Stockport was once a beacon of the hat making industry that exported to every corner of the globe and is now one of Greater Manchester’s most vibrant towns with plenty going on. If you find yourself captivated by the beauty of the industrial landmarks here, you won’t be the first. With world famous artist L.S Lowry featuring Stockport in one of his paintings, people have been drawn to this place throughout the years. In this guide, you will find out about the best places to eat and drink when in the area, as well as the town’s best activities and entertainment, from a grand mansion featured in the BBC’s Pride and Prejudice to an afternoon on the terraces watching Stockport County play. With so much to experience, you’ll never be left wondering what to do in Stockport. If you’re planning a stay at one of our Stockport hotels anytime soon, be sure to read on and discover the best things to do in the town.
Things to do in Stockport
Activities
Explore Stockport’s industrial heritage, see what life was like in the town during wartime, visit one of the finest Regency-era buildings in the country or explore some of Cheshire’s best scenery. The list of activities in Stockport is endless. Luckily for you, we have crammed the best ones into a helpful guide.
Nightlife
Whilst the clubbing scene in the area very much belongs to Manchester, there are still plenty of bars and pubs in Stockport to visit if you fancy heading out for some drinks. Real ale fans are in for a real treat, with numerous watering holes serving a wide range of craft ales, as well as cocktails, wines and spirits. Whatever your tipple, you’ll find something that takes your fancy in our guide.
Shopping
If you enjoy a shopping trip, then there’s plenty of retail therapy to be found in Stockport. For an indoor shopping centre filled with retail favourites, such as Debenhams, Primark and Pandora, head to Merseyway Shopping Centre in the heart of the town centre.
Just a short drive away on St. Mary’s Way is Stockport Peel Centre, a large retail park filled with shopping institutions such as Dunelm, Matalan and TK Maxx.
If independent shops are more your cup of tea, then Pear Mill Vintage Emporium on Stockport Road West is the place for you. Housed in one of the town's famous old mills, it is a haven of boutique shops and stalls selling all sorts, from home furnishings to jewellery fashion.
Getting Around
Getting around is a piece of cake in Stockport, thanks to its excellent transport links. The town is served by Stockport Railway Station, which can be found in the town centre on Grand Central Way. Hop on a train to Manchester Piccadilly, and you can get just about anywhere from there.
There is also a bus station nestled beneath Stockport viaduct just off Swaine Street. From here, you can catch a ride around Stockport and its surrounding areas, including Manchester city centre.
If you happen to be flying into the area, Stockport is conveniently located around 10 miles from Manchester Airport, and is easily accessible by train, bus or taxi. You can make your journey even easier by booking into one of our hotels near Manchester Airport.
Shopping in Stockport
