunham Massey Hall . This spectacular 18th-century National Trust property is worth visiting for its extensively replanted grounds, deer park, and watermill. The property's White Cottage is also well worth a visit. Built around 1500 or so, this timber-framed structure is famous for its beautiful trussed open hall.

A restaurant and a café are also located on-site, and regular fun events are held for kids to enjoy.

Address: Woodhouse Lane, Altrincham

Highlights : Tour York Minster and explore the famous Shambles and UK's longest city walls

Just an hour away from central Manchester by train, the historic city of York is a marvelous choice for a weekend break or overnight getaway. Wherever you stay in this remarkably preserved medieval city, you're never more than a short stroll away from the action.

After getting your fill of stunning York Minster , stroll through the aptly named Shambles . This fascinating network of narrow alleys and winding laneways dates all the way back to the 14th century, where they began life as the homes and shops of meat vendors.

After exploring the shops and galleries that now fill these timber-framed buildings with their overhanging upper floors, find one to dine in. There are plenty to choose from, covering everything from casual fare to fancy teas and fine dining (reservations are recommended).

Day two, for the adventurous, should involve walking along the magnificent medieval city walls, the largest of their kind to have survived the centuries. It's a three-mile hike, most of it above ground and offering incredible views over the city's landmarks. It's an adventure that can take a few hours; and longer still if you stop and enjoy the vistas, particularly stunning as the sun sets, and take time to explore the even older Roman ruins.

The key is finding somewhere to stay close to York's top things to do . A favorite is the highly rated Grays Court Hotel , which features charmingly decorated rooms just steps away from York Minster (ask for a room with a view of this beautiful building). The elegant Principal York is also worth considering, and is located near the train station and the York National Railway Museum .

Highlights : Attractive small town with historic church and military museum, close to Manchester

Ashton-Under-Lyne lies on the Tame River just nine kilometers east of Manchester, and is home to one of the Midland's oldest churches, St. Michael and All Angels. Completed in 1262, this fine old church is in fact one of the best preserved of the 116 medieval churches in the area.

Another attraction worth exploring is the Museum of the Manchester Regiment . Located in the majestic old Ashton Town Hall, this fascinating museum illustrates the history of the Manchester Regiment, as well as the local community from the 18th century. Be sure to check out the excellent exhibition about the history of military medals.

Highlights : Scenic drive with pretty countryside through historic towns

A fun excursion if you're traveling by car, the Bolton and Bury loop takes you through some of the prettiest countryside north of Manchester. Bolton should be your first stop, where you'll enjoy wandering the nearly 800-year-old town center. Notable landmarks include Bolton Parish Church, completed in 1871, and the Town Hall, opened in 1873.

Another great tourist attraction is Hall i'th' Wood, a typical medieval merchant's house containing both Stuart and Georgian furniture. Also worth a visit is Smithills Hall. Set above Ravenden Brook on the lower slopes of Smithills Moor, this 15th-century structure features a nature trail and garden center.

Next stop is Bury , a short drive east of Bolton, where you'll find a vibrant arts scene, including a museum, art gallery, and library all under one roof. Also of interest is the Bury Market , located on the same site for the past 600 years and attracting visitors from miles around.

Highlights : Historic town with old homes and famous viaduct, plus pretty villages

An easy 30-minute drive southeast of Manchester or just 10 minutes by high-speed train, Stockport and its surrounds have much to offer for a day trip or extended weekend break.

Stockport is perhaps best known for its famous viaduct, built in 1840 and made famous by local artist L.S. Lowry. The town also contains a great many fine old mansions, the most interesting being beautiful Underbank Hall .

With its oldest sections built in the 14th century, this fine Tudor building makes a perfect photo stop, as does the majestic Stockport Town Hall, with its tall wedding-cake-like cupola. The town hall also serves as home base of the Stockport Symphony Orchestra, which regularly offer first-rate classical concerts.

A short drive south of Stockport is the village of Disley , home to splendid Lyme Park , one of the biggest Tudor houses in Cheshire. Highlights include a chance to view the building's detailed decorative work and fine quality furnishings, along with its magnificent country park setting and splendid views.

Another landmark home in the area is Bramall Hall , one of Cheshire's most important black-and-white, timber-framed houses (1590).

Highlights : Pretty village with historic working textile mill, pleasant gardens, and walking trails

About 20 kilometers due south of Manchester and easily accessible by road and rail, the tiny village of Styal , near Wilmslow, is home to Quarry Bank Mill , Europe's largest working textile museum. Here, in the Apprentice House, you'll see sobering displays relating to the often-difficult lives of the many children forced to work in the cotton industry.

As you make your way through the factory, costumed interpreters explain the history of cotton production from bale to bolt, offering a fascinating insight into one of the industries that helped establish the British Empire. Afterward, visit the stunning gardens and stroll to the picturesque village of Styal and through the ancient woods along the River Bollin.

Address: Styal Rd, Styal, Wilmslow, Cheshire

Highlights : Silk museum, huge telescope with planetarium, public parks with trails

Macclesfield, on the Bollin River 27 kilometers south of Manchester, was once one of England's major centers of silk manufacturing. Today, you can learn about the former importance of this industry in the Macclesfield Silk Museum highlighting its history.

Another attraction of this once-important industrial hub is the world-famous Lovell Telescope , a giant dish 76 meters in diameter. Built in 1957 and once the world's largest steerable radio telescope, it's part of the Jodrell Bank Science Centre and the Nuffield Radio Astronomy Laboratories, the site includes fascinating interactive displays on astronomy, space, energy, and satellites, along with planetarium shows and an arboretum.

Also worth a visit is Hare Hill , a nearby National Trust property that includes a lovely walled garden, as well as extensive parkland. A little closer to Manchester but on the main Macclesfield road is Alderley Edge , a steep red sandstone escarpment enjoyed by day trippers attracted by the rolling fields and surrounding woodland.

Highlights : Great restaurants and a popular manor house with working farm and deer park

Picturesque Knutsford, about 21 kilometers southwest of Manchester, is noted as a popular dining destination thanks to its many splendid restaurants. It's also famous for being the setting of author Elizabeth Gaskell's best-selling Cranford novel.

A must-see is nearby Tatton Park , one of Northern England's most popular historic attractions. Highlights include a 1930s working farm, a medieval old hall, a magnificent mansion, and a deer park set amid 1,000 acres of parkland and lakes.

Also, be sure to visit Uppermill, the largest village in Saddleworth, with its museum, craft shops, and tearooms. Home to the Rushcart Festival each August, it's a great place to catch a glimpse of England's famed Morris Dancers.

Highlights : Visit small towns and historic sites on an organized day trip

A visit to the popular tourist region of North Wales is certainly time well spent, and can easily be accomplished from Manchester if you hook up with a professional tour operator.

One of the best options is to join a full-day North Wales sightseeing adventure from Manchester. With handy pick-up and drop-off at Manchester Airport, you'll be whisked away by coach, first to the lovely seaside town of Llandudno , a Victorian-era resort destination with one of the best-preserved promenades and piers in the UK.

Other highlights of your day-long excursion include Conwy Castle, the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, and the romantic small town of Betws-y-Coed. You'll also pass through parts of stunning Snowdonia , too. It's one of the most scenic corners of the country so have your camera at the ready.

Read More: Best Small Towns in Wales

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Top Attractions in England : Thanks to the country's brilliant rail network, it's easy to get to England's top attractions . Popular destinations within easy striking distance of Manchester include Chester , famous for its world-class zoo (Chester Zoo); Warwick , home to the remarkably well-preserved Warwick Castle; and Birmingham , popular for its museums and art galleries.

UK's Best Beaches : Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by the quality and number of great beaches in England . One of the top-rated beach experiences can be enjoyed in the seaside resort town of Brighton in Sussex , famous for its promenade and pier, and Rhossili Bay Beach on the spectacular Gower Peninsula, near Swansea in Wales . Also worth a visit is beautiful St. Brélade's Bay Beach on Jersey in the Channel Islands .

More on England

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16 Best Day trips from Manchester, England (2024 Edition)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Manchester is ideally located in the North West of England and there are so many places you can discover nearby.

Within a couple of hours, you can get to the seaside, the peaks and more!

As a Manchester local, going on day trips is something I do every weekend and today, I’ll share all my best tips with you.

📌 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM MANCHESTER

🌳 For nature lovers: Peak District , Snowdonia and Lake District

🏰 For history lovers: Chester and York

🎵 For music lovers: Liverpool

Whether you are spending a few days in Manchester or are living there and looking for a day out, this article is for you!

Let’s discover the best day trips from Manchester!

🔎 Table of Contents

Best Places to visit within 1 hour of Manchester

Distance : 40 miles / 1h

Located between Manchester and Liverpool, Chester is perfect for two kinds of people: History lovers and animal lovers!

Chester was founded as a Roman fortress but through centuries, became that very typical English town, covered with Tudor-Style half-timber houses.

Chester is the perfect example of what a melting pot of civilizations can result in! A beautiful and extremely interesting city.

I’d highly recommend going on a walking tour in Chester as you will discover so much about the history of the place! See prices here.

But besides that, you can go for a walk on the Roman walls, visit the cathedral and walk in town. You will discover beautiful medieval streets with timber facades on the building.

A mix of culture that is beautifully put together!

Although Chester is a must-do, it can get pretty busy in summer. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be going, but just be aware of that.

Now let’s switch to the other thing: Chester Zoo !

Chester Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world! And if you have a day to spare, you should definitely check it out!

Chester Zoo was open by George Mottershead and his family. He started collecting loads of animals, especially after WWI despite having been wounded. He had a passion for all animals and slowly slowly started being the zoo.

The thing that makes Chester Zoo so special is the fact that it was built purely out the kindness and passion of this family. Moreover, it’s operated by a registered charity (since 1934) and is involved in many projects about animal projection across the world.

2. Little Moreton Hall

Distance : 35 miles / 50 minutes

Located about 35 miles away from Manchester, in Congleton, Little Moreton Hall is a beautiful half-timbered mansion.

The property itself is fairly small compared to other National Trust so it might not take you the entire day, but it’s still a very nice place to go for the afternoon if you can.

You can visit the Mansion and the gardens.

This beautiful mansion paints an excellent portrait of what a typical English house used to be! So pretty and cute!

If you go around Christmas time, you might also get a glass of mulled cider!

You can book your ticket in advance on the official website . There is a fee but it will be free if you are a National Trust member.

3. Tatton Park

Distance : 17 miles / 30 minutes

Tatton Park is a National Trust property located 30 minutes away from Manchester city centre. It’s the perfect place to visit if you are looking for a day out around Manchester.

Tatton Park is loved by families as it is big and offers many different activities.

As you get there, you will drive through the deer park. Open your eyes, there are deers everywhere and it’s good fun to try to spot them. There are a lot of walking path in the park so you can explore it for hours!

The second main attraction at Tatton Park is the mansion and gardens. If you have a National Trust Membership , it will be included and you can visit both for free.

Finally, on the other side of the park is located a farm. That’s the perfect thing to do in Tatton Park with kids. The farm includes a mill and plenty of animals. The staff will show you how they milk cows and take care of the other animals. In the mill, you will find a presentation of how it used to be used. Very interesting!

To visit Tatton Park Mansion and Gardens, make sure to book your ticket in advance on the official website.

4. Peak District

Distance : 18 miles / 40 minutes

Established in 1951, Peak District is officially the first National Park in the UK! And what a well-deserved title. The peaks, as the locals say, are gorgeous and breath-taking!

There are so many things to do in the Peaks!

If you are going on a day trip from Manchester, I’d recommend taking the train to Edale (or drive if you have a car) and start from there.

Edale is home to some of the best hikes in Peak District such as Jacob’s Ladder and Mam Tor.

Castleton is also a cute village that you can visit on the same day.

Alternatively, you can also opt for the northern part of the Peak District. Dovestone Reservoir is an excellent day out from Oldham.

There are many walks around the reservoir including some you can do with children and some more challenging hikes.

If you don’t have a car, you may also want to opt for a day tour from Manchester. See prices here.

5. Lyme Park

Distance : 20 miles / 40 minutes

Lyme Park is quite similar to Tatton Park but a bit smaller and on the other side of Manchester, in Stockport.

It’s a National Trust Property as well. It will be included in your membership if you have the card otherwise, you can buy your tickets online.

The deer park is very big. It’s the perfect place to go for a walk and enjoy a picnic. The mansion and gardens are well worth a visit as well. It’s very different to the other properties around Manchester and it’s very interesting. There is even a inside garden.

6. Liverpool

Distance : 35 miles / 1h

Liverpool is one of the most underrated cities in the UK and yet has so much to offer! Whether you are a music fan or culture nerd, you will find many things to do in Liverpool.

Liverpool used to be the port of entry of most goods during the triangle trade. The revolutionary technology behind the wet dock was invented in Liverpool.

This was a game-changer during the industrial revolution. Today the maritime mercantile city of Liverpool is classed as UNESCO world heritage.

If you are interested in learning more about Liverpool, opt for a walking tour. See prices here.

Liverpool is also a great destination for museum lovers. There are so many of them! World museum, slavery museum, Tate… art and culture fans will love it!

If you like shopping, Liverpool will be your paradise. The city centre is home to Liverpool One, the biggest open-air commercial centre in Europe.

Liverpool was also used many times as a filming location for Peaky Blinders. If you are a Shelby’s fan, you may want to consider going on a Peaky Blinders tour. See prices here.

Finally, last but not the least, Liverpool is the birthplace of the Beatles ! If you love music, Liverpool is a must-go!

Head to Matthew Street and go to the Cavern, the club where the Beatles started! You can also book a ticket to visit the Beatles Story, the world’s largest permanent exhibition purely devoted to The Beatles. Click here to see the prices.

The music culture is extremely present in Liverpool. You will find many pubs and bars with live music. Loads of famous artists also come to Liverpool and perform in random places just to try out their new material so if you are lucky, who knows you might end up seeing an amazing show!

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive there if you have a car. It will take you about 1 hour.

That said, I would highly recommend taking the train. There are several trains per hour going from Manchester to Liverpool. They take between 50 minutes and 1h10. The return journey costs between £7 and £15.

You can book your ticket on Trainline and keep it on your phone.

Fun fact : the train line between Manchester and Liverpool was the world’s first passenger railway.

7. Trafford

Distance : 10 miles / 20 minutes

Looking for a family day out in Manchester? Trafford will be the perfect place for you!

Located on the edge of the city, Trafford is home to many entertainment places as well as the famous Trafford Centre.

If you are a first-time visitor, make sure to go to the Trafford Centre. Not only will you find hundreds of shops but it’s also such a unique place.

It was beautifully decorated. It almost looks like a theme park. Make sure to head to the food hall so you can see the mini China town, Little Italy and the replica of the boat deck.

If you’re not into shopping but want to have a fun day out in Manchester, you should opt for one of the following activities:

• Visiting Sealife. See prices.
• Trying indoor skydiving at iFly. See prices.
• Hitting the slopes at Chill Factore.

Best Places to visit within 2 hours of Manchester

Distance : 70 miles / 1h30

York is, without the shadow of a doubt, one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. If you love history and medieval towns, York will be your paradise!

You can jump on a train from Manchester Piccadilly station and in less than 1 hour you will be in York. The city centre is quite small, making it super easy to walk around!

The best way to make the best of your day in York is to go on a walking tour. The guide will bring you to the main attractions in York and tell you everything about the history of the place. York offers a very interesting mix between roman, normans and anglo-Saxons influences.

The most popular place is the Shambles. This narrow street is very characteristic of York. It’s also a great place for Harry Potter fans. Even though Harry Potter wasn’t filmed in York, the Shambles were turned into a Harry Potter street in recent years.

If you want to discover the actual Harry Potter filming locations in the UK though, you can head here.

9. Lake District

Distance: 75 miles / 1h10

It would be impossible to talk about day trips from Manchester without mentioning Lake District! This beautiful National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Northern England.

It’s about 2 hours from Manchester. You can get there by train or car but if you want to make the best of your day, a day tour to Lake District from Manchester would be the best.

You can see more details and latest prices here. You can also check this article to see all tours to Lake District.

The lakes, as they are nicknamed, offer amazing walking and cruising opportunities. You will also find a lot of picturesque villages such as Kendal and Windermere.

Finally, you can also visit the world of Beatrix Potter.

Click here to see the prices for a day tour.

10. Birmingham

Distance : 86 miles / 1h40

Birmingham is the second biggest city in the UK. It’s located about 2 hours away from Manchester by train, it’s the ideal day trip if you want to discover a bigger city.

Birmingham is perfect for shoppers! You will find the biggest Primark in Europe and plenty of other shops in the massive shopping centre in town.

If you are going in November or December, you will also be able to enjoy the Christmas markets!

If you love music, Birmingham will be a good place to visit too. There are a lot of music venues, perfect to go see a gig!

11. Yorkshire Dales National Park

Distance : 52 miles / 1h15

Located about 1 hour and a half from Manchester city centre, the Yorkshire Dales National Park features some of the most beautiful landscapes in England!

Beautiful small villages, limestone walls, sheep and hiking trails… that’s what the Yorkshire Dales are all about!

If you like hiking, make sure to go to Malham. The village itself is very cute but the best thing about it is the walking trails. You can head up to Malham Tarn or choose to go up to Malham Cove.

Not only the view is absolutely stunning from there but it was also a Harry Potter filming location ! If you are a Potterhead, you will recognise this unique cliff where Hermione and Harry camp in the 7th movie!

The best way to get there is by car. Although you can reach some towns by train, it will be a long trip and you won’t be able to get around. You can truly understand the true beauty of the Yorkshire Dales when you’re driving on these narrow roads.

If you don’t have a car, you can opt for a day tour from Manchester. Click here to see the prices.

13. Snowdonia National Park

Distance : 95 miles / 1h50

Snowdonia National Park is particularly known for being home to Wales’ highest mountain, Mount Snowdon.

