The images have been released to the public following the announcement of the project last month.

Terminal 3 is now the oldest terminal at Manchester Airport following the £1.5bn redevelopment of Terminal 2 that led to the closure of Terminal 1.

Terminals 1 and 3 are joined so the new project in Terminal 3 incorporates space in what was Terminal 1.

It will make Terminal 3 bigger and brighter with more seating and natural light as well as space for a range of new shops and food and drink outlets – some of which are illustrated in the newly released images.

For more information on the project to rejuvenate improve Terminal 3, please see this press release.  

As the biggest and best airport in the North, Manchester Airport serves more than 200 destinations through over 50 airlines, giving travellers across our region the opportunity to discover breathtaking fireworks celebrations spanning Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East.

From riverside illuminations in Germany to world-famous Independence Day displays over New York harbour and Dubai’s dazzling New Year revelry, here we look at some of the spectacular celebrations that travellers from the North can enjoy, thanks to Manchester Airport's unrivalled route network – and how you can get there.

Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said: "Bonfire Night is one of Britain's most cherished traditions, bringing communities together to enjoy spectacular fireworks displays and celebrations.

"But it isn't just a British thing – almost every culture around the world, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, has a celebration of lights at roughly this point in the year as the nights draw in. Most of them include unique traditions and twists so it's a great time of year to explore other places.

"As the biggest and best airport in the North of England, we're proud to connect our passengers directly to more than 200 incredible destinations across Europe and further afield, allowing them to enjoy some of the most iconic cultural events and celebrations on the planet."

Rhein in Flammen, Cologne, Germany

Fly direct from Manchester to Cologne with Ryanair on August 13, 2027 and return on August 18, 2027 from £97pp return.*

"Rhein in Flammen" (Rhine in Flames) is one of Europe’s most extravagant summer festivals. Illuminated boats navigate the river while synchronised fireworks light up the riverbanks. The fireworks are just part of the fun, with live music, food stalls and festivities that draw visitors from across Germany and beyond. There are five separate events along the river’s course spread across the summer, but the oldest and largest takes place in Koblenz, near Cologne, on the second Saturday of August.

Bastille Day, Carcassonne, France

Fly direct from Manchester to Carcassonne with Ryanair on July 13, 2027 and return on July 22, 2027 from £143pp return.*

Every July, the medieval citadel of Carcassonne in southern France provides arguably the country’s most dramatic backdrop for Bastille Day fireworks. Thousands gather around the fortified city walls to watch an enormous pyrotechnic display illuminate the UNESCO-listed fortress, in one of France’s largest displays outside Paris. Bastille Day marks the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789, one of the events that precipitated the French Revolution, and today it is still France’s main national holiday.

Festa del Redentore, Venice, Italy

Fly direct from Manchester to Venice with Ryanair on July 15, 2027 and return on July 21, 2027 from £136pp return.*

One of Venice’s oldest and most magical traditions, the Festa del Redentore lights up the sky over the lagoon on the third weekend of July. Onlookers watch from decorated boats in St Mark’s Basin and waterfront terraces throughout the city, while other events include family feasts and traditional Venetian rowing regattas along the Giudecca Canal. The festival began in 1577 as a celebration of the end of the Plague.

São João Festival, Porto, Portugal

Fly direct from Manchester to Porto with Ryanair on June 22, 2027 and return on June 26, 2027 from £122pp return.*

Porto's São João Festival is among Europe's most unique summer celebrations. Every 23 June – the feast day of St John the Baptist - revellers fill the streets for a night of music, dancing and traditions before gathering along the Douro River to watch a spectacular midnight fireworks display. It has long been one of Portugal’s most important cultural events but now attracts visitors from across Europe too.

St Stephen's Day, Budapest, Hungary

Fly direct from Manchester to Budapest with Ryanair on August 17, 2027 and return om August 24, 2027 from £175pp return.*

Hungary's national holiday on 20 August celebrates the country’s first Christian ruler, King Stephen I, and it culminates in a celebration that bills itself as Europe's largest fireworks display. Pyrotechincs are launched from multiple points along the Danube, creating a breathtaking spectacle framed by Budapest's iconic landmarks including the Parliament Building and Buda Castle.

New Year's Eve, Singapore

Fly direct from Manchester to Singapore with Singapore Airlines on December 29, 2026 and return on January 3, 2027 from £1,174pp return.*

New Year’s Eve is far from being a uniquely Singaporean tradition, but few places on Earth can claim to celebrate it so spectacularly. The city-state's Marina Bay becomes the focal point for an enormous display which also incorporates light projections and music. The city’s futuristic skyline provides a jaw-dropping backdrop, and as one of the first cities in Asia to ring in the New Year, the sight of Singapore aglow with fireworks on New Year’s Eve is world-renowned.

UAE National Day, Dubai

Fly direct from Manchester to Dubai with Emirates on December 1, 2026 and return on December 4, 2026 from £658pp return.*

Few places can give Singapore a run for its money in terms of scale, but Dubai is one of them. The city is renowned for extraordinary displays marking both UAE National Day, on 2^nd December, and New Year's Eve, with fireworks launched across multiple landmarks including the Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building.

If you're travelling to Dubai from Manchester Airport with Emirates, the dazzlement begins before you've even boarded your flight, thanks to the airline's new luxury lounge, with a Northern-inspired menu and direct boarding.

Independence Day, New York, USA

Fly direct from Manchester to New York with Virgin Atlantic on June 23, 2027 and return on July 5, 2027 from £680pp return.*

The Fourth of July fireworks over New York are culturally iconic, but won’t disappoint. Explosions of colour light up the skyline and waterways as millions of spectators gather to celebrate the US Declaration of Independence in 1776. Across the city, families enjoy a ‘cookout’, or barbecue – but if you’ve not got a local host, book a place at a rooftop BBQ party in one of the Big Apple’s sky bars, the perfect place to take in the display.

