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
Walk distance: 3.5km
Nearest station: 6-minute walk from Manchester Oxford Road or 14-minute walk from Deansgate.
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: 2-minute walk from 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: 8-minute walk from Manchester Oxford Road
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.
4. Irwell Sculpture Trail
Distance: Up to 33-miles
Nearest station: Salford Central
Just a short bus ride from 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.
Extending across Salford, Bury and Rossendale, this trail is the largest sculpture route in the UK, and 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.
5. GM Ringway - Greater Manchester’s walking trail
Distance: 322-km
Nearest station: Manchester Piccadilly
Last on our list of the best Manchester walks is a real challenge! The GM Ringway is a 322-km route broken into 20 stages that allows you to explore all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester.
This walk takes you to some of the best landscapes and heritage sites in and around Manchester. It's a long, tough hike, but the views 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.
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 60% off!
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