It was Wales’ first national park and is an absolute beauty! One of my favourite places in the UK! There are so many things to do in Snowdonia.

If you are going to Snowdonia on a day trip from Manchester, you may want to leave early and be ready for a full day. It will take you about 2 hours by car to get there. You can also opt for a day tour by bus. Click here to see the prices.

From there, one of the best things to do is obviously to hike Mount Snowdon. There are six different routes you can take: Llanberis path, Pyg Track, Miners’ Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd-Ddu Path or the Snowdon Ranger Path.

But Snowdonia has so much more to offer! It boasts way more hiking trails than Snowdon and you can find some for all difficulty levels.

If you are a thrill-seeker, Snowdonia will be your paradise too! Because it’s home to the world’s fastest zip line! Zip World Velocity.

I got the chance to experience it back in 2015 and I can tell you it was one of the best things I did. I put it right up there alongside skydiving above the Great Barrier Reef! That’s to say how much you love you.

Tickets start at £65 and get two rides. One on a smaller zip line, then one on the big zip line. Besides the speed, the thing that I loved the most about it was the place itself. You are on a mountain, the seaside in the background, literally flying above a lake! It’s absolutely amazing!

14. Pleasure island

Distance : 55 miles / 1h05

Pleasure Island is a family theme park in Cleethorpes, near Blackpool. It’s a great destination for a day out near Manchester with kids.

It has been running since 1993 and is a local institution.

The park is split in 6 areas: Africa, Kiddies Kingdom, Morocco, Old England, Spain and White Knuckle Valley.

You’ll find an interesting selection of rides including some for young children and adults.

15. Alton Towers

Distance : 44 miles / 1h20

Alton Towers is an amusement park located in Stoke-on-Trent, about 1h20 away by car from Manchester.

You can also take the train from Piccadilly Station.

It’s the perfect activity if you like roller coasters!

Like any theme park, I would recommend going early to avoid having to queue too much. That said though, it has nothing to do with theme parks in Florida for example, compared to that it’s still a fairly small park. But really good fun and that’s what matters!

16. Llandudno

Distance : 81 miles / 1h40

Llandudno is a small seaside town located in North Wales . It’s a popular destination amongst locals, especially in summer.

You can easily get there by car. It takes a bit less than 2 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour of North Wales from Manchester. Click here to see the prices.

Once you reach Llandudno, you can park in town but be careful with the parking restrictions as some places are limited to 2 hours.

You can then walk to town, grab a delicious fish and chips before heading to the beach.

The beach is pretty large and you’ll have plenty of room for a walk. You can also walk along the promenade up to Llandudno Pier.

If you are travelling with a dog, head to West Shore Beach instead.

You may also be interested in:

• 21 Best Day trips from Bristol (for both locals and visitors)
• National Trust Manchester: 7 Best National Trust sites to visit around Manchester
• Manchester Food Guide: 9 Delicious and Typical Mancunian Foods and drinks!

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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Day Trips From Manchester

The 10 Best Day Trips From Manchester

George Standen / Getty Images

While there's a lot to see and do in Manchester, visitors to the British city may also want to explore the surrounding area. Manchester is just a short distance from many of England's best sights like the historic towns or York and Chester or the lush Lake District. Consider renting a car to better explore the towns and green moors, or take advantage of the expansive train network to get from the heart of Manchester into the countryside with little hassle. From Liverpool to Delamere Forest, here are 10 of the best day trips from Manchester.

Liverpool: Birthplace of the Beatles

The port city of Liverpool, known as the birthplace of the Beatles, makes a great day trip from Manchester. Embark on a Beatles tour to see the famous Cavern Club or go to a soccer game at Anfield Stadium, or explore Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, a historical area that's home to the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Museum. Consider staying for the evening to enjoy Liverpool's lively nightlife, which boasts lots of great restaurants, bars and clubs.

Getting There: Liverpool is a one-hour drive west from Manchester, but travelers can also take a quick train from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street. Trains run several times per hour and are reasonably priced, making it a good option for those without a car or who don't want to deal with parking.

Travel Tip: For a different view of Liverpool, embark on a boat cruise of the city with Mersey Ferries , which sails by all of the key sights.

Lake District: Mountain Hikes and Watersports

John Finney Photography / Getty Images

England's Lake District is a must-see destination for any traveler, but especially for those who love the great outdoors. It's best to pick a single hike or destination if you only have a day there, so consider starting in Kendal or Derwentwater. Hiking, biking, boating, and scenic walks are the most popular things to do, and the area is notably family friendly. On a sunny day, embark on a boat cruise, which are available on several lakes, including Windermere, Coniston, Derwentwater, and Ullswater.

Getting There: The Lake District is best seen with a car and the area is an easy hour and a half drive north from Manchester. It's possible to take a train to Windermere, but there's not much public transportation available once you're in the Lake District itself.

Travel Tip: The Lake District runs guided walks between April and October, led by volunteers, which visitors can join to learn more about the area.

York: Walk the Roman Walls

The walled city of York dates back to the Roman Empire, although its most famous site is the 13th-century Gothic cathedral, the York Minster. York is great for history lovers, especially since you can still stroll along the ancient city walls. Don't miss the Shambles, a narrow historic street that looks like something out of Harry Potter, and the York Castle Museum. There's also lots of shopping throughout town, as well as historic pubs and cafes that overlook the Ouse river. If you're feeling particularly spry, climb the 275 steps to the peak of the York Minster's central tower to take in the views.

Getting There: Drive an hour and a half northeast past Leeds to find York, or hop on a train from Manchester Victoria to York. The York train station is walking distance from the central of town and trains run frequently.

Travel Tip: York is very popular with tourists, so consider visiting during the week rather than on a weekend and avoid holidays.

Chester: Traditional English Town

Originally founded as a Roman fortress in the 1st century A.D., Chester is one of those picturesque English towns that feels like something out of the movies. It's known for its Tudor-style buildings and cobbled streets, but remains of the old Roman wall surround the town and there's a Roman amphitheater nearby. Don't miss Chester Cathedral, the Chester Rows and the Grosvenor Museum, which displays Roman artifacts.

Getting There: Drive west to Chester (about an hour and 15 minutes) or take a direct train from Manchester to Chester Station. The trains run from both Manchester Victoria and Manchester Piccadilly, and take a little over an hour, running frequently throughout the day.

Travel Tip: Extend your experience with a visit to Beeston Castle, an English Heritage Site built in the 1220s. It's situated on a cliff a short drive outside Chester and the views are unparalleled.

Chatsworth House and Gardens: Explore English History

Glenn Beanland / Getty Images

Chatsworth House, found in the Peak District, is one of England's most famous historic homes, known in part for its scenic gardens. The house is the current home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and it has been passed down through 16 generations of the Cavendish family. Visitors can tour the rooms, which showcase an expansive collection of art, before exploring the 105-acre Chatsworth Garden, which includes a greenhouse belonging to the first Duke of Devonshire. Chatsworth House also has several restaurants, including one that serves afternoon tea, plus a farm shop and takeaway picnics to enjoy on the grounds.

Getting There: It's easiest to drive an hour and a half southwest to find Chatsworth House, although intrepid travelers can also opt for public transportation. Those without a car should take a train from Manchester to Sheffield and then take a 25-minute bus ride to Chatsworth House.

Travel Tip: Book tickets online in advance before visiting the house, particularly when planning a visit on a weekend or holiday.

Yorkshire Dales National Park: Hikes, Waterfalls, and More

It would be hard to see all of the expansive Yorkshire Dales National Park in a day, but travelers can get a glimpse of the area, which includes vast moors, quaint villages and green hills, on a day trip. Create an itinerary with some of the highlights of the park, including Bolton Abbey Estate, Aysgarth Falls, and the Dales Countryside Museum. Those who like to hike should plan to ascend of the Three Peaks, or you can take in the sights along one of the park's many cycling routes.

Getting There: Yorkshire Dales National Park is best experienced by car. The area is about an hour and a half drive south from Manchester, depending on which part you plan to visit.

Travel Tip: There's a lot to see and do, so consider starting at the Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre or the Malham National Park Centre to get your bearings.

Delamere Forest

Delamere Forest is a large, leafy forest in Cheshire that's perfect for a day out in nature (and away from the crowds of tourists). There are three walking trails, two cycling trails and an adventure park called Go Ape!, which brings you up into the trees. Bring along a picnic and spend the day enjoying the outdoors with your friends or family.

Getting There: Drive an hour southwest from Manchester to find Delamere Forest, or take a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Delamere. Both options take about an hour. There are several parking lots available, each of which charges visitors a small fee.

Travel Tip: The facilities at Delamere Forest are limited, so bring any water and food you want to enjoy. There are toilets and a bike rental shop for those who need them.

Knowsley Safari: Lions, Rhinos, and Baboons

Venture to Merseyside to discover Knowsley Safari, a safari park that has been around for nearly 50 years. Visitors can embark on a 5-mile safari park drive, where you'll spot lions, wildebeest, camels, rhinos, and more. There are more than 750 animals in total, most of which roam free in the park. It's all done from your own vehicle, which means you can explore at your own pace with the help of a map and audio guide. If you prefer not to drive, hop on Baboon Bus, which takes you to see the animals throughout the park over the course of one to two hours.

Getting There: Because the safari park drive is best done from your own car driving is ideal (it's about 40 minutes), but those without a car can take a train to a bus and then purchase the Baboon Bus option on-site.

Travel Tip: It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance online (there are often discounted available when you buy on the park's website). Parking is free, so save your extra cash for a souvenir.

Haworth: Birthplace of the Brontë Sisters

The town of Haworth, in West Yorkshire, is part of the Pennines. It has a cobbled main street and is home to the Brontë Parsonage Museum, which details the lives and careers of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë. The town, which is filled with shops and restaurants, a great starting point for a walk around the South Pennine moors. Be sure to visit the Cliffe Castle Museum, former home of Victorian millionaire and textile manufacturer Henry Isaac Butterfield.

Getting There: Take a train to Leeds and transfer to a second train to Haworth, or drive north from Manchester (about an hour and 15 minutes). There is also a bus from Manchester that stops in Bradford, for those looking for a less expensive way to travel.

Travel Tip: Take the nearby Keighley & Worth Valley Railway stream train. It's a 5-mile-long heritage railway line with scenic views and an old-timey vibe.

Buxton: A Classic Spa Market Town

Photos by R A Kearton / Getty Images

Found in the East Midlands, Buxton is known for its natural thermal hot springs and quaint market feel. Spas are popular thanks to the hot springs, so book into the Buxton Crescent Thermal Spa or the spa at the Palace Hotel to kick off your day trip. Buxton also boasts the historic Buxton Opera House, the famed Buxton Crescent, Solomon's Temple, and the Buxton Museum & Art Gallery. Many visitors also include a tour of Poole's Cavern, a carboniferous limestone cave supposedly once explored by Mary Queen of Scots, as part of their trip.

Getting There: Drive an hour south from Manchester, or book a train to directly to Buxton from Manchester Piccadilly.

Travel Tip: The Buxton town markets take place on Tuesdays and Saturdays, so plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the outdoor stalls, which open at 9 a.m. 

One Week in England: The Perfect Itinerary

8 Best Road Trips in England

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

The Top 20 Things to Do in England

The Top 20 Destinations in England

The Best Day Trips From Birmingham, England

How to Travel From London to Chester by Train, Bus, and Car

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

10 Great Reasons to Visit the United Kingdom

The Top 10 Day Trips from Naples, Italy

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

The 11 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

Yorkshire Dales National Park: The Complete Guide

Peak District National Park: The Complete Guide

12 Iconic Day Trips from Manchester, UK

With its central location and great transport links, Manchester serves as the ideal launch point for day-tripping adventures. Within an hour or two, a spectrum of English countryside, heritage cities, and charming villages await discovery on the perfect day out. Venture into the emerald hillsides and stone villages that inspired legendary authors. Stop for hearty lunches at centuries-old pubs frozen in time. 

Step back to witness the Coalbrookdale iron bridge that give birth to the Industrial Revolution. Bask in nostalgia strolling the candy-striped promenades of Britain’s best-preserved seaside holiday resorts! Extensive rail networks, coach bus tours and highways connect Manchester to the surrounding Northwest region with ease. Whether you fancy literary inspiration, industrial innovations, or seaside relaxation, iconic destinations promise brilliant, revitalising escapes. 

Table of Contents

An ideal city for day tripping

One of the best things about Manchester is its proximity to beautiful countryside, quaint villages, and historic cities, all within an hour or two’s drive or train ride. I find this super convenient for taking spontaneous day trips whenever the wanderlust strikes.  You can ride along gorgeous green hillsides dotted with sheep straight out of a postcard before stopping for lunch at a centuries-old country pub (although there are also plenty of old pubs in Mancheste r !).  You can also discover the inspiration behind your favourite authors and artists by stepping into their preserved homes and gardens.

Getting around

Luckily, Manchester and the Northwest region in general have great public transport connections. For car-free travellers like me, trains provide an easy option to make the most of your time one-way while admiring countryside views speeding by. For destinations a bit too remote for trains, coach tours pick up right in the city centre for seamless day trip experiences. With tours handling navigation and itineraries, you simply sit back and soak up the travel without hassle.

If you prefer being behind the wheel yourself, having a car allows ultimate flexibility to cruise through charming villages or stop spontaneously for photo ops along your drive.  While highways connecting Manchester provide an efficient base, don’t be afraid to veer onto winding backroads for eye-catching scenery far from tourist crowds.

12 Iconic Day Trips from Manchester

While lists abound for the most popular day trips from Manchester, some of my favourite places for Manchester day trips are the hidden gems which surround the city. Here are my top recommendations after extensive personal explorations that promise you a brilliant day out.

1. Quirky Port Sunlight Village

For a uniquely charming and endlessly Instagrammable escape less than an hour from Manchester, Port Sunlight always delights. Built as a model village for workers of the Sunlight soap factory, this self-contained riverside gem overflows with imaginative architecture, vibrant gardens, and an utterly happy ambiance. As you wander the meticulously preserved cottages and community buildings, you’ll discover quirky details everywhere. Keep your eyes peeled for the carved mice popping out of windowsills!  The Lady Lever Art Gallery provides a refined dose of fine art and history within the village itself. With such visual intrigue packed into a compact area, you’ll love losing yourself in Port Sunlight’s beauty on repeat visits.

How to get from Manchester to Port Sunlight

If you’re driving, the journey from Manchester to Port Sunlight will only take around 1 hour. However, if you’re taking the train, expect the journey to take around 2.5 hours. I always find the cheapest trains on Trainline. You can check train times and buy tickets from Manchester to Port Sunlight here.

2. Heritage heaven in Ironbridge Gorge

History truly comes alive with a day trip to Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire, where the world’s very first iron bridge still stands strong across the River Severn. More than just a bridge, this site lets you experience the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution by exploring interactive living history museums and preserved 18th-century factories and homes. See how iron was forged, bricks fired in traditional kilns, and decorative tiles created. Learn from live demonstrations of everything from cooking to crafts amidst quaint workshops and cottages. 

For a fun change of pace, try your hand at making glass or pottery yourself in hands-on classes! With 10 unique attractions set amongst stunning natural scenery, you’ll be immersed in Ironbridge Gorge’s worlds of discovery from the past and present. Fun fact: Manchester used to be the textile capital of the world! This gave the city its nickname ‘Cottonopolis,’ and to this day, Australia, South Africa and other commonwealth nations still refer to their textile departments as the Manchester department! Here are more fascinating facts about Manchester .

How to get from Manchester to Ironbridge Gorge

It is possible to get from Manchester to Ironbridge Gorge using public transport, but it’s not easy – I’m talking about multiple trains and buses, so for a day trip, it’s probably not worth it. However, if you have a car, you can drive there in just under 2 hours, making it more than doable.

3. Seaside nostalgia in Llandudno

For the picture-perfect seaside holiday straight from the pages of a storybook, Llandudno is sure to grab you with its vintage charm. As one of Britain’s best preserved Victorian seaside resorts in North Wales, strolling the seaside promenade and long sandy beach here feels deliciously nostalgic. Add in the mountainous Snowdonia backdrop, and you have a destination dazzling from every angle. Hop aboard the historic Great Orme tramway ascending to stunning summit views, try your luck for a win in the arcade, or simply bliss out on the beach with ice cream from a candy-striped hut.  Llandudno has family fun down to an art form! When you tire of the bustling seafront, the peaceful gardens and preserved homes in the Conservation Area offer a glimpse into the seaside glamour of the past.

How to get from Manchester to Llandudno

You can drive from Manchester to Llandudno in 1 hour and 50 minutes, but public transport options are also great, with around 21 trains per day from Manchester to Llandudno, many of which are direct! Expect the train journey from Manchester to Llandudno to take just over 2 hours. Check times and buy tickets here.

4. Literary landscapes of the Lake District

Of course, no roundup of North West day trips is complete without the postcard valleys, glittering lakes, and craggy fells of the Lake District National Park, one of the most historical places to visit in England . Reachable in under 2 hours by direct train, the Lake District packs outstanding natural beauty with every mile.

However, it isn’t just natural beauty you’ll find here, for you will also step into the cherished locale that ignited creativity for England’s greatest writers like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.  Tour their preserved homes bursting with boundless inspiration just as they left them, then hike the very footpaths threading through the wild landscape that stirred some of literature’s most famous verses and characters. This Beatrix Potter half-day tour looks simply magical, as does this Wuthering Heights, The Brontes, and Jane Eyre tour.

How to get from Manchester to the Lake District

You can get to the Lake District National Park from Manchester in 1 hour and 20 minutes by car. If you’re travelling by train, you have several options. You can take the train from Manchester to Windermere , which takes about 2 hours, from Manchester to Oxenholme , which takes 1 hour and 20 minutes, or head further north to Penrith in 1 hour and 40 minutes. For a fuller experience, this full-day tour from Manchester to Windermere includes your transport, tour guide, a boat trip on Lake Windermere, and numerous historical villages in the area.