L'International des Feux Loto-Quebec, Montreal, Canada

Fly direct from Manchester to Toronto with Airtransat on July 1, 2027 and return on July 8, 2027 from only £631pp return.*

Travellers can fly direct from Manchester to Toronto, before continuing to Montreal by direct train or bus, to experience L'International des Feux Loto-Quebec – the world's largest international fireworks competition. Teams from around the globe compete throughout July and August, combining music, choreography and pyrotechnics to create a series of spectacular displays.

*Prices quoted are available when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website, from Manchester to the destination specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included.

Yesterday afternoon marked the launch of easyJet’s brand-new direct route from Manchester to Nuremberg, opening up a convenient gateway to the cultural heartland of Bavaria renowned for its world-famous Christmas markets, medieval architecture, rich history and celebrated Franconian food and drink.

Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said:

“We’re proud to connect people from across the North with the destinations they want to travel to – so it’s incredibly exciting to see easyJet launching direct flights to Nuremberg from Manchester, just in time for the city’s iconic Christmas markets.

“This service makes us the only UK airport outside London with a direct connection to Bavaria’s second city.

“Nuremberg is a hotbed of German culture, history, cuisine and architecture – there’s so much to explore within the city and we’re sure it’ll prove extremely popular with travellers from Manchester.”

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said:

“We’re really pleased to be celebrating the launch of our first flight from Manchester to Nuremberg today and welcoming customers onboard our newest route from the North West.

“Nuremberg is a fantastic addition to our network and an ideal destination for a winter city break, from its famous Christmas markets to its fascinating history and medieval architecture.

“The launch further expands the choice we offer our customers from Manchester, providing even more great-value connectivity across Europe and beyond.”

Nuremberg, the second-largest city in the Bavaria region behind Munich, is often overlooked in favour of Germany’s bigger cities. Yet its compact size, walkable Old Town and wealth of cultural attractions make it an ideal choice for a short break.

And while Nuremberg’s Christmas market attracts visitors from around the globe each winter, the city offers far more than festive charm alone.

Here, we run through eight of the top things to see, do and try in Nuremberg.

Experience Nuremberg’s world-famous Christmas Market

No visit to Nuremberg in the run-up to Christmas would be complete without a trip to the Christkindlesmarkt. Dating back centuries, the compact market is a feast for the senses, filling the city's picturesque Hauptmarkt square with traditional wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, decorations and festive treats.

Other stands serve up Gluhwein (mulled wine), roasted almonds and gingerbread, while scheduled and spontaneous performances from choirs, carol singers and musicians provide a magical soundtrack.

Explore Nuremberg Castle

Perched high above the city, Nuremberg Castle offers panoramic views across the red-roofed Old Town. Once one of the most important imperial residences of the Holy Roman Empire, the castle complex includes historic buildings, towers and courtyards that tell the story of Nuremberg's significance throughout the Middle Ages. Visitors can climb the Sinwell Tower or descend into the Deep Well, which reaches more than 160 feet below ground.

Wander through the Old Town

Surrounded by some of Europe's best-preserved medieval city walls, Nuremberg's Old Town is a delight to explore on foot. Cobbled streets wind between half-timbered houses, elegant churches and bustling cafes. Highlights include the Schöner Brunnen fountain and the charming medieval covered bridges spanning the River Pegnitz.

Visit the Palace of Justice and Nazi Party Rally Grounds

There is a darker side to Nuremberg’s history, and visitors can learn more at two of the city’s most popular museums. The Palace of Justice hosted trials of leading government figures from Nazi Germany after the end of World War Two, and the building now hosts the Memorium Nuremberg Trials museum, dedicated to exploring how Nazi criminals were brought to justice in the aftermath of the war.

The nearby Nazi Party Rally Grounds, an outdoor arena specially constructed to hold enormous annual rallies in the 1930s, offers a different kind of insight into this period of history – looking at the rise of National Socialism and Fascism in Europe, examining its consequences and highlighting the lessons handed down to future generations that must not be forgotten.

Step inside the city’s historic churches

Among the city's most recognisable landmarks, two huge medieval churches face each other across the River Pegnitz in the heart of the city. St Lorenz Church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, whose twin towers dominate the city’s skyline, while St Sebaldus Church – which dates to the early 1200s – is best known for its connections to Nuremberg-born baroque composer Johann Pachelbel, whose Canon in D Major is one of the most iconic pieces of classical music from the medieval period.

Try Nuremberg's famous sausages

Foodies will make a beeline for street stands selling Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, the city's most famous culinary export. These chipolata-sized grilled pork sausages have been produced in Nuremberg for hundreds of years and are typically served ‘Drei im Weggla’ – meaning three at a time – in a crusty bread roll topped with sauerkraut and German mustard.

Sample traditional gingerbread

Nürnberger Lebkuchen has become globally renowned. The festive gingerbread treat has a Protected Geographical Indication – meaning it can only be made in the city and its surrounds – and comes in a variety of styles, from chocolate-coated varieties to nut-based recipes. Although historically associated with Christmas, many bakeries sell them year-round.

Discover Franconian beer culture

Franconia – the part of Bavaria centred around the city – is home to one of the highest concentrations of breweries in the world, and Nuremberg provides an excellent introduction to its brewing heritage. Traditional beer cellars, cosy taverns and historic brewhouses can be found throughout the city, offering everything from smoky Märzen-style beers to crisp lagers brewed using centuries-old methods.

Flights from Manchester to Nuremberg will operate twice per week until early January 2027, on Mondays and Fridays, with return fares from only £64pp.*

*Fare quoted is the cheapest return fare available on easyJet’s Manchester – Nuremberg service at the time of publication. This price does not include extras like seat selection or hold luggage.

The North of England is home to some of the most amazing scenery in the world – but thanks to Manchester Airport you need not restrict yourself to the Peak District or Lake District – you can combine autumn hikes with  experiences in some of Europe’s, and the world’s, most beautiful spots.

