Stride out on foot to discover this beautiful, vibrant city. Whether it be designated routes or exploring hidden corners and fantastic architecture, you’re sure to enjoy wandering around and taking in the sights.
If you're planning on staying at YHA Manchester, why not download a free map and get out exploring?
All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area at your own pace.
Castlefield basin
Easy route (PDF, 1.1MB)
1.5 miles, takes 30m - 1h
City Tour
Easy route (PDF, 1.5MB)
3.4 miles, takes 1h 15m - 2h
All our walking routes are tried and tested to help you explore this beautiful part of England. To assist with route selection and planning, you’ll also find a description of the hazards and facilities, accessibility information and points of interest on the maps
Want to understand more about our maps or develop your walking skills? Here are some useful guides we have created to help you to prepare for your chosen walk
WiFi
Free parking on premises
24-hour reception
Salford Water Sports Centre is a state of the art facility. Learn how to sail, canoe, windsurf, kayak, and drive a power boat in a safe and secure environment. Trained instructors will be with you...
One of Manchester’s standout buildings, The John Rylands Library is, well, not particularly library-like. Commissioned in memory of the man whose name it bears, the library is more reminiscent of a...
Alcotraz Cell Block Three-Four promises to be one of the most unique cocktail bars in Manchester. Once convicted, inmates are taken into an exciting world of mischief as they are instructed by a...
A fascinating museum tracking the developments of the industrial revolution in Manchester, including the return of Stephenson’s Rocket to Manchester for the first time in over 180 years. One major...
Friday 19th September 2025 Distance: 3-4 miles (4.6-6.4km) Duration: 2-3 hours Led by: Canal & River Trust Discovery and connection A short and leisurely walk from YHA Manchester learning about the...
A hotbed of sporting activity, Manchester is proud to boast three magnificent sporting venues. Old Trafford is familiar to most as the Theatre of Dreams, home of Manchester United, but to others as...
4.5 miles The amazing home to British cycling. From elite athletes to novices, the cycling and BMX tracks offer sessions for everyone. Visit the website
One of Lancashire’s favourite sons, LS Lowry’s work is on permanent display at The Lowry. The Lowry is an architectural flagship, consisting of a state-of-the-art gallery and theatre complex, with...
Visit the home of Manchester United and see the stadium through the eyes of the legends themselves.
Manchester’s vast and varied history is celebrated across a number of excellent museums which span the city. Perhaps best known are the IWM North , a superb, modern museum depicting stories of...
The Trafford Centre is a large indoor shopping centre and leisure complex with over 200 retailers, regular events and a cinema. With lots of places to eat and drink plus laser quest, miniature golf...
The best practice facilities to help you learn, practice, improve and enjoy your golf. There's also a Dino Falls Adventure Golf course for children. Visit the website
Try indoor skydiving - perfect for group bookings, first time flyers, skydivers and pro flyers.
Learn to ski and snowboard on an incredible 180 metre long, real snow slope. Little ones will love the magic of the snowplay area.
Try your hand at mountain climbing in a safe and secure environment, taster sessions and full courses are available at Chill Factore. This amazing indoor facility is great for a fun fuelled day out...
Set on the edge of Hollingworth Lake, the Centre offers a range of water sports including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and rowing. Visit the Centre's website