5. Enchanting Chester and its Medieval Rows

The ancient walled city of Chester captivates with a magical mix of over 2,000 years of architecture and history within easy walking distance.  Inside the Roman and medieval walls, Chester’s most iconic feature awaits: The Rows. This two-tiered medieval shopping gallery with unique facades preserves the original street plan and buildings, creating the experience of stepping back in time. 

Explore The Rows’ hidden secrets like passages threading between buildings and stunning decorative craftsmanship boasting traditional techniques. Beyond these timber-framed gems, Chester brims with relics from every era like amphitheatres and castles.  Stroll along the canal paths or have a pint in England’s oldest racecourse to soak up Chester’s enduring charms.

How to get from Manchester to Chester

Chester is one of the easiest day trips from Manchester. By car, you can get there in 1 hour, or you can take one of the 87 daily trains between the 2 cities in the same amount of time. Check train times and get your tickets here.

6. Mighty Mountains and Mines of Snowdonia

Venture deep into the rugged beauty of Snowdonia National Park to discover a landscape of both natural and industrial wonders that tower in grandeur.  Ascend Mount Snowdon itself on train or foot to stand atop the tallest peak south of Scotland, dwarfed by sweeping views in every direction.  Alternatively, descend 300 feet underground into Great Britain’s largest former slate mine. These mountains fuelled Wales’ industrial growth for centuries, leaving Llechwedd Slate Caverns and similar mines as reminders of the backbreaking work once locked within.  Both above and below ground, Snowdonia delivers epic scale and perspective found nowhere else.

How to get from Manchester to Snowdonia

The drive from Manchester to Snowdonia takes 2 hours. If you’re using public transport, you’ll need to take the train from Manchester to Bangor (2 hours and 25 minutes on average), and then use the Snowdon Sherpa bus service to get to Snowdonia itself. This organised tour from Manchester combines a visit to Snowdonia with the aforementioned city of Chester, killing two birds with one stone!

6. Coastal path and castle of stunning Conwy

On the coastal edges of Snowdonia, the walled seaside town of Conwy presents you with postcard perfection around every turn. Conwy Castle itself captures the imaginations right away as one of Britain’s most impossibly picturesque and best-preserved fortifications.  While no longer guarding the kingdom, this UNESCO World Heritage castle now invites you to clamber staircases peeking into secret nooks and unseen views. 

Beyond its turreted silhouette, Conwy charms with a cascading waterfall springing under the walls, colourful harbour houses, and the North Wales Path threading just above it all. Give your legs a stretch with the 6-mile loop hike rewarding you with nonstop vistas between castle and sea. Fun fact: Conwy is also home to the smallest house in Great Britain!

How to get from Manchester to Conwy

The drive from Manchester to Conwy takes 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it one of the easiest day trips from Manchester. If you prefer to take the train, there are around 3 direct trains per day, with a journey time of 2 hours. Check train times and buy tickets here.

7. Traditional Lytham St Annes

A scenic drive under an hour transports you to the peaceful paradise of Lytham St Annes, among England’s most historic resort towns. Its meticulously preserved seafront radiates traditional seaside charm.  Green space and low-rise buildings give Lytham an airy, relaxed ambiance. Meander down the mile-long promenade, sink your toes in squeaky golden sand, then rest up Green and Pavilion gardens alive in vibrant bloom.  In town, independent shops and tea rooms beckon from Georgian facades. And Lytham Windmill still stands proudly after 300 years! Quieter than bustling Blackpool down the coast, Lytham St Annes offers up nostalgia perfected.

How to get from Manchester to Lytham St Annes

You can reach Lytham St Annes in just an hour by car from Manchester. By train, it takes 2 hours, but with 90 trains every day going from Manchester Piccadilly to Lytham St Annes, this is still a very convenient option. Check train times and book tickets here.

8. Quirky Scottish seaside town of Kirkcudbright

If you don’t mind a longer trip, venture just over the border for a quirky change of pace in the Scottish artists’ town of Kirkcudbright (pronounced ‘kir-coo-bree’). Its waterfront surprises with a distinctly Mediterranean aura thanks to exuberant multicoloured houses radiating a sunny vibe even on grey days.  Kirkcudbright flourished from trade links with Europe, shaping an arts scene attracting creatives for over a century. Galleries and studios open their doors to visitors, while specialty shops and a picturesque harbour tempt extended exploring.  With narrow wynds and tiny cottages cropping up delightfully around every turn, Kirkcudbright captures small town magic that’s anything but ordinary.

How to get from Manchester to Kirkcudbright

The only realistic way to squeeze in a day trip to Kirkcudbright from Manchester is to drive. The journey is incredibly scenic and takes 3 hours and 20 minutes, so as long as you get an early start, you’ll have plenty of time.

9. Easy coastal beauty of Formby Beach

If you really only have a few spare hours for a quick revitalising reset, Formby Beach delivers coastal serenity just over an hour northwest.  Stroll unspoiled stretches of sand through grassy dunes and pine forest. Watch horseback riders emerge through the trees, lending an atmosphere both peaceful and lively. Keep your eyes peeled for rare red squirrels frolicking in the woods!

How to get from Manchester to Formby

You can get to Formby from Manchester in just 1 hour by car, or 2 hours by train. There are on average 113 trains per day between Manchester and Formby, making this a great option, despite the longer time it takes. Check train times and buy tickets here.

10. Liverpool

Liverpool, the birthplace of The Beatles, is a vibrant city full of surprises. With its iconic waterfront, spectacular museums and galleries, and unique culture, it’s one of the most exciting day trips from Manchester. You can’t leave without visiting The Beatles Story, the largest permanent museum telling the story of Liverpool’s most iconic band. I’m not a fan of The Beatles, but I actually went on a Beatles tour in  Hamburg , and found it really interesting!

How to get from Manchester to Liverpool

The best way to get from Manchester to Liverpool is actually by train, with the journey taking just 37 minutes (driving takes 1 hour!). You can check train times and get tickets here.

11. Hebden Bridge

I only visited Hebden Bridge recently and I immediately fell in love with this adorable little West Yorkshire town. With adorable little cottages lining the equally picturesque Rochdale Canal, rolling hills all around, and an abundance of cutesy gift shops, artisanal food shops (we may have splurged a bit in the cheese shop), and traditional English pubs, Hebden Bridge is a great place for a holiday, or you can easily visit as a day trip from Manchester! If you enjoy walking, there are heaps of walking trails around here, and you can also go and visit the Heptonstall Museum in the neighbouring village, which is also where you can pay your respects at Sylvia Plath’s grave.

How to get from Manchester to Hebden Bridge

As with Liverpool, it’s far quicker taking the train to Hebden Bridge than it is to drive! The train journey takes 33 minutes, while the car journey takes 1 hour. Get train tickets and check times here.

12. Blackpool

Ah, Blackpool. Blackpool claims to be the ‘Las Vegas of The North,’ but I’d say it’s more like the Benidorm of England. Famed for Blackpool Tower, a landmark which was built in 1894 as a replica of the Eiffel Tower (and, weirdly, contains a circus and an ornate Victorian ballroom), Blackpool is also home to a theme park known as the Pleasure Beach, tonnes of tired-looking arcades, tacky souvenir shops, aggressive seagulls, and a rather depressing beach. It could never be considered a ‘nice’ place to go, but it’s certainly an ‘experience,’ and definitely one of the most iconic places to visit in Northern England.

How to get from Manchester to Blackpool

Blackpool is an easy city to reach from Manchester. By car, the drive will take 1 hour, and by train, you’ll be travelling for 1 hour and 15 minutes. There are 89 trains from Manchester to Blackpool every day, most of which are direct. Get train times and tickets here.

Essential travel tips for day trips from Manchester

Taking a few helpful tips into account will make your day trips from Manchester smooth and memorable. Here are some of my best tips.

• Check train/bus times in advance – Some routes to popular destinations have limited services per day so confirm schedules fit your plans.
• Pack layers even for summer – Bring a lightweight jacket as British weather fluctuates. Refer to this UK packing list for a complete guide on what to bring.
• Purchase advance discount tickets – Booking regional train tickets and attraction passes online ahead saves substantially over walk-up rates.
• Have cash on hand – While most major attractions and food shops accept payment cards, smaller villages and vendors may be cash-only.
• Give yourself flex time – When relying on public transportation, delays happen. Leave wiggle room before return trains/buses.
• Research stop locations – Understand where your station/stop sits in proximity to attractions using maps to minimise connections needed.
• Check attraction hours – Some historical sites and smaller museums have limited opening days or seasonal closures to confirm.

Day Trips from Manchester | Final Thoughts

What I love about these day trips from Manchester is how easily you can fully immerse yourself in places brimming with beauty, history, and culture so different from the city. Equipped with this list, you can confidently venture to the abundance of magical locales awaiting discovery by rail, bus or car. Have an incredible time making memorable adventures, and as always, if you have any questions then don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments section below! You may also find my Manchester guides interesting: Best Things to Do in Chorlton The Oldest Pubs in Manchester Gandey’s Circus Review The Fountain House Review Cosy Club Review Best Northern Quarter Restaurants 33 Reasons to Visit Manchester Places to Visit in Northern England Historical Places to Visit in England Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, Ramsbottom Until next time, XOXO

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Nine great day trips from Manchester

Manchester is the gateway city to some fantastic days out in the North West - here are nine of the best

As literally every Mancunian is happy to tell you for hours, if not days on end, Manchester is a great place. It has loads of things to do , great places to eat and a huge range of hotels if you're staying over. But just because you never want to leave Manchester, doesn’t mean you can’t pop out for a bit, and with some of the best road and rail links in the country, Manchester is a terrific place for getting out into the countryside and other surrounds without the need of a car. Surrounded by interesting places to visit, from picturesque towns to bracing beaches, here are nine day trips that are all within an hour or so of the city.

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Nine day trips from Manchester

Another Place at Crosby Beach

Antony Gormley's statues at Crosby Beach caused a stir among the locals when they were installed but quickly became a major attraction. You can see why. Gormley's haunting figures stare out towards the Wirral, Wales and beyond on this glorious stretch of sand north of Liverpool, sometimes partly submerged with the tide. But even when the waves are crashing against the shoreline, you can still see the figures poking out from the water. Wonderful.

Since the days of the Romans, Buxton has attracted visitors coming to ‘take the waters’, with the town growing in popularity during the Victorian period. About an hour away from Manchester, the spa town has attractions including Poole's Cavern and Buxton Opera House. It’s internationally known for the spring water that flows from St Ann’s Well in the town or if you fancy something stronger, the council has produced a handy  real ale trail  to explore some of the town’s historic pubs and the town's brewery also has a  tap house .

Within the heart of the Peak District, Edale has a long association with ramblers. In the 1930s, more than 400 people took part in a mass trespass in the area to protest against the lack of access to the countryside. This led to the creation of national parks and the development of the Pennine Way – which starts in Edale. As a result of their action, we’re now free to roam the countryside so make the most of it by climbing Kinder Scout or Mam Tor, or walking to the village of Castleton; home to the ruined Norman fort Peveril Castle .

A short walk from Disley rail station (a 30-minute journey from Piccadilly), you’ll find this glorious National Trust property . Dating back to the fourteenth century, the exterior of the grade-I listed house starred in the 1995 adaptation of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ – you might recognise the lake from the memorable scene with Colin Firth. But if you’re not a Jane Austen fan, the estate is also home to a herd of red and fallow deer who wander across the grounds, a children’s play area and plenty of outdoor space and paths to explore.

Thanks to recent rail upgrades, there are now trains getting you from Victoria to Liverpool in just half an hour, so there’s no better time to plan a day trip to the city at the mouth of the Mersey. Explore some of Liverpool’s many museums, visit the Albert Dock – the heritage attraction which is home to Tate Liverpool –and see what’s on at contemporary arts centre The Bluecoat. If you want to eat, drink and be merry you’re also well-catered for with plenty of restaurants, historic pubs and trendy bars.

Tatton Park

• Attractions
• Historic buildings and sites

The current mansion is built on the site of a much earlier house, but still dates back to 1716. Its neo-classical architecture and elevated position making for a stunning sight, even amidst the thousand acres of garden and landscaped parkland. Inside, the house is as immaculate as it is on the outside, with its rich furnishings and incredible collection of books, furniture and artworks. It's well worth a good look around. And as if the house isn't impressive enough, the gardens, deer park, lake and working farm offer a wonderful chance to explore, pet, eat and play.

Hebden Bridge

Half an hour away from Manchester, this adorable market town has long been known for its links with the artistic community and has culture aplenty. Renowned musicians including Patti Smith have performed at its venues, and a certain Ed Sheeran was also born in the town. Climb up to the charming village of Heptonstall, where Sylvia Plath is buried, explore the independent shops, cafes and restaurants, or just take a stroll along the canal and river.

If you love the great outdoors, Todmorden could be your ideal spot. It’s another location about half an hour away from Manchester, but it feels like a different world. Located alongside both the Pennine Way and Calderdale Way, it’s well-visited by walkers and is surrounded by valleys and moorland for exploring. But its most unusual attraction is its beach. Yes, despite being landlocked, the town has the accolade of being home to the UK’s highest beach. It’s a bit of a hidden gem and quite a trek up a steep hill, but it’s more than worth it when you reach the former reservoir at Gaddings Dam. And if you need some refreshment on your way back, there's a pub at the bottom.  

Hollingworth Lake

A short walk from Smithy Bridge rail station (25 minutes from Victoria) and close to the M62, Hollingworth Lake is a site with a varied history. It was originally built as a reservoir for the Rochdale Canal before it becoming a tourist resort in the 1860s and then turned into a country park in the 1970s. These days it’s popular as a watersports spot but has a path around the edge and a nature reserve – along with cafés, restaurants and pubs – if you’d prefer to stay on dry land.

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Roaming Required

23 best day trips from manchester by car, coach, & train.

Last updated: 27 August 2023

Energetic, diverse, and bursting with character; Manchester is an exciting city to explore. When you’re tired of the amazing cafes and restaurants, and thoroughfares lined with imaginative street art , there are HEAPS of places you can head to for a day trip from Manchester.

Whether you’re looking for a day out with the family or looking for some solitude, we’ve got you covered in this post full of days out from Manchester.

Don’t drive? No problem. In this post we’ve included options for a day trip from Manchester by train and also included options for a day trip from Manchester by coach too!

Culturally curious travellers will love historical cities like Chester, Saltaire, and York, while hikers will head out to discover the English countryside in the stunning Peak District, or the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Lake District.  No matter your preference, there is surely something on this list of Manchester day trips that you’ll love.

How to use this Guide

If you’re new to driving in the UK, you should know that conditions for driving in England can vary widely.  Toll-free motorways (prefix of A or M i.e. A1 or M1) will help you get from A to B with ease, by way of a quality multi-lane roads. 

Away from arterial roads, country roads (B roads) carry less traffic and usually run between smaller towns.  These can be single lane and walled with high hedges. We recommend driving slowly and with your lights switched on to assist with visibility and safety.  Distance alone cannot always indicate how long a journey will take so we’ve also included a conservative estimate of duration (each way) from central Manchester along with distance in miles and kilometres. 

Should you need to cross London or Manchester to undertake these day trips, you’ll need to factor in additional time to do so. 

Taking the Train from Manchester

The hard and fast rule for train travel in the UK is book your tickets in advance .

The UK uses a customer-based pricing strategy, pricing train tickets by time-of-day and day-of-week to manage demand.

Such a strategy makes pricing highly variable. 

Booking train tickets on the day of travel can be quite expensive, so we recommend using Trainline to book tickets ahead of time so you can get the best price.

Book tickets or check train times on Trainline.

Travelling by Coach from Manchester

Coach travel is certainly a valid and popular method of transport in the UK.

Coaches are almost always cheaper, most have WiFi, aircon, and loos on board. However they are typically the slowest method of travel.

For a day trip from Manchester you can reach most places by coach. Use Trainline to reserve your seat with all the top UK bus and coach providers like Flixbus, and National Express.

Where taking a coach is significantly longer than driving or taking the train for these day trips from Manchester we’ve omitted the detail. Let’s face it, no one is going to sit on a bus for 4 hours each way for a day trip!

You can always check times and prices yourself with Trainline.

23 Day Trips from Manchester

Suggested by: Roaming Required

The charming and quaint city of Chester makes a great day out from Manchester. Dating back to the 1st century, Chester was built as a Roman fortress on the River Dee. Today, it is the best preserved walled city in England with extensive Roman walls made of local red sandstone.

No visit to Chester is complete without discovering The Rows, a street of Tudor-style half-timber buildings with a two-level covered arcade at the top. Also worthy of your time are the ruins of a Roman Amphitheatre.  Impressively grand, it’s the largest uncovered in Britain to date and is still undergoing excavations.  It can be a nice spot to stop and imagine the area being used for gladiator battles in the 1st century.

If you’re up for an adventure around Chester you could check out Beeston Castle. Perched high up overlooking the Cheshire plain, it’s one of the most dramatic ruins in the English landscape, dating back to the 1220s. Entry is free if you have an English Heritage membership . 

From Manchester

• Distance from Manchester: 41mi (66km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Train: Manchester Victoria to Chester : < an hour!

2. Snowdonia

If you’re looking for a day trip from Manchester and you want to get out of the city, consider heading to one of the prettiest National Parks in the UK, Snowdonia in Wales.

The drive from Manchester is 80 miles (129km) and takes about 2 hours. You can get there by public transport but it will take a lot longer. 

Pretty much everything in Snowdonia involves being outdoors, so make sure you bring appropriate clothing for the time of year. You should always expect rain in Wales, even in mid-summer, but it can also be surprisingly warm.

