Places to visit around Manchester
These days, there is plenty to see and do around Manchester. However, don’t underestimate just how much exploring you can do outside of the city centre. The city is often referred to as ‘The London of the North’, partly because it is centrally located near many of the UK’s best attractions. As a result, we’ve put together a list of some of the best destinations near Manchester we think are worth visiting, offering something for every type of traveller—from history buffs to outdoor adventurers.
Places to visit within one hour of Manchester
1. The Peak District
Time to drive to the Peak District from Manchester: 35 minutes
Time on the train to the Peak District from Manchester: 1 hour 20 minutes (arrival station Dove Holes)
The Peak District is the UK’s oldest national park in an upland area of England, at the southern end of the Pennines. The park is broken up into two sections - the White Peak and the Dark Peak, with both locations containing stunning areas of natural landscape. The steep limestone valleys of Dovedale in White Peak are a must-see, with their famous stepping stones a highlight. In the Dark Peak, Kinder Scout is also well worth a visit.
Castleton is one of the easier areas to see by car. Some highlights include the Blue John Cavern, Winnats Pass and the Mam Tor peak. Kinder Scout is a moorland plateau standing at 636 metres, making it the Peak District’s highest point.
Further on, if you have more time, there are some charming villages in the surrounding areas to visit, such as Edale or the spa town of Buxton. Edale is also the start of the iconic Pennine Way walking trail.
2. Liverpool
Time to drive to Liverpool from Manchester: 55 minutes
Time on the train to Liverpool from Manchester: 45 minutes
Liverpool is a famous port city, well-known as the birthplace of The Beatles. Make sure to go on the Beatles tour to see iconic landmarks such as Penny Lane and The Cavern Club, the venue where the band's path to fame first began.
You can also explore the historic Royal Albert Dock area, where you will find many attractions such as Tate Liverpool and The International Slavery Museum. For sports fans, a visit to Liverpool isn’t complete without taking a behind-the-scenes tour of Anfield Stadium.
The city is also renowned for its excellent selection of restaurants and bars, so you can grab a delicious bite to eat before returning to your hotel in Manchester for the evening.
3. Blackpool
Time to drive to Blackpool from Manchester: 1 hour
Time on the train to Blackpool from Manchester: 1 hour 20 minutes (arrival station Blackpool)
The iconic town of Blackpool is one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. The best time to visit Blackpool is during the summer months of May-August, as the main drawcard here is to simply soak up some sun on one of the beaches.
If you’re looking for a bit of action, you can visit the popular Pleasure Beach theme park. The park is home to 10 thrilling roller coasters, including the ‘Big One’, which is the UK’s tallest rollercoaster at 235ft.
Other attractions include the Blackpool Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline, and the beautiful Tower Ballroom at the base of the structure. Historic monuments to see are the Tower Dungeons and the Grand Theatre.
Wrap things up with a takeaway fish and chips and a stroll along the beachfront before returning to Manchester for a good night’s sleep.
Tip: Thinking of a family seaside trip to Blackpool? Don’t forget to read our guide on Manchester attractions for families for ideas on what to do once you’re back in the city.
4. Delamare Forest
Time to drive to Delamare Forest from Manchester: 40 minutes
Time on the train to Delamare Forest from Manchester: 1 hour 10 minutes (arrival station Delamare)
Delamare Forest is the perfect location to escape the rush of the city and to be at one with nature. This massive forest is located in Cheshire and is home to many activities which allow visitors to truly experience what the great outdoors has to offer.
Embark on one of three walking trails available or rent a bike and take on the challenge of one of the area's cycling routes. If that’s not enough, orienteering courses are available, or you can also explore the forest by renting a Segway. Go Ape! Is an outdoor adventure centre located onsite, offering even more exhilarating activities.
5. Leeds
Time to drive to Leeds from Manchester: 45 minutes
Time on the train to Leeds from Manchester: 1 hour (arrival station Leeds)
If you’re looking for a city break away from Manchester, Leeds is a fun day trip option.
You can start with a coffee and walk through Kirkgate Market, one of the UK's oldest running markets, dating back to 1857. Then head to Leeds Corn Exchange, a fabulous shopping centre filled with independent bookshops, record stores, vintage clothes, and jewellery makers.
For art lovers, the Leeds Art Gallery is free and full of wonderful pieces. You can stop here for a bite to eat at the beautiful Tiled Hall café. If you like museums, the Royal Armouries is a museum dedicated to weapons and armour from around the world.
Other highlights include a brewery tour at the Northern Monk Refectory or lunch at The Tetley, a contemporary art gallery housed in a former brewery.
6. Chester
Time to drive to Chester from Manchester: 45 minutes
Time on the train to Chester from Manchester: 1 hour 10 minutes (arrival station Chester)
There is a certain charm to Chester that is becoming harder to find while exploring England. This historic town sits on the River Dee, and has a fantastic mix of the old – think Roman architecture and a famous medieval galley, along with new cosy cafés and unique shops.
