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Manchester is shaking off the shackles of its industrial past and has transformed into a vibrant counterpart to its big city rival London. Only 14 kilometres from the city, Manchester Airport has become one of the most important transport hubs for the North West of England.

Over 25 million passengers pass through its doors every year, and with direct flights to over 200 destinations, international travel has never been easier. Close to the airport, you will find an array of hotels to meet every budget, perfect for a pre-flight nap, sophisticated stopover or to use as a luxury base for exploring the city. Those who duck into Manchester will find attractions to suit all moods, from stamping your feet at a football match, sipping cocktails in the classy bars of Spinningfields, and sharing warm naan on the famous Curry Mile.

With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular hotels for those touching down or taking off from Manchester Airport. We’ve also covered the available transportation options for commuting to the airport and the city.

Aeroplane arriving at Manchester Airport
Photo| Aeroplane arriving at Manchester Airport| GETTYIMAGES – MARK WHITAKER

Whether you cosy up in a country pub, sleep softly in a four-poster bed in a Georgian mansion or opt for a sleek stay in a modern hotel chain, Manchester has the perfect space for every taste. Within five kilometres of the busiest transport hive in the North West, and often less than a 20-minute drive to the lively city, there are plenty of choices for places to stay. Most hotels offer free shuttles or low-cost transfers to the airport, ensuring that you can sit back and relax on your trip without having to worry about missing your flight.

Radisson Blu Manchester Airport

Radisson Blu Manchester Airport, hotel near manchester airport
Photo| Radisson Blu Manchester Airport| Provided by ICE PORTAL

Jetsetters looking for a stylish place to stay will find comfort and class at the Radisson Blu Manchester Airport. A four-star hotel, crisp white suites are splashed with plum tones. Located only 15 kilometres from the lively city centre, it’s a great place to blend business with pleasure. Linked to Manchester Airport via a skywalk, the hotel makes catching early morning flights a breeze. From chickpea burgers to stilton tarts, the on-site restaurant offers delicious British dishes with a twist.

Choose from four different types of rooms, all with free Wi-Fi, runway views and a well-stocked mini bar. If you are looking to relax after a long-haul flight take a dip in the 12-metre pool and let the stress melt away in the sauna. Situated next to Manchester Airport’s own transport hub, you can hop on a tram or train and be in the heart of the city in less than 20 minutes.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: £62 – £216
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: Chicago Avenue, Manchester Airport, United Kingdom

Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport

Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport
Photo| Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport| Provided by LEONARDO

Just minutes from the airport and with a free shuttle for ease of transport, the Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport ticks all the boxes. With several on-site restaurants and bars, you can wine and dine without leaving the hotel. From Thai fish cakes to Tom Yum noodles, the Sampans Oriental Restaurant serves up a delectable range of snacks. If you’re craving a pint of the black stuff and can’t make it to Dublin, don’t worry because the Crowne Plaza’s very own Irish Bar has you covered.

Relaxed suites offer room service around the clock, express check-in and free Wi-Fi. The rooms boast large beds and soft furnishings in calm colours, fluffy white robes and little touches that make for a memorable stay. The Crowne Plaza boasts 50 years of experience beneath its belt reflected in its attentive service.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: £58 – £139
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: Ringway Road, Ringway, Manchester, United Kingdom

Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport

Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport
Photo| Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport| Provided by LEONARDO

If you are looking for a vantage point to explore Manchester’s heritage without heading far from the airport, you will find the four-star Clayton Hotel an exceptional place to stay. Visiting families will adore the children’s play zones and larger suites, whereas business travellers can make full use of the meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi and ease of access to the city and beyond. The a la carte menu at the hotel restaurant offers international dishes from jerk chicken to elegant seabass tapenade.

Even the Standard Rooms at the Clayton are spacious and well-appointed with colourful touches to balance out a palate of clean white lines. Those looking for an extra dash of luxury can book the newly refurbished Executive Rooms on the eighth floor. In-room barista coffee machines, runway views and calming bathtubs make all the difference when it’s time to unwind.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: £40 – £146
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: Outwood Lane, Ringway, Manchester, United Kingdom

Holiday Inn Express Manchester Airport

Holiday Inn Express Manchester Airport
Photo| Holiday Inn Express Manchester Airport| Provided by LEONARDO

At the Holiday Inn, you can enjoy the familiarity of a national brand. The three-star chain blends convenience with comfort offering flat-screen TVs, en suite facilities and buffet breakfasts. With less than 200 rooms available and located just under five kilometres from the airport, you can relish the tranquillity of a quieter locale while still being in reach of Manchester’s attractions. For upscale shopping, the famous Trafford Centre is only a short drive, or if that seems a little tame, then try the thrilling IFLY indoor skydiving centre next door.

