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The 8 Best Places to View Manchester’s Skyline
There’s nothing quite the experience of watching the view of the majestic city from a comfortable and distant skyline. As you may know, Manchester has quite a few spots to view the gorgeous scenery the great city has to offer!
So, are you excited to see the amazing views of Manchester City? Let’s go around the town’s best spots to check out the magnificent skylines!
Cloud 23
Address: Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +441618701688
Website: http://www.cloud23bar.com/
Opening Hours: Sunday to Tuesday 12 to 10 PM; Wednesday to Thursday 12 PM to 12 AM; Friday to Saturday 12 PM to 1 AM
Ever been to a place so high up, you feel like you’re touching the clouds? Welcome to Cloud 23! It’s not just a bar; it’s an experience.
Located on the 23rd floor of the iconic Beetham Tower, it offers a panoramic view of Manchester’s landmarks like the Manchester Cathedral and the Town Hall. And the cocktails? Absolutely divine!
Also, the bar’s design is such that it offers a comfortable and stylish atmosphere in which to enjoy the views.
The reason why it stands out is not just because of the panoramic views it offers from the 23rd floor of the Beetham Tower (manchester skyscrapers), but also because of the fantastic service and selection of drinks and cocktails served at the bar.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Cloud 23 is a popular spot that provides a comfortable and stylish atmosphere to socialise and take in the beautiful sights of the city.
It’s a must-visit location for anyone looking to experience the best that Manchester’s skyline has to offer. Don’t miss out on this fantastic experience—just make sure you won’t get tipsy like I did the last time I visited!
Pro Tip:
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an uninterrupted view of the skyline, and the decor and furnishings are sleek and modern, creating an ambiance that complements the urban landscape.
Heaton Park
Address: Middleton Rd, Manchester M25 2SW, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +441617731085
Website: http://www.manchester.gov.uk/heatonpark
Opening Hours: 24/7
Heaton Park is not your typical skyline-viewing spot, but the natural beauty and the unique perspective it offers make it a must-visit.
It’s a serene escape where you can relax, breathe in the fresh air, and gaze at the city’s iconic structures from afar. And the best part? It’s open 24/7!
It gives you the natural look of the city, especially when sunrises or sets during specific periods.
While it’s more famous for its clean and reserved terrains, this park (Row 101, Do you have to pay for Runway Visitor Park?) can actually be a great skyline due to its higher plateau that gives you the amazing views of the city.
Regardless if you’re local or not, don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of Manchester’s skyline from a different perspective at Heaton Park. It’s a wonderful destination to soak up the scenery, relax, and make some unforgettable memories.
Pro Tip:
Its location on the outskirts of Manchester provides a serene and spacious environment. For me, its location makes it a perfect spot to escape to and enjoy some downtime while taking in the breathtaking views of the skyline.
Cathedral Gardens
Address: Corporation St, Manchester M4 3BG, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +441612345004
Website: https://cathedralgardens.im/
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM to 9 PM
Cathedral Gardens offers a refreshing open space to view the skyline without climbing any tall buildings.
It’s right in the heart of Manchester, and it’s surrounded by historical landmarks and stunning gardens. So, if you’re in the mood for a laid-back day in the city, this is your spot!
What’s also amazing is it’s a versatile area—not just for viewing. This place has got it all—from stunning gardens to historical landmarks and everything in between.
Pro Tip:
Speaking of landmarks, you won’t want to miss the Manchester Cathedral, the National Football Museum (national football museum), and the Printworks entertainment complex. These buildings are just a few of the gems that contribute to the city’s beautiful skyline.
Castlefield Viaduct
Address: Catalan Square, Duke St, Manchester M3 4PU, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +443442491895
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castlefield-viaduct
Opening Hours: 24/7
Castlefield Viaduct is a charming area brimming with history and stunning architecture. The reflections of the buildings on the water and the Victorian-era structures create a picturesque view of Manchester’s skyline.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a stroll, Castlefield won’t disappoint!
And if you’re a night owl, you’re in luck! Castlefield is also a great spot to view the skyline at night. I know I’ve said that it’s best viewed in the daytime, but the night lights and view of the starry skies aren’t to be missed out as well!