The North’s hub has an enviable route network with more than 200 destinations spread across four continents, with flights operated by more than 50 airlines – so there are plenty of options for avid walkers wanting to soak in the sights of the Autumn season.

Here are some of the best Autumn foliage hiking destinations accessible from Manchester Airport with a direct flight.

Nízke Tatry National Park, Slovakia

Fly direct from Manchester to Bratislava with Ryanair from £33pp return.

A long-established favourite with hikers in Eastern Europe, but still under the radar of most international tourists, Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains boast vast beech and spruce forests that turn brilliant shades of gold and orange throughout October. Hiking routes around Chopok, Ďumbier and the Demänovská Valley offer panoramic views across colourful countryside, and small-town hostelries serve hearty traditional dishes like Kapustnica soup and sheep cheese dumplings.

Red Wine Hiking Trail, Germany

Fly direct from Manchester to Cologne with Ryanair from £65pp return.

Germany's famous Rotweinwanderweg (‘Red Wine Hiking Trail’) runs through the scenic Ahr Valley, just south of Cologne. The trail links a series of charming wine villages where vineyards turn deep red and gold in autumn, offering spectacular seasonal scenery alongside opportunities to sample local vintages.

Stockholm, Sweden

Fly direct from Manchester to Stockholm with Scandinavian Airlines from £150pp return.

The lakes surrounding Stockholm deliver classic Scandinavian autumnal scenery and give travellers the chance to combine rural walks with a city break. Forests of birch, aspen and pine frame countless interlinked lakes and islands, while hiking trails in Tyresta National Park and around Lake Mälaren showcase some of Sweden's most vibrant seasonal colours. Tyresta’s 5km-long ‘stroller loop’ is a great option for young families.

Scottish Highlands

Fly direct from Manchester to Aberdeen with Loganair from £211pp return.

Autumn is one of the best seasons to explore the Scottish Highlands, with fewer crowds and comfortable hiking conditions. Forests of Scots pine and native birch glow gold and copper, while hiking routes through the Cairngorms provide unforgettable views of mountains, forests and lochs. After your hike, warm your bones in the evening with a wee dram of local whisky in a cosy Aberdeen pub.

Kerry Mountains, Ireland

Fly direct from Manchester to Kerry with Ryanair from £31pp return.

The mountains around Killarney National Park burst into colour at this time of year. Trails around Torc Mountain, the Gap of Dunloe and Carrauntoohil – Ireland’s highest mountain – combine colourful woodland, waterfalls and dramatic scenery. The town of Killarney, which gives the national park its name, is a great place to base yourself – a charming and quintessentially Irish town on the banks of Lough Leane.

Lake Iseo, Italy

Fly direct from Manchester to Milan Bergamo with Ryanair from £31pp return.

The Italian Lakes region is spectacular in Autumn and particularly around Lake Iseo, where wooded hillsides develop rich seasonal colours, framed by distant snow-dusted Alpine peaks. Monte Isola, an island in the middle of the lake, is home to a village that Italians consider one of their country’s most beautiful, and is ringed by picturesque hiking trails. With no cars permitted on the island and only mopeds and bicycles traversing its roads and trails, you can be sure of a peaceful Autumn break.

Julian Alps and Lake Bled, Slovenia

Fly direct from Manchester to Ljubljana with easyJet from £60pp return.

Slovenia’s Lake Bled is popular year-round but perhaps at its most majestic around October as the leaves turn in the surrounding forests. Beyond the lake, the Julian Alps offer excellent hiking opportunities through colourful alpine woodland and mountain valleys. Triglav, a short distance from Lake Bled, is Slovenia’s highest mountain and features on the country’s flag.

Ontario, Canada

Fly direct from Manchester to Toronto with Airtransat from £419pp return.

Ontario's Fall colours attract visitors from around the world. Algonquin Provincial Park, the Niagara Escarpment and countless hiking trails north of Toronto provide vibrant displays of red maple, oak and birch foliage – while the Rouge National Urban Park brings a splash of Autumn colour into Toronto itself.

North-East USA

Fly direct from Manchester to New York JFK with Virgin Atlantic from £718pp return.

New York City is a great place to visit at any time of year – and in the Autumn it serves as a gateway to some of the world's most iconic Fall scenery. Within a few hours’ drive of the city, hikers can explore the Hudson Valley, Catskills and Adirondacks, with a jaw dropping array of reds, browns and oranges. Deeper into New England, areas like the White Mountains in New Hampshire and the Kancamagus Highway offer the kind of stunning forested mountain vistas that the region has become famous for.

Northern Pakistan

Fly direct from Manchester to Islamabad with Pakistan International Airlines from £822pp return.

Northern Pakistan's mountain valleys offer a unique seasonal spectacle. Around Hunza, Skardu and the Karakoramhills, as the Indus basin begins to rise into the towering Himalayas, poplar and apricot forests turn vivid gold against dramatic mountainous backdrops, creating some of Asia's most striking Autumn scenery.

Beijing area, China

Fly direct from Manchester to Beijing with Hainan Airlines from £535pp return.

This time of year gives visitors to northern China a chance to dodge the crowds of peak season – but also affords them the opportunity to enjoy incredible autumnal trails. Hiking routes along lesser-visited sections of the Great Wall pass through forests dressed in vibrant reds and yellows, while the mountains around Beijing offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures and spectacular undulating landscapes.

*Prices quoted are the cheapest available return fares between now and 31 December 2026, when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website, from Manchester to the destination specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) - the country’s flag carrier - launched its service from Manchester to the capital Islamabad on 25 October last year, following that up with a new link to Lahore this July.

The airline has now surpassed 100,000 passengers on these two services – with a total of 104,845 having taken advantage of the direct links on offer.

The Islamabad service was initially twice-weekly, but has now doubled to a four-times-weekly service due to the strength of demand, with flights departing Manchester on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The recently added Lahore service operates once per week, on Wednesdays.

