A Complete Guide to the Best Day Trips from Manchester UK
Manchester is a beautiful, friendly city, but sometimes it is fun to explore further afield, which is why this guide to Manchester’s best day trips can help you plan your next adventure.
Manchester is great because it is close to some of Britain’s best national parks, such as Snowdonia, the Peak District and the Lake District, so you’re never far from a cosy pub or an exciting hike. You are also close to historic cities such as York or Chester, which means there is a day trip from Manchester for everyone to enjoy.
We teamed up with some knowledgeable travel bloggers who want to share their exciting Manchester day trips with you in this guide.
If you plan to stay in the city, please read Free Museums in Manchester, Best Parks in Manchester and 24 hours in Manchester.
Tips for Manchester Day Trips
- Book your train tickets in advance if you intend to travel by train to Manchester to save money. We use Trainline, as they often have the best deals and refundable options.
- There are three train stations in Manchester, Piccadilly, Oxford Road and Manchester Victoria. If you are getting the train, remember to check which station you are leaving from.
- These places can be bustling on weekends, school holidays, and sunny days. We recommend that you visit during the week to enjoy a more peaceful experience or arrive early.
What are the best day trips from Manchester by train?
York, Knaresborough, Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Chester and Hebden Bridge.
What are the best day trips from Manchester by car?
Matlock, Llandudno , Wast Water, Llangollen, Tatton Park, and The Yorkshire Sculpture Park
17 Best Day Trips from Manchester
Matlock
Distance from Manchester: 46 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour-30 minutes
Sitting just outside the south-eastern boundary of the Peak District National Park is the tourist hub of Matlock and Matlock Bath. These two towns, two miles apart, are often lumped together as ‘Matlock’, but they are somewhat different.
Whilst Matlock originated as a spa town, it retains a typical urban feel with shops, cafes and transport links. Its neighbour Matlock Bath has taken on a very different guise. Indeed the latter has been coined ‘Derbyshire-on-Sea’, with the main promenade lined with gift shops, amusement arcades and fish-and-chip cafes, overlooking the canoes and boats playing on the river.
There is no direct train from Manchester, although you can get to Matlock via a change in Buxton. However, the easiest (and quickest) way to get from Manchester to Matlock is by car. Plus, it’s a beautiful 1.5 hour drive through the Peak District.
There are some fantastic things to do in Matlock. You can find the main tourist attractions in Matlock Bath, including Heights of Abraham (where a cable car transports visitors to hilltop caverns) and Gulliver’s Kingdom (a small theme park for younger kids). If these family attractions aren’t your thing, take a walk to nearby Lumsdale Falls, or try canoeing on the nearby Cromford Canal.
The best time to visit is in the Autumn and Spring. Summer is heaving with tourists, and motorbikes take over the main stretch (avoid Sundays and bank holidays). Many of the attractions are closed in the winter, although this is the time to visit to feel like you have the town to yourself.
Matlock offers a better dining experience. But if you’re spending the day in Matlock Bath, then an absolute must-do is to grab a fish n chippy from one of the many shops along the main road.
Suggested by Jenny from Peak District Kids
Llandudno, North Wales
Distance from Manchester: 86 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour- 40 minutes
A great day trip from Manchester is to the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno in North Wales. It’s approximately 85 miles by car and takes under 2 hours, following the M56 and the A55.
There are lots of things to do in Llandudno. A must-do is the Great Orme Country Park. The Great Orme headland is a limestone land formation once mined for copper. A fun experience is to take the historic tramway to the top. It first opened in 1902 and is Britain’s only funicular railway. Alternatively, there is a cable car to get to the summit, or it is possible to drive.
Llandudno Pier is the longest pier in Wales. The pier is home to various gift shops, typical seaside arcades and children’s fairground attractions. There’s often live music at the end of the pier.
Llandudno Snowsports Centre has an artificial ski slope, snow-tubing, 9 holes mini golf, and an alpine toboggan run for thrill-seekers. The Cresta style toboggan run is 575m long, and tickets include a minimum of 2 runs.
As it is a seaside town, there are plenty of fish and chip shops. Or while at the summit of the Great Orme, The Captains Table Cafe has lovely cakes and good coffee!