Rooms are simple and unpretentious, but the fresh white linens and fluffy towels are a welcome sight after from a day exploring nearby art galleries and independent shops. When it’s time to leave, you can make full use of the airport shuttle service. The luggage scales in the reception are also a nice touch if you got a little carried away in Manchester’s many independent fashion stores.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: £38 – £162
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: Runger Lane, Manchester Airport, United Kingdom

Hilton Manchester Airport

Hilton Manchester Airport
Photo| Hilton Manchester Airport| Provided by ICE PORTAL

Movies on demand, snug bathrobes and hallmark services, the Hilton Manchester Airport offers spacious stays only five minutes from the airport. Along with an enviable location, Hilton Manchester Airport also offers cool and contemporary dining at the Mason Bar and Restaurant. Sip a Costa coffee in the morning and indulge in a signature Caesar pizza in the evening. For those seeking a night out on the town, the Lowry Theater and trendy bars of the Northern Quarter are only 20 minutes away.

Guest rooms are bright and airy in the typical Hilton style, with modern black and white bathrooms. Expect daily newspapers and snuggle down in plush duvets. Business visitors will also relish having an on-site gym along with concierge service and conference space. For a family stay at the Hilton, you will find high chairs, cribs and a children’s menu that make travelling with little ones a breeze.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: £50 – £145
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: Outwood Lane, Manchester Airport, United Kingdom

OYO Oakcroft Guesthouse Manchester Airport

Photo| OYO Oakcroft Guesthouse Manchester Airport| Provided by LEONARDO

If you are looking for a home away from home, you are sure to be charmed by OYO Oakcroft Guesthouse Manchester Airport. With only 10 rooms in the lovely Cheshire countryside, you can relax safe in the knowledge that the bright lights of the city are only 20 minutes away. Sitting next to the cosy property there is a full-service health club with spa, perfect for unwinding after a busy day exploring the town. Despite the country house feel, you will find all the mod cons for staying in touch. From iPod connectors to free Wi-Fi and DVD and game rentals, these perks are perfect for when Manchester’s infamous weather takes a turn for the worse.

Each room has been individually designed with tasteful colour choices like pear, coconut or olive. All offer double or twin beds, en-suite facilities and hotel features like bottles of mineral water on the nightstands. The additional touches like the ionising Himalayan salt rock lamps and organic locally sourced breakfast ingredients make Halebarns House – Airport Boutique Guest House stand out as a truly unique boutique experience.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: £146 – £249
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: Oakcroft, United Kingdom

Etrop Grange

Etrop Grange
Photo| Etrop Grange| Provided by ICE PORTAL

Located just minutes from the M56, the ivy-strewn and glass conservatory of Etrop Grange welcomes guests seeking an elegant escape on the doorstep of Manchester Airport. The Georgian style building is full of charm, and on warm spring days you can sit out in the lovely courtyard. Indulge in an English tradition with afternoon tea at The Grange Bar and Grill where finger sandwiches and scones can be complemented with a bottle of chilled champagne.

The four-poster room reflects the historical splendour of the building with its fairytale bed and plush furnishings. The Courtyard Suite leads straight to the lawned gardens and has a separate lounge for added space. Even the Classic Double doesn’t cut down on comfort with its flat-screen TVs, robes and seating area set against warm colours. Couples on HotelsCombined seem to adore the romantic vibes and the traditional bar.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: £27 – £80
Guest Rating: 7.6
Address: Thorley Lane, United Kingdom

Manchester Airport Marriott Hotel

Manchester Airport Marriot Hotel
Photo| Manchester Airport Marriott Hotel| Provided by LEONARDO

Enjoy a signature Marriott stay only 10 minutes from the airport and well within driving distance to the designer restaurants of Deansgate. Expect all the comforts of a four-star experience with award-winning service, an Italian restaurant and 215 stylish rooms. The Four Seasons Spa is a real highlight of this hotel, offering everything from couple’s treatments to plunge pools and therapy baths. After an afternoon of divine relaxation, you can sip fine wines at the San Carlos Italian restaurant or opt for innovative meals and cocktails at The Source.