A total of 1,541 tonnes of cargo has been carried across the two routes as well, with 1,412 tonnes imported and 129 tonnes shipped outbound to Pakistan – generating millions for the Northern economy. Some of the biggest imports by volume were fresh fruit, vegetables and nuts, pharmaceutical products, clothing and fabrics.

Together, the two services are a vital bridge between the North and Pakistan for the region’s sizeable Pakistani diaspora. According to 2021 data, the North is home to more than 300,000 British Pakistanis, with significant concentrations in Manchester and Bradford.

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director at Manchester Airport, said: "We’re proud to connect the people of the North with the world, and that takes many forms – from connecting diaspora communities with friends and loved ones, to driving economic development here in this part of the country, making Manchester and the region a more attractive place to live, study and work, and bringing inward investment.

“Our direct links to Pakistan with PIA encapsulate all of these different strands of connection and the vital role the airport plays in that. Our outstanding new facilities in Terminal 2 – the result of a decade-long, £1.5bn investment – puts us in a fantastic position to continue developing connections to Pakistan and other parts of the world, growing our route network to the benefit of the communities that live here."

Yasmin Qureshi, MP for Bolton South and Walkden and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Pakistan, said: “It’s been great to see the return of direct flights to Pakistan from Manchester, making trips for British Pakistanis cheaper and more convenient. I’m delighted to see that this service has been so successful and that flights have increased, allowing families to have more choice over when they travel”.

Afzal Khan CBE, MP for Manchester Rusholme and Chair of the Greater Manchester – Pakistan Forum, said: “Even though the flight path has only been open a year it has already proven to be a massive success for our region. Over 350,000 people in the North West fly to Islamabad every year from the UK to visit family, friends, and do business. This means this flight path is having a huge positive impact on communities in the North West and has also been a huge boost for our regional economy.”

Top destinations are expected to include Alicante, Antalya, Tenerife and Malaga as travellers soak up the last of the summer sun in the Mediterranean. This year, October half-term also coincides with Halloween – and city break destinations like Derry, Frankfurt, Prague and Bucharest, which are all famed for the family-friendly way they mark spooky season, will welcome thousands of visitors too.

Passengers can look forward to a smooth journey through the airport, boosted by Manchester Airports Group’s £1.5bn investment in the transformation of Terminal 2, which now features an expanded departure lounge and a greatly enhanced range of food, drink and retail options. During 2026, new outlets including the Great Northern Market food hall, The Belle Vue – which is the airport’s first Wetherspoon’s pub – Joe & The Juice, Upper Crust, LEGO, Rituals and Pandora have opened in the terminal.

Since the beginning of April, which is generally considered to be the start of the summer season, 97% of Manchester Airport’s passengers have waited for less than 15 minutes to get to security, and airport bosses have assured passengers that the hub is ready for the busy half-term period.

But there are things that passengers can do to help ensure their trip goes smoothly. That includes familiarising themselves with new developments at the airport, including its barrierless parking systems. As well as the airport's barrierless drop-off area, which was implemented last year, Terminal 2 West Multi Storey (P3) now also operates a barrierless system, meaning customers can drive in and out freely, cutting congestion. Customers who have not pre-booked parking in this car park must remember to pay online or by phone before midnight on the day after their visit.

Jennifer Byrne-Smith, Director of Customer Operations at Manchester Airport, said:

“We’re looking forward to October half-term, and to helping hundreds of thousands of passengers on their way to their favourite destinations.

“As the biggest and best airport in the North, our route network is unrivalled, and that means there are plenty of options for passengers looking to bask in the final few weeks of summer sun in destinations like the southern Med and the Canary Islands, while those looking for autumnal hikes, cultural city breaks or even a Halloween-themed family getaway have plenty of options too.

“Wherever you’re going this autumn, we’re here to make sure your trip gets off to the right start – but it’s important you plan ahead, and make sure you’ve made all the necessary arrangements ahead of time. We know that many passengers travelling during this half-term period are having their main family holiday of the year and may not have travelled through the airport since last year or even longer – so it’s worth just reacquainting yourself with things like security rules and the check-in process.” 

Top tips for your trip:

-    If you’re able to, check in online before you’re due to travel – many airlines let you do this several weeks in advance and will usually notify you by email. This is particularly useful if you only plan to travel with hand baggage as you’ll be able to go straight to security.

-    If you will be travelling with hold luggage and live locally, make use of day-before check-in services where available. Many airlines now allow you to check your bags in the evening before you depart, meaning you don’t have to queue on the day. You’ll be able to park for free when you do this. Visit your airline’s website to see if it offers this service.

-    Aim to arrive at the airport in line with your airline’s instructions – this is usually two hours before your scheduled departure for short haul and three hours before for long haul.

-    Remember your passport and any other documents you need.

-    Plan your journey carefully. Over school holiday periods the road and public transport networks can be busy and roadworks / maintenance works are often scheduled, so make sure you plan your route carefully and allow plenty of time.

-    Consider using public transport to get to the airport – Manchester is one of the best-connected airports in the country with a dedicated train, tram and bus station. If you’re being dropped off at the airport, consider the free drop off point at JetParks 1. It’s a five-minute bus ride from the terminals and the buses run regularly, 24/7.

-    If you are travelling with young children, make sure you talk to them about what to expect at the airport. It’s also worth packing toys and activities to keep them entertained, and snacks.

-    If you or anyone you’re travelling with has assistance needs, you are strongly recommended to pre-book assistance services through your airline at least 48 hours before your flight. This allows the airport’s special assistance teams to plan around the availability of staff and wheelchairs and ensure wait times are kept to a minimum.

-    Manchester Airport offers a range of services you can book to make your trip easier including Security FastTrack, which lets you use a dedicated lane, TimeSlot, which lets you book a specific time to pass through security, and Passport Control FastTrack for when you return to the airport – find out more here.

-    You can even book personalised assistance to guide you through your whole airport trip via Meet & Assist -  find out more here.