Suggested by Kylie from Between England and Iowa
Leeds, Yorkshire
Distance from Manchester: 45 miles
Train from Manchester: 55 minutes
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour
Leeds is a vibrant city just one hour from Manchester Victoria Station by train or car via the M62. This hardy, industrious city was once a railway and textile manufacturing hub. Today, it is reinventing itself as a cosmopolitan destination attracting many visitors to the area.
It is a city known for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, world-class arts, and incredible attractions, which draw considerable tourists to Leeds.
When it comes to things to do in Leeds, you have plenty of choices! One unmissable attraction is the Royal Armouries. On display, among the many fascinating artefacts, you will find the only example of an almost complete, all-metal elephant armour in any public collection in the world.
Another record-claiming attraction and hidden gem are Middleton Railway. It is a short bus or taxi ride outside the city centre, but it is well worth visiting! Middleton Railway is the oldest continuously working railway in the world. It was founded in 1758 to transport coal into the centre of Leeds. Today, it houses a fascinating museum about Leeds railway history. Plus, you can enjoy a scenic ride on one of their steam trains to nearby Middleton Park.
If you want to refuel on your visit to Leeds, enjoy delicious sandwiches and cakes in the stunning Tiled Hall Café in Leeds Art Gallery. Alternatively, head to Trinity Kitchen for a vast selection of street food vendors serving dishes worldwide.
Suggested by Hannah from Get Lost Travel Blog
Anglesey, North Wales
Distance from Manchester: 114 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 2 hours
The Isle of Anglesey is found in North Wales, connected to the mainland by the impressive bridge, the Menai Strait.
Anglesey is just 2 hours by car from Manchester by taking the A55 and M56 and 2 hours by train from Manchester Oxford Road to Bangor (Bangor is the first city before Anglesey).
The best things to do in Anglesey include walking to the beautiful South Stack lighthouse, exploring Beaumaris Castle (one of four castles in North Wales that make up one UNESCO world heritage site), and trying traditional Welsh food like Bara Brith and visiting that place with the long Welsh word!
While there are lots to do in Anglesey all year round, the very best time to visit is in the Summer months as everything is open, you can appreciate the gorgeous coastline and get the chance to see wildlife such as dolphins and seals.
Red Wharf Bay on Anglesey is somewhat of a hidden gem as it’s relatively quiet but will be very popular when word gets out. It has a pretty harbour to stroll along, see the boats and anglers, socialise and watch the sunset. Red Wharf Bay also houses one of the best seafood restaurants called The Boathouse. Their seafood chowder is a must as it uses local produce and is a huge, piping hot portion.
Suggested by Shireen from The Happy Days Travels
Llangollen, North Wales
Distance from Manchester: 68 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour-20 minutes
The picturesque town of Llangollen sits along the banks of the River Dee in Northeast Wales. Located in the heart of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal World Heritage Site, Llangollen is a great outdoor activity hub.
If you are looking for historical attractions, the remains of Castell Dinas Bran and nearby Valle Crucis Abbey won’t disappoint. Add in exhilarating water activities, stunning scenery, individual shops and excellent dining options, and they add up to a memorable day out.
The easiest and fastest way to get there is by car via the M56 and M53. Join the A483 towards Wrexham and continue along with the A5 to Llangollen. Journey time is approx.1hr 45mins. There are several pay and display car parks dotted around town.
Head to the Wharf and join a horse-drawn canal trip or take a motorised boat ride along the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. For those eager for a scenic hike, head up the hilltop occupied by 12th century mediaeval Castell Dinas Bran for incredible 360-degree vistas.
Don’t miss the view from the town bridge as you wander down to Llangollen station, where you can ride a steam train along the Dee Valley.
The summer months are ideal for visiting, especially in early July when the town holds the annual Llangollen International Eisteddfod music festival.
Enjoy a light lunch at Riverbank overlooking the river, and before heading home, sample the incredible fare at Three Eagles.
Suggested by Angela from Global Gadding
Wast Water, Lake District
Distance from Manchester: 117 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 2 hours 30-minutes
One of the best day trips from Manchester is a visit to Wast Water. It is the deepest and one of the most beautiful lakes in England, set in the beautiful scenery of the Lake District. It is also a popular place for wild swimming or climbing surrounding mountains.
It takes less than 3 hours to drive from Manchester to Wast Water. Driving through Lake District National Park offers incredible views with many unique viewpoints where you can stop before arriving at Wast Water.
The best time to visit the lake is during summer when the water temperature is a bit higher so you can relax by the lake. If you want to spend the active day, you can also climb the highest peak in England – Scafell Pike or admire views of the lake from Sca Fell.
