How Far is Manchester Airport? A Comprehensive Guide

When planning a trip, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “How far is my departure point from the airport?” For those travelling to or from Manchester Airport, this question is especially relevant given its status as one of the UK’s busiest and most well-connected airports. Whether you’re a local planning a holiday or a visitor arriving in the North West of England, understanding the distance, travel options, and logistics can make your journey smoother. 

At Airport Trips, we’re proud to offer reliable, comfortable, and affordable taxi services to and from Manchester Airport, ensuring you get to your destination hassle-free. In this blog, we’ll explore how far Manchester Airport is from various key locations, the travel options available, and why choosing Airport Trips is your best bet for a stress-free airport transfer.

Where is Manchester Airport Located?

Manchester Airport (MAN) is situated in Ringway, a small area just south of Manchester city centre. It lies on the border between Cheshire and Greater Manchester, approximately 7.5 nautical miles (around 8.6 statute miles or 13.8 kilometres) southwest of Manchester’s bustling city centre. 

This strategic location makes it a vital hub not only for Manchester residents but also for those across the North West and beyond. Serving as the UK’s third-busiest airport, it connects millions of passengers annually to domestic and international destinations, with three terminals catering to a wide range of flights.

How Far is Manchester Airport from Key Locations?

The distance to Manchester Airport varies depending on your starting point. Below, we break down the approximate distances and travel times from some popular locations across the UK, focusing on road travel since that’s where Airport Trips comes in to save the day!

Manchester City Centre

• Distance: Approximately 9.1 miles (14.6 km)
• Travel Time by Car: Around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic
• Manchester city centre is the closest major urban area to the airport. Whether you’re heading to catch a flight from Piccadilly Station or departing after a night out in the Northern Quarter, the journey is short and straightforward. However, peak traffic times (like rush hour) can add a few extra minutes, so planning ahead is key.

Liverpool

• Distance: Approximately 36 miles (57 km)
• Travel Time by Car: About 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Liverpool, a vibrant city known for its music and maritime history, is just a short hop from Manchester Airport. The M62 motorway provides a direct route, making it an easy drive—perfect for those who prefer flying from Manchester over Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

Leeds

• Distance: Approximately 56.6 miles (91 km)
• Travel Time by Car: Around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
• Leeds, a bustling city in West Yorkshire, is well-connected to Manchester Airport via the M62. For those in Yorkshire looking for a wider range of flight options, Manchester Airport is a convenient choice.

Sheffield

• Distance: Approximately 44 miles (70 km)
• Travel Time by Car: About 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes
• Sheffield’s proximity to Manchester Airport makes it an appealing option for South Yorkshire residents. The journey typically involves the M67 and M60, with scenic views of the Peak District along the way.

Birmingham

• Distance: Approximately 80 miles (128 km)
• Travel Time by Car: Around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes
• For those in the Midlands, Manchester Airport is a viable alternative to Birmingham Airport, especially for international flights. The M6 motorway provides a direct route, though traffic can vary.

London

• Distance: Approximately 192 miles (308 km) from Central London
• Travel Time by Car: Around 3.5 to 4.5 hours
• While London has its own major airports, Manchester Airport serves as a northern gateway for those in the capital seeking specific routes or more affordable fares. The long drive makes it less common by car, but Airport Trips can still get you there comfortably if needed!

Best Way to Get to Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport’s accessibility is one of its strengths, with multiple transport options available. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Car/Taxi: Driving or taking a taxi is the most flexible option, offering door-to-door convenience. With Airport Trips, you can pre-book a taxi from anywhere in the UK to Manchester Airport, ensuring a fixed price and a comfortable ride tailored to your needs.
• Train: The airport has its own railway station, “The Station,” with frequent services to Manchester Piccadilly (15-20 minutes), Liverpool, Leeds, and beyond. Tickets start at around £2.80 if booked in advance, though prices rise closer to the travel date.
• Bus/Coach: National Express and local buses like the 43 and 103 connect the airport to Manchester city centre and other towns. Journey times are longer (e.g., 45 minutes to the city centre), but it’s budget-friendly.
• Tram: The Metrolink tram system links the airport to Manchester city centre and surrounding areas, with a journey time of about 1 hour to the city.

While public transport is cost-effective, it often involves fixed schedules, crowded conditions, and extra effort with luggage—challenges that a taxi service like Airport Trips eliminates entirely.

Why Choose Airport Trips for Your Manchester Airport Transfer?

At Airport Trips, we understand that getting to the airport is more than just a journey—it’s the start or end of an adventure. That’s why we’ve designed our taxi service to prioritise your comfort, reliability, and peace of mind. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Nationwide Coverage

Whether you’re in Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, or even further afield, Airport Trips offers taxi services across the UK. No matter your starting point, we’ll get you to Manchester Airport on time.

2. Fixed Prices, No Surprises

We provide transparent, fixed-price quotes upfront, so you won’t face unexpected surcharges or hidden fees. Toll charges, parking fees, and taxes are all included—what you see is what you pay.

3. Variety of Vehicles

Travelling solo? Our saloon cars seat up to 4 passengers with 2 suitcases. Got a group? Our 8-seater minibuses accommodate larger parties with ample luggage space. For a touch of luxury, our VIP Mercedes options ensure a premium experience.

4. Family-Friendly Features

We cater to families with free child seats available in all vehicles, making travel with little ones safe and stress-free.

5. 24/7 Availability

Flights don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Airport Trips operates round-the-clock, so whether it’s an early morning departure or a late-night arrival, we’ve got you covered.

6. Easy Booking

Pre-book your taxi online via our website or give us a call. Our user-friendly system lets you choose your vehicle, specify pick-up details, and secure your ride in minutes.

7. Flight Monitoring

Delayed flight? No problem. We track your flight in real-time and adjust pick-up times accordingly, ensuring your driver is there when you land.

Manchester Airport: A Gateway to the World

Beyond its distance from key locations, Manchester Airport is a destination in itself. With shops, restaurants, and lounges across its terminals, it’s designed to make your pre-flight experience enjoyable. From grabbing a coffee at Starbucks to browsing duty-free, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. And when you land, Airport Trips will be waiting to whisk you away to your next stop—whether that’s a hotel in Manchester or a home hundreds of miles away.

Final Thoughts:

So, how far is Manchester Airport? It depends on where you’re coming from, but one thing’s certain: with Airport Trips, the journey feels shorter, easier, and far more pleasant. We’re more than just a taxi service we’re your travel partner, committed to getting you to and from Manchester Airport with zero hassle. Whether it’s a quick trip from the city centre or a longer ride from across the UK, trust Airport Trips to make the distance work for you.

Ready to book? Visit our website or call us today to secure your Manchester Airport transfer. With Airport Trips, the question isn’t just “how far?”—it’s “how easy can it be?” Let’s make your next trip the best one yet.