-    If you want to really elevate your experience, consider booking Manchester Airport’s premium terminal, aether. You can use aether regardless of who you are flying with or where you are flying to – find out more here.

-    Prepare for security by ensuring all liquids are packed in containers of 100ml or less. Manchester Airport's security lanes now allow passengers to leave liquids and electronic devices inside their hand baggage while passing through security, helping make the process quicker and easier. However, liquids must still comply with the 100ml per-container limit, as the airport awaits approval from the Civil Aviation Authority to lift these limits.

The service, operated by Norwegian, will link Manchester to Billund – a town in central Denmark that hosts Lego’s global headquarters and the Legoland Billund Resort.

Lego, the world’s largest toy manufacturer by sales, was founded in Billund by a local man in 1932. Then little more than a village, Lego's growth into a global name has seen Billund transformed into a major tourist draw. The town’s airport – built by the Lego company in 1961 – is now Denmark’s second-largest international hub, and the Legoland Billund Resort is the country’s most popular tourist attraction outside Copenhagen, with more than two million visitors annually.

There's more to Billund than just the resort, however, the town hosts enough Lego-themed attractions to keep enthusiasts busy for days, with a Lego Holiday Village, Lego Hotel, Lego-themed Sea Life Centre and the Lego House, a post-modern building designed to look like it is built from giant Lego bricks, housing a Lego museum.

Norwegian’s new service linking Manchester with Billund will launch on 1 April 2027. It will run twice weekly from Terminal 2, on Thursdays and Sundays, with a flight time of roughly 1hr 35 mins. Those travelling to Billund will even be able to grab themselves a great deal on some unique Lego sets and products before they jet off, as Manchester Airport’s T2 became the first airport terminal in the UK outside London to get its own dedicated Lego Store last year – with airport-exclusive sets and discounts regularly on offer.

"As the North’s biggest and best airport, we’re proud to connect people from across the region with a wide variety of destinations – many of which, including Billund, are not served by any other airport in our catchment area.

For Lego afficionados, Manchester is already the airport of choice, thanks to our hugely popular Lego Store in T2 Departures – and you can now make that store the first stop on a Lego-themed mini break with a difference.”

Stephen Turner – Chief Commercial Officer, Manchester Airport

Billund will become Norwegian’s seventh destination served from Manchester, across three Scandinavian countries. It already serves Oslo, Stavanger, Tromso and Bergen in Norway, Stockholm in Sweden, and Copenhagen in Denmark.

“Besides from being the home of Legoland, Billund is also a gateway to some of Denmark’s most exciting experiences, from the beautiful west coast to charming towns, nature and attractions for the whole family. With this new route, we’re making it easier for travellers from Manchester and the wider North West of England to discover everything the region has to offer. At the same time, the route gives travellers from western Denmark a direct connection to Manchester, a city with a huge cultural appeal and two Premier League clubs with passionate Danish fan bases. We’re delighted to bring these destinations closer together.”

Sara Neergaard, Country Director (Denmark), Norwegian

Fares on the Manchester – Billund route start from £62pp return, and tickets go on sale today. Visit https://www.norwegian.com/ to book.

The free event at The Forum, Wythenshawe, on Wednesday 4 November will connect jobseekers with employers operating across Manchester Airport. Free tickets are now available at www.manchesterairport.co.uk/jobs-fair/, with booking in advance highly recommended to avoid disappointment. 

Manchester Airports Group (MAG), which owns and operates Manchester Airport as well as East Midlands and London Stansted Airports, will be advertising vacancies including airport security, hospitality and terminal operations roles.

Other positions available with airport-based employers range from ground handling and passenger assistance to retail, catering, construction, recruitment, logistics and aviation support services.

Employers represented at the fair will include:

Accessorize

Bethell Construction Limited

DHL

dnata Catering & Retail UK

First Call Aviation

HMSHost by Avolta

JD Wetherspoon

Lagardère Travel Retail

Manchester Adult Education Service

MAG

MAN Fire Service

Mitie Limited

Morson Group

National Careers Service

Premier Jet Support

Pret A Manger

Smart Works

Swissport

Unifi Aviation

As one of the region’s largest employers, we’re proud to work alongside our partners to create opportunities for local people – and the aviation industry is a particularly exciting one to work in.

“This jobs fair is a fantastic chance for jobseekers to meet employers face-to-face, learn more about the wide variety of roles available at the airport and take the next step in developing their careers. With around 300 vacancies at the moment, there are opportunities for people with a wide range of skills and experience.

“We want Manchester Airport to be one of the best places in the world to travel from, and if you’ve got the passion and drive to help us make that happen, we’d love to see you at this event.”

Tina Edwards – People Director, Manchester Airport

The Airport Academy, which is run in partnership by Manchester Airport and Trafford & Stockport College Group (TSCG), will also be in attendance promoting its free pre-employment support programmes. These include fully accredited training schemes for people seeking support before applying for airport roles.

The jobs fair will take place between 10am and 2pm, with attendees encouraged to bring copies of their CV and be prepared to speak directly with recruiting employers.

Jobseekers securing roles with MAG can take advantage of a wide range of benefits. These include discounts on public transport when travelling to work, free on-site car parking whilst working and when going on holiday, an excellent pension scheme, training programmes, retail discounts and many more benefits. More information is available at www.manchesterairport.co.uk/recruitment.

From The Executive in Terminal 2 – which opened in July promising a best-in-class experience, airport-first carvery and chef-led dining – to Escape, a budget-friendly lounge in both terminals suitable for families with a relaxed atmosphere and buffet menu, there is something to suit all tastes.

And for passengers looking for the ultimate upgrade, Manchester Airport is also home to aether, its dedicated private terminal, where guests can enjoy private security, an exclusive lounge and chauffeur-driven transfers directly to and from their gate.

Whatever your preference, the airport has you covered – and here, we run through your options.

Escape Lounge

Available in: Terminals 2 and 3.

Prices from: £36.99 in Terminal 2; £31.99 in Terminal 3. Children under 3 go free of charge.