If you like hiking, Mount Snowdon is the place for you. On a clear day, it’s possible to see Ireland from the peak! Those looking for a more relaxed schedule can head to Snowdon Mountain railway which is well worth a visit.

One for the must-see list is Swallow Falls. Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty and designated a site of special scientific interest, it’s one of the prettiest waterfalls in the UK and well worth the easy hike. Admission is by turnstile entry with a small fee of £2. 

If you’re looking to extend your day trip, you could undertake a Wales road trip and grab a hotel in the National Park, the Aberdunant Hotel is a great choice, right in the heart of the beautiful countryside.

Wales is known for its lamb, so when visiting Wales, you must try a traditional lamb dish. We highly recommend the Rhug Estate. An organic farm known for its incredible deli counter and delicious meals, available at both lunchtime and in the evening.

• Distance from Manchester: 80mi (130km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 2 hours

3. Sheffield

Suggested by: Curious Claire

If you’re looking for a good day trip from Manchester, look no further than the metropolitan city of Sheffield.

The city has so much to offer and there’s something for everyone. For cultural seekers there is the 1 Millennium Museum and Sheffield Cathedral. For nature lovers there’s the Botanical Gardens. For beer lovers, Sheffield has a great selection of tap rooms such as Lost Industry, plus Beer Central which has a wide selection of British beers you can take home with you. And don’t worry foodies, Sheffield also has plenty for you too including a chocolate afternoon tea.

Not many people realise that Sheffield is also a great place for adventure seekers. Sheffield Canal Basin, more commonly known as Victoria Quays, is at the head of the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal and is just a short 15 minute walk from Sheffield train station. The Quays are the perfect place for adventure in Sheffield where you can go canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding.

Sheffield is easy to get to from Manchester by car however I recommend going by train. Not only is it quicker, Sheffield is the other side of the Peak District which means you have to go through it. With such incredible views it’s much better to be travelling by train where you can sit back and truly appreciate the scenery.

• Distance from Manchester: 38mi (61km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Train: Manchester to Sheffield : 50 minutes

Suggested by: Teacake Travels

Why not take yourself to the other side of the Pennines and pay a visit to Leeds? 

As well as enjoying the stunning and traditional shopping arcades and architecture, you’ll find the food and pubs here are top notch. The best restaurants in Leeds are wonderfully varied offering traditional Yorkshire puddings and hearty fish finger sandwiches to vegan hipster delights – there’s something for everyone.

If you are visiting Leeds for more than just food, you will not be disappointed. Leeds is proudly multi-ethnic and has a spectacular LGBT+ scene. Make sure you catch a cabaret drag show at The Viaduct Show Bar in the evening!

For all of you book lovers, do not underestimate stepping into Leeds Library. It is the oldest surviving subscription library of its type in the UK. – Before public libraries, subscription libraries were funded by private funds either from membership fees or endowments.

Instagram lovers will not want to miss all of the traditional shopping arcades. And if you are feeling funky and vibrant, there’s a brilliant spot on Kirkgate Road which has been graffitied simply with the word Leeds in big yellow letters. Get that shot!

With such an awesome party scene, I do recommend staying the night. Ibis Styles Leeds City Centre is an exceedingly popular mid range option and has glowing reviews for all the right reasons.

• Distance from Manchester: 45mi (72km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 65 minutes
• Train: Manchester to Leeds : 75 minutes
• Coach: Manchester to Leeds : 90 minutes

5. Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent rarely makes it onto a list such as this.  

The history of the area is enveloped around industry. Stoke, as the locals call it, is home to the last few remaining Bottle Ovens; a ‘bottle’ shaped kiln that once dominated the skyline in their thousands. 

This region, known as The Potteries , is synonymous with pottery and ceramics and is home to the world’s largest collection of Staffordshire ceramics. So much so, it’s known as the world Capital of Ceramics.  It’s home to world renown names like Wedgwood, Burleigh, Emma Bridgewater, Moorcroft, and more. Many of these have functioning factories that still make British-made ceramics and have fabulous factory outlets where you can snap up a bargain! 

If ceramics aren’t your thing, there are still loads of things to do in Stoke-on-Trent . Culturally curious travellers can see the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon treasure ever found, and something for aviation geeks and historians, is the opportunity to take a tour around a WWII Mk XVI Spitfire.

• Train: Manchester to Stoke-on-Trent : 36 minutes
• Coach : Manchester to Stoke-on-Trent : 1 hour 10 minutes

6. Llandudno, Wales

Suggested by: Between England and Iowa

A great day trip from Manchester is to the town of Llandudno in North Wales.

Llandudno is a typical Victorian seaside town, with Victorian-style buildings and a pleasure pier. 

There are lots of things to do in Llandudno . A unique place to visit is the Great Orme Country Park, a limestone landmass that was once a copper mine. A fun way to explore it is via the Great Orme Tramway, a funicular railway that has been in operation since 1902. An alternative to reaching the summit is via the Llandudno Cable Car which is similar to a chair lift.

At the top, there are places to hike, tours of the old mine, a mini-golf course, a cafe (that has an amazing selection of cakes!!) and a large playground. 

If you are visiting Llandudno by car, the Great Orme Toll Road is a 5-mile scenic coastal drive around the base! Cars cost £3.50 and includes ‘free’ parking at the top of the Great Orme if you choose this option. 

Other attractions include the Happy Valley Botanical Gardens and the Llandudno Snowsports Centre which has a toboggan run, dry slope skiing and snowboarding and mini-golf. Of course, there’s also the beach!

• Distance from Manchester: 84mi (135km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 47 minutes
• Train: Manchester to Llandudno : ~3 hours

Suggested by: Blue Bag Nomads

Ludlow is a lovely medieval town to explore on a day trip from Manchester.

The list is long of things to do in this walled medieval town including a leisurely stroll beside the river, a historic castle, and cute local markets. 

Stroll through the city centre to discover over 500 listed buildings including several Tudor-style half-timbered buildings. Walking along King St, you will find Vaughans, a local haunt for sandwiches. 

The castle square market is open daily, except Tuesday. They do vary the stalls with specialty markets on Thursdays and Sundays. The stalls are full of local produce and handmade items. You will find many tempting treasures that may be difficult to resist.

Ludlow Castle is a great way to spend a few hours for people of all ages. If you take the stairs to the top there are magnificent views of Ludlow, the river, and the countryside.

The walk along the River Teme is beautiful, with great views of the castle from Dinham Bridge. There is a circular walk called the two bridges, if you like to wander it is highly recommended.

Come enjoy small-town love, great food, and beautiful surroundings for a great day out.

• Distance from Manchester: 118mi (189km)
• Train: Manchester to Ludlow : 90 minutes

Stay The Night?

If you’re near Ludlow and considering spending the night, then look at Fishmore Hall, a 19th century former school house on the outskirts of town that’s been transformed into a luxury hotel and spa.

Read Our Review: Fishmore Hall

8. hebden bridge.

Suggested by: My Travel Scrapbook

Located just a 30-minute train journey from Manchester is the beautiful village of Hebden Bridge. Hebden Bridge is a wonderful place full of independent shops, pretty canalside walks, industrial heritage, live music, great views, and friendly locals.

Once you arrive in Hebden Bridge check out a quirky café like Mooch . While you are on your Manchester day trip to Hebden Bridge you will want to check out the idyllic hamlet of Hemptonstall. To get to Hemptonstall you need to walk up the steep cobbled path known as the Buttress. Once you reach the top there are lovely views of Hebden Bridge.

In Hemptonstall, wander around the quaint houses and explore the romantic ruined church. Your tummy will then start to grumble on your wander back down into Hebden Bridge for some lunch. As Hebden Bridge was popular in the 70’s, as a result it has retained much of its hippy culture meaning there are plenty of vegetarian options such Humblest of Pleasures and Leila’s Kitchen .

After lunch, wander around the town and listen to the various buskers before strolling along the canal. There are lots of lovely photo spots along the canal such as from the bridge by the Black pit lock.  

If you do decide to drive to Hebden Bridge, make sure you check out one of the best waterfalls in Yorkshire in Hardcastle Crags. Hardcastle Crags, just outside of Hebden Bridge, is a beautiful woodland, with an old mill and a lovely waterfall.

The lovely atmosphere of Hebden Bridge makes this a fantastic day trip from Manchester.  

Getting to Hebden Bridge from Manchester is easy. If you are coming to Hebden Bridge by train you can get off at the train station with the same name. Alternatively, if you are driving it will take you just under an hour as it is a 28.6 mile (45 km) drive and you can park at the train station for free!

• Distance from Manchester: 29mi (45km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 56 minutes

Train: Manchester Victoria to Hebden Bridge : 29 minutes

9. Peak District

Suggested by: The Wanderlust Within

One of the most popular day trips from Manchester is to England’s first national park, the Peak District. 

Situated just a stone’s throw away from Manchester city centre, the Peak District can be reached directly by train in only 45 minutes. Driving to the Peak District is also an option but it will take around 1 hr 15 minutes to do the 27 mile (43.5 kilometer) journey.

There are plenty of walks in the Peak District that can be done on a day trip to get away from the hustle and bustle of Manchester, including one of my favourites, Mam Tor. 

If walking isn’t for you, you can also visit some of the beautiful and historic villages found throughout the National Park such as Castleton village in Hope Valley or Bakewell which is best known for its yummy dessert. 

The Peak District is also well known for its show caves and climbing routes, that can easily be visited on a day trip from Manchester.

If you want to spend the night in the Peak District, my top choice would be YHA Castleton Losehill Hall, a newly renovated gothic mansion which is one of the most affordable accommodation options in the National Park.

• Distance from Manchester: 27mi (43km)
• Train: Manchester to Peak District : 45 minutes

Suggested by: Away With Maja

York makes a fantastic day trip from Manchester. 

Whereas Manchester is much more modern with its industrial heritage, York is the perfect contrast.  York has thousands of years of history. Founded by the Romans, invaded by the Vikings, and much of the city that you see today, dates back to medieval times. 

One of the best things to do in York is to wander the charming streets, explore the narrow, pedestrianised alleyways (called snickelways), and walk around the City Walls. Visit York Minster, the magnificent Gothic cathedral, and Jorvik Viking Centre to learn more about the city’s history. Make sure to stop by Museum Gardens, which is one of the stunning hidden gems in the city. 

York has some fantastic places to eat. The Brew and Brownie or Pig and Pastry are your best options for brunch. Blue Barbakan or Yak and Yeti are two phenomenal international restaurants, and the Rose and Crown does the best pies in town. There is a lot to do in York, but you can certainly see the highlights as a daytrip from Manchester!

The best way to travel between Manchester and York is by train or by car. There are frequent, direct, trains that run from all the central Manchester stations to York. If you’re driving, be sure to take the M62 and pass the highest motorway in England near Saddleworth Moor!

• Distance from Manchester: 72mi (116km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 30 mins
• Train: Manchester to York : 1 hour 20 mins

11. Saltaire

Suggested by: UK Travel Planning

Located near the city of Bradford in Yorkshire , Saltaire is the perfect destination for a day trip from Manchester. 

Saltaire is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recognised as one of the earliest, largest and best preserved model villages anywhere in the world. What does ‘model village’ mean? Basically the village was created by politician Titus Salt to provide housing and amenities to his factory workers. This was revolutionary for the 19th century and Titus Salt is recognised as one of the greatest Victorian philanthropists.

Built between 1851 and 1872, follow the Heritage Trail around the village to discover all of the points of interest. Pick up the official guide from the Visitor information Centre which is located in the Mill.

I recommend following the trail around the village and then exploring the Salt Mills afterwards. There are cafes, restaurants, shops and an art gallery with works from local artists on display. This includes one of the largest collections of David Hockney paintings. He is originally from Bradford. Salts Diner in the Mill is a great place to have lunch and don’t miss the logo on the paper napkins – it was designed by David Hockney, one of the most influential British artists of the 20th century.

Taking the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Saltaire via Leeds, takes approximately  1 hour and 45 minutes, it is quicker to drive.  The benefit of train travel is Saltaire has its own train station located in the heart of the village opposite the Mill which makes it an easy option.

• Distance from Manchester: 43mi (69km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Train: Manchester to Saltaire : 1 hour 45 minutes

12. Knutsford

Suggested by: Illness to Ultra

If you need a little breather from the Manchester bustle, you don’t have to go far to experience the Cheshire countryside surrounding the picturesque little market town of Knutsford.

While Knutsford itself is quaint and a great place to browse designer shops on the high street, it’s actually a very affluent area and was voted one of the best places to live in the UK in 2019. 

While in town, head to the Penny Farthing Museum which actually serves as both a restaurant and coffee house with a large collection of original Penny Farthings on display around the building. Feel free to have a delicious cake or lunch if you’re hungry.

To make sure you see the best of Knutsford, head towards the historic estate of Tatton Park, one of the most complete medieval manor houses in the UK. Here you can enjoy 50 acres worth of garden walks, a visit to a working farm, and a tour of the hall.  

Another stop on your day out is Tabley House. Built in the 18th century, this house has one of the finest collections of English paintings, including works by Turner, Reynolds, Lawrence, and Dobson. This house is extremely picturesque if you want a great photo op!

Once you’ve browsed shops in town, had a historic lunch, walked the grounds and toured the houses, you’ve probably had a full day out. 

• Distance from Manchester: 20mi (32km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 40 minutes
• Train: Manchester Piccadilly to Knutsford : 45 minutes

13. Stratford Upon Avon

Suggested by: A Princess Travelling With Twins

Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace in the 16th century of the great poet and writer William Shakespeare, still seems to bring the visitors back in time.

A beautiful day trip from Manchester where you can walk along streets of decadent half-timbered buildings with pitched roofs, perfectly preserved.

It is a small town but thanks to its fame it is full of attractions, however be careful not to fall into the tourist traps which have taken hold over the years.

Definitely worth visiting is Shakespeare’s birth house, which retains an ancient charm and will make you feel like you are in one of his comedies. The garden of the house is also very pleasant to stop in for a coffee and a dessert.

In the public park along the river (Avon bank gardens) during the summer weekends it is possible to attend free theatrical performances. The quality is not guaranteed, but they are without obligation and excellent entertainment during a picnic. For a more traditional experience, if time permits, you can attend a performance in one of the three theatres present in the town.

To end the day, do not miss a boat tour, which, even if a little touristy, maintains a pleasant charm of times gone by.

• Distance from Manchester: 130mi (209km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Train: Manchester Piccadilly to Stratford-Upon-Avon : 3 hours

14. Lake District

Suggested by: Adventures with Ensuite

The UK’s newest addition to receive UNESCO status , the Lake District was acknowledged as a World Heritage site in 2017. 

If you like hiking the area is home to England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike. For less active trips, the area also has plenty to offer with beautiful views over Ullswater, Derwentwater and England’s largest lake, Windermere.

There are plenty of cute cobblestone villages to visit. Windermere is the largest town in the area and has the most services but the smaller villages of Ambleside, Grasmere, Pooley Bridge, Hawkshead and Keswick should not be missed.

A day trip will give you a taste of what the area has to offer but in order to see more consider staying overnight. As you would imagine there are numerous holiday cottages and hotels throughout the Lake District. For a night in a quiet part of the National Park with fantastic views over Ullswater consider staying at the hotel Another Place.

The Lake District is accessible by public transport, but having your own transport is the best option since it allows further exploration of the picturesque villages, lakes and scenic hikes the area has to offer.

Driving from Manchester to Windermere takes 1 and a half hours for the 80 miles (130 kilometre) drive. Trains are also frequent to Windermere, which is within the boundaries of the national park, as well as to Oxenholme and Penrith, which are located just outside. The journey time is 1 hour 35 minutes to 2 hours depending on the route and destination.

• Distance from Manchester: 80mi (129km)
• Train: Manchester Piccadilly to Windermere : 1 hour 45 minutes

15. Malham Cove

Suggested by: Map Made Memories

Discover tranquil, green landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales with a trip to Malham Cove.

Situated in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales , Malham Cove is a huge natural amphitheatre 230 ft high which once had a waterfall plunging over it that was higher than Niagara Falls. 

Visitors today can walk to the base of the Cove to climb the rough stone steps to the top of the Cove. The pitted, uneven stone ‘pavement’ at the top of the Cove featured in ‘Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows’ and provides a fantastic view of the Yorkshire Dales. 

Keen hikers can attempt a circular walk from Malham Cove which passes Malham Tarn (one of only two natural lakes in the Yorkshire Dales), Gordale Scar (a dramatic gorge with towering rocks) and pretty Janet’s Foss waterfall. This unforgettable 13 km route will take around 4-5 hours to complete. 

Malham Cove lies a short 30-minute walk from the charming village of Malham which has a tea room and a couple of excellent pubs. Delicious home cooked food can be found at the friendly The Lister Arms which also offers high quality accommodation. 

• Distance from Manchester: 53mi (85km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 40 minutes

16. Liverpool

Suggested by: BRB Gone Somewhere Epic

Liverpool is world famous for its historic trading ports, numerous museums, and as the home of The Beatles. 

Start your day at the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral and make your way down to Liverpool Cathedral, which consists of the world’s highest Gothic arches and an observation tower if you wish to view the city from above. From here, walk through the innovative Baltic Triangle, one of the most exciting areas of the city, for impressive graffiti art and some of the best cafes.

Discover the historic, red brick dock buildings of the Royal Albert Dock for a range of museums and restaurants. This thriving riverside entertainment hub includes The Beatles Story museum which features for interactive exhibits and memorabilia covering the life and times of the world’s most famous band.

Don’t miss: The Cavern Club is a must for music fans. The birthplace of The Beatles, and almost every legendary musician has performed at this nightclub.

For a hidden gem head to the Georgian Quarter is packed with historical monuments and relics from the 1950s and earlier.

