After passing your driving test, the north west of England is an excellent region to explore. To ensure you don’t miss anything and have the greatest experience possible, we’ve put up a guide to assist you in finding your way around the wonderful city of Manchester.
Places to Visit in Manchester
- Castlefield: Explore the historical charm of Castlefield, where you can find Roman ruins and the Museum of Science and Industry. The canals are lined with numerous bars and cafes, perfect for a leisurely drive and a stop for refreshments.
- Salford Quays: Only a fifteen-minute drive from the centre of Manchester, Salford Quays is a bustling area that has flourished with the development of Media City. It features attractions such as the Lowry and the Imperial War Museum North.
- Northern Quarter: Make sure to head to the Northern Quarter, it’s a lively district that offers a treasure trove of vintage shops, quirky cafes, and striking street art, making it an ideal spot for a drive and some exploration.
- Old Trafford: Known worldwide as the home of Manchester United’s Old Trafford football ground, this historic area is a must-visit for football fans and those looking to soak up some local sports culture.
Tips for staying safe in Manchester
- Adapt to Wet Weather: Manchester experiences frequent rain, so it’s essential to be prepared for wet conditions. Drive cautiously and reduce your speed to ensure safety.
- Familiarise Yourself with Motorways: Manchester is encircled by several motorways. Learn the major road numbers before setting out. The M60 Ring Road loops around the centre of Manchester, while the M62 heads south towards Liverpool.
- Adhere to Alcohol Limits: The UK has strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption for drivers. Ensure your blood alcohol level is below the legal limit before getting behind the wheel.
- Avoid Using Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal. Keep your phone out of reach to avoid distractions and potential fines.
- Navigate Traffic and One-Way Streets: Traffic can be heavy in Manchester, particularly in central areas where one-way streets are common. Plan your route ahead of time and be prepared for congestion.
Parking in Manchester
Manchester offers various parking options, including NCP car parks and pay-and-display bays throughout the city center. On bank holidays, there are certain parking bays that can be free to use, though time restrictions in central parking zones still apply.
Toll Roads in Manchester
While central Manchester has no toll roads, the Warburton Bridge does charge a toll. Additionally, if you’re traveling on the M6 towards the West Midlands, expect a toll charge. For those heading towards Preston or Liverpool, be aware of toll tunnels and bridges, including the Mersey Tunnels in Wallasey, which also require a toll.
Driving distances from Manchester:
- Liverpool: Approximately 35 miles
- Leeds: Approximately 40 miles
- Sheffield: Approximately 35 miles
- Birmingham: Approximately 80 miles
- Lake District (Windermere): Approximately 90 miles
Fuel
Always make sure you know where the local petrol station is. This can be important when driving so that you can make sure you can refuel promptly and avoid being stranded without fuel, especially if you are not from Manchester and are unfamiliar with the area.
- Shell – Deansgate Service Station
- BP – Oxford Road Service Station
- Tesco Petrol Station – Cheetham Hill Road
- Esso – Regent Road Service Station
- Texaco – Princess Road Service Station
The Highlights
There are a wide variety of things to see when you’re in Manchester. A visit of the Etihad Stadium and Old Trafford, the home grounds of Manchester City and Manchester United, is a must-see for every football lover. The Town Hall and St Peter’s Square are must-see attractions in the city core. There’s also many intriguing locations to see in the bustling Salford Quays region.