Manchester Airport is one of the UK’s biggest airports, facilitating flights all over the world. Experience the Christmas markets in Helsinki, the crumbling ancient history of Athens, and the futuristic skyscrapers of Beijing; all starting from the North West. Here’s everything you need to get the most out of the first part of your overseas adventure.
How to get to Manchester Airport by train:
Manchester Airport has its own train station, so getting there by train is especially convenient. You can reach the station using services from Manchester Piccadilly, Sheffield, and Leeds. CrossCountry provides services to Manchester Piccadilly from key hubs all over the UK, including Stockport, Stoke-on-Trent, and Birmingham New Street.
If you’d prefer to travel to the airport from Stockport station, hop on the 199 Skyline bus which will get you there in approximately twenty minutes. Alternatively, walk the six minutes to Stockport bus station and catch the 313 bus to the airport, you’ll arrive in roughly half an hour.
If you’re catching a CrossCountry train to Manchester, don’t forget to check train times and book an Advance ticket so you’re extra prepared on your day of travel.
Facilities at Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport is fully equipped with all the facilities you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. For those looking for a space for quiet contemplation and prayer, the chaplaincy is located in Terminal 3. The chaplaincy provides a variety of services, including leading regular prayers, offering spiritual support and pastoral care, and handling any faith-related issues that arise.
You can also pre-book assistance on your day of travel. Trained staff can help you through security and into the departure lounge where you’ll be able to meet with the boarding assistance team. You can also pre-book a variety of additional services, like an Eaglehoist, used to transfer patients from a wheelchair to an aircraft seat, and the Sunflower Room, ideal for Assisted Travel Guests who need a quiet area away from bright lights and noise.
Looking for an elevated experience? Aether is Manchester Airport’s private terminal, available to all ticket classes. You’ll receive a full luxury dining experience curated by award-winning chef Adam Reid, panoramic views of the runway, and a chauffeur-driven taxi right to the aircraft.
There are also two premium lounges after security, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle. Head to Escape or 1903 for a selection of tasty food, unlimited hot and cold beverages, free WiFi, and charging points. Additionally, there is free WiFi access for up to four hours throughout the airport or for a small fee, you can access faster WiFi for movie streaming, gaming, and other downloads.
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Manchester Airport Shops & Restaurants
Each terminal offers everything you need to prepare for your flight, from last-minute holiday essentials to anti-boredom activities for the plane. Kids will be delighted at the myriad of toys and games on sale and parents can browse the homeware options to their heart's content.
For a bite to eat, you can head to one of several eating establishments at Manchester Airport, from fast food favourites to something a little special. There is an exciting selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options catering to seasonal flavours from locally sourced ingredients. If you're in the mood for Italian cuisine, there's plenty of arancini and pizza to enjoy. And for those craving British pub classics before you jet off, there are pubs that serve high-quality dishes such as fish and chips.
Manchester Airport Travel Connections
There are lots of ways to get to and from Manchester Airport. National Express, Megabus, and FlixBus all provide services from areas all over the UK. There are also multiple bus services available, including services to Manchester city centre.
The airport also has a fleet of black cabs, available with no need to book. Just head outside of any of the three terminals and you’ll find a taxi rank. Metrolink tram services stop here too and can drop you off all over the city, including to East Didsbury, Altrincham, Bury, and the Trafford Centre. Usually, the trams run every 12 minutes, but we advise you to check timetables, especially if you’re travelling on a public holiday.
If you’re driving, Manchester Airport is next to the M56, providing easy access to other key routes like the M6, M60 and M62. There are several parking options available, including the Long Stay car park, which is just a 5-10 minute bus transfer from the terminals, and the multi-storey car park, ideal for shorter stays. Additionally, a free drop-off point is available, where passengers can take a shuttle bus directly to the terminal.
