Manchester Airport (MAN) serves as the primary international gateway to Northern England. Located in Ringway, approximately 14 kilometers south of Manchester city center, the airport is not only known for its role in connecting the region to the world, but also for its distinctive Runway Visitor Park. The park offers a unique opportunity to explore aviation history, including a Concorde aircraft, while providing views of the airport's busy runways.
Terminal layout and gates
Manchester Airport features three main terminals to efficiently handle both domestic and international flights.
Terminal 1
Primarily serves European flights, offering a wide range of amenities including shopping and dining options. It is equipped with full customs and immigration facilities.
Terminal 2
Primarily handles long-haul flights to North America and Asia, along with some European destinations. The new, expanded departure lounge offers modern facilities and extra seating areas.
Terminal 3
Mainly caters to domestic flights within the UK and Ireland, along with some European destinations. Smaller than the other terminals, it provides convenient access to gates and offers a range of passenger services.
Baggage handling at Manchester Airport
At Manchester Airport, the baggage handling process varies depending on ticketing and travel arrangements.
Single ticket connections
For passengers traveling on a single ticket, baggage is typically checked through to the final destination. Customs checks are conducted at the airport for those arriving from non-Schengen countries.
Multiple tickets and different airlines
Travelers holding multiple tickets or flying with different airlines might need to collect their baggage and recheck it for subsequent flights, especially when switching between airlines or terminals.
Security routine
Travelers arriving at Manchester Airport from destinations within the UK or Schengen Area typically bypass additional passport control or security screenings, as these flights are considered domestic.
However, passengers arriving from non-Schengen countries must go through passport control upon entering the UK. During this process, travelers may be asked brief questions about their journey and required to present travel documents such as a passport and, if applicable, a visa.
Dining options at Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes. Below are some popular alternatives.
Giraffe (Terminal 1): Offers a wide range of global dishes in a fun, family-friendly setting.
The Grain Loft (Terminal 1): Known for its craft beers and British pub-style fare.
San Carlo Cicchetti (Terminal 2): Serves Italian small plates and fine wines in a relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
Pork & Pickle (Terminal 3): Ideal for a quick sandwich, coffee or pastry before your flight.
Lounges
Manchester Airport provides several lounges where travelers can relax before their flight. One of them is Escape Lounge, which offers a peaceful environment with snacks, drinks and complimentary Wi-Fi. The lounge is accessible to all passengers for a fee. Another option is the 1903 Lounge in Terminal 3 – an exclusive, adults-only lounge offering premium food and beverages.
Hotels in the area
Several hotels near Manchester Airport offer convenient accommodations for travelers. Below we have gathered some of the hotels available nearby.
Radisson Blu Hotel Manchester Airport: Located directly connected to the airport via the Skywalk, offering modern rooms and amenities.
Clayton Hotel Manchester Airport: A short walk or free shuttle ride from the airport, providing comfortable accommodations and dining options.
Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport: Offers upscale accommodations just a short distance from the terminals, with a complimentary shuttle.
Find the best transportation
There are several transportation options for reaching the central parts of Manchester from the airport – listed below are available options and a price estimate for each type of transportation.
Train
Manchester Airport is connected to the national rail network via the Manchester Airport Train Station, located within the airport complex. Trains run frequently to Manchester city center and other destinations across the UK. Tickets to the city center start at £4.
Bus and coach
National Express and local buses operate regularly between the airport and various locations. Fares to Manchester city center start at £3.
Taxi and ride-sharing
Taxis are available outside each terminal, with fares to Manchester city center typically costing around £25-£30. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.
Car rental
Several car rental companies operate at the airport, with daily rates starting at around £30, depending on the vehicle and season.
If you prefer, you can also choose a private car transfer from the airport. Follow the link below to see available companies.
Manchester, United Kingdom
No