Wast Water is one of the best Lake District attractions that should not be missed when visiting this part of the UK. The award-winning restaurant Ritson’s Bar (Wasdale Head Inn) is not far from the lake. It is a great place to stop for delicious food and drink during a day trip to Lake District. On your way back to Manchester, you can also visit The Sawmill Cafe & Farm Shop, set by a lovely river.
Suggested by Paulina from ukeveryday
Liverpool, Merseyside
Distance from Manchester: 35 miles
Train from Manchester: 55 minutes
Drive time from Manchester: 45-minutes
Whether you’re fascinated by The Beatles, football or Liverpool’s long maritime history, there are masses to fill a day, not to mention plenty of things to do in Liverpool with kids if you’re travelling as a family.
The sixth-largest city in England, it takes less than an hour to get from Manchester to Liverpool –the fastest train journeys are around 35 minutes – and a similar amount of time by car.
The trickiest decision is how to fit it all into one day: with so many chart-topping singers, not least the Fab Four, you can’t miss some of the city’s musical heritage, though. The Beatles Story and the British Music Experience are a 10-minute walk apart on the waterfront.
Save time for a stroll around Royal Albert Dock too. Home to the Merseyside Maritime Museum, Tate Liverpool and the Museum of Liverpool, plus a string of restaurants, bars and pop-up events, you can see the Three Graces, as the Royal Liver Building, The Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building are known – the Mersey ferry docks are nearby too for a river cruise.
Or if you’re a fan of the beautiful game, the city is home to two Premier League teams, and you can pay a visit to both grounds – Anfield, for Liverpool FC, and Goodison Park, for rivals Everton.
There’s no wrong time to visit either. Late spring/early autumn usually has the best weather for exploring, but indoor attractions galore on rainy days.
Suggested by Cathy from MummyTravels
If you’re visiting Liverpool, please read: Free Things to do in Liverpool and a Weekend in Liverpool Itinerary.
York, Yorkshire
Distance from Manchester: 74 miles
Train from Manchester: 1 hour 45-minutes
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 15-minutes
The historic city of York is a diverse and fascinating city to visit. It is a compact city where all the major attractions are a short distance from each other so you can easily see it on foot. There is no need for additional public transport or taxis on a day trip to York.
A visit to York should start at York Minster, the central Cathedral that dominates the city skyline. The Cathedral is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe and contains the world’s largest expanse of stained glass. Visitors can climb the Minister’s central tower for a fantastic, 360-degree view of the city.
York’s mediaeval era city walls are free to enter and walk and offer a peaceful respite from the busy city centre. The walls are the longest city walls in England and will take around 2 hours to complete. York is also a popular shopping destination due to its boutique shops, cobbled pedestrianised streets and characterful buildings.
Don’t miss a stroll down the mediaeval Shambles, said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies. York is an ideal destination all year round, but warmer, lighter spring and summer days will maximise sightseeing opportunities.
For dinner with a view, head to The Market Cat in the heart of The Shambles Market. Their booths on the top floors have outstanding views of York Minster and the city centre.
Suggested by Sinead of York With Kids
Chester
Distance from Manchester: 41 miles
Train from Manchester: 1 hour
Drive time from Manchester: 50-minutes
Chester is an ancient city not too far from Manchester, making it an excellent choice for a day trip if you want to explore a city but don’t want to travel for too long. The city is beautiful and welcoming and steeped in history.
The city is known for being historical, and you can walk in its history as you venture through the city walls. You can also visit the Roman Amphitheatre, the largest in Britain, and you can see and admire its Cathedral, with its mediaeval carvings. Not forgetting the Rows Galleries, which are 700 years old.
For dinner, you can try PicNic and Elephants Thai Drink and Dine and enjoy the incredible food scene that is developing in the city.
Tatton Park
Distance from Manchester: 17 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 30-minutes
Tatton Park, Knutsford, is an excellent example of how you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a day trip from Manchester. Knutsford, a charming market town, is home to Tatton Park, a historic estate. This deer park, which the National Trust owns, has more than 50 acres of garden walks and a working farm from the 1930s. It also houses a mediaeval manor home. Deer can also be found here!
Tatton Park is not something you need to see in a single day. However, nearby are the Penny Farthing Museum and the 18th-century Tabley House. You can also shop on the high street for designer goods.