Suites at the Marriott come equipped with everything needed for a cosy stay. The rooms don’t shy away from playful decor with ruby reds and emerald greens balancing out the more muted tones. Deluxe rooms deliver deliciously warm featherbeds, writing desks and ergonomic chairs with in-house service available around the clock. The Junior Suite takes comfort to the max with complimentary breakfasts and separate lounge.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: £46 – £206
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: Hale Road, Hale Barns, United Kingdom

The Bulls Head & Lodge

The Bulls Head Hotel
Photo| The Bulls Head Hotel| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Escape the city and head into the scenic suburbs of Manchester Airport with a stay at The Bulls Head & Lodge in Hale. The Bulls Head is a fine example of a traditional pub with delectable dining and separate accommodations for a peaceful night of sleep. Sip a cask ale at the Old Boys Bar before sitting down to beer battered fish and Cornish ice cream sundaes. Dark wood panelling and Dickensian throne-like chairs contribute to tasteful debonair surroundings.

Only 15 minutes from Manchester Airport, this is a great choice for those who enjoy country walks and calm living. With 21 guest rooms, you will find comfy beds, hair dryers and tea and coffee making facilities, a welcome retreat after a day playing golf or hiking the farmers’ fields. Guests on HotelsCombined seem to be smitten with the hotel’s warm service that is synonymous with a countryside stay.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: £64 – £92
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: Wicker Lane, Hale Barns, United Kingdom

Pymgate Lodge Airport Hotel

Pymgate Lodge Hotel
Photo| Pymgate Lodge Hotel| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Those looking to step out of the ordinary can rest their head in a 17th-century coaching house at the Pymgate Lodge. Only 10 minutes from Manchester Airport, you are sure to feel welcome at this beautiful family home. Chesterfields perch around the fireplace and country cottage charm can be found in the beamed ceilings. The small informal restaurant at the property offers everything from traditional English breakfasts to light sandwiches and an array of dinner dishes from across the globe.

Single, double, twin and family rooms are available, offering a cosy sense of comfort with individual designs. Plush towels, hair dryers and wake-up calls are there as a reminder that this home is a hotel. The lodge also offers a low-cost pickup and drop off service from Manchester Airport.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: £47 – £86
Guest Rating: 7.0
Address: 147 Styal Road, Heald Green, United Kingdom

Oddfellows on the Park

Oddfellows on the Park
Photo| Oddfellows on the Park| Provided by LEONARDO

Creative, playful and set in a beautiful Victorian Mansion, Oddfellows on the Park is a chic place to stay near Manchester Airport. The 22 bespoke rooms, cocktail lounge and on-site salon pave the way for an ideal spot to explore Manchester. Sip handcrafted cocktails at the kooky Stud Room Bar before nibbling venison carpaccio and lamb loin at the charming Galloping Major Restaurant. Located close to Cheadle and surrounded by Bruntwood Park, you can duck into the city or stroll around the leafy space that stretches for 40 hectares.

Rooms at Oddfellows on the Park are visibly inspired by their Victorian heritage, yet come with a cool contemporary edge. In the Playground Suites, you will find roll top tubs, chunky four poster beds and glorious views from the original period windows. In addition to the refined heritage, there is still space for flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi and Nespresso machines.

Star Rating: 3.5*
Price: £195 – £201
Guest Rating: No rating
Address: Bruntwood Park, Cheadle, United Kingdom

Hotel Location

Manchester Airport Transportation

Passengers at bus stop waiting to board electric bus
Photo| Electric bus at a bus stop| GETTYIMAGES – MONTY RAKUSEN

Whether you’re behind the wheel or gazing out the window on a train hurtling through the countryside, the Manchester Airport makes travel easy from the second your plane touches down on the runway. Being five minutes from one of England’s major motorways means the airport is easily accessible by car, coach and taxi. A major player on the railway link, you can also find trains and trams available throughout the day in Manchester. Located less than 14 kilometres from the city centre, whichever mode of travel you choose you are sure to find it quick, easy and cost effective.

