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The 11 Best Spots to Watch the Sunrise in Manchester

Look, I’m not usually one for setting alarms unless it’s for a flight or Black Friday deals, but chasing a sunrise? That’s a different story. There’s something magical about those early hours when the city’s still half asleep, the air is crisp, and you’ve got the world to yourself. 

And let’s be real—sunrises are like nature’s way of saying, “Hey, here’s your reward for actually waking up early for once.” If you’re the type who’s never seen the sun rise because, well, sleep, trust me, it’s worth sacrificing your duvet cocoon for at least once. 

Whether you’re into scenic parks, rugged trails, or dramatic peaks, Manchester’s got no shortage of jaw-dropping spots to catch the first light of day. 

And who knows? You might even find yourself becoming one of those annoyingly chipper morning people. (Just kidding, you’re safe here.)

Let’s dive into the best sunrise locations around Manchester that’ll make you glad you dragged yourself out of bed.

Tegg’s Nose Country Park

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Directions

Right, let’s talk about Tegg’s Nose. First off, don’t be fooled by the name—it’s not some weird geological feature shaped like a nostril. What you’re getting here is a front-row seat to a sunrise that could rival any postcard. 

Nestled at the edge of the Peak District, this spot is a goldmine for early risers. You’ll find trails that wind through old quarries and lush greenery, all leading to panoramic views that’ll have you questioning why you ever sleep in.

You don’t need to be Bear Grylls to navigate the paths here; they’re well-marked, so you won’t end up wandering, cursing your morning self. Once at the top, the sun creeping over the hills turns everything into a warm glow.

It’s peaceful but not so isolated that you’ll miss a bit of friendly banter with fellow sunrise chasers. And if you’re feeling peckish after all that hiking, there’s a café nearby serving up hot drinks and snacks.

Pro tip:

The Ridge Path is your go-to for the prime view. Trust me, the extra steps are worth it when you see the sun lighting up the Peak District like it owns the place.

Peel Tower

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Directions

Getting at Peel Toer means tackling Holcombe Hill, which, fair warning, is steep enough to have your legs questioning your life choices. But once you make it to the top, you’re greeted by a towering monument dedicated to Sir Robert Peel, the chap behind the modern police force. 

The views? Oh, they’re next level. From this vantage point, you can spot the Pennines, Manchester’s skyline, and even, if the weather’s playing nice, bits of North Wales.

Now, the tower itself adds a bit of drama to your sunrise snaps. 

Picture this: the first rays of light hitting the tower while the rest of the city is still wiping sleep from its eyes. Plus, there’s a sense of history here that adds depth to your visit. 

You’re standing where countless others have stood, soaking in the same timeless views.

Pro tip:

Pack a pair of binoculars. You’ll want them to fully appreciate the sprawling landscapes and distant landmarks. And don’t forget a flask of tea—it gets breezy up there.

White Nancy

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Directions

White Nancy isn’t just a sunrise spot; it’s a local legend. Perched on Kerridge Hill, this quirky white structure looks like something straight out of a fairytale. 

Fun fact: it was built to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo. Now, it serves as a beacon for walkers and sunrise seekers alike. Getting to White Nancy is a bit of a workout, but it’s short and sweet. 

Start your journey in Bollington, winding your way through charming paths that gradually reveal stunning views. When you finally reach the top, you’ll be treated to an uninterrupted panorama of the Cheshire plains. 

As the sun rises, it bathes the fields, villages, and distant hills in soft, golden light. And there’s something about White Nancy standing there, all stoic and bright, that makes the whole experience feel a bit magical.

Pro tip:

Follow the Gritstone Trail for a scenic and relatively easy climb. And if you’re up for a longer walk, the nearby village of Bollington is perfect for exploring after your morning adventure.

Mellor Cross

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Directions

Up next, Mellor Cross—perched on the hills overlooking the Cheshire Plain, this spot is a hidden gem for sunrise hunters. It’s not the easiest to find, but trust me, the journey is half the fun. 

You’ll trek through some proper countryside paths, with sheep as your only traffic. Once you get there, you’re greeted by the iconic stone cross that’s stood tall for over 100 years, a quiet sentinel watching the sun roll in over Manchester.

The view here is unbeatable. On a clear day, you can spot everything from the city’s skyscrapers to the rolling hills of Derbyshire. The sunrise bathes the whole scene in a golden glow, turning the morning fog into a shimmering blanket.

Plus, it’s usually quiet, so you can take it all in without the crowds. It’s just you, the sunrise, and maybe a few birds for company.

Pro tip:

Bring sturdy boots, those paths can get muddy. And if you’re an early-bird photographer, Mellor Cross offers some of the best shots with its silhouette framed against the rising sun.