For things to do in Chester, you can take a short walk around the Roman walls surrounding the town, then finish with a wander to the castle and cathedral, all in the space of a couple of hours. Another highlight includes a visit to the Chester Zoo, one of the best in the UK.
There are some great places to eat while you’re in Chester. Highlights include the Flower Cup Café and Atina Kitchen. If you’re looking for a classic British pub feed, head to Bridge Street and you will have plenty of options to choose from.
Places to visit within two hours of Manchester
7. The Lake District
Time to drive to the Lake District from Manchester: 1-2 hours depending on your destination
Time on the train to the Lake District from Manchester: 1.5-2 hours depending on your destination
Easily one of the UK’s most beautiful places, the Lake District is truly an amazing day out. This world heritage site is famous for its breathtaking lakes, soaring mountains and rugged countryside.
You can take part in many fun activities in the Lake District, including climbing, kayaking, canoeing, biking and lots more. Pack your walking shoes as there are many walking trails to go on. There are also plenty of picnic areas available, allowing you to refuel while you take in the stunning views.
For a day trip, our recommendation would be to head to Windermere, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. There are plenty of walks in the area, and you can take a relaxing boat ride between Bowness and Ambleside.
If you head further north, there are some beautiful viewpoints around Derwentwater Lake, including views of Scafell Pike, the highest peak in the UK. On the way back, you can stop into the bustling market town of Keswick, which has plenty of great cafes and restaurants.
8. York
Time to drive to York from Manchester: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Time on the train to York from Manchester: 2 hours
With Roman roots and a Viking past, the walled city of York is a perfect day out for all history lovers. The most iconic landmark of York is York Minster, a huge 13th-century Gothic cathedral.
A walk along The Shambles is also a must-do. The Shambles is one of the UK’s most historic streets, famous for its 14th and 15th-century homes and storefronts. The street is said to be a big inspiration for Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series.
The National Railway Museum is also located in York and is home to over 300 years of railway history and one million train-related artefacts.
9. Conwy, North Wales
Time to drive to Conwy from Manchester: 1.5-2 hours depending on your destination
North Wales is a truly beautiful part of the UK. There is so much to explore here; however, to visit as a day trip, we recommend visiting Conwy and the surrounding area.
Highlights of Conwy include walking the towering medieval walls, a trip to the 13th-century Conwy Castle, and a quick snap at the smallest house in Great Britain, located near the harbour (if you can find it!).
From here, you can then head to Snowdonia National Park. We recommended a drive through the scenic Llanberis Pass, where you can take in views of Yr Wyddfa (Mt Snowdon), Wales' highest peak. Stop in at Swallow Falls for a coffee and a walk.
Instead of Snowdonia National Park, you could also visit the seaside town of Llandudno. Grab a bite or an ice cream and walk down the pier or take the tramway up to Orme for some fantastic coastal views.
10. Yorkshire Dales National Park
Time to drive to Yorkshire Dales from Manchester: 1 hour 45 minutes
Visiting the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a perfect way to escape Manchester during the day and enjoy the calmness the outdoors has to offer.
The park encompasses over 841 square miles, but to make things easy, we have picked out a couple of highlights. The Malham Cove Walk takes about 1.5-2 hours, taking you up a large, naturally curved limestone amphitheatre with breathtaking views. If you’re looking for a longer hike, you can do the Malham Magic route, which, in addition to Malham Cove, includes Janet’s Foss waterfall and the gorge of Gordale Scar.
Other stops include the Aysgarth Falls, striking waterfalls located in a woodland valley and then a lunch stop in the town of Hawes.
On your way back, you can also stop into Grassington, one of the prettiest villages near Manchester. If your legs are up for it, there is a short loop walk you can do from the village centre.
After a day spent exploring the must-see destinations near Manchester, there’s nothing better than returning to the city and unwinding in comfort. Settle into one of Clayton Hotels’ Manchester locations, where you can relax and recharge, ready for another day of discovering everything the region has to offer.
FAQs: Things to know when visiting Manchester
The best time to visit Manchester largely depends on what you’re looking for, but late spring to early autumn (May to September) is generally considered ideal. During this time, you can enjoy any number of the day trips from Manchester and then everything the city has to offer at night.
If you have 2–3 days in Manchester, you’ll have enough time to explore the city’s highlights and fit in one or two nearby activities. (See our guide on 48 hours in Manchester)
With 4–5 days in Manchester, you can take things at a more relaxed pace, add in a few day trips from Manchester and truly experience everything the city has to offer in the evenings.
Yes, absolutely the Peak District is worth visiting from Manchester. Locals often describe it as the best outdoor escape from the city. It’s quick and easy to get to, and it's often overlooked by tourists, as you can easily gravitate to doing city-only activities while visiting Manchester.
The Clayton Hotel Manchester City Centre is ideal for exploring the city. It’s close to restaurants, pubs and attractions, and best for those wanting a vibrant, central stay.
The Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport is located just outside the city, offering a convenient stay right near the airport. It’s best for those with a car, wanting to do more day trips from Manchester to the surrounding areas.