Manchester is one of the most popular cities in the North with plenty of green space to explore. And what better way to do that than with a walk in and around the city?
We've compiled a list of some of the best Manchester walks to inspire you to get out and discover what this iconic city has to offer. Walking is also a great way to see some of Manchester's most famous landmarks, such as the Manchester Cathedral and the Royal Exchange.
Of course, no visit to Manchester would be complete without taking a stroll through one of its many parks. With its towering trees and lush gardens, Heaton Park is a particularly popular spot for a leisurely stroll on a sunny day (if you're lucky!). So whether you're looking to get some exercise or simply soak up the sights, be sure to add a few of these beautiful Manchester walks to your itinerary.
1. Manchester Wharf City Trail
Distance: 3.5km
Nearest station: Manchester Piccadilly
First on our list of the best walks in Manchester is the Wharf City Trail. This 3.5km circular route runs past all the best city sights, including the beautiful Manchester Cathedral and several waterways, making it perfect for exploring. The route is mostly flat, so accessible to all, and takes less than an hour to complete – if you're not stopping along the way, of course!
You’ll begin on the Rochdale Canal towpath, crossing over quaint cobbled bridges to Princess Street. There will be a chance to stop at the beautiful Library for tea before meandering to Castlefield Urban Heritage Park to discover some history. With so much to see and do, the Manchester Wharf City Trail is a great way to explore everything this fascinating city has to offer.
2. Marsden Moor Walks
Distance: 3-16km
Nearest station: Marsden
If you're looking for a breathtaking spot to enjoy a walk near Manchester, Marsden Moor is well worth a visit. Only half an hour by train from Manchester Piccadilly, this rugged Yorkshire moorland is waiting to be explored. Best of all, it offers a variety of walks for all ages and abilities, ranging from 3-16km.
With panoramic views over the countryside, Marsden Moor is particularly popular with photographers. The three reservoirs and Huddersfield narrow canal offer plenty of opportunities to snap some beautiful scenery and wildlife. Marsden village is also worth exploring with its traditional cottages and pubs. So why not ditch the city for a day and enjoy all that Marsden Moor has to offer?
3. Free Manchester Walking Tours
Duration: 3-3.5 hours
Nearest station: Manchester Piccadilly
Next on our list of the best Manchester walks is a free (yes, free!) Manchester Walking Tour. Held every day of the year (excluding Christmas and New Year's Day), the tour starts at the Alan Turing Memorial and ends at Exchange Square, lasting about 3-3.5 hours.
The expert guides will take you past all the big attractions the city has to offer, from the Town Hall to Royal Exchange, as well as offering first-hand recommendations on local food and drink. The walking tour is accessible and for all ages, as well as welcoming dogs along too! Best of all, you don't need to book a slot – simply turn up and enjoy one of the best walks around Manchester.
Thinking of bringing your dog with you?
Dogs are more than welcome on Northern trains, so you can explore Manchester with your four-legged friend! Find out more about bringing your dog onboard.
Take your dog with you4. Irwell Sculpture Trail
Distance: 14.3km
Nearest station: Salford Central
The Irwell Sculpture Trail is another great route to walk in Manchester and features an impressive 70 sculptures along a 33-mile trail. Only the fittest amongst us would be up for tackling the whole trail in one day, but it is broken down into handy groups that can be tackled in much more manageable chunks.
The 14.3km circular trail around Salford Quays is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise. The moderate difficulty level means it's not too challenging, and the average completion time of 3.5 hours makes it a perfect option for a leisurely afternoon walk. You're also unlikely to encounter many other people on the trail, making it a great choice if you're looking for some peace and quiet. Of course what makes this walk unique is the incredible artwork on show, with over 70 contemporary sculptures dotting the path from Bacup to Salford Quays.
5. The Bleaklow Bomber Crash Site
Distance: 18.5km
Nearest station: Glossop
Last on our list of the best Manchester walks is something completely off the beaten path, the Bleaklow Bomber crash site. The area approaching the site is a challenging walk that takes in some of the wildest and most remote parts of the Peak District, just outside of Manchester. It's a long, tough hike, but the views from the top are more than worth it. While the walk can be challenging in places, if you're up for a real adventure, it's an unforgettable experience.
The trail takes you past the crash site of a WWII bomber aircraft which collided with the hillside in low cloud in 1948. The wreckage is scattered across the moorland near Higher Shelf Stones on Bleaklow. This is a truly wild and beautiful part of the world, so if you're looking for an adventure, this walk near Manchester is for you!
That rounds off our list of the best walks in Manchester! With so much to see and do, you're sure to find something to suit your taste. And who knows, you might even discover some hidden gems along the way. What’s more, all of our suggestions are accessible via Northern train routes, so you can forget the stress of driving and fully enjoy your day out in and around Manchester. Book your train tickets ahead of time to save up to 65% off!
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