If you find yourself getting hungry, try Siren, in the heart of the Baltic Triangle.

Tempted to make it a weekend? Try the Heeton Concept Hotel in the heart of Liverpool, or the Pullman located on the Docks. 

• Distance from Manchester: 35mi (56km)

Liverpool is really worth more than just a day if you have time to spare, consider spending the night.

Two great hotel options are the Heeton Concept Hotel in the heart of Liverpool, and the Pullman which is situated on the Docks. 

Read Our Review: Pullman in Liverpool

The nation’s capital deserves more than one day, but if that’s all you can spare there are a lot of things you can see and do to keep yourself entertained for the day.

For the culturally curious, there are Royal Palaces , historically significant places , and world class museums to explore. Like free stuff? Me too. You’ll be delighted to know that most museums in London are free – Here are 9 of our favourites.

The options really are endless in London. Depending on your interests, you could spend the day on the Thames with a cruise or a tour along the river, or hire a boat to punt along the canals , or shop up a storm at flagship stores and markets, or take a food tour to discover the hip East London food scene and discover something new about the city. 

One tip from a local: Be sure to book a table at your favourite restaurant well in advance for dinner or afternoon tea. London is pop-up central so if you hear of something launching, grab yourself a spot straight away. If you can’t get in, you can explore street food markets like Leather Lane, Borough or Maltby Street Market where you can also undertake London’s Craft Beer Crawl on the Bermondsey Beer Mile which is great on a weekend. 

The train between London and Manchester is the quickest and easiest option for a day out. You can definitely drive but it does take longer, and parking in central London can be tricky and expensive.  Book train tickets well in advance for the best rate.  

• Distance from Manchester: 200mi (321km)
• Drive time from Manchester: ~4 hours

Train: Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston: 2 hours (fastest, slow trains may be cheaper)

18. Saddleworth

Suggested by: Helen on her Holidays

Saddleworth is a collection of 13 villages in the hills to the east of Manchester. The villages which are of most interest to visitors are Greenfield, Uppermill, Dobcross and Delph. There’s a railway station at Greenfield, and Uppermill is just a short walk from the station. Greenfield is 12 miles (19km) from central Manchester. The train from Manchester Piccadilly takes just 27 minutes.

There’s so much to do in Saddleworth. The walking is amazing and there’s something to suit everyone. The Huddersfield Narrow Canal runs through Greenfield and Uppermill with a lovely and level towpath walk. Walkers looking for more of a challenge can clamber up to the Pots and Pans monument for a stunning view.

Uppermill is home to the Saddleworth Museum which tells the story of the area and its traditions – there are a lot of them! Each village has its own annual brass band contest which is attended by bands from all over the world. There’s also Rushcart weekend, which ends in a gurning and wrestling competition at one of the local pubs, Yorkshire Day on August 1 and Yanks weekend, which celebrates the Richard Gere film Yanks and has everyone dressing up in 1940s clothes.

In Uppermill, don’t miss the canalside walk through the village – go at least as far as the Saddleworth railway viaduct which towers over one of the canal locks. Stop for a coffee or lunch at the Limekiln cafe which has a lovely terrace where you can watch the canal boats gliding by.

• Distance from Manchester: 13mi (21km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 39 minutes
• Train: Manchester to Saddleworth : 27 minutes

19. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

Suggested by: Kitti Around The World

If you enjoy being outdoors and love waterfalls, then Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in the Yorkshire Dales is the perfect choice for a day trip from Manchester. 

Depending on your pace, the 4.5 mile (8 km) long circular trail takes between 2 to 4 hours to complete. You’ll walk along two rivers (River Twiss and River Doe) and pass seven waterfalls which are considered some of the prettiest in England. Pack a picnic and take a break at Thornton Force which is the most picturesque waterfall of the whole trail.

There is an elevation of 169 m (554 feet) and quite a few steps along the way. However, it is considered an easy trail to do regardless of the level of your fitness. 

It is recommended to wear comfortable and protective shoes as the trail can become slippery when it rains. Toilet facilities are available both at the car park and along the trail. The trail eventually leads you back through Ingleton where you can explore the town before returning to the car park. 

As of Summer 2020, a one-way system is in place to ensure that social distancing can be maintained on the narrow sections around the trail. This does mean that once you begin the walk you will not be able to turn back the way you came.

An entry fee applies £7/£3 adults/children, however this does include free parking.  Dogs are also welcomed on the trail though there are certain sections of the trail and when crossing farmland where dogs must be kept on a lead.

• Distance from Manchester: 70mi (112km)
• Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 30 minutes

20. Fountains Abbey

Suggested by : Two Traveling Texans

Did you know that Fountains Abbey is the only abbey ruins in the UK that is a UNESCO site ?  The fact that the Abbey ruins have been incorporated into the Studley Royal Gardens makes it unique.  You can easily spend the whole day exploring the grounds. 

The Abbey was founded back in 1132.  It was one of the wealthiest monasteries in England until Henry VIII ordered its dissolution in 1539 after it had been in operation for 407 years. More than 200 years later, the owners of Studley Gardens next door purchased Fountains Abbey making the two sites one.

While the main draw is the Fountains Abbey ruins, there is much more to see during your visit. Don’t miss the Fountains Mill, Studley Royal Gardens, Studley Deer Park, and St. Mary’s Church. Wear comfortable shoes as the site is much bigger than you expect it to be.

You will also want to bring along your camera because, with all the history and natural beauty, it’s a photographer’s dream.  My favorite spot was the Moon Pond inside Studley Royal.  The lush grass around the pond is perfectly manicured. The sculptures around the pond add a distinct Italian flair and the columns on the Temple of Piety are reminiscent of ancient Greece.

Fountains Abbey is free for National Trust and English Heritage members .  

The Studley Deer Park and St. Mary’s Church are free for all to visit.

The Abbey is located in the English countryside, near the city of Ripon.  Public transportation options are limited, so you will want to drive and allow about 2 hours to make the journey from Manchester.

21. Wollaton Hall

Suggested by: Steph & Lewis Book

Wollaton Hall is a grade 1 listed Elizabethan Mansion built between 1580-1588 and set in over 500 acres of parkland. 

The grounds provide fantastic photo opportunities for nature and wildlife enthusiasts because within the grounds there are free-roaming deer and in the heart of the gardens is a beautiful lake with ducks and swans. 

In the summer, Wollaton Hall hosts many family friendly events and activities from park runs to outdoor concerts, and movie nights. Wollaton Hall was chosen as the set for Wayne Manor in the 2012 Batman film, The Dark Knight Rises.

Wollaton Hall is also home to the Nottingham Natural History Museum, which is free to enter and between many extraordinary fossils, stuffed animals, and display cases is a fascinating history of the hall. For £10 per person you can take the daily tour of the hall and see the reconstructed grand upper rooms with panoramic views over the city and descend into the Tudor kitchens, wine cellars, and caves beneath the hall. Located in the former stables is the Nottingham industrial museum which showcases the five key industries that made Nottingham famous around the world.

Coming from Manchester, Wollaton Hall is best accessed by car. However if you’re in the nearby Nottingham , Wollaton Hall is accessible on public transport via bus #30, or #2 from Nottingham City Centre.

• Distance from Manchester: 97mi (156km)

22. Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes isn’t your average day trip but it packs quite a punch of things to do and places to eat.

Created as over-spill for London’s relentless expansion, this commuter town has been referred to as bland and full of concrete cow pats (roundabouts) by neighbouring cities. Only after I spent some time in Milton Keynes did I realise just how much it has to offer on a day trip from Manchester, or a day trip from London.

Milton Keynes is very well connected. If you are considering it for a day trip from Manchester, I’d suggest taking the train. The train from Manchester to Milton Keynes takes  just 90 minutes. To do the same journey by car you can easily add-on another hour.

If you do go by car, Milton Keynes was built to be modern and efficient. A nice change from other parts of the UK.  The grid layout of distributor roads, roundabouts and plenty of parking.

For a day trip to Milton Keynes, divide your time based on your interests.  Thrill seekers will love Milton Keynes for indoor skydiving, indoor skiing and snowboarding; while history buffs should make a day of it and visit Bletchley Park . The top-secret home of Britain’s war-time codebreakers who cracked cyphers and codes of the Nazi enigma machines contributing to the Allied victory of WWII.

Whether you go for learning or adrenaline-pumping activities, make time to eat.  Foodies will love dining at some fabulous independent restaurants in Milton Keynes, these are a great option and a way to support small business.

• Distance from Manchester: 152mi (245km)
• Drive time from Manchester: Just under <3 hours 
• Train: Manchester to Milton Keynes : 90 minutes

23. National Space Centre

Suggested by: Wyld Family Travel

The Midlands city of Leicester is better known for its football team than its attractions. The National Space Centre is slowly changing that. 

The National Space Centre is an outstanding attraction easily accessible from Manchester via the A50 in around 2 hours.

As you walk up to the entry there are Space pieces on display to get ready for the rockets, spaceships, and the fun tactile displays.

With 6 interactive galleries that explore and learn about Space, plus the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium which delivers a fully immersive 360-degree movie adventure which is included in the ticket price, it makes a great day out for the whole family. 

Expect oo’s and ahh’s as stars and planets shoot past above you, and rockets are fired to the moon. 

• Distance from Manchester: 105mi (169km)

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Roma was raised on the white sandy beaches of Australia's East Coast, and she has called London home since 2012. With an adventurous spirit, a love of regional travel and anything food related, Roma looks to encourage working professionals to follow their dreams to travel the world one adventure and short break at a time. Don't let a full-time career stop you from seeing the world. Come roam with us!

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Day Trips From Manchester – Discover the Best of England

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While Manchester frequently falls into the shadow of England’s capital city of London, it’s also a great place to use as a base to experience a myriad of awesome day trips. Whether you are intrigued by the prospect of exploring some hidden gems in Northern England, or perhaps inspired to hop on the train and head south to London or other convenient locations, the list of potential day trip destinations is endless. For those of you visiting North-West England for the first time, you will likely want to spend several days experiencing the rich history and culture of the city itself, but you should also consider venturing out to experience some of the best day trips from Manchester.

Best Day Trips from Manchester

Manchester is a city famous for a plethora of reasons – home to iconic musicians such as Oasis and The Smiths, one of the largest football (or soccer in the US) teams in the world with Manchester United and of course, a collection of architectural masterpieces that epitomize a variety of genres including Modern, Contemporary, Georgian, Roman and Gothic.

However, there is something quite magical about heading outside of Manchester and exploring a collection of destinations that perhaps you may not have considered previously for a day trip. Some of these locations are places you could easily spend several days yet still experience in less than 24 hours, while others are the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a few hours relaxing in solitude.

We are delighted to introduce a collection of day trip destinations from Manchester and want to thank our friends from across the globe for sharing some of their favorite spots that are easily accessible, either via a road trip or by train. Manchester is home to both Victoria Station and Piccadilly, both of which offer great access to different parts of the UK in only a couple of hours. Let’s take a look at the destinations that should be on your radar when you next visit England’s second city!

Hadrian’s Wall

Hebden bridge.

• Lake District

Littleborough

Peak district national park, saddleworth, snowdonia national park.

• Yorkshire Dales

Rapidly becoming one of the most popular hiking destinations in Europe, the World Heritage listed Hadrian’s Wall is set in spectacular scenery only 2.5 hours from busy Manchester.

Hadrian’s Wall run the width of the country, from Bowness-on-Solway in the east to Wallsend in the west. Along the wall you will find dozens of towers, forts, gates and settlements, all set in the high country of the English-Scottish borderlands.

Besides the most popular  Hadrian’s Wall walks  (which can take 6 days in total), there is a new Hadrian’s Wall cycleway and small historic settlements like Haydon’s Bridge. At the major forts, there are museums and exhibitions that chart the decision of the Roman Emperor Hadrian to give up on the idea of holding on to Scotland and instead to retreat to England and build a very large wall in 122 AD.

At Housesteads Roman Fort you can look down from a tall escarpment into Scotland, walk alongside the Wall, tour the remaining fortifications, and visit the interactive museum. 

Lunch in historic Haydon’s Bridge and a visit to the Twice Brewed Inn at nearby Bardon Mill after hiking Hadrian’s Wall will give you a true taste of the northern borderlands on a short day trip.

Thanks to Monique from Trip Anthropologist for sharing why this World Heritage site is an experience you cannot afford to miss as a great day trip from Manchester.

Hebden Bridge is a 37-minute train journey north-east of Manchester Victoria. The West Yorkshire mill town has a reputation for being a gay-friendly, creative hub. If you’re looking for gifts or souvenirs browse Hebden Bridge’s bookshops, art shops and independent stores. 

The town presents plenty of places to grab a drink or to dine, including The Art Café and family-friendly Stubbing Wharf. If it’s a sunny day it can be pleasant to unpack a picnic while watching colorfully painted barges gliding along the Rochdale Canal. Strolling alongside the canal to one of the neighboring towns, Mytholmroyd to the east or Todmorden to the west, is an option that gives a sense of region’s heritage.

Wear sensible shoes for the steep walk up to the village of Heptonstall whose White Lion gastropub is another dining option. The shell of the 13th-century St Thomas à Becket warrants the walk, as do the views into the Calder Valley. The poet Sylvia Plath is buried in the churchyard.

Thanks to Stuart Forster from Go Eat Do for highlighting the lesser known destination of Hebden Bridge as a great spot to visit on a day trip from Manchester, either as a road trip of quick 35 minute train journey.

Hull is just a two-hour journey on the train or by car from Manchester. It’s a great place for a day out for people of all age ranges. It’s quite a compact city which is perfect for shopping or if you want to go for something to eat. A lot of the old banks have been turned into pubs or restaurants and there are some lovely places to eat in the old town or by the marina.

The Deep is one of the UK’s largest aquariums and it is a great place to pass a couple of hours. Make sure you stay for the tank feeding. If you’d rather not spend much money Hull boasts some excellent free museums. The Streetlife Museum, Maritime Museum, Arctic Corsair and Spurn Lightship are all free and more than worth a visit. If you have time to head out of town East Park is a beautiful park with some excellent facilities.

Thanks to Suzy McCullough from Yorkshire To Do With Kids for sharing a few reasons why Hull should be on everyone’s radar as a viable day trip option from Manchester.

Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park is a beautiful part of Cumbria and perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The area also has strong connections with literature. The homes of William Wordsworth in Grasmere and Beatrix Potter are popular attractions and well worth a visit. There are plenty of scenic drives to enjoy, and some delightful quaint villages such as Hawkshead to stop for afternoon tea.

Exploring the numerous walking trails around the lakes and surrounding fells is one of the main reasons tourists visit. Many have breathtaking views, and whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker or not, there are paths suitable for all abilities.

You can enjoy a boat ride on Windermere, Coniston Water, Ullswater or Derwentwater and other water sports such as kayaking. For those who prefer dry land, there’s an abundance of museums, Wray castle or Blackwell arts and crafts house to name but a few.

Lovers of food will not be disappointed either as the area has several Michelin starred restaurants. You can reach the Lake District from Manchester either by catching the train to Windermere from Piccadilly station or by car. Head north on the M6 motorway, and you’ll see the signs to the area. It will take you around an hour and a half whichever mode of transport you choose.

Thanks to Fiona from Passport and Piano for highlighting one of the iconic national parks in Northern England that is definitely worth considering as a great day trip from Manchester.

Just 20 minutes direct on the train from Victoria Station is the quaint village of Littleborough. Offering a completely different pace of life from the busy city streets the historic centre of the village is characterized my centuries old sandstone cottages, pubs, independent shops, cafes and the imposing 200 year old St Mary’s Church. The Red Lion pub is a real local but friendly experience.

Wandering under the railway arches and along the historic Rochdale Canal a short walk outside of the village is the picturesque Hollingworth Lake. A Victoria reservoir set in the rolling hills of the Pennines it offers a leisurely 4.5km scenic walk, water sports, pubs, cafes and the famous Mr Thomas’ chippy!

If you want something even more adventurous then you can take a short drive or taxi ride outside of Littleborough to the imposing Blackstone Edge on the moors above the village. At 472 m above sea level, the gritstone escapement offers incredible views over Greater Manchester and back to the city centre itself. Climbing, hiking and mountain biking is popular up here and accessible from the road side. The Whitehouse Pub is also a great place for food and drink afterwards!

Thanks to Nic from The Roaming Renegades for sharing another quaint, hidden gem that is definitely worth visiting from Manchester…it may not be the first place you think about visiting in Northern England, but it certainly won’t disappoint!

Despite what you may have heard,  Liverpool  isn’t just about football or The Beatles (although a love of the Fab Four does help, given all the attractions dedicated to them). 

Less than an hour away from Manchester by either car or train, the UK’s fifth biggest city is a seamless mix of hipster hangouts and heritage precincts. In fact, several of the more historic areas on and around Liverpool’s waterfront have been granted World Heritage Status by UNESCO including William Brown Street, a cluster of celebrated and beautiful buildings along a cobbled street plus the Royal Albert Dock Area. 

Fast forward to the more modern elements of Liverpool’s regeneration such as the retail heaven that is the brand new Liverpool One shopping centre, or the retro and vintage stalls on offer in the Baltic Triangle, alongside numerous bar and street food pop-ups – there is a lot to love about Liverpool!

Thanks to Caroline and Neil from CK Travels for sharing another of England’s iconic cities that is conveniently located for a day trip from Manchester along the M62 or via train.

With its iconic buildings, museums, shops and restaurants, London is just 2 hours from Manchester by train.

If it is your first time, don’t miss the city’s main attractions such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Piccadilly Circus and Buckingham Palace. The capital has many worthwhile museums, most of which are free, but note that many are closed on Mondays. 

Shopping and eating out is popular with day-trippers and tourists. Not many other areas can compete with the number of shops lining Oxford Street and Regents Street or the restaurants located in nearby Soho.

