Cheap Car Hire Manchester Airport (MAN) England
Welcome to the UK’s Manchester Airport!
Manchester is one of the UK’s most vibrant cities, famous throughout the whole of the UK for its rich industrial heritage, thriving music scene, and sporting culture. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a combination of both, Manchester offers a wealth of attractions to explore. From the iconic Old Trafford stadium to the trendy Northern Quarter and the science-focused Museum of Science and Industry, there's something for everyone. Renting a car is a convenient and flexible way to discover the many wonders of Manchester and its surrounding areas. Upon landing at Manchester Airport (MAN), you can easily pick up your hire car and start exploring this dynamic region. Whether you plan to stay within the city or venture out to nearby towns, scenic countryside, or the bustling capital, renting a car provides the freedom to travel at your own pace.
Manchester Airport is the main international gateway to the north of England and handles domestic flights to London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Aberdeen, and Dublin. It serves dozens of destinations in Europe, including France, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Italy and Norway together with Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, the UAE, the USA and South Africa. Other nearby airports offer an alternative to Manchester such as Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL), Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), and Newcastle International Airport (NCL). Once you’ve hauled your luggage from the luggage belt, it’s easy to pick up your hire and you’ll find a wide range of car rental options to suit your needs. If you're planning to explore the city’s rich cultural attractions, a compact or midsize car is a great option. These vehicles are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city driving. If you're planning to drive to the nearby Lake District or the Peak District for some hiking or outdoor adventure, consider renting an SUV or a larger vehicle for added comfort and space.
The location of the airport, just 14 km (9 miles) south of Manchester city centre, makes it easily accessible via the M56 motorway. The airport lies 335 km (208 miles) north of the UK’s historic capital city of London, reached via the M6 and M1 motorways. Scotland’s elegant capital city of Edinburgh is 357 km (222 miles) north along the M6 and A74(M), while Cardiff, the waterside capital city of Wales, is 298 km (185 miles) southwest via the M56 and M6. The fine university city of Cambridge, with its leafy green parks and gardens, is 243 km (151 miles) southeast, is accessible via the M56 and A14. In the south west of England, the charming city of Exeter is 368 km (229 miles) southwest via the M6 and M5, and the world-famous city of Bath, with its UNESCO Roman-built baths and stunning Georgian architecture, is 266 km (165 miles) south along the M56, M6, and M5.
Driving in Manchester
Driving around the culturally-rich city of Manchester and its surrounding regions offers a mix of urban excitement, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking countryside. Its city center is brimming with cultural highlights, from the exhibits at Manchester Museum and Manchester Art Gallery to the dynamic Northern Quarter filled with street art, indie boutiques, and eclectic dining. Football fans can indulge in the city’s rich sports heritage with a visit to Old Trafford, home to Manchester United, or Etihad Stadium, where Manchester City resides. Both stadiums offer guided tours, and attending a match is a thrilling experience for any enthusiast. Manchester is a city built for exploration, with a robust network of roads connecting its vibrant city center to nearby attractions and scenic escapes. The M56, M6, and M60 motorways form the backbone of the area’s road system, linking Manchester to major destinations such as a former City of Culture Liverpool, the fascinating steel town of Sheffield, and the idyllic Yorkshire Dales. Navigating the city center, however, can be challenging due to narrow streets, one-way systems, and heavy traffic during peak hours. A well-planned route and a rental car ensure a smoother journey, giving you the freedom to explore Manchester at your own pace and venture beyond its limits. The M56 motorway provides a direct route westward from Manchester Airport to Liverpool, a city steeped in musical history and cultural significance. Here, you can visit the Albert Dock, the Beatles Story museum, or watch a football match at the iconic Anfield stadium. The M6 connects Manchester to the Midland’s culturally diverse and buzzing city of Birmingham in the south and Cumbria in the north, while the M60 ring road offers convenient access to Greater Manchester’s diverse neighbourhoods and suburbs. Each road opens the gateway to unique destinations, from urban adventures to countryside retreats.
Heading out of Manchester, you’ll discover some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the whole of England. The Peak District National Park, just 26 kilometres (16 miles) away, is a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Its dramatic moorlands, valleys, and quaint villages, such as Bakewell and Castleton, make for an unforgettable day out. To the north, the rugged Yorkshire Dales, about 70 kilometres (44 miles) away, offer rolling hills and picturesque towns like Skipton, ideal for leisurely exploration. Further afield, the Lake District, 126 kilometres (78 miles) to the northwest, invites you to immerse yourself in serene lakes, towering mountains, and charming villages like Grasmere, Windermere and Keswick.
Manchester's central location also makes it an excellent starting point for road trips to other prominent cities across the United Kingdom. Leeds boasts a lively atmosphere with trendy cafés, art galleries, and the historic Royal Armouries Museum just 70 kilometres (44 miles) away. To the northeast, 103 kilometres (64 miles) away, the quaint old city of York is a treasure trove of history, featuring Roman ruins, medieval streets, and the magnificent York Minster cathedral. For a seaside escape, the iconic coastal town of Blackpool, 97 kilometres (60 miles) from Manchester, promises sandy beaches, an illuminated tower, and traditional British amusements. For those with an interest in history, the city of Chester offers Roman walls, medieval architecture, and the renowned Chester Zoo, a mere 52 kilometres (32 miles) to the south. Meanwhile, if you fancy a UK road trip, the bustling capital city of London, is 335 kilometres (208 miles) away, accessible by road for those seeking iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, or the vibrant West End theatre district.
Tips and FAQs
Exploring the Greater Manchester area by car reveals a region rich in natural beauty and cultural treasures. From the scenic landscapes of the Peak District to the historical streets of Chester and York, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the countryside, a deep dive into English history, or the lively energy of Manchester itself, driving around Manchester and beyond is a journey filled with discovery and delight. To secure the best rates and ensure availability, particularly during busy travel periods, it’s wise to book your hire car in advance.
Manchester Airport (MAN)
Number of terminals: 3 terminals (T1, T 2, T3)
Location of car rental desks: All terminals
Distance to fuel station: 1 kilometre (0.6 miles)
Nearest city: Manchester
Major roads: M56, M6, M60
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