The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Stockport, UK
Discover the charm and character of Stockport, where history meets modernity.
22 April 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Stockport, located in Greater Manchester, is a historic market town that offers tourists a glimpse into England's rich industrial past. Visitors can explore attractions like the 15th-century Bramall Hall, the Hat Works Museum, and the Stockport Air Raid Shelters. Additionally, Stockport's vibrant foodie scene, boutique shops, and charming cafes make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check-in at the colorful and charming Plaza Hotel in the heart of Stockport.
- Visit the historic Staircase House and learn about its role in the English Civil War.
- Admire the impressive architecture of the Stockport Viaduct, one of the world's largest brick structures.
- Walk through the bustling Market Place and pick up some local cheeses, meats, and crafts.
- Enjoy a traditional pub dinner at The Arden Arms, specializing in pie and mash.
- Have a leisurely breakfast at the trendy Hat Works Café, located inside a former hat factory.
- Explore the Hat Works museum, which showcases the town's important hat-making heritage.
- Visit the beautiful St. Mary's Church and its stained glass windows by the artist Alfred Egerton.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Vernon Park and its iron bridge, bandstand and boating lake.
- Enjoy an evening show at the Art Deco-style Plaza Theatre, opened in 1932.
- Rent a bicycle from the Bike Hub on Mersey Square.
- Explore the scenic trails along the Peak Forest Canal and River Mersey.
- Stop for lunch at the quirky and vegetarian friendly Black Cat Café.
- Take a break at the stunning Etherow Country Park and its picturesque lake and gardens.
- Admire the panoramic views from the Torkington Park and its well-preserved mansion.
- Take a guided tour of the legendary Old Trafford Stadium, home of Manchester United.
- Shop for soccer memorabilia at the official club megastore.
- Relax at the Robinsons Brewery Visitors Center and try some of their award-winning ales.
- Explore the fascinating Hatton Gallery and its art collection, including works by Pablo Picasso.
- Finish the night with some live music and craft beer at the friendly Remedy Bar.
- Browse the charming independent shops and cafes on Underbank and Lower Hillgate streets.
- Visit the Stockport Air Raid Shelters, a unique underground network of tunnels and rooms.
- Have a farewell lunch at the contemporary Glass House Café, overlooking the river.
- Check-out of the Plaza Hotel, feeling like a local and promising to return.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Stockport, United Kingdom by plane would be to fly into Manchester Airport, which is approximately 7 miles away from Stockport. You can reach Stockport from the airport by taking a 30-minute taxi ride or by taking a train from Manchester Airport Station to Stockport Train Station. The train journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
Car
If you prefer to drive, the best way to get to Stockport, United Kingdom by car would be to take the M60 ring road and exit at junctions 1 or 27, depending on your location. From London, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, and from Birmingham, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train
If you're coming from other parts of the United Kingdom, the best way to get to Stockport by train would be to take a direct train to Stockport Train Station. From London, the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, and from Birmingham, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Boat
Unfortunately, there are no direct boat services to Stockport, United Kingdom. The nearest ports are Liverpool and Hull, but from there, you would need to take a train, bus or car to get to Stockport.
Bus
The best way to get to Stockport, United Kingdom by bus would be to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station or Birmingham Coach Station to Stockport Bus Station. The journey from London takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, whereas the journey from Birmingham takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.