Using a day travel card you can travel as much as you want on public transport across London. The tube is a very efficient way of getting around but at least once during your trip try to take a double decker bus so you can appreciate some of the sights during the journey. 

Another good way to see London is on-board one of the many river boats. Tickets can be bought at any of the boat stops along the River Thames.

Thanks to Kristin from Adventures with Ensuite for highlighting why England’s capital city is a viable day trip from Manchester. While London is a stretch by car for a day trip, a convenient high-speed train journey in only two hours makes this a great option if you are staying in Northern England but want to take a trip to the capital.

When it comes to day trips from Manchester, Malham sets the standard. This small village located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park has so much to offer.

Firstly, the village itself is super cute. You will discover the typical Yorkshire architecture and some delicious food in the local delis and pubs.

But the best thing about Malham is its nature. You will find many walks! The most popular is Malham Cove. This very unique natural cliff offers some of the most beautiful views in the area. If you are a Potterhead, you will also enjoy discovering it as Malham Cove was used as a Harry Potter filming location in the 7th movie. It takes about 25 minutes from the village if you take the short walk. However, if you are willing to walk for a couple of hours, you should go on the Janet’s Foss and Malham Cove loop. It’s way prettier and actually easier than the other one.

Another great way to discover Malham is going to Malham Tarn. You can walk around the lake and enjoy a picnic there. It takes about 1 hour and a half to get to Malham from Manchester (by car). Please note that the roads are very narrow and can get quite busy in summer so make sure you are driving slowly.

Thanks to Pauline from BeeLoved City for highlighting why the Yorkshire town of Malham should be on your radar for a future day trip from Manchester.

Newcastle is about 2.5 hours from Manchester. True to its name, the castle is one of the Newcastle highlights . Some portions remain of the 13th century stone castle, including Castle Keep and the oldest medieval fireplace in England. See the fireplace on a castle tour but you can also view castle wall fragments while strolling around town—one great section is near the Newcastle Chinatown gate. The Romans established Newcastle as the eastern edge of Hadrian’s Wall and it is fun to imagine everything north of here as outlaw territory. 

But Newcastle offers modern attractions along with ancient ones. Walk across the Tyne River on the artistic Millennium Bridge and notice the futuristic Sage Gateshead performing arts venue. The massive Angel of the North art installation is worth a stop on your drive to or from Manchester. Newcastle itself has a lot of funky public art pieces.

Make sure to have a pint at Old George Inn (est. 1582) which was the favorite pub of King Charles I. In fabulous Grainger Market, I love the quirky Marks & Spencer—which retains its original look and skinny counter footprint from 1895, is the smallest M&S, and serves no food (only merchandise).

Thanks to Charles McCool from McCool Travel for highlighting with the North-East city of Newcastle is an ideal day trip from Manchester to experience a blend of historic and modern attractions.

Nottingham is a vibrant city in the Midlands and makes a great day out from Manchester. There are so many fantastic things to do in Nottingham that a day trip may not be long enough.

Steeped in history, Nottingham Castle was the starting point of the British Civil War in 1642. Learn about the fable of Robin Hood and check out the tributes to Nottingham’s favorite outlaw all around the city.

Underneath the city is a network of hand-carved caves, take a tour to see them or just visit one of the oldest pubs and venture into the cellars. You can see the caves in The Bell Inn, Ye Olde Salutation and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem and enjoy a pint while you are there.

Another must see is the fantastic Wollaton Hall and deer park home of the Nottingham natural history museum and Nottingham industrial museum. Stepping inside the park you will find it hard to believe that this grade 1 listed Elizabethan Mansion, set in over 500 acres of tranquil parkland with free roaming red deer and fallow deer is just minutes from the busy city centre.

Thanks to Steph from Book It Let’s Go for highlighting why Nottingham is a destination that should be on your radar when visiting Manchester as it’s the perfect day trip excursion.

One of the most beautiful national park sandwiched in midlands, Peak District is a great place for outdoor activities and hiking. Whether you want to spend a day, weekend or even a week, there’s plenty of things to do here.

From Manchester drive towards Castleton in Hope Valley (33 miles). Make sure the route takes you through Winnats Pass, a winding pass and limestone gorge which makes for a great photo opportunity. Castleton is a beautiful village and is the starting point for many hikes including the famous Mam Tor.

The circular route (Castleton – Mam Tor- Great Ridge) that begins and ends in Castleton is a moderate hike with a distance of 5.5 miles, taking roughly 3-4 hours. From the summit, the views of Hope valley and Edale valley are breathtaking. Alternatively, you can hike the Winnats Pass circular route (5 miles walk) passing through Speedwell Caverns and Cave Dale.

Next, drive to LadyBower Reservoir, a gorgeous lake located in the heart of Peak District. A great place to relax or indulge in some water activities like boating, swimming, canoeing. End your eventful day in Bakewell, a small market town in Peak District, which is also known for their Bakewell Pudding.

Thanks to Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple for highlighting another of the UK’s iconic national parks as a great place to get away from city life for a day.

Rivington is a rural area in Lancashire and the perfect place to head if you’re looking for a day out in the countryside. Many of the man-made landmarks you’ll find in Rivington were created by Lord Lever in the Victorian Era including the Italian-style gardens, a scale replica of Liverpool Castle and lots of beautiful stone steps and bridges.

Rivington is home to Winter Hill, which is 1,496 feet high. At the top of the hill you’ll find Rivington Pike, an ancient beacon which dates back to the 16th century. Here, you can enjoy a picnic with some of the best views in Lancashire. On a clear day, you can easily see the sea and Blackpool Tower, 25 miles away.

Walking and mountain biking are really popular in Rivington and there’s also a high ropes course in the woods which is well worth a visit. There are several tea rooms in the area, including the stunning and historic Great House Barn which serves tea, snacks and ice creams.

Thanks to Jenni Fielding from Cruise Mummy for sharing another gem that is just a short distance from Manchester and well worth exploring for a day trip.

Saddleworth is a collection of villages just outside Manchester, on the edge of the Peak District. The Saddleworth villages that will be of most interest to visitors are Greenfield, Uppermill and Dobcross. Greenfield has a train station with direct links to Manchester, and it’s also where you’ll find Dove Stone Reservoir, a popular local beauty spot.

Uppermill is a vibrant village, full of bars, restaurants and coffee shops. Saddleworth Museum is in Uppermill and gives a good introduction to the area’s history and the many wonderful Saddleworth traditions.

Saddleworth is home to an annual brass band contest which attracts the best brass bands from all over the world, with each village holding its own competition. Yanks weekend celebrates the time when Richard Gere filmed a WW2 film in the area, while the late-summer Rushcart weekend culminates in a gurning competition, morris dancing and bare-chested wrestling.

Walking up the Huddersfield Narrow Canal from Uppermill, you’ll come to Dobcross. The centre of Dobcross has a gorgeous market square, surrounded with pretty weavers houses dating back to the 1700s. When you visit Saddleworth, don’t miss the walk up to Pots and Pans, a war memorial which has stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Thanks to Helen from Helen on her Holidays for highlighting why the collection of villages that collectively make up Saddleworth are a great way to explore the inherent beauty of Northern England.

The village of  Saltaire in Yorkshire  is just under 2 hours from Manchester by train making it the perfect option for a day trip. Saltaire was built in the 19 th  century by Titus Salt, a wealthy mill owner, to provide housing and amenities to his factory workers. This was revolutionary at the time and not only is Titus Salt recognized as one of greatest Victorian philanthropists, the village is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I recommend taking the Heritage Trail around the village to discover points of interest as you walk. Pick up a guide at the Information Centre in the Mill opposite the train station. The village is still lived in today and you will get a sense of just how well Salt’s workers were cared for with almshouses, a school and a Church built for them.

Head to Salt’s Mill after exploring the village and enjoy art works by local artists including David Hockney. In fact the Mill has the largest collection of Hockney’s in the world on display. You will even find he has designed the logo on the paper serviette’s in Salt’s Diner which is the perfect place for a bite to eat. Salt’s Mill is also home to cafes, restaurants, a small museum and many shops, so plenty to peruse before catching a train back to Manchester.

Thanks to Tracy from Tracy’s Travels in Time for highlighting the Yorkshire village of Saltaire as being a quaint day trip option from Manchester.

If you want to get away from the city for a while and experience some of the most incredible nature in the UK, head to Snowdonia National Park.

The drive from Manchester is about 2 hours and you’ll pass some beautiful places along the way, but don’t dawdle too much or you’ll miss out on the best things to see in Snowdonia (of course, you can always extend your  Wales road trip  and grab a hotel in the National Park).

Pretty much everything in Snowdonia involves being outdoors, so make sure you bring appropriate clothing for the time of year. TOP TIP – ALWAYS expect rain in Wales… even in mid-summer! If you like hiking, Snowdon is the place to go (on a clear day you can see Ireland from the top). For history, head to Caernarfon Castle – one of the best in the UK – or visit the Snowdon Mountain Railway. 

You must try a lamb dish in Wales- it’s practically a religion. We highly recommend the Rhug Estate for its incredible deli counter and delicious foods. 

Thanks to Kat from Wandering Bird for highlighting why a trip to Wales is well worth it to experience the beauty of Snowdonia National Park.

The fishing town of Whitby may be small, but there’s plenty to do on this day trip to the east coast. The most famous landmark here is Whitby Abbey. A beautiful ruined medieval church overlooking the harbor. Visitors have the pleasure of tackling the famous 199 Steps to reach the abbey from the harbor but the views are worth it.

History lovers should check out the Captain Cook Memorial Museum. The man who discovered Australia and New Zealand learned his trade in Whitby, so why not learn more about the man himself? Make your way to Whitby beach and you’ll pass the impressive Whalebone Arch. These are real whale bones and serve as a reminder to Whitby’s whaling past. Plus the views of the harbor and abbey are great from the arch! 

Of course, no trip to the seaside is complete without some fish and chips! The Magpie Cafe is said to have the best fish and chips in town. But the word is out so expect long queues! Other activities around the harbor include crabbing, boat rides, whale watching and horseback riding (don’t forget the Dracula experience). With so much on offer, a day trip just might not be enough!

Thanks to Jeff from A Life of Y for highlighting why Whitby is well worth taking a road trip from Manchester to explore this North East coastal town.

York is one of the most historic cities in England and parts of it take you back in time. It was founded as Eboracum by the Romans in 71 AD. If you are visiting as a day trip from Manchester, there are a few things in York that you must see .

The breathtaking cathedral, York Minster, is one of the largest and most important churches in England. It’s worth the small admission fee to go inside and admire the architectural details and lovely stained glass. Near the Minster, you will find the Shambles which is arguably, the most beautiful street in England. Some people think it was J.K Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Next, I recommend you walk around the city on top of the walls. It is a fun way to see this picturesque city. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for afternoon tea at Betty’s. If you have more time in York, you could also visit Clifford’s Tower, the York Dungeon, the Chocolate Story, or the National Railway Museum.

Thanks to Anisa from Two Traveling Texans for sharing a few reasons why one of England’s most historic cities is the perfect day trip destination from Manchester.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

The green, rolling landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales is a 1 hour 40-minute drive from Manchester and is a perfect destination to escape the busy city. Take a challenging hike around spectacular Malham Cove, a 230-foot-high natural stone amphitheater. The circular hike encompasses Malham Tarn – one of two natural lakes in the Dales – Gordale Scar gorge and Janet’s Foss waterfall.

Explore underground at Stump Cross Caverns or White Scar Cave, visit iconic Aysgarth Falls or Hardraw Force, England’s highest single drop waterfall. Indulge in the famous cheese at the Wensleydale Creamery, or sample the craft beer at the breweries in Dent or Askrigg. Enjoy home cooked food in Britain’s highest pub, the Tan Hill Inn near Reeth.

On your return to Manchester, stop at the spa town of Harrogate to visit Betty’s Tea Room, a 100-year-old tea room much loved by Yorkshire locals. You cannot leave Yorkshire without a cup of Yorkshire Tea and Betty’s signature Fat Rascal cake!

Thanks to Sinead from Map Made Memories for highlighting why the Yorkshire Dales is a great area to explore during a day trip from Manchester.

One of the real attractions of spending time in the UK is the ability to take a plethora of amazing day trips. Whether you are traveling locally or heading further afield courtesy of the high-speed train service, the list of day trip destinations is endless. If you are staying in Manchester, you are perfectly located to explore Northern England but also know that you are a short two-hour train journey from the capital.

We would like to thank all of our amazing friends from across the globe for sharing their highlight day trip destinations from Manchester and hopefully you will be inspired to visit some of the lesser known spots on your next trip to the UK.

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10 Of The Best Places To Take A Day Trip Near Manchester

Fancy taking a break from the city air and exploring the beautiful North West region? Luckily, Manchester is close to a number of idyllic destinations worth visiting by car or train.

Peel yourself off the sofa, stretch your legs and start the new year by visiting somewhere different with our ultimate guide to day trips near Manchester .

1. Formby Beach

A beautiful National Trust area near to Southport , Formby Beach is both a nature reserve and a highly presentable beach with sand dunes and high sandy hills to explore. Perfect for dog walking or a family day out , the beach spans 13.2km, great for a coastal walk while you take in the salty sea air. Not only can you experience the sand in your toes while you eagerly anticipate your next holiday, but the area also has a Red Squirrel reserve featuring breathtaking views of the Irish Sea, a great opportunity to stretch your legs, even on the coldest of days.

Just outside of Huddersfield and only 30 minutes by train from Manchester Piccadilly , Marsden is a great stop for aspiring or fully-fledged walkers looking for day trips out. The small, old-fashioned village has a handful of pubs and, of course, a chippy , where you can grab a swift pint and fill your tummy with tasty traditional fish and chips . There’s a number of walks you can take up, too, with three reservoirs to uncover and the Marsden Moor circular walk , where can see Pule Hill , the Easter Gate return , Standedge and more.

3. Blackpool

This list wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Blackpool , the North West ‘s most iconic beach town. Featuring the famous Pleasure Beach , the pier and the iconic Blackpool Tower , there’s plenty to explore – and all the better if you’re new up North. To the locals, it might be ‘just Blackpool’, but to the rest of us, it’s the perfect nostalgic day out at the seaside, with plenty to do, a whole lot of rides and a ton of fish and chip shops to try out while you’re there.

4. Chester Zoo

One of the best day trips near Manchester for animal lovers , whether you’re a child or an adult, Chester Zoo is home to approximately 35,000 animals , from birds and big cats to reptiles and amphibians . Just a one hour drive from Manchester, see giraffes , tigers and so much more across 128 acres of zoological gardens , or check out the beautiful botanical gardens for a bit of peace and quiet away from the wildlife. Guests can learn a ton about the animals that live on-site, as well as learn about the zoo’s very own conservation charity.

5. Saddleworth

A short drive away from town, Saddleworth offers beautiful views of the Pennine Hills , with a number of villages and walks to explore. It’s a fairly big place, with Dovestone Reservoir , the moors , Standedge Tunnels , Chew Valley and so much more nearby to visit. Take part in a four-mile walk that showcases points of interests such as Diggle , Brownhill Countryside Centre and the Huddersfield Narrow Canal , or take in the spectacular Pennine countryside with a six-mile walk that stops by Standedge Tunnel. It’s the perfect destination for people who love to get a bit of exercise, as well as discover hidden gems in the country.

6. Ness Botanic Gardens

Situated on the Wirral , Ness Botanic Gardens is just over an hour’s drive from Manchester, providing incredible scenes of beautiful plants and flowers . The gardens were created by a man passionate about plants, with a desire to share his love with others. Guests can explore the stunning gardens and views of North Wales , with a whole lot of land to uncover. Surround yourself with vibrant flowers, learn about the history of the gardens and grab something to eat at the Botanic Kitchen , with outdoor seating for those that want to take in the nature that surrounds.

7. Tatton Park

A historical estate with 50 acres of landscaped gardens and 1000 acres of deer park , Tatton Park has plenty to see and do. Situated in the Cheshire town of Knutsford , it’s not too far from Manchester, just a 40-minute drive away. The never-ending land is home to an 18th-century mansion , as well as a working farm with lambs and other animals, a deer park and a playground. Guests can explore the mansion and the grounds, as well as meet cows , pigs and lambs in the on-site farm or take a stroll around the traditional Japanese Gardens and deer park.

8. Bridgewater Canal, Worsley

Although originating in town, the Bridgewater Canal flows all the way out to Runcorn at one end, and Leigh at the other. Anywhere along this scenic reminder of the industrial revolution would be a great place to stroll and sit, all at your own pace, but it is particularly picturesque once you hit the village of Worsley . Known for the historical mining area of Worsley Delph , and its mock Tudor houses , Worsley is also home to RHS Bridgewater , perfect for a peaceful day meandering through the stuff of horticultural dreams . There’s truly so much to see in such a small village, and with it being just five miles from Manchester, it’s worth the visit.

9. Hebden Bridge

Midway between Manchester and Leeds , Hebden Bridge is the perfect solace for those looking for day trips out with easily accessible quaintness . The Leeds train travelling from Wigan hits local stops on the way, so if you’re anywhere between you can easily get to Hebden Bridge, otherwise getting there from Manchester is simple, and of course you can get there by car. With quaint shops and cafes lining the canal , over which stands the cobbled Hebden Bridge, the town is packed with character , setting the scene for TV programmes such as Happy Valley . The town is also just a stone’s throw away from the Brontës’ childhood home , which is said to have inspired elements of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights house.

10. Haigh Hall & Woodland Park

Hidden away in Aspull , Wigan, just a 45 minute drive from Manchester, Haigh Hall is a 19th Century stately home surrounded by lush woodland , packed full of activities . Although a stroll around the grounds is activity enough, the surroundings are graced with cafes , a golf course , a miniature railway , and an animal park to keep everyone entertained. The woodland area is home to high and low rope adventures , and the expansive estate houses a huge playground , as well as a summer fair complete with bouncy castle slides and a carousel between spring and late summer. As well as being great for day trips out of Manchester, Haigh Woodland Park also hosts parkrun every Saturday at 9am, so if the day out is a success you’re welcome back for more every weekend.

