Manchester Runway Visitor Park

A purpose-built visitor park alongside the runway, with viewing mounds, a cafe under a preserved Concorde, a children's play area and aircraft tours. Free entry with paid parking. On busy days a commentator provides live information on arriving and departing flights over the tannoy. The main frustration for photographers is the boundary fence - there is no raised platform, so many people end up standing on benches to clear it.

Lens guide

100-400mm for runway movements. Bring something to stand on, or accept shooting over the fence line.

Best time

Open 08:00-20:00 daily. Manchester runs a mix of arrivals and departures throughout the day.

Parking

Paid on-site parking, reasonably priced, with full-day options. Cafe and toilets available.