Car

Manchester City Centre
Photo| Cars on Deansgate and St Ann’s Square in Manchester city centre| GETTYIMAGES – STEPHEN KNOWLES PHOTOGRAPHY

If you are heading to Manchester Airport by car, the route couldn’t be easier. The airport is located off the M56 at junction 5, less than 20 minutes from the city. Each of the three terminals are signposted and offer ample parking, both short and long term, ensuring that parking is not a problem. Those in a rush will also find that the meet and greet service is a fantastic timesaver.

Train

City tram in the centre of Manchester, England
Photo| City tram in the centre of Manchester| GETTYIMAGES – LEONID ANDRONOV

Manchester Airport is well connected by train, both to the city and beyond. In less than 20 minutes, you can be lost in the crowds of Piccadilly. Trains from Manchester Airport to and from the city centre run every 10 minutes. For those who want to go beyond Manchester’s borders, it’s easy to hop on a train and explore the country, from the docklands of Liverpool to the rolling hills of Glasgow.

Coach

A double decker bus
Photo| Double-decker bus | GETTYIAMGES – MARIOGUTI

The National Express is the largest coach company in the UK and operates out of Manchester Airport. Scheduled coach services can link explorers with many other major towns in the country. Note that tickets are cheaper when purchased in advance. The National Express also offers a service from Manchester Airport to the city centre and back, with a journey that takes less than 30 minutes.

Bus Service

Passengers getting off electric bus
Photo| Passengers getting off a bus| GETTYIMAGES – MONTY RAKUSEN

A network of bus routes links Manchester Airport to the major sights of the city. Whether you are looking to head straight for the centre, shop and dine at The Trafford Centre, or explore the famed Curry Mile, Manchester bus network covers it all. Buses to the centre now operate 24 hours a day and take just under an hour.

Metro

Metrolink near Auburn Street
Photo| Metrolink near Auburn Street| GETTYIMAGES – MAREMAGNUM

At Manchester Airport, you will find the Metrolink station. With 92 stops, the metro is an easy way to get around the city. Between 9am and 5pm trams run every 12 minutes. Outside of these hours, it’s every 15-20 minutes. The metro is best used for getting to Old Trafford to watch the football match.

Taxi and Transfer

England, Manchester, St Albert square - Balck cabs
Photo| Black cabs queuing at Albert square| GETTYIMAGES – ALBERTO MANUEL UROSA TOLEDANO

Prearranged private hire and black cabs are abundant both in Manchester and outside the airport. The journey from the airport to the city takes around 20 minutes when the traffic is clear. If you want a swift and comfortable private transfer, book a car and driver as soon as you touch down at the desk located in The Station. Black cabs can also be found outside The Station, and no booking is required.

Hotel Shuttle Bus

Hotel Shuttle Bus
Photo| White gray van| SHUTTERSTOCK – VIBRANT IMAGE STUDIO

Most major hotel brands will offer a shuttle, especially those located close to Manchester Airport. Most hotel shuttles will run throughout the day, and many will be on offer for free or for a small surcharge. Pre-booking is normally required either when checking in at the hotel or prior to landing if you want a meet and greet service at arrivals. For tired long haul travellers, this can be a stress-free option.

Manchester Airport Hotels You Won’t Want to Fly Away From

From waking up to runway views to afternoon tea in a countryside conservatory, you don’t need to compromise on amenities when choosing Manchester Airport hotels. Manchester is renowned for its wet weather and warm hearts, and this is reflected with its culturally rich accommodation, whether you’re opting for big brand names or family-run B&Bs. As the city is well within reach of the airport, you don’t need to worry about being stuck in duty-free for days. World-class football, designer shopping and culinary cuisine can be found close to many of the airport hotels.

With over 400 million visitors a year turning to HotelsCombined, we’ve highlighted the top accommodation near Manchester Airport. We’ve discovered that most guests landing at Manchester Airport are looking for hotels that offer ease of access to sights beyond the runway. For those who don’t want cookie cutter stays close to the charismatic city, Manchester has plenty of choices.

References

  1. Manchester Airport
  2. Visit Manchester
  3. Manchester Airport Travel
  4. Manchester Public Transport
  5. Visit Britain

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