Hartshead Pike

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Directions

Hartshead Pike is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into a secret. This old tower, sitting atop a hill in Tameside, has been a landmark for centuries. 

The climb to the top isn’t too taxing, but it’s enough to get your heart rate up, and the reward? Oh, it’s worth it. As you crest the hill, the tower looms into view, framed perfectly by the rising sun.

The real magic, though, is in the panorama. You get a sweeping view of Greater Manchester, with the city slowly waking up as the sunlight creeps in. 

On the other side, you’ve got the hills of the Peak District, all rugged and bathed in morning light. It’s the perfect mix of urban and rural, making it a sunrise spot that ticks all the boxes.

Pro tip:

Check the weather before you go. If it’s clear, you’ll get views for miles. And don’t forget to explore the area around the Pike, it’s packed with history and little hidden trails.

Kinder Scout

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Directions

Now, Kinder Scout is the heavyweight champion of sunrise spots. It’s the highest point in the Peak District, and getting there isn’t for the faint-hearted. But if you’re up for a challenge, this place will blow your mind. 

The hike up from Edale is a bit of a beast, with rocky paths and a steady incline, but every step brings you closer to a view that’s nothing short of spectacular. At the top, you’re greeted by vast moorlands and jagged rock formations, all glowing in the soft light of dawn. 

The sunrise here feels almost otherworldly, with the sky shifting from deep blues to fiery oranges. And because it’s a bit of a trek, you’ll often have the summit to yourself—just you, the wind, and the unbeatable views stretching as far as the eye can see.

Pro tip:

Set off early and bring plenty of layers, it can get chilly at the top. And if you’ve got the time, extend your hike to take in the famous Kinder Downfall, especially after a rainy spell.

Stanage Edge

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Directions

Stanage Edge is where adventure meets serenity, and it’s a top-tier spot for sunrise chasers. Famous among climbers and hikers, this dramatic gritstone escarpment stretches for miles, offering some of the best views in the Peak District.

Getting there involves a bit of a hike, but nothing too daunting, even for a casual walker When you reach the edge, it feels like stepping onto the set of a fantasy epic. 

As the sun peeks over the horizon, the landscape below transforms into a patchwork of glowing fields and misty valleys. The early morning light turns the rocky ledges into a warm, golden hue. 

Pro tip:

Start your hike from the Hollin Bank car park for the most direct route. And if you’re into history, keep an eye out for the ancient millstones scattered around—they’re a nod to the area’s industrial past.

Lyme Park

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Directions

Lyme Park is a stunning estate with sprawling gardens, a majestic hall, and some of the most picturesque sunrise views you’ll find. It’s a perfect spot for those who want a gentler start to their day. 

The walk to the best sunrise points is easy and scenic, winding through lush greenery and past grazing deer that look like they’ve stepped out of a Jane Austen novel. Once the sun starts to rise, the whole park is bathed in soft, golden light. 

Head to The Cage, a hilltop hunting lodge, for a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. It’s a peaceful yet impressive way to greet the day, with the city skyline in the distance and the rolling hills of Cheshire all around.

Pro tip:

Arrive early to avoid the crowds and secure a parking spot. And if you’re a fan of period dramas, you’ll love knowing this is where parts of Pride and Prejudice were filmed.

Heaton Park

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Directions

If you’re after a sunrise spot closer to home, Heaton Park is the place to be. It’s one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, and it’s got everything from serene lakes to historic landmarks. 

The best part? You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy it—just find a comfy spot on the rolling hills, and you’re good to go. As the sun climbs, it lights up the park’s vast open spaces, casting long shadows and highlighting the iconic Heaton Hall in the distance. 

The morning air is crisp, and the park is wonderfully quiet, apart from the occasional dog walker or jogger. It’s an easy, relaxing way to soak in some natural beauty without straying too far from Manchester’s city centre.

Pro tip:

Bring a blanket and some breakfast snacks, picnicking while the sun rises is a top-tier way to start your day.

Bamford Edge

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Directions

Bamford Edge is the kind of place that makes you feel on top of the world, quite literally. This striking gritstone escarpment offers jaw-dropping views over the Ladybower Reservoir and surrounding peaks. 

Getting there is a moderate hike, but it’s one of those walks where every step builds your anticipation. By the time you reach the edge, you’ll feel like you’ve earned the show.

The sunrise here is an absolute stunner. Picture this: the first light of day shimmering across the water below, while the hills are cloaked in soft morning mist. It’s peaceful, dramatic, and frankly, a photographer’s dream.

If you’re into those epic, cinematic shots, Bamford Edge has you covered.

Pro tip:

Park at Heatherdene and head up early. You’ll want time to find your perfect perch before the sky starts its morning transformation.

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