Things to Do Outside Manchester
There is no doubting that the city of Manchester is a wonderful place bursting with plenty to see and do. However, if you feel like broadening your horizons, there is so many fun and interesting things to do just a short distance away from Manchester. Does a trip to do breath-taking Lake District excite you? What about a visit to the fascinating animals at Chester Zoo? Read on to find out our selection of best things to do outside of Manchester.
The Lake District
1 hour and 30 minutes’ drive from hotel
Near the top of everyone’s list of best things to do outside of Manchester should be a visit to the Lake District. Located 1.5 hours away from Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport, the Lake District is one of the most popular and beautiful areas in the whole of the UK. The area is famous for its breath-taking lakes, soaring mountains and beautiful rugged countryside.
There are many pretty villages surrounding this area including Ambleside and Windermere which is home to England’s largest lake. Another popular attraction is the homes of both Beatrix Potter and William Wordsmith, two famous writers who feel in love with the beauty of the Lake District.
Chester Zoo
40-minute drive from hotel
There is no better day out then a trip to the zoo! Chester Zoo is the UK’s most visited zoo with 128 acres of zoological gardens, housing over 35,000 extraordinary animals. See all of your favourites including Asian elephants, Humboldt penguins, cheeky chimpanzees and much more. Afterwards, have a wander around the stunning walled-city of Chester where there are loads to see such as the River Dee, the Roman Coliseum and plenty of beautiful old Victorian buildings.
Buxton
1 hour drive from hotel
A trip out to Buxton is guaranteed to be a day packed full of fun and interesting activities. A short 1-hour drive away from Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport, Buxton is located on the edge of the spectacular Peak District. The most popular attraction of Buxton has to be Poole’s Cavern, a 2-million-year-old natural limestone cave.
Take a journey beneath the earth and explore the caves fascinating features. Situated right next door to Poole’s Cavern is Go Ape! an outdoor adventure park suitable for all thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies. Here you can soar 30m high over ground on high-speed zip lines and free fall swings. If classical music is more your thing you can catch a show at the beautiful Buxton Opera House.
The Lowry
25-minute drive from hotel
Named after the famous artist LS Lowry, The Lowry is a stunning contemporary arts centre and gallery, located just 25-minutes from Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport, in the redeveloped quays of the university town of Salford. The building itself contains some spectacular architecture while inside you can browse over 300 pieces of some of LS Lowry’s best work. You may also enjoy a stage show as The Lowry boasts two performing arts studios. Make sure to check the website for show schedules. Talks and walking tours also take place throughout each day.
Hollingworth Lake
35-minute drive from hotel
Hollingworth Lake is a spectacular man-made lake spanning 118 acres, situated just 35-minutes away from Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport. Hollingworth Lake is the best place to be if you have an interest in water sports. Here you can kayak, sail, windsurf, canoe, row and much more! The experts at Hollingworth Lake Water Activity Centre provide instruction for all levels of ability, while all equipment can also be rented here.
Other activities that take place at Hollingworth Lake include rock climbing, mountain biking and archery. For those looking for something a bit less extreme, there are plenty of walking routes to follow in and around the Hollingworth Lake area.
Knowsley Safari
35-minute drive from hotel
Knowsley Safari is the perfect day out for people of all ages. The parks safari drive offers visitors a unique way to see many animals from all over the world all from the comfort of your own car. The safari drive is 5-miles long and split up into different sections, where you will see animals in as close to natural conditions as possible. A big highlight of the safari is undoubtedly the drive through the lion enclosure where lions roam freely around your car.
Both exhilarating and scary, we know! Knowsley park also offers unique animal experiences, so if you’ve ever dreamed of feeding lions now is your chance! A lot of the park can also be navigated by foot while there is plenty of amusements on site if you need a break from the animals.
Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport
We know family breaks can be tough with all of the organising and planning. Here at Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport, we aim to make your family break in Manchester completely stress free. Our spacious family rooms are ideal for that perfect night’s sleep, while our Aviator Bar and Grill Restaurant have great options available for family dining.
