Driving needn’t have to be a chore or simply a journey of getting from A to B, especially when there are a number of beautiful sights just a short drive away from Manchester. From weaving through hills to marvelling at towers and bodies of water, the nearby countryside and coast boasts jaw dropping, winding (and sometimes straight) roads to admire from the comfort of your car. It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey and these scenic drives near Manchester prove exactly that. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road, some of these spots even have viewing points for you to stop and take a better look at your surroundings.
1. Snake Pass, Peak District
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Ranked by National Geographic as one of the most scenic drives in the UK, Snake Pass in the Peak District going towards Sheffield is a must for any drivers and passengers near and far looking for a memorable, bucket list drive. For dreamy driving views, start at Whaley Bridge on the A6 and follow onto the A6187 past Mam Tor and Castleton. When reaching Hope Valley in the Peak District head up the A6013 which takes you over a viaduct to join the A57 Snake Road. The winding road is named after the serpent that appears on the Duke of Devonshire coat of arms. Enjoy the rise of the road here (and those views over Ladybower Reservoir) to a whopping 1,650 feet, before descending into Glossop and continuing on into Manchester. Those approaching the Peaks from Stockport and South Manchester should be sure to take Winnats Pass for equally impressive views.
π Route: A57
π Distance: 44 miles
2. Holmes Chapel to Alderley Edge
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Holmes Chapel is not just known for being home to the bakery which Harry Styles once worked at but also a starting (or end) point to a scenic driving route. With a mix of both bends and straight stretches, this drive winds its way from Holmes Chapel through the Dane River valley. Motor your way alongside the Twemlow Viaduct before spotting the iconic Lovell telescope at Jodrell Bank as you head north east towards the A535. Here youβll meet Withington Green and Farm Wood Quarry before passing under the mainline train track at Corbishley Bridge. Cross the A34 into Alderley Edge, where you’ll find plenty of spots for a bite to eat.
π Route: A535
π Distance: 11 miles
3. Cat and Fiddle route, Peak District
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South of Manchester you can brave the challenging roads between Macclesfield and Buxton which are full of twisty bends, but you will pass some marvellous scenery on the way. Alongside Snake Pass, the Cat and Fiddle route is one of the most scenic drives in the Peak District and it can be reached from Manchester in a short amount of time. A popular route for both car drivers and bikers alike, the route is named after the pub at the summit of the A537. While much of the route is now reduced to a 50mph speed limit for safety, it still provides a ride full of surprises and plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the views.
π Route: A537
π Distance: 11 Miles
4. Liverpool to Southport
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Shaking up those scenic country drives near Manchester, why not venture closer to the coast? Head from city to sand by travelling to Liverpool then following the A565 road which runs parallel with the sea to reach the coastal town of Southport. The road hits all the top beaches such as Crosby, Formby and Ainsdale which you can of course make a stop in order to feel sand between your toes. Peel off to the likes of the iron men art installation Another Place at Crosby Beach, Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa or the red squirrel reserve at Formby for some much-needed, fresh sea air. It might not be a route that’s fast or full of exciting bends however you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Victorian iron pier and views out to the Irish Sea once you reach Southport. This is one drive worth arriving at sunset for.
π Route: A565
π Distance: 20 Miles
5. Witches Driving Trail
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If you fancy a slightly spooky route to take in the car or via bike then these scenic drives along the Witches Driving Trail are worth visiting, plus the starting point near Burnley is less than an hour’s drive from Manchester. From Pendle Heritage Centre in Barrowford you can drive towards Lancaster Castle and discover the story of 10 witches, imprisoned, tried and executed nearby. Follow the meandering, narrow roads through the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and up through the wild moors before arriving at the city of Lancaster. With distractions like the views of the hills above the River Hodder, the Lake District in the distance and “possible witches” be sure to keep your eyes on the road.
π Route: A6068, A671, B6243
π Distance: 38 Miles
6. Haslingden to Edgworth
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One of the shortest and lesser-known scenic routes near Manchester is the one via Grane Road heading towards Blackburn. Despite there being an average speed check zone along the way, this stops you from whizzing past some ravishing reservoirs at Haslingden Grane as well as views of Darwen Tower. As you weave through the countryside and reach the Grey Mare Inn make a turn down Broadhead Road and follow the winding road that leads to Edgworth. Or go via Hoddlesden then follow the long Roman Road and Blackburn Road into the town where you can park up to then explore the Wayoh Reservoir and Entwistle Reservoir and marvel at the viaduct.
π Route: B6232
π Distance: 9 miles