Recommendations for family days out in Manchester
We love a day out whether it’s just a weekend day popping out somewhere, or a day out while on holiday. I’m reliving my childhood visiting around the UK, near home and further away, and love sharing it with N. So if you’re looking for days out in Manchester, here’s some of the options.
This series of days out posts are based on round ups of places we’ve loved on our travels. Hopefully it’ll make them easier for you to find, especially if you’re looking for recommendations for places to visit. I’ll also be including recommendations from other bloggers, because if you’re looking for guidance on where to go you want to hear from local people as well as visitors to an area.
Ideas for family days out in Manchester
Museums, culture and history
Not just for football fans, there’s lots of interactive fun for children, it’s free, unless you pay for the upgrade which allows you to take part in football challenges around the museum.
Good for all ages and not too overwhelming in size. Although the only café when we went was disappointing in its offer.
National Trust / Stately homes
Tatton Park
Huge grounds with an adventure playground and other gardens to explore. If you’re going to Tatton for events watch out for parking charges and queues as it gets busy.
Wildlife and nature
Longford Park, Stretford
Enclosed playground for under 8s, further playing fields and play area for older children although it can have parts with empty beer cans left. See the animals and birds in the ‘zoo’ area and walk through the gardens for relaxation. They also have Bike sessions where you can ride round the track renting various different types of bikes – on our list for the next time we visit.
A free day out, have picnics, walk to the highest point in Manchester, go to the Tramway Museum or the Animal Centre.
In the Trafford Centre, the usual marine displays, plus a small soft play area. But no cafe.
Other
Salford Quays – there’s quite often a specialist market on, plenty of places to eat, the Blue Peter Garden, and tv studies that you can do tours round.
Insta Nation Manchester
Described as an inflatable theme park. Only a small under 4s area, so better for older children
Runway Visitor Park, Manchester Airport
Chance to take part in Flight Academy for different ages and have a tour on Concorde.
Legoland, Trafford Centre
As well as all the Lego, there’s workshops, a 4D cinema, soft play and rides.
If you’re looking for seasonal days out try some of these Christmas days out ideas in Manchester.
Where to stay
Hotel Football – football themed rooms and Café Football without being too in your face, right next to Old Trafford, perfect for match days, or opt for cheaper deals at off peak times and do stadium tours instead.
Eating out
The Font – café bar with children’s menu and area with toys/colouring bits. Friendly staff, and menu has vegetarian and vegan options. We really like the open tortillas.
Where else would you recommend in Manchester for a day out with the kids?
Why not take a look at these similar posts.
