Liverpool
How to get there; One hour by car, 35 minutes by train from Manchester Victoria
Best time to visit, June to August
Spend the day in the bustling city of Liverpool, a place that’s jam-packed with a thriving music scene and great sporting history. Famous for being the home to the beloved Beatles, there are many landmarks, museums and attractions dedicated to the Fab Four to enjoy. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, this characterful northern city has a wide array of independent shops, inspiring architecture and culinary delights waiting to be discovered. If you want to start planning your day trip itinerary, check out our Liverpool guide.
York
How to get there; One hour and 45 minutes by car, one hour and 30 minutes by train from Manchester Piccadilly
Best time to visit, early June through to late September
York’s chequered history, stunning natural attractions and buildings of architectural heritage make it a picturesque day trip destination. Home to the Yorkshire Dales, visitors can expect to see spectacular waterfalls and landscapes of immense beauty, amongst ancient woodlands, dramatic limestone cliffs and wildflower meadows. To delve deeper into the city, read our guide of Things to Do in York.
Chester
How to get there; One hour by car and train from Manchester Piccadilly or Manchester Victoria
Best time to visit, June to August
Rich in two millennia of history and archaeological treasures dating back to Roman times, the charming cathedral city of Chester offers visitors a memorable day full of culture and heritage. Enjoy a spot of light lunch by the River Dee or discover the Cathedral’s unique blend of mediaeval and modern history. Navigate your way around the wonderful city with our guide of Things to Do in Chester.
One Night 4* City Break for Two at Oddfellows Chester
Get away to Chester for a night with a stay at the 4* Oddfellows, Chester. Behind a 17th Century faundefinedade in the city centre, this Neoclassical boutique hotel boasts a Mediterranean restaurant, a garden bar with fire pits, a stylish cocktail bar, and a rooftop terrace.
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Delamere Forest
How to get there; 57 minutes by car, around 2 hours by train Manchester Piccadilly
Best time to visit, Summer
For any traveller who loves the great outdoors, reconnect with nature at Delamere Forest. Explore the forest’s evergreen trees, wander the leafy woodlands grounds, or go on a hike to admire the view across Liverpool’s skyline. With a Go Ape adventure course found on-site, kids and adults alike can expect to have hours of immense fun.
Lake District
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How to get there; One hour and 30 minutes by car, 3 hour and 30 minutes by train from Manchester Piccadilly
Best time to visit, May to September
Walk the coastline and estuaries, explore the glacial ribbon lakes, or hike up the epic mountain peaks of the Northern Fells for a perfect day out in the Lake District. Known for being England’s largest National Park and UNESCO Heritage Site, the area offers visitors a chance to discover nature while taking in the fresh Lakeland air. Check out our guide of Things to do in the Lake District to start planning your day.
Lake District Steam Train Trip and Cream Tea for Two
Head out on one of England’s oldest narrow-gauge railways for a scenic 14-mile return journey through the beautiful Eskdale Valley along the foothills of some of England’s highest mountains, and enjoy a cream tea at the end of your trip with this Lake District Vintage Steam Train Trip and Cream Tea for Two.
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Port Sunlight
How to get there; One hour and 5 minutes by car, one hour and 30 minutes from Manchester Victoria
Best time to visit, July to August
Step back in time and see what life was like over a century ago at Port Sunlight. This Victorian model village was originally built to house Lever’s Sunlight Soap factory workers, and today it’s a fascinating soap museum and art gallery with beautiful cottages full of charm. Be sure to take a stroll around the stunning green parkland.
Peak District
How to get there; 40 minutes by car, 2 hour and 30 minutes train from Manchester Piccadilly
Best time to visit, April to October
Just a short car ride away from Manchester, journey to Derbyshire’s Peak District, where a quaint valley and rolling hills ensures a peaceful day out. Meander through miles and miles of wild peaks and rugged moorland, before scouting out the welcoming market towns that surround it. For those with an adventurous spirit, head to the extraordinary limestone cave systems and marvel at its wonders.
Blackpool
How to get there; One hour and 20 minutes by car, one hour and 20 minutes train from Manchester Piccadilly
Best time to visit, Autumn
Escape to Blackpool for some sea air. A holiday destination for many visitors every year, ramble along the seafront to the nostalgic Blackpool promenade. Jam-packed with family-friendly attractions, including the world-famous Blackpool Tower, and the UK’s greatest light show Blackpool Illuminations, you can expect to have a day of good old-fashioned fun.
Congleton
How to get there; 56 minutes by car, 40 minutes train from Manchester Piccadilly
Best time to visit, Late June to late August
Another town that is easily reached from Manchester is Congleton. Located halfway between Manchester and Stoke, this pretty market town is boarded by the River Dane and Park Wood and boasts beautiful Victorian parks. If the weather is not too great, head to Little Moreton Hall- a fascinating Tudor house whose interior has been untouched since the 1600s.
Leeds
How to get there; One hour and 10 minutes by car, 50 minutes from Manchester Victoria
Best time to visit, Autumn
Flock to Leeds, the unofficial capital of Yorkshire for a quick day trip adventure. Enriched with vibrant attractions, sprawling green parks, independent shops, stunning architecture and great food, Leeds offers an endless wealth of fun activities, suitable for all ages. Inspired to go on a day trip? Check out our Things to Do in Leeds guide.
Southport
How to get there; One hour and 20 minutes by car, one hour and 20 minutes by train from Manchester Victoria
Best time to visit, March, April and June
Another popular destination with the traditional enticements of the British seaside is Southport. When it comes to beaches, this town boasts some of the most spectacular golden sandy beaches with 22 miles of coastline. There is also a host of family-friendly attractions, including Southport Pier and Southport Pleasureland, which features all manners of rides and attractions. To delve deeper into the town, check out our Things to do in Southport guide.
Snowdonia
How to get there; 2 hours by car
Best time to visit, June-August
Situated in Wales, Snowdonia (Eryri) is just a two-hour car ride away from Manchester. Steeped with history, wildlife and natural beauty, you’ll find tranquillity in exploring the towering peaks while viewing the breath-taking valleys. For those who rather opt out from climbing the peaks, follow the walking paths for a peaceful stroll through ancient woodlands and past majestic lakes.
Hebden Bridge
How to get there; One hour 6 minutes by car, 30 minutes by train from Manchester Victoria
Best time to visit, April, September or June
Located in the West of West Yorkshire, in between Halifax and Todmorden, is the picturesque market town of Hebden Bridge. A place that has influenced many writers and artists, this town features flourishing artisan shops, delightful eateries, fascinating galleries and charming wooded valleys, waiting to be explored.
Bradford
How to get there; One hour 5 minutes by car, 50 minutes by train from Manchester Victoria
Best time to visit, July and August
Steeped in rich history, which is reflected in the striking architecture found throughout the city, travel to Bradford to visit the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. With an abundance of things to do, wander through the streets of Little Germany, where you can see wonderful Victorian buildings. Or head to the Alhambra Theatre for large-scale entertainment, from ballet and opera to variety, musicals and much more.
Preston
How to get there; One hour 2 minutes by car, 40 minutes by train from Manchester Piccadilly
Best time to visit, Late June to late August
There's an abundance of things to do in the lively Lancashire city of Preston. Popular attractions here include the British Commercial Vehicle Museum, where you will find all kinds of vehicles from horse drawn carriages through to state-of-the-art power trucks. There is also the Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary, which has over 80 birds of prey including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls.
Summary
We hope by now you have discovered your next day trip destination from Manchester. Don’t forget to check out our full range of Manchester Experiences too, to help make the most of your time in the city.
Rita Leitao
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