Your guide to Manchester / Day trips - nearby Manchester

Manchester to Stockport

Just 7 miles southeast of Manchester, Stockport is only about 30 minutes by public transportation, but it provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of Manchester. Take your first stop at the charming Hat Works. Housed in an early 19th-century Victorian mill, Hat Works takes you back in time to when Stockport was the hat-producing capital of the United Kingdom. With two floors of interactive exhibits and examples of over 400 hats that were once made in Stockport, this award-winning museum is an interesting stop for fashionistas and amateur historians alike.

 
If you've worked up an appetite, walk over to Where the Light Gets In. This boutique restaurant is the home of the "most open kitchen in Europe." Chefs and line cooks perform their duties in a kitchen that's in the same space as the dining area, giving you a look at your cuisine preparations. A roll of the dice and an open palate are necessary to truly enjoy Where the Light Gets In, as they prepare whatever ingredients they purchased that day from local farmers. As such, there is no menu, but an ever-evolving culinary delight that's ideal for foodies. 

• Hat Works: Wellington Road South
• Where the Light Gets In: 7 Rostron Brow
  

Manchester to Altrintram

Situated 10 miles southwest of Manchester's city center, Altrincham is another refuge from the congestion of the city proper. As soon as you arrive, hop over to Dunham Massey Hall and Gardens — easily the suburb's most recognized and popular attraction. Built in the early 17th century by the Earl of Warren and used as a hospital in World War I, this hall is a must-see attraction for history buffs. Around the back of the home, lush gardens with walking trails provide a serene setting for the remainder of your visit. Another top attraction in Altrincham is the Altrincham Market. Dating back to 1290, this is one of the oldest and longest-running markets in the U.K. Here you can find fresh local produce, contemporary crafts, home decor, vintage clothing, antique furniture, a gift, or a souvenir. 

• Dunham Massey Hall and Gardens: Woodhouse Lane
• Altrincham Market: 26 Market St.

Manchester to Liverpool

Nestled at the mouth of the River Mersey and the Irish Sea, the beautiful, historic city of Liverpool is only an hour's drive from Manchester. With just over 550,000 people, the city is the fifth-largest in the U.K., but it has so much more to offer than just being the home of The Beatles. If you are a Beatles fan, however, don't miss out on The Beatles Story. This museum details the life and music of the world's most famous band through interactive exhibits and insider accounts. 

Sports fans will rejoice with a visit to Anfield — one of the most famous soccer stadiums in the world and the home of Liverpool FC. If you aren't there on game day, hop on the stadium tour, which provides an all-access look of the grounds. For those lucky enough to find a ticket, there's nothing quite like it. By the end of the game, you'll be singing "You Will Never Walk Alone" with 54,000 other Liverpool FC supporters. Check out our Liverpool guide here

• The Beatles Story: Brittania Vaults, Albert Dock
• Anfield: Anfield Road

Manchester to Southport

Located 40 miles northwest of Manchester, Southport offers opportunities for family fun and outdoor activities. Kept at a balmy 84 degrees Fahrenheit, Splash World is an indoor water park with flumes and slides for the thrill seeker in you. If you're feeling a bit more laissez-faire, head for the bubble spa and relax away your stress and aching muscles. 

If you're searching for some fun on a budget, head to Southport Beach. With 22 miles of golden sands and panoramic views of the Irish Sea, this beach is often regarded as one of the best in the U.K. Go for a swim, fish from the pier or do some birdwatching to get the most out of your visit. 

• Splash World: Esplanade, Southport PR8
• Southport Beach: Promenade, Southport PR8

Whether you want to know more about John, Paul, George and Ringo or take a stroll through an old hat factory, these day trips from Manchester are sure to leave a lasting impression.