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10 of the best day trips from Manchester, UK

Although Manchester has timeless appeal and myriad attractions that make for happy city dwelling, locals and visitors alike can take advantage of its position within easy reach of many destinations worthy of a day trip.

Evolving from its industrial past, Manchester has taken up a proud place in more recent years as a city of innovation, with culinary, musical and cultural scenes that are thriving. What’s more, just a little way out of the city, there’s even more variety to explore. To the west are stretches of seaside, while heading north or east takes you to some of the largest national parks in the UK. From nearby cities to quaint villages and market towns, we round up some of the best places to get to in under 90 minutes for a day trip from Manchester.

Tudor-style half-timber buildings line the streets of Chester, originally founded as a Roman fortress. Reachable in roughly an hour by car or train from Manchester, the city is still known for its extensive Roman sandstone walls that envelop the town. Chester Cathedral, the Eastgate Clock and the Roman amphitheatre are among the city’s most popular spots for visitors, but there are also plenty of restaurants, cosy pubs and boutiques occupying the medieval buildings, while the River Dee can make for a scenic stroll. Head to Lower Bridge Street near Old Dee Bridge for a selection of old Tudor-style and Victorian-heritage pubs.

2.   Port Sunlight

Driving west for just over an hour to Merseyside will bring you to the historic village of Port Sunlight. Here, 900 Grade II-listed buildings line wide boulevards with landscaped parks and woodland dotted in between. The village was the project of entrepreneur and industrialist William Hesketh Lever, whose aim was to provide housing for soap-factory workers. A walk around the village, with visits to the Port Sunlight Museum and Lady Lever Art Gallery, reveals a space bristling with history and creativity — every building has its own unique design. Walking tours are available to book from the Port Sunlight Village Trust’s website, and there are tea rooms and cosy pubs where you can fuel up along your route.

3. Congleton

Head south on the train to the edge of the Peak District and you’ll reach the pretty village of Congleton in about 40 minutes. Here, Little Moreton Hall is worth a visit — the beautiful old building is one of the most notable half-timbered mansions in England. Having been restored and preserved since being built in 1508, it’s now run by the National Trust. The hall hosts a selection of events throughout the year, and has a restaurant and tearoom. Elsewhere in Congleton, the Macclesfield Canal runs through the town, where you can embark upon peaceful walks surrounded by countryside.

4. Peak District

To the southeast of the city is yet another national park filled with dramatic landscapes. Reachable in roughly an hour by car, the Peak District has numerous moorland plateaus and valleys to hike through, as well as caves, rivers and other wildly beautiful spots. A more gentle walk through Padley Gorge encompasses ancient woodland, shallow streams and large flat rocks, while The Roaches, a gritstone ridge, provides a more challenging route with the reward of exceptional panoramic views. The thermal-spa town of Buxton is a great point to stop for food or rest ahead of the trip back to Manchester.

5. Delamere Forest

Roughly an hour’s drive southwest from Manchester, Delamere Forest in Cheshire is a scenic 2,400-acre plot of woodland laced with deciduous and evergreen trees. There are Segway tours for those wanting to explore the breadth of the forest, but the landscapes here are stunning and there are plenty of hiking, cycling and horse-riding trails running throughout if you wish to see the forest at a gentler pace. Above the serene strolls, a Go Ape tree-top adventure playground is spread over the estate, where you can climb over platforms and swing from ropes up high.

6. Hebden Bridge

A breather from the hustle and bustle of city life, Hebden Bridge is a leafy market town in West Yorkshire’s Upper Calder Valley that’s roughly a 30-minute train journey from Manchester Victoria. There’s a string of small towns to check out in the area, all with plenty of independent shops to browse and restaurants to dive into, with Hebden Bridge at the epicentre. Its popularity has recently resulted in a younger demographic setting down roots — coffee shops, craft stalls and pubs now dot the town, while regular antique markets draw crowds from further afield.

7. The Pennines

The Pennines runs as an almost continuous line of mountain ranges and hills, separating North West and North East England. Getting the train from Manchester Victoria to Greenfield (20 minutes) lands you in a great spot to explore the area, on the western end of the Chew Valley, surrounded by hills and lush grassland. Excellent walks along the Pennine Bridleway trail — alongside cosy pubs in which to fuel up, such as The Old Bell Inn with its record-breaking collection of more than 1,000 gins — start from Uppermill, Delph, Denshaw and Dobcross.

8. Lake District

Rugged mountains, glacial ribbon lakes and manicured fields dominate this national park region in Cumbria. Hit the traffic right and you can reach the Lake District in under 90 minutes by car from Manchester city centre. Lake Windermere is one of the most southerly and easiest points to access for a day trip — it’s also one of the largest of the lakes and has 18 islands. Pack walking boots and hike around the terrain or opt for a watersport activity, such as paddleboarding. The nearby market town of Kendal is a great spot for refreshment or browsing local art galleries.

9. Southport

This seaside town on the fringes of the Irish Sea makes for a wonderful coastal escape that’s about an hour and 20 minutes by car or train from Manchester. It has 22 miles of coastline lined with beaches and footpaths, and the town is dotted with boulevards, Victorian buildings and scenic gardens. The pier draws the crowds for its classic seaside style, complete with a buzzy arcade and takeaway shops touting fish and chips. For a more active coastal trip, the Trans Pennine Trail is a great walking and cycling route connecting Southport and Hornsea in East Yorkshire.

10.   Liverpool

Another of the most visited cities in the UK, Liverpool is reachable in 40 minutes by train from Manchester. Famously, it’s the birthplace of The Beatles, and as such, there are many landmarks, tours, attractions and memorabilia around the city to explore. Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields are some of the top hits for day trips, as are some of the warehouses and wharves around the Royal Albert Dock area, including the Tate Liverpool museum and art gallery. There’s been an influx of bars and restaurants opening in the city, too — Bold Street or Mathew Street provide plenty of options.

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10 of the best day trips from Manchester

JAN 11, 2024

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With its rich heritage, world-class shopping and vibrant nightlife, Manchester is a joy to visit. But it’s also the perfect place from which to explore surrounding towns and villages. Exciting cities such as Liverpool and Chester are on your doorstep, and the Lake District and Peak District are just down the road – simply put, enjoying day trips from Manchester is a breeze.

We’ve composed a list of ten of the best day trips from Manchester to help you decide where to go. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a keen hiker or a city lover, there’s something for you to discover here:

• Ashton-under-Lyne
• The Lake District
• Hebden Bridge

Keep reading to discover what's in store at each of these awesome day-trip destinations.

1. Manchester to Ashton-under-Lyne

If you’re looking for places to visit outside Manchester but you don’t have a lot of time, consider Ashton-under-Lyne . History buffs will want to soak up some local culture at the Portland Basin Museum . But to get back to nature, head to Stamford Park for superb boating and hiking opportunities. And don't pass on the chance to walk up Hartshead Pike - on a clear day, you can even see as far as Snowdonia in Wales.

Getting there – It’s easy to get from Manchester to Ashton-under-Lyne . Simply take a train from Manchester Victoria and you’ll be there in just 9m.

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2. Manchester to Altrincham

Another part of Greater Manchester that is worth a visit is Altrincham . Head to the refurbished market for local delicacies and hand-made products. Or discover the historic Dunham Massey House with its elegant Georgian architecture. But the best thing to do in Altrincham is to stroll around its pretty streets. Crammed with gastropubs and independent eateries, the town is a food lover's dream!

Getting there – to get from Manchester to Altrincham , go from Manchester Piccadilly . Journeys take around 29m.

3. Manchester to Edale

Gateway to the Pennine Way, Edale is the perfect retreat for nature-lovers. All about the Peak District’s famous rugged scenery, Edale is a walker's paradise. Choose from a selection of guided walks or take yourself off with a map. For a taste of what the area would have been like during Norman times, head straight for Peveril Castle with its breathtaking views.

Getting there –  if those weren't enough good reasons to visit, the journey from Manchester to Edale only takes around 41m.

4. Manchester to Liverpool

A trip to the historic port city of Liverpool makes for a great day trip from Manchester. Discover the city's past at the Museum of Liverpool or check out the Walker Art Gallery , the TATE or the Open Eye Gallery to see the modern face of Liverpool. If you like to keep things high-end, then explore the restored Albert Dock – here you’ll find the chicest of boutiques and bars. Of course, you won't want to miss out on a trip to the Cavern Club: birthplace and spiritual home of the Beatles.

Getting there – to get from Manchester to Liverpool , take one of the regularly scheduled trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street – the journey takes around 57m.

5. Manchester to Chester

Plan a day trip to Chester to discover a world of cobbled lanes and olde worlde shops. Those who love a challenge can head straight to Escapism , the town’s live escape room. Or if you prefer to be outside in the fresh air, stroll around the ancient city walls and visit the cathedral. The Rows, a collection of pretty black and white buildings, house shops ranging from high-street favourites to quirky boutiques.

Getting there – to travel from Manchester to Chester , simply take a direct train from Manchester Piccadilly and you’ll be there in 1h 17m.

6. Manchester to The Lake District

Just over an hour away from Manchester Piccadilly is Oxenholme , a charming Lake District village. Take a trip from Manchester to Oxenholme to enjoy stunning views and pleasant walks. To get your heart racing, go gorge walking. Or why not try climbing, canoeing, kayaking and more, all offered by the Lakes Outdoor Experience. For something a little more laid-back, take a stroll up to Kendal Castle or visit Lakeland Maze Farm Park , which is a big hit with the young and young at heart. Kids will especially love the maze, go-karts and soft play areas. Just make sure that you leave enough time to find your way out of the maze in time to catch your train back to Manchester

Getting there – the journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Oxenholme by train takes 1h 16m.

7. Manchester to Blackpool

Revel in classic seaside escapades with a day out in iconic Blackpool . The highlight here is Blackpool Pleasure Beach , a theme park crammed with exhilarating rides, including the Big One, a hair-raising roller coaster that reaches 87 miles per hour! The Central Pier offers a more genteel side to this traditional seaside town: ride the Ferris wheel or helter-skelter and be transported back to a charming bygone age. Take in sweeping views of the city from Blackpool Tower or head to the beach with its seven miles of golden sand - just make sure to take a bag of fresh fish and chips along with you!

Getting there –  travelling from Manchester to Blackpool is easy as pie - hop on a train at Manchester Piccadilly and arrive in Blackpool North in around 1h 23m.

8. Manchester to Southport

Southport makes for another great family-friendly day trip from Manchester. Southport Pleasureland has rides suitable for all ages and kids will love the sprawling Model Railway Village. Grown-ups, meanwhile, will appreciate Hesketh Park , with its walking trails, pretty lake and sumptuous gardens. Or simply spend a day watching the birds from Ainsdale Beach. And did we mention that Southport even has its own museum dedicated to the humble lawnmower?

Getting there – the journey from Manchester to Southport takes around 1h 15m, with trains leaving from either Piccadilly or Victoria.

9. Manchester to Hebden Bridge

Hebden Bridge is perhaps Yorkshire’s quirkiest town! Crammed with independent shops and themed cafes, it is the perfect antidote to the city. Choose from a selection of cosy pubs or head to the hills with a walk to Hardcastle Crags. Movie buffs can catch a screening at the beautifully restored art deco Hebden Bridge Picture House . Or for some fresh air, take a stroll along Rochdale Canal, with its colourful barges and alternative vibe.

Getting there –  trains from Manchester to Hebden Bridge depart from Victoria and only take between 30m and 45m.

10. Manchester to Todmorden

Known to locals simply as 'Tod', Todmorden has a town centre that will win your heart. If you’re itching to get walking, head to Stoodley Pike. Or you could head to the edge of town to walk along part of the Pennine and Calderdale Ways. Architecture aficionados will appreciate the Grade 1 listed Todmorden Town Hall, with its neo-classical design and stunning ballroom. Bargain hunters, meanwhile, can dive into the array of cool boutiques. And if you’re with kids, don't miss a visit to the reptile house and skate park at Centre Vale Park.

Getting there – travel from Manchester to Todmorden in around 30m, with trains leaving from Manchester Victoria.

Getting out of Manchester on a day trip couldn't be easier - the only challenge is deciding which place to start with. Book with us and our user-friendly website will help you find the best train deals, so you can get on with planning your adventures.

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20 Best Day Trips From Manchester By Train – Cities & Nature

Table of Contents

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Manchester is a creative, diverse city with lots to see and do. Although it would be difficult to get bored, there are plenty of day trips from Manchester should you want to explore further afield. Located in the northwest of England , Manchester is close to Sheffield, Leeds and Liverpool. If you’re more motivated by nature than city life, you’re in luck: Manchester is lodged between the Peak District and the Lake District. It’s also not far from North Wales.

MANCHESTER DAY TRIP ESSENTIALS Accommodation:  Booking.com // Hostelworld Activities:  GetYourGuide / Viator Getting there: Air ( Skyscanner ) train ( Trainline ), bus ( Busbud )

Map of the best Manchester days out:

Read my other Manchester blog posts:

• How to spend a weekend in Manchester
• Cool places to eat in Manchester
• The best Manchester cheap eats
• 12 independant coffee shops in Manchester
• Where to find street art in Manchester

How to take day trips from Manchester UK

Train is my preferred method of transport in North England. It’s the fastest way to get around and can be pretty affordable for short distances. Although travelling further afield in the UK (for example from London to Manchester) can feel extortionate, none of these trips listed will cost more than £30 return. I use Trainline to get the best prices on UK train prices .

Read next: How to travel the UK on a budget

Buses often take longer but can be even cheaper. Use Busbud to compare prices and availability of the major bus networks like National Express, Megabus and Flixbus. For more rural destinations like the Lake District, you may wish to check out organised day tours from Manchester. My preferred option is GetYourGuide for the variety of options but Viator often has decent deals, too. Although you can take all the below day trips near Manchester by public transport, a final option is to hire a car . Compare prices on Rentalcars.com . With no more ado, here are the best days out from Manchester, England…

1. Liverpool (journey time: 1 hour)

Despite the rivalry between the two cities, one of the best day trips from Manchester is to Liverpool, just an hour away by train. In my personal opinion, Manchester is the cooler of the two cities with better food options, however I’m still a huge fan of Liverpool. Things to do during a Liverpool day trip include exploring the Royal Albert Dock area where you can take a boat trip and visit museums including the Beatles Story, the Museum of Liverpool and the Tate. Don’t miss Mathew Street to see legendary Beatles spots such as the Cavern Club. For a hidden gem, pay a visit to the Bluecoat, a modern art gallery with a lovely cafe and inner-city garden. Nearby, shoppers will be in their element at Liverpool ONE with over 170 high street shops and restaurants. For food and drink, tuck into trendy eats at the Baltic Market , dine at stylish popups inside Duke Street Market or grab Asian food in Chinatown . Getting to Liverpool as a day trip from Manchester: From Manchester Piccadilly, trains take 1 hour and prices start from £2.90. Bargain! Browse train tickets from Manchester to Liverpool .

2. Peak District (journey time: 45 minutes) – best day trip from Manchester for hikers

The rolling limestone hills of the Peak District surely constitute some of England’s most beautiful scenery. Although it would be hard to decide whether the Lake District or Peak District is more beautiful, it’s fair to say the Peak District is easier to reach as a day trip from Manchester by public transport. From Dovedale and Lathkill Dale valleys in the south to the craggy Dark Peak area in the north, there’s a wide variety of hiking routes for different levels of ability. The highest point is Kinder Scout, best accessed by the Jacob’s Ladder hike. A beautiful hike suitable for casual hikers (including those wearing trainers rather than proper hiking boots) is Mam Tor. To reach the area by public transport during a day trip from Manchester, arrive into Edale station. Turn left out of the station to begin the Mam Tor hike . Top tip – mobile signal is patchy at best when you exit Edale station so make sure to download a map or screenshot the route beforehand. There aren’t many signs directing you to Mam Tor.

After hiking Mam Tor, I continued on foot to Castleton, a picturesque village in the Hope Valley. Here I rewarded my hiking efforts by indulging in afternoon tea at a cute cafe. Finally, I followed signs to Hope and caught a direct train back to Manchester Piccadilly from the station. Getting to the Peak District as a day trip from Manchester: Take a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Edale. A day return should be £12. If you do what I did and journey back from Hope, you should technically purchase an extra ticket to cover the Hope to Edale stop. Book tickets from Manchester to Edale .

Peak District by day tour: to see more of the Peak District during a one day trip from Manchester, consider a Peak District group trip inc Poole’s Cavern & Bakewell (and try Bakewell tarts in their birthplace).

3. Lake District (journey time: 1 hour) – the most beautiful Manchester day trip

Although the Lakes are considerably further than the Peaks, it’s possible to visit during a day trip from Manchester as long as you’re prepared to pick just a tiny patch to explore. With over 2,000km of countryside encompassing mountains, woodland, towns, villages and – of course – lakes (16 to be precise), you couldn’t thoroughly discover the Lake District in a month let alone a day. Popular things to do in the Lake District include taking a scenic boat cruise across L ake Windermere, seeing where Beatrix Potter used to live and write at Hill Top National Trust property, eating famous sticky toffee pudding in Cartmel village, hiking the Old Man of Coniston, and relaxing afterwards with cafes and boat trips from Coniston Water. Getting to the Lakes as a Manchester day trip: If you’re hoping to take a Lake District day trip from Manchester by public transport, your best bet is to travel by train to Oxenholme. From here, you can go gorge walking, kayaking and canoeing. Book tickets from Manchester to Oxenholme . To see the Lakes in better depth without your own vehicle, take a choice of day tour beginning in Manchester . This includes transport and commentary as you visit some of the Lake District’s most beautiful destinations.

