Getting to Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport is conveniently located and easy to reach by car or public transport. Manchester Airport has 3 terminals, so it’s important to check which one you’ll be departing from before you travel.

The 3 terminals are located relatively close together with various options for transferring between them, should you have a connecting flight from Manchester.

Twilight Bag Drop

Manchester Airport offers a twilight bag drop-off service, which is a great way to make your travel day a little less stressful.

Some of the eligible airlines are: Virgin, TUI, Jet2.com, easyJet, and Ryanair.

If you have an early morning flight, you can simply drop-off your baggage to the designated area, the evening before you fly. You can also park for free at selected airport car parks while you drop off your bags!

Manchester Airport Terminals

Terminal 1

Manchester Airport is currently undergoing some transformation work which will affect Terminal 1 in the future. The project is likely to take until 2026. In the meantime, there are lots of choices when it comes to grabbing a bite to eat – fast food, coffee shops, Boots/WHSmiths for meal deals or options for a sit-down meal and drink.

There are also some more unique facilities in Terminal 1, like the Gaming Point which offers an experience to play on PCs with pre-loaded games, Nintendo Switch and more. Prices start at £7.50 per 30 minutes.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 was updated in 2021, modernising the terminal and upgrading the facilities. There are a wide variety of dining options available, including Archies – a firm favourite with my children! Prices seem to be similar to the usual stores too. There are also a range of restaurants to choose from on the 1st floor mezzanine and shops on the ground floor.

If you’ve brought your own food, or you’re picking up a sandwich, there is plenty of seating available; and the cleaning staff work really hard to keep this area tidy.

Jet2 flies from this terminal, so if you’re planning to travel with them, this is where you’ll be heading.

Terminal 3

Terminal 3 is being renovated in 2025/26 as part of Manchester Airports’ wider transformation project.

Ryanair operates from this terminal and it can be quite busy with limited table seating. However, there are plenty of fast-food options, shops and restaurants to choose from.

Travelling by Train

There are regular trains that run between Manchester Piccadilly Station and Manchester Airport. They operate approximately every 10 minutes, 7 days a week, and travel time is around 20 minutes. Prices are really reasonable and tickets can be booked in advance.

Travelling by Bus

If you prefer taking the bus, there are several routes available that can get you to the airport. For more information about this service, please visit: Bus | Bee Network | Powered by TfGM

Travelling by Car

Manchester Airport is located 9 miles from Manchester City Centre. The postcode is M90 1QX. Be sure to follow the official road signs, rather than solely relying on your Sat Nav, as it may not reflect the latest road layout changes.

Manchester Airport Parking

There are several options for parking at Manchester Airport. My preference (especially when travelling with small children) is the Drop and Go service, allowing you to simply drop off your car and walk into the terminal 3 building with minimal hassle. There is a free shuttle bus going to terminal 1 and 2.

It’s fast and convenient, but can be a pricier option. If you’re looking to save money, there are plenty of affordable off-site parking options nearby which include a short shuttle ride to the terminal.

To find the option that best suits your needs, visit this link which includes an exclusive Travel Mum discount. Please ensure you check that the code TRAVELMUML4P is applied at checkout.

Staying at Manchester Airport

If you’re travelling a little way to get to Manchester Airport, staying the night before can be really useful.

There are several options for accommodation nearby Manchester Airport. Some will include shuttle services to the airport, or parking for an additional fee.

4* Clayton Hotel, Manchester Airport (8.6 Guest Review Score)

The Clayton hotel is 0.16 miles away from Manchester Airport and is a great choice for couples, or families. Prices range from around £135 per night and up to 2 children can stay for free in a family room. This rate includes breakfast and a free shuttle service to the Airport, which operates 24 hours a day!

You can even arrange a free pick-up service from the train station (on request). All in all a great value, convenient option.

3* Holiday Inn Express, Manchester Airport by IHG (8.4 Guest Review Score)

Located 0.9 miles away from Manchester Airport, this budget friendly hotel is a great choice for families. Prices range from around £83 per night for a family of 4 and breakfast is included in this rate.

Parking is available here for an additional cost of £13 per day.

Manchester Airport Lounge Discount

There is an Escape Lounge in all 3 terminals at Manchester Airport. Booking a lounge is a great way to kick off your holiday feeling relaxed. You’ll have access to unlimited WIFI, charging points and complimentary food and drinks.

Children are permitted to use the Escape Lounges and children under 3 can access for free! Entry to the lounge will be available 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight departure time.

Travel Mum has an exclusive 15% discount. Please visit the link below and use this code: AFFTTRAVELM-EL

Airport transfers

If you’ve booked a holiday that doesn’t include airport transfers as part of the package, there are several options including private transfers and shuttle bus services.

Check out some recent Manchester Deals over on the Manchester Page!