Where To Go In Manchester For Gorgeous Views

For those looking to rack up Instagram followers, Manchester is the place to capture the perfect panoramic shot, with its awe-inspiring Gothic cityscapes that give way to the Peak District, the Pennines and the Cheshire Plain. Here are Culture Trip’s favourite views across Manchester.

Alderley Edge

Alderley’s Stormy Point looks across the Cheshire Plain towards the Peak District

South of Manchester you’ll find predominantly flat landscapes and rolling meadows, but there is one jaw-dropping viewpoint just outside the quaint village of Alderley Edge. After a short stroll through the woods, you’ll find yourself on Stormy Point, a red sandstone ridge overlooking the Cheshire Plain; on a clear day, you can even see the peaks of the Pennines in the distance. The contrast between the red cliffs and verdant landscape makes the scene particularly photogenic.

Cloud 23

Head to this bar on the Hilton Hotel’s 23rd floor to enjoy the best urban views in Manchester. On a sunny day you can see as far as the hills surrounding the city, but even when it’s cloudy you’ll be treated to a moody and dramatic skyline, with contemporary glass set against Neo-Gothic architecture. With all Manchester’s well-known buildings in sight, this is the perfect place to sip an evening cocktail while admiring the bright city lights.

Werneth Low

The Pennines sit on the edge of Greater Manchester. The summit of Werneth Low hill, close to the town of Hyde, offers unparalleled vistas over Manchester city centre. Take a picnic and gaze out over iconic landmarks such as Beetham Tower and Jodrell Bank Observatory, which are visible in clear conditions.

Chorlton Water Park

If you’re seeking spectacular country scenery but don’t want to travel too far out of the city centre, head to Chorlton Water Park for an evening stroll. Located beside the River Mersey, this picturesque lake is surrounded by a nature reserve and becomes incredibly photogenic at golden hour, when the setting sun reflects on the water to create beautiful views.

King Street Townhouse

One of the city centre’s most desirable hotels features a rooftop infinity spa pool, where guests can float while admiring the urban views; it’s the only place in Manchester where you can watch the sun set over the city from the water. After your relaxing soak, make your way up to the roof terrace to admire vistas of the Town Hall and many other beautiful buildings.

Imperial War Museum North

Experience the city from a different perspective at the Air Shard tower. Part of the Imperial War Museum North, this striking building offers spectacular views of Salford Quays looking out towards the city centre. The reflections of the nearby MediaCityUK and the Lowry are two more reasons to visit this spot.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.