So whether you’re looking for historical architecture, stunning waterfront views, or a beautiful nighttime display, Castlefield has it all. Don’t miss out on this charming and unique area in the heart of Manchester.
Pro Tip:
The lights from the buildings and landmarks create a beautiful and atmospheric display, making it the perfect place to take a romantic stroll or simply unwind after a long day.
Alderley Edge
Address: Ryleys Ln, Alderley Edge SK9 7UY, United Kingdom
Contact Details: N/A
Website: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Alderley Edge is a hidden gem where the tranquillity of nature meets the vibrancy of the city. The panoramic view from the red sandstone ridge of Stormy Point is simply mesmerising.
It’s a place of enchantment, a serene escape from the city’s hustle where you can witness the beauty of nature and the city in harmony
And when you finally reach the top of the ridge, you’re rewarded with a jaw-dropping view that stretches as far as the eye can see.
In short, Alderley Edge is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the city and experience the beauty of nature.
Pro Tip:
Early morning visits provide a peaceful and calming atmosphere, while evening visits are perfect for watching the sunset and witnessing the sky being painted with brilliant hues of orange and pink.
Chorlton Water Park
Address: 74 Maitland Ave, Manchester M21 7WH, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +441618815639
Website: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Chorlton Water Park (Chorlton water park) is a hilltop haven offering a unique and panoramic view of Manchester. Surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful lake, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a day out in nature, all while enjoying the stunning view of the city’s skyline.
You can see the city’s towering skyscrapers, historic buildings, and iconic landmarks such as the Manchester Cathedral and Beetham Tower.
Also, the park is surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful lake, which adds to its natural beauty and charm. The park’s serene ambiance makes it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, and birdwatching.
Chorlton Water Park is a place where you can make personal memories with family and friends.
Pro Tip:
You can have a picnic or a barbecue, take a walk, or simply sit and chat while enjoying the stunning view of Manchester’s skyline. It’s an excellent place to view the skyline of Manchester and enjoy a day out in nature.
Imperial War Museum North
Address: Trafford Wharf Rd, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 1TZ, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +441618364000
Website: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-north
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM to 5 PM
The Imperial War Museum is not just a place to learn about history; it’s also an underrated spot to view the skyline.
The museum offers a unique perspective on the city, allowing you to reflect on the past while enjoying the present beauty of Manchester’s cityscape.
Now, you might be thinking: How is this a great place to view the skyline? Fortunately, you can experience the cityscapes and backdrops of the amazing sky view by watching from the outdoor windows inside the museum.
While it’s true that it may not be your run-in-the-mill attraction to view the skyline, it certainly is an underrated place to visit which makes it all the more special!
Pro Tip:
The exhibits at the museum aim to personalise the experience of war by telling the stories of individuals who experienced it firsthand, whether they were soldiers, civilians, or resistance fighters.
The Refuge
Address: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA, United Kingdom
Contact Details: 0161 233 5151
Website: https://the-refuge-bar.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral
Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday 12 noon to 11 pm; Friday & Saturday 12 noon to 12 midnight; Sunday 12 noon to 10:30 pm
Craving some delicious food with your skyline view? The Refuge has you covered! From its rooftop terrace, you can savour panoramic views of the city while indulging in some of the best dishes Manchester has to offer.
That’s right, The Refuge is a wonderful restaurant that provides customers with glorious food while looking outside the window for some of the most breathtaking scenes of the city.
The Refuge restaurant in Manchester is located in a historic building with beautiful architecture that provides a unique backdrop to the city skyline.
From the restaurant’s rooftop terrace, visitors can enjoy some spectacular panoramic views of the city’s skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Town Hall and the Beetham Tower.
Pro Tip:
Here are my favourite Items on The Refuge’s menu! Be sure to try at least one of them out:
- Pollen Bakery sourdough, Polypore mushroom and black garlic butter
- Olives, roquito peppers
- Gochujang-glazed pork belly
- Sea bass, sambal
- Corn ribs, hoisin sauce
- Sticky toffee pudding, orange miso
- Chocolate, harissa and rose torte, raspberries, cream