Highlights: Family- and budget-friendly, relaxed atmosphere and buffet service.

Escape is open to customers travelling with any airline and in any ticket class, offering a tranquil retreat ahead of your flight for families, couples, solo travellers and business travellers alike. Available in both Terminals 2 and 3, Escape provides a relaxed space to eat, work or unwind, with freshly prepared hot and cold buffet food available throughout the day. Guests can also enjoy premium wines, beers and spirits, including fizz, as well as unlimited hot and soft drinks. Flight information screens and charging points mean passengers can keep an eye on their journey while their devices recharge.

For a limited time only, children can access Escape in either T2 or T3 for just £10* using the code MANT2OCT26 when booking the T2 lounge online, or MANT3OCT26 for the T3 lounge. See https://escapelounges.com/uk/airport-lounges/manchester/terminal-3/ for more details on the offer.

The Executive

Available in: Terminal 2.

Prices from: £57.99.

Highlights: An airport-first carvery service, outstanding runway views and premium menu.

Designed for both leisure and business travellers, The Executive combines sophisticated interiors with attentive service and floor-to-ceiling runway views. Its chef-led dining experience includes made-to-order dishes in a theatre kitchen setting and barista coffee, in addition to a hot food buffet plus deli and salad choices, accompanied by a selection of premium alcoholic and soft drinks. On Sundays, a carvery is available – a unique offering for a UK airport lounge.

aether

Available in: Premium terminal, open to passengers from all airlines.

Prices from: £199

Highlights: Rapid security screening, an exclusive premium lounge, chauffeur-driven transfers to your aircraft gate.

Passengers looking for something even more unique and memorable can opt for aether, Manchester Airport’s premium terminal.

Located in a standalone, intimate facility away from the main terminals, aether - which marks its second anniversary in November - is open to passengers regardless of airline or ticket class and offers an airport experience more typically associated with private aviation.

Upon arrival, guests enjoy panoramic airfield views from an exclusive lounge space and a carefully curated menu by award-winning chef Adam Reid. When it’s time to board their flight, guests are whisked through a private security check, with no waiting around, and then taken to their aircraft gate by private chauffeur.

The service is open to passengers travelling with any airline – although it's worth noting that hold luggage is only available to passengers flying with a partner airline (Airline Partners | aether).

Tom Waldron, Chief Experiences Officer at CAVU, said: “We’re proud to offer a diverse array of hospitality experiences at Manchester Airport, whichever airline you’re flying with and whichever terminal you’re travelling from.

“Our lounges are growing in popularity and we think that reflects the level of care and attention to detail that has gone into crafting these spaces and experiences. The quality of the facilities on offer in Terminal 2, after its decade-long £1.3bn transformation, means you can expect a best-in-class experience from the moment you arrive, and our purpose built lounge spaces are designed to complement that. Terminal 3 is now also receiving a multi-million pound investment and our Escape lounge gives those passengers the perfect spot to start their journeys.

“On top of that, we have a truly outstanding premium offering at aether, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a VIP experience.”

Other options.

Escape, The Executive and aether are all operated by CAVU, a subsidiary of Manchester Airports Group (MAG) – and are open to passengers travelling with any airline. However there are other options on site, too - depending on who you’re flying with and which terminal you’re travelling from.

Aviation services company Swissport operates Aspire lounges in each terminal. Guests can enjoy buffet service and relaxed spaces. The Aspire lounges are available to book for passengers travelling with any airline.

Emirates has also opened a dedicated lounge in Terminal 2, for its First Class and Business Class passengers, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members – with exclusive features like direct boarding, and a curated menu inspired by the flavours of the North.

* Available on new bookings made between 21 September 2026 and 31 October 2026 for travel up to and including 31 December 2026. Terms and conditions apply.

This Sunday (18 October) is Anti-Slavery Day, an annual campaign that raises awareness of modern slavery, human trafficking, and exploitation. Tens of thousands of people are estimated to be exploited across the UK through forced labour, human trafficking, domestic servitude, and sexual / criminal exploitation. 

In a special edition of our monthly Life at MAN feature, we spoke to Claire Featherstone, Global Supply Chain Director for CAVU - the arm of MAG that operates Manchester Airport's executive lounges and aether premium terminal, along with managing the airport's website and online booking platforms. Claire tells us about the action MAG takes to eliminate forced labour and exploitation in its supply chain - and how colleagues from across the business can help tackle these practices and end human trafficking and modern slavery.

Tell us a bit about your role as Global Supply Chain Director and what that means day to day?

As Global Supply Chain Director, I'm responsible for helping ensure that CAVU has the suppliers, contracts, systems, and commercial arrangements in place to support our growth plans. That includes everything from technology and construction projects through to food and beverage, operational services and the products that help our airports and travel businesses run day to day.

The role is really varied. One day I might be working on a major commercial negotiation, the next supporting a business transformation programme or working with colleagues to improve supplier performance and reduce risk. Both MAG and CAVU are highly dependent on suppliers to achieve our business goals, so ultimately, my role is about making sure we work with the right organisations,  achieve value for money, and build a resilient, sustainable supply chain.

What attracted you to a career in supply chain and procurement?

My first job was in logistics, organising urgent aircraft charters for the automotive industry. From automotive I moved to aerospace and gained experience in a more strategic procurement role. I realised that Procurement sits at the intersection of people, strategy, operations, and finance, so you get exposure to almost every part of a business.

Over time, what has kept me interested is the opportunity to make a real difference. Good procurement isn't just about negotiating contracts or reducing costs - it's about solving problems, building strong relationships, supporting business growth, and helping organisations make better decisions.

What part of your role do you think people would be most surprised to learn about?

Many people assume procurement is mainly about cost and contracts. But a significant part of our role is understanding how products and services are delivered, where they come from and whether they are being provided responsibly and ethically. That means looking beyond price and considering issues such as sustainability, human rights, modern slavery, supplier resilience and how organisations treat their people.