Hebden Bridge
Distance from Manchester: 29 miles
Train from Manchester: 27-minutes
Drive time from Manchester: 55-minutes
Hebden Bridge is surrounded by stunning countryside and has been crowned the best small market town in Britain and the “greatest town in Europe.” It is the best day trip from Manchester if you want to relax by the canal.
You can get active by heading out into the Calderdale countryside, and Hardcastle Crags wooded Valley, or you can relax in one of Hebden’s fine real ale inns or organic cafes. Hebden Bridge is an authentic Yorkshire arts festival town and a hub for vintage, local, and independent shopping in the county. It is the day trip from Manchester if you want to get the train and not travel too far but feel like you’re somewhere else entirely.
Blackpool
Distance from Manchester: 53 miles
Train from Manchester: 1 hour-15 minutes
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour
You can easily spend some great days in Blackpool from Manchester. You can ride thrilling roller coasters at Blackpool Pleasure Beach or see famous faces at Madame Tussauds, and it is a great day trip from Manchester.
You can also climb the Blackpool Tower for stunning views or enjoy ice cream at Blackpool Beach. Blackpool is the perfect day trip from Manchester if you want to let your inner child out or visit a resort at the seaside. It is a great family day out.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Distance from Manchester: 53 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 30-minutes
Manchester is closer than you think to the Yorkshire Dales, and the sensational national park is one of the best day trips from Manchester. You can explore notable towns, villages, and the countryside that many people have to travel to see. You can visit Aysgarth Falls and Malham Cove or the Brimham Rocks and spend time outdoors.
You can take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Pen-y-Ghent Ingleborough, and Whernside if you’re looking for a challenge. The distance is 24 miles, but it’s popular.
The Peak District National Park
Distance from Manchester: 30-miles
Train from Manchester: 1 hour (To Hope)
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour
Manchester is a short drive from the Peak District and it is one of the best day trips from Manchester. There are many beautiful hikes in the Peak District, stunning scenery, and charming towns and villages to discover. The best time is between late August and early September to enjoy excellent hiking conditions. It is also the heather season which means that there are a lot of purples. It is stunning.
It’s important to note that the Peak District is 555 miles in area. We recommend that you visit Ladybower Reservoir or Bamford Edge if you’re visiting Manchester for a day. It will save you the hassle of driving too far. You can take the train to Hathersage, hike Stanage Edge, or go to Edale to climb the Kinder Scout. If you don’t feel like a hike, Castleton and Edale are also fun to explore.
Knaresborough
Distance from Manchester: 63 miles
Train from Manchester: 2 hours
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour-30 minutes
A day trip from Manchester to Knaresborough’s wonderful market town is worth it. It can be busy, especially in summer. It will satisfy your seaside cravings without going to the beach. Tourists flock to this place to rent rowing boats and row under the grand viaduct.
Knaresborough attractions include:
- Visiting the castle (the best views can be seen from here).
- Relaxing at Bebra Gardens.
- Walking down the River Nidd.
England’s oldest tourist attraction, Mother Shipton’s Cave or the Petrifying well, can be seen. Enjoy a drink at Mother Shipton’s Inn and the beautiful garden overlooking the river.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Distance from Manchester: 43 miles
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour 10-minutes
The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a 500-acre outdoor art museum set in beautiful landscape that is constantly changing and adapting. The park is open almost every day of the year, and features six indoor galleries, a variety of sculptures, and opportunities to see wildlife and have a picnic or coffee. You can also go on a free guided tour or have an afternoon tea. It is easily one of the best day trips from Manchester.
Sheffield
Distance from Manchester: 38 miles
Train from Manchester: 50-minutes
Drive time from Manchester: 1 hour- 25 minutes
South Yorkshire is home to Sheffield, the steel city. It makes it an ideal choice for day trips from Manchester. The city is known for its greenery, with 61% of its green space. Sheffield is known for its beautiful city hall, Winter Garden (which houses 2,000 plants) and Kelham Island Museum.
Endcliffe Park, Weston Park or Sheffield Botanical Gardens are excellent options for visiting a park. Meadowhall shopping centre is also nearby, which is an excellent option if you want to try something different to the Trafford Centre in Manchester.
We hope that you enjoyed our list of Manchester’s top day trips. We would love to hear about your favourite day out in Manchester, so if you have any suggestions, please let us know, and we can add them to this exciting Manchester day trips list.