9 great day trips from Manchester

Antony Gormley's statues at Crosby Beach caused a stir among the locals when they were installed but quickly became a major attraction. You can see why. Gormley's haunting figures stare out towards the Wirral, Wales and beyond on this glorious stretch of sand north of Liverpool, sometimes partly submerged with the tide. But even when the waves are crashing against the shoreline, you can still see the figures poking out from the water. Wonderful.

Since the days of the Romans, Buxton has attracted visitors coming to ‘take the waters’, with the town growing in popularity during the Victorian period. About an hour away from Manchester, the spa town has attractions including Poole's Cavern and Buxton Opera House. It’s internationally known for the spring water that flows from St Ann’s Well in the town or if you fancy something stronger, the council has produced a handy real ale trail to explore some of the town’s historic pubs and the town's brewery also has a tap house.

Within the heart of the Peak District, Edale has a long association with ramblers. In the 1930s, more than 400 people took part in a mass trespass in the area to protest against the lack of access to the countryside. This led to the creation of national parks and the development of the Pennine Way – which starts in Edale. As a result of their action, we’re now free to roam the countryside so make the most of it by climbing Kinder Scout or Mam Tor, or walking to the village of Castleton; home to the ruined Norman fort Peveril Castle.

A short walk from Disley rail station (a 30-minute journey from Piccadilly), you’ll find this glorious National Trust property. Dating back to the fourteenth century, the exterior of the grade-I listed house starred in the 1995 adaptation of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ – you might recognise the lake from the memorable scene with Colin Firth. But if you’re not a Jane Austen fan, the estate is also home to a herd of red and fallow deer who wander across the grounds, a children’s play area and plenty of outdoor space and paths to explore.

Thanks to recent rail upgrades, there are now trains getting you from Victoria to Liverpool in just half an hour, so there’s no better time to plan a day trip to the city at the mouth of the Mersey. Explore some of Liverpool’s many museums, visit the Albert Dock – the heritage attraction which is home to Tate Liverpool –and see what’s on at contemporary arts centre The Bluecoat. If you want to eat, drink and be merry you’re also well-catered for with plenty of restaurants, historic pubs and trendy bars.

The current mansion is built on the site of a much earlier house, but still dates back to 1716. Its neo-classical architecture and elevated position making for a stunning sight, even amidst the thousand acres of garden and landscaped parkland. Inside, the house is as immaculate as it is on the outside, with its rich furnishings and incredible collection of books, furniture and artworks. It's well worth a good look around.

And as if the house isn't impressive enough, the gardens, deer park, lake and working farm offer a wonderful chance to explore, pet, eat and play.

Half an hour away from Manchester, this adorable market town has long been known for its links with the artistic community and has culture aplenty. Renowned musicians including Patti Smith have performed at its venues, and a certain Ed Sheeran was also born in the town. Climb up to the charming village of Heptonstall, where Sylvia Plath is buried, explore the independent shops, cafes and restaurants, or just take a stroll along the canal and river.

If you love the great outdoors, Todmorden could be your ideal spot. It’s another location about half an hour away from Manchester, but it feels like a different world. Located alongside both the Pennine Way and Calderdale Way, it’s well-visited by walkers and is surrounded by valleys and moorland for exploring. But its most unusual attraction is its beach. Yes, despite being landlocked, the town has the accolade of being home to the UK’s highest beach. It’s a bit of a hidden gem and quite a trek up a steep hill, but it’s more than worth it when you reach the former reservoir at Gaddings Dam. And if you need some refreshment on your way back, there's a pub at the bottom.  

A short walk from Smithy Bridge rail station (25 minutes from Victoria) and close to the M62, Hollingworth Lake is a site with a varied history. It was originally built as a reservoir for the Rochdale Canal before it becoming a tourist resort in the 1860s and then turned into a country park in the 1970s. These days it’s popular as a watersports spot but has a path around the edge and a nature reserve – along with cafés, restaurants and pubs – if you’d prefer to stay on dry land.