Why is tackling modern slavery an important part of the work your team does?

As an airport group and international travel business, we rely on a large and diverse supply chain. That gives us both an opportunity and a responsibility to influence positive behaviour and help protect people who may be vulnerable to exploitation.

When people think about procurement, they often focus on cost. But cheaper is never better if it comes at the expense of treating people fairly and responsibly. The organisations we choose to work with should share our values and our commitment to doing business in the right way.

Modern slavery can often be hidden from view, which is why it's important that we continually strengthen our processes, challenge ourselves and work closely with suppliers to identify and address risks wherever they may arise. MAG partners with Ecovadis, a global sustainability ratings service with a focus on Labour and Human rights, and Slave Free Alliance to support the identification and management of modern slavery risks.

How do we work with suppliers to make sure they're meeting the standards we expect?

We set clear expectations from the outset and work with suppliers as partners to help achieve them.

Our Supplier Code of Conduct outlines the standards we expect suppliers to meet across areas such as sustainable supply chains, health and safety, modern slavery, ethical business conduct and respectful treatment of people. We also expect suppliers to comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and to work collaboratively with us to identify and manage risks within their own supply chains.

Alongside contractual requirements, we carry out due diligence, sustainability assessments and ongoing supplier engagement. The aim isn't simply to audit suppliers, but to build transparency, encourage continuous improvement and work together to find solutions where risks are identified.

What can colleagues across MAG do to help spot and prevent potential exploitation or modern slavery?

The most important thing is recognising that this isn't something that sits solely with a specialist team. Everyone has a role to play.

Be curious, pay attention to things that don't feel right and never assume someone else will raise a concern. Modern slavery can take many forms and often isn't immediately obvious.

If something doesn't seem right, whether that's unusual working conditions, concerns about the wellbeing of individuals or behaviour that appears exploitative, colleagues should speak up. MAG provides routes for raising concerns confidentially and takes all reports seriously.

Ultimately, preventing modern slavery starts with looking out for people. If we all remain vigilant and continue to challenge behaviour that falls below our standards, we can play an important role in helping protect both passengers and those working throughout our supply chain.

The UK’s global gateway in the North rounded out its most successful summer yet with a record-breaking September.

More than 3.1m passengers passed through Manchester Airport during the month – with 98% of travellers waiting for 15 minutes or under to get to get to security and 91% waiting 10 minutes or under.

September is traditionally a very busy month for Manchester Airport – but it sees a shift in the profile of travellers after the school summer holidays. While the majority of travellers during July and August are families, in September there is a rise in solo travellers and couples.

That is because holiday prices are typically between 20 and 40% lower than the peak summer months – but in most popular holiday hotspots the weather is still just as good as in August.

The most popular route during September was to Mallorca – with other mediterranean destinations like Alicante, Antalya and Tenerife making up much of the top ten. Among the most popular long-haul routes was Orlando, with almost 25,000 people heading to the Floridian favourite.

The busy month means Manchester Airport has seen its most successful summer to date thanks to its brand new, £1.5bn Terminal 2 now being fully open to the public, with the final retail outlet – its new Wetherspoon’s pub the Belle Vue – opening a few weeks ago.

Manchester Airport Managing Director Chris Woodroofe said:

“Seeing so many passengers passing through the UK’s global gateway in the North during September has been really exciting.

“One of the great things about having the UK’s strongest route network outside London is that we can continue to offer great value and choice into the shoulder season and beyond and we've seen our passengers taking advantage of that.

“During the summer we opened two exciting new options in our brand new, £1.5bn Terminal 2 in the shape of the Belle Vue - our first Wetherspoon’s pub - and our luxurious new Executive and Aspire lounges.

“It means our passengers can benefit from the full range of facilities in our super-terminal and I’ve been hearing great things about the new additions."

Over recent weeks there have also been some important travel announcements relating to the airport. Firstly, London Northwestern Railway announced it will introduce a new direct train service linking Birmingham and Stoke-on-Trent directly to Manchester Airport from next year.

Secondly, just this week, Network Rail announced a major £115m investment into the Manchester Airport station to boost connectivity. Once complete, the improvements will allow longer trains to serve the station and improve the way trains move in and out of it. The upgrades will strengthen Manchester Airport’s role as a gateway for business, tourism and international travel and support future passenger growth.

The work project will be delivered by the middle of 2028 and begins later this year. It will see the station briefly close to trains on Sunday, December 2026 for one day only as engineers begin work.

The two organisations are strengthening their existing partnership to help inspire and prepare the next generation of aviation talent, creating more tailored opportunities for learners and supporting the future workforce needs of the aviation sector.

The enhanced MAG-endorsed Aviation Operations programme was showcased at a special event at Trafford & Stockport College Group yesterday, attended by industry leaders, partners, staff and students. 

Guests were given an exclusive look at the college's new-look Aviation Department, which is officially MAG-branded as part of the partnership.

The Aviation Operations programme gives learners a behind-the-scenes look at airport operations, alongside work placements and opportunities to explore careers in the industry. Through closer collaboration with MAG, the programme has been further developed to bring industry insight directly into the classroom, ensuring learners gain the skills, knowledge and experiences most relevant to today's aviation sector.

Delivered through the two organisations' Manchester Airport Skills Hub partnership, the programme is part of the newly launched Airport Futures initiative, helping learners explore the many career opportunities available at Manchester Airport and beyond. The Skills Hub partnership aims to engage with at least 150 young people during the 2026/27 academic year across aviation, engineering, digital, hospitality and other curriculum areas.

More generally, the programme forms part of the Manchester Airport Skills Hub's ambition to build a strong future talent pipeline for the aviation industry. By working together to shape and enhance the curriculum, TSCG, MAG and other airport employers are ensuring learners benefit from industry expertise, meaningful employer engagement, workplace experiences and clear pathways into careers across the airport and wider aviation sector.