Suggested tours:

• Lake District, Windermere, and Lancaster (£46)
• Grasmere, Langdales, Ambleside & gingerbread (£49)

If you have longer, follow my itinerary for a weekend in the Lake District .

4. Llandudno (journey time: 2 hours) – a Manchester day trip to Wales

A day trip from Manchester to another country? It’s possible and, better yet, will only cost you £13! With great rail connections, North Wales is easily accessible from Manchester. There are plenty of points of interest ranging from climbing Mount Snowdon to exploring postcard-perfect Portmeirion and heading further afield to Anglesey Island and Holy Island . One of the easiest places to reach from Manchester is Llandudno , a traditional Victorian seaside town with bags of charm and a perfectly-preserved pier (voted Pier of the Year, dontcha know!). When you’re not playing arcade games and eating fish n chips and candy floss, other things to do in Llandudno during a day trip from Manchester include taking the cable car or tramway up to the Great Orme, wandering in Happy Valley Botanical Gardens and discovering Alice in Wonderland connections via the moble app trail. Getting to Llandudno from Manchester: Direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Llandudno Junction start from £13, taking 2 hours. If you leave early and return late afternoon/early evening, it’s easy to visit North Wales as a day trip from Manchester. Book tickets from Manchester to Llandudno . When to visit: This trip is best taken during the summer months, ideally on a sunny day. If you don’t like crowds, try shoulder season from March-May or September-October instead.

5. Conwy, Wales (journey time: 2 hours)

Just 15 minutes from Llandudno is Conwy, a coastal town widely known as the best-preserved walled city in Europe. Worthwhile activities in Conwy include walking the city walls for spectacular views of the harbour and Snowdonia, visiting the smallest house in Britain and exploring Conwy Castle. Since time will be tight if visiting Llandudno and Conwy during the same day, choose one or split them into different day trips from Manchester. Getting from Manchester to Conwy: trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Conwy start from £30, taking 2 hours and changing in Chester. Another option is travelling to Llandudno Junction then catching a 15-minute bus to Conwy. Book your train from Manchester to Conwy .

If you want to see rural Wales as a Manchester day trip by public transport, consider a day tour. GetYourGuide offer a North Wales adventure for £49 .

6. Sheffield (journey time: 2 hours)

Another easy Manchester day trip destination is Sheffield, the UK’s fourth-largest city, famous for its once-booming steel industry. When it comes to Yorkshire charm, Sheffield’s city centre doesn’t disappoint. Tour the many free Sheffield tourist attractions such as the Winter Gardens, one of the largest temperate glasshouses in the UK, home to over 2,000 plants collected from various countries around the world. Y ou also have the infamous Kelham Island and its majestic museum telling the story of Sheffield’s contribution to the world’s steel market. At the museum, you can see cutlery items made in Sheffield which hold international importance. Sheffield is also praised for its many independent shops and restaurants. With places like the Lucky Fox and Tamper Coffee House, you’re in for a well-deserved meal before heading home. Getting to Sheffield from Manchester: It’s a short 50-minute journey through the Peak District by train direct from Manchester Piccadilly station. Book your tickets from Manchester to Sheffield . Entry submitted by Daniel from Urban Abroad .

7. Chester (journey time: 1.5 hours)

If you’re looking for memorable day trips from Manchester, head west to the beautiful city of Chester. It started life as a Roman fortress and is now a wonderful mix of Roman, Tudor and modern design. One of the first things you’ll see is the fortress walls surrounding the inner city. Chester is the only UK city with a full circuit of walls; you can walk along them for the full 1.8 miles, soaking up spectacular views. Admire the Eastgate clock, built for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, and King Charles’ tower where he stood and watched his troops being slaughtered during the English Civil War.  Other places to visit include Chester Cathedral which took 500 years to build (and is impressive enough to warrant it!) and the Roman Gardens with the ruins of a bathhouse and the biggest stone amphitheatre in Britain. There are also countless Tudor houses and streets to admire, plus wonderful shops, cafes and restaurants. 

For lunch, don’t miss the Jaunty Goat. There are two of these cafes in Chester, one vegan and one not. The Flower Cup also does a delicious brunch.  Getting to Chester from Manchester: The train from Piccadilly takes about 1.5 hours; tickets start from £8.80 each way. Book your train tickets to Chester . Entry submitted by Kat from  Biker Girl Life .

Combine North Wales and Chester into the same day with a Conwy, Snowdonia & Chester day tour from Manchester .

8. Harrogate – (journey time: 2 hours) a relaxing day trip from Manchester

Just shy of a two-hour train ride from Manchester is Harrogate, a Victorian spa town in North Yorkshire. If you have relaxation and a little indulgence in mind, Harrogate makes the perfect Manchester day trip.

Since the discovery of mineral-rich spring water in the 16 th  century, Harrogate has attracted visitors seeking restoration in the supposedly-therapeutic waters. Today, spas in the town offer treatments including baths, massages and manicures thanks, in part, to a recent reinvestment in its spa culture. Book your treatments at Turkish Baths Harrogate located in the Harrogate Royal Baths building before your day trip. This building is known for its lavish Turkish-style interior and a history of royal clientele. To learn more about Harrogate’s spa history, visit the Royal Pump Room Museum.

If soaking in iron and sulphur-infused mineral water isn’t for you, check out Harrogate’s gardens and parks. These include the Royal Horticultural Society’s Harlow Carr Gardens about a half-hour walk west of the city centre. You can also indulge in some shopping at Victoria Shopping Centre. 

For a bite to eat, enjoy an afternoon tea in the famed Bettys Café Tea Room . Don’t forget to grab some treats for the train ride home at Farrah’s Olde Sweet Shop.  How to get to Harrogate from Manchester: The fastest way is to catch the train at Manchester Victoria and change in Leeds. Book your Manchester to Harrogate tickets . Entry submitted by Ada from Beyond Yellow Brick blog .

9. Knaresborough (journey time: 2 hours)

Knaresborough is a pretty market town in North Yorkshire   that makes for a wonderful day trip from Manchester. The bustling town is full of lovely black and white chequerboard buildings and picturesque views, the best from Knaresborough Castle out over the town and Knaresborough Viaduct. Another great way to take in the views is from a boat on the River Nidd. Hiring a rowing boat is a popular pastime and a great way to take in Knaresborough at a leisurely pace.

Knaresborough’s most notable attraction is Mother Shipton’s Cave. Opened in 1630, it’s England’s oldest tourist attraction and tells the story of Ursula Sontheil, better known as Mother Shipton. She was a prophetess supposedly born in the cave around 1488. People travelled from far and wide to hear her predictions of the future.

For a bite to eat, Two Brothers Grill and Pizzeria serve excellent pizzas, pastas and burgers. For fine dining, award-winning Storm Restaurant offers an indulgent 3-course a la carte menu, a lighter lounge menu and traditional afternoon tea. How to get to Knaresborough from Manchester: By train public transport, the journey is around two hours. Catch a train from Manchester Victoria to Leeds, then take the Northern service directly to Knaresborough. An adult ticket costs around £28 each way. Book your Manchester to Knaresborough tickets . Entry submitted by Hannah from Get Lost Blog .

10. Nottingham (journey time: 2 hours)

Nottingham is the largest city in the East Midlands and makes for an easy day trip from Manchester. Things to do in Nottingham include visiting Nottingham Castle to learn about the history of the city and descend into the caves underneath it. During the City of Caves tour, you’ll learn how the caves were carved by the residents of Nottingham, and the purposes they’ve had over the years, from wine and beer cellars to Victorian slums and air-raid shelters. Families will love visiting the Robin Hood attractions, while photographers will feel inspired at Wollaton Hall. Just minutes from the vibrant city centre, this Elizabethan Grade I listed mansion is set in over 500 acres of parkland full of free-roaming red and fallow deer.  Finally, visit Hockley for an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants including Mandarin restaurant serving authentic Chinese food at reasonable prices. For dessert, don’t miss Doughnotts on King Street for Instagrammable treats. Getting to Nottingham from Manchester : there are multiple daily trains from Manchester Piccadilly station to Nottingham, taking 2-3 hours and costing £30 return. Book your Manchester to Nottingham trains .

11. Shrewsbury (journey time: 1.5 hours)

Shrewsbury is a historic town in England with a history dating back to Roman times. The half-timbered buildings date from the 12th and 13th centuries, Shrewsbury Castle was built as early as 1074, and Shrewsbury Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Shropshire. The old town is locked in the loop of the River Severn, the longest river in the UK. The riverbanks and Quarry Park are lovely places to relax after getting lost in the tiny streets that resemble scenes from Harry Potter.

Read next: things to in Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury also hosts Shrewsbury Folk Festival (July), Shrewsbury International Food Festival (September) and a Gin Festival (April). If I can think of one ways to make your Manchester day trip even better, it’s gin! How to get to Shrewsbury from Manchester : Trains take between 1 hour and 90 minutes and cost as little as £15. Book your Manchester to Shrewsbury tickets here . Entry submitted by Travelling Twins .

12. Alton Towers (3 hours)

If you’re looking for adventurous day trips from Manchester, consider Alton Towers in Staffordshire. Not only is it one of the best theme parks in the UK, but it has some of the world’s best thrill rides, as well as vast grounds, gardens, forests and lakes. Board the cable car to enjoy panoramic views as you travel between the themed districts.  

Alton Towers is particularly popular during the autumn months as it hosts events such as Oktoberfest, Scarefest and a firework extravaganza for bonfire night. How to get to Alton Towers as a day trip from Manchester: Take a train to Uttoxeter (changing in Stoke-on-Trent) taking around 1.5 hours total, then transfer to a 1-hour bus to Alton Towers .

Entry submitted by Kerry from Adrenaline Junkiez .

13. York (journey time: 1.5 hours)

York is a charming town in the north of Yorkshire and one of the best day trips from Manchester for history lovers. The most popular attraction is York Minster, one of the most beautiful cathedrals in England. This 7th-century cathedral boasts outstanding Gothic architecture and impressive stained glass. Next, explore York’s museums including JORVIK Viking Centre and the York Dungeon. Foodies, don’t miss the Chocolate Story Museum! There are also plenty of free activities in York such as walking the York City Walls for incredible views of the city, relaxing at York Museum Gardens home to friendly squirrels, and strolling The Shambles, the oldest street in the city with plenty of quirky shops. Finally, head to Betty’s Tea Room for a delicious afternoon tea or SPARK for international street food. How to get to York from Manchester : Trains take 1 hour 40 minutes and cost as little as £9.70 each way when you book in advance. Book your Manchester to York trains . Entry submitted by Cristina from My Little World of Travelling .

Nearby day trips from Manchester (max 30 minutes away)

If you’re short of time and budget, consider the following. These can be taken as half-day trips but most offer enough entertainment (and more importantly, food options) that you could stay all day. These are the best Manchester day trips within a 30-minute radius…

14. Hebden Bridge (journey time: 30 minutes)

This market town in West Yorkshire is easy to reach during a day trip from Manchester. Thanks to the creative types who moved to Hebden Bridge in the 1970s, there’s a real independent feel with lots of quirky shops and cafes. However, the real charm isn’t the high street but the countryside. Take a leisurely walk along the Rochdale Canal soaking up views of the Calder Valley and Pennine hills. Finish with pub grub at Stubbing Wharf , a towpath pub serving hearty pies and locally-produced sausages. Hebble End Coffee Lounge is another cool spot with funky decor and espresso martinis. Getting to Hebden Bridge from Manchester: Hop on a 30-minute train from Manchester Victoria bound for Leeds. Book your tickets . Another place to consider when visiting Hebden Bridge is…

15. Hardcastle Crags (journey time: 30 minutes)

Hardcastle Crags in West Yorkshire comprises 400 acres of woodland approximately 30 miles northeast of Manchester near Hebden Bridge. Explore unspoilt countryside by completing the Gibson Mill Walk or the slightly longer Railway Trail starting from Heptonstall. These allow you to learn about the 19th-century mill, enjoy the views from the top of Hardcastle Crags and see the remains of an old railway bridge. However, the ultimate way to discover everything this area has to offer is a  10 mile long circular walk past lush valleys, epic landscapes, waterfalls and Hardcastle Crags’ stunning rock formations and historical sites. Pack your own picnic or stop for coffee and a bite to eat at Gibson Mill. Although Hardcastle Crags is owned by the National Trust, it’s free to visit even for non-members. Getting to Hardcastle Crags as a Manchester day trip: Trains depart every 20 minutes from Manchester Victoria to Hebden Bridge station. The journey takes 30 minutes and costs £13 return. Book your ticket . Either start your circular walk from Hebden Bridge or take bus 596 to Heptonstall. Entry submitted by Kitti from Kitti Around the World .

16. Trafford Centre (journey time: 30 minutes) – best Manchester day trip for shopping

Unlike the rolling hills and valleys of the Lakes and Peaks, the only thing you’ll discover at the Trafford Centre is decadent consumerism. Although a trip to a shopping centre might not sound like a travel adventure, the Trafford Centre is somewhere that needs to be seen to be believed. In the Urmston district of Greater Manchester, just five miles from the city centre, this ginormous shopping centre and leisure complex could keep you busy for multiple days, not just one. Every major high street retailer has a slot here, plus there’s a cinema, SEA LIFE centre, Laserquest and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre. For 2021, there’s even a replica of the Squid Game doll supplied by Netflix. Rather you than me! When you get hungry, there are some ridiculously OTT food courts including a replica of New Orleans and a bustling Chinatown. It’s not a location for supporting independent businesses (see my Manchester food guides for that) but there’s a range of popular restaurants like Bill’s, Five Guys, Wagamamas, Nando’s and Yo Sushi. Getting to the Trafford Centre: There’s loads of free parking or you can arrive by tram. Catch any line to Cornbrook followed by the Red Line to the Trafford Centre. Buses X50 and 250 will also take you there.

16. Saddleworth (journey time: 30 minutes)

Saddleworth is a naturally beautiful area in Greater Manchester on the west side of the Pennine hills. It’s easy to explore the entire area during a Manchester day trip if you have a car, and slightly more limiting (but still doable) if you’re coming by train. Arrive into Greenfields station and walk or take a bus to the Uppermill area which has all the charm of a countryside village, just 25 minutes from Piccadilly. Take a walk in Brownhill Countryside Centre and get cosy in a cafe afterwards. Saints Cafe does excellent chocolate-dusted cappuccinos and coffee cake. However, the highlight of Saddleworth is walking in Dovestones Reservoir, just a five-minute drive from Greenfields station. You may be able to hail a taxi if you’ve arrived by public transport. Getting there: Catch a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Greenfield (25 minutes) from £5.50, then hop on a 6-minute bus to the Uppermill area.

18. Salford (journey times: 30 minutes)

Stay occupied during a day trip around Manchester by heading to Salford Quays. This hub of culture and entertainment just east of the city centre is home to the BBC headquarters and a bunch of museums and dining options. Although Salford stretches far beyond the Quays incorporating green spaces like Peel Park and Salford Museum and Art Gallery, the most impressive part – and the easiest to explore by public transport – is Salford Quays. On one side of the water is MediaCityUK, home to the BBC as well as a selection of eateries (check out Vertigo for plant-based brunches) and outdoor pop-up bars in the summer. Cross the water to visit the Lowry, a theatre, art gallery and charity using proceeds to improve local lives. See upcoming shows, exhibitions and workshops on the website. Getting to Salford Quays from Manchester: From St Peter’s Square, take the Blue Line (tram) to Harbour City and walk five minutes to the Quays. The journey should take 30 minutes.

19. Altrincham (journey time: 30 minutes)

This market town in Trafford is one of the trendiest suburbs in Greater Manchester, not to mention the most expensive. Apparently, it’s the quality of the schools in Altrincham that have attracted fancy types and pushed up the house prices. Although living here may be out of the question, it makes for a cool day trip from Manchester city centre. The best thing to do in Altrincham for foodies is visit Alty Market , run by the same people as the Northern Quarter’s Mackie Mayor, one of the coolest places to eat in Manchester . From fancy, veggie Asian cuisine to hearty pies with mash, there’s something for all taste buds. Find a shared table in this covered market and order via mobile app. Altrincham also has some cool coffee shops like Stubborn Mule Brewery and Two Brothers . Eat brunch at Common Ground and dinner at Sugo Pasta Kitchen . If you have time, explore the 300-acre deer park at Dunham Massey . Getting to Altrincham as a day trip from Manchester: Take the Green or Purple Line (tram) to Altrincham Interchange. Northern Rail trains also make the journey. Either method will take 30 minutes.

20. Chorlton (journey time: 20 minutes)

Chorlton is another cool and upmarket neighbourhood worth exploring during a Manchester day out. Just three miles from Manchester city centre, it’s a good place to explore for half a day with excellent food and drink options. It’s also a chance to spot grand houses and see how the other half live! Beech Road is the place to be seen with lots of boutiques and cafes. Notable places to eat and drink in Cholton include Into The Woods cafe , Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza and Little Yeti serving delicious momos (Nepalese dumplings). To escape the city, head for a walk in Chorlton Water Park. Getting to Chorlton from Manchester: The Pink Line and Blue Line trams (destined for Didsbury) call at Chorlton.

Enjoy these Manchester day trips!

I hope you have a better idea of the various days out from Manchester and how to get there and back.

Check out my other Northern England blogs:

• Cool places to eat and drink in Manchester
• The top cafes and coffee shops in Manchester
• 11 cheap eats in Manchester
• How to spend a day in Liverpool
• What to do in Liverpool in winter
• A perfect weekend in the Lake District

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING THE UK Flights (international and domestic): I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the UK (and all around the world). For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices with other modes of transport. For buses , I use busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Pack the latest copy of Lonely Planet UK . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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