Available from Level 1 to Level 3, the programme has been enhanced through employer collaboration to give learners the experience and skills they need to pursue careers in operations at the airport, air traffic control, cargo and dispatch, and management.

Students enrolled on the programme will benefit from a wide range of employer-led opportunities including the chance to hear from guest speakers working across the aviation industry, along with mock interviews, support into employment, work experience opportunities, live employer challenges and airside tours.

Successful completion of the programme can lead to employment, apprenticeships, higher education and various exciting careers within Manchester Airport and the wider aviation industry.

Among the guest speakers at yesterday’s launch event for this year’s programme was Sam McCarthy, a graduate from a previous version of the course who has now secured a full-time role at the airport as an Airfield Planning Assistant, helping device and manage schedules for crucial airfield maintenance in between scheduled flight movements.

Sam said: “Coming here today and seeing how much is now involved with this partnership is amazing. It’s incredible to see how this programme has developed and how it is bringing airport careers to life for learners. The range of guest speakers they’re going to hear from, the chance to explore the airport, to gain industry placements and to go on airside tours, will give these young people so many opportunities and will genuinely open doors for them.

“When I started out on this journey, I didn’t really know what my end goal was or what I wanted to do when I finished it, and a big part of the appeal of this course is that it gives you the opportunity to sample so many different parts of the airport operation and work out what interests you. It was a real eye-opener for me and I know it will be for this year’s students, too.”

Dozens of first-year and second-year students enrolled on the course were also at the launch event. One of them, Amir Kane from Ancoats, is currently taking a Level 1 Aviation Operations course and is due to start the Level 3 programme next year.

Amir said: “For me, the aviation syllabus I’m being taught is the most exciting thing. When you go through the education system you’re taught about maths and science in very general terms, but here I get to learn about something I’m actually passionate about. I’ve always been fascinated by planes and aviation; when I was a child my dad would drive me down to the Airport Pub to watch the planes coming and going. For MAG to go into partnership with Trafford College and create this course makes me feel I can see a pathway to the kind of career that I want, and that is incredibly exciting.”

Tracey Wood, Chief Commercial Officer at TSCG, said: “At Trafford & Stockport College Group, we are passionate about creating impactful opportunities that help our learners succeed and develop the future talent our employers need.

“This enhanced Aviation Operations programme, delivered in partnership with Manchester Airports Group, is an exciting next step in the growth of the Manchester Airport Skills Hub, building on the strong foundations already established through our collaboration.

“By working closely with industry, we are creating relevant programmes that are designed with employers, for employers — connecting learners with industry expertise, hands-on experience and clear pathways into employment.

It is about making sure our curriculum keeps pace with the needs of the sector, while giving our students the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive and helping employers develop the workforce they need for the future.”

The launch of the new programme and MAG-branded department coincides with today’s publication of the airport group’s annual Sustainability Report. MAG, which also owns and operates East Midlands and London Stansted airports, has reaffirmed itself as an industry leader in its support of skills and employment initiatives – and the report reveals it has supported more than 6,000 young people with their education across FY26.

Last year’s launch of the Skills Hub, in partnership with TSCG, is part of a five-year sustainability strategy that aims to create an industry-led talent pipeline that supports the future of aviation in the North. The strategy also aims to reach school-aged children, with more than 12,000 local school pupils to be welcomed to the airport’s on-site AeroZone education centre in the five-year reporting period.

In addition to education and skills, the Sustainability Report also shows that Manchester Airport is excelling in areas like environmental sustainability – with 100% of its waste diverted from landfill for the first time and 25% reused or recycled, along with a 2.5% year-on-year reduction in aircraft emissions – in addition to facilitating more than £30m of contracts for local small and medium-sized businesses through its Meet the Buyers events and donating more than £120,000 to good causes through its Community Trust Fund.

MAG CEO, Ken O’Toole, said: “Aviation offers a broad range of careers, but it is important that young people can see those opportunities from an early age, and develop the skills and experience needed to access them. This programme is a great example of how we're working with education partners to create clear pathways into employment.

“As a major employer across the North, Midlands and South, MAG has a significant role to play in providing skills and employment opportunities that allow surrounding communities to thrive.

“The progress set out in our annual Sustainability Report demonstrates the positive impact our approach is having on real people across the country, alongside developments to achieve our decarbonisation target of net zero carbon operations by 2038, and in our approach to targeted and effective community engagement.

“Creating a pipeline of future talent for our industry is vital to its future success, and MAG is playing a significant role – working together with Government, regulators and industry partners - to deliver that.”

If you’d like to find out more about the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Aviation Operations, visit https://trafford.tscg.ac.uk/our-courses/.

Manchester Airport is one of Greater Manchester’s most important economic assets. It is far more than a transport hub: it is an international gateway to our city region that connects businesses, people, skills, investment and ideas.  For companies across Greater Manchester, particularly those trading internationally, access to a major airport on their doorstep is a significant competitive advantage.

The airport’s extensive international connectivity enables businesses to reach customers, suppliers and partners around the world without routinely travelling through London or other European hubs.  This matters particularly to Greater Manchester’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, professional and financial services, digital and technology, life sciences, education and the visitor economy.  Direct, point to point connections make the city-region more attractive as a location for inward investment which is well supported by Invest Manchester and help locally based companies grow overseas.  The airport aids Greater Manchester’s wider ambition to compete internationally as a place to invest, work, study and visit.

The scale of that connectivity is substantial.  Manchester Airport has recently been handling around 32 million passengers annually, following major investment in its facilities, while Greater Manchester’s own investment material has long presented the airport as being at the heart of the city-region’s transport infrastructure.  Continued development of routes and capacity therefore matters directly to the future competitiveness of the regional economy.

Its economic influence goes well beyond passengers and flights.  The airport and the businesses around it create employment, generate demand through extensive supply chains and support sectors including logistics, hospitality, tourism, retail, construction and professional services.  The World Freight Terminal is itself part of the region’s commercial infrastructure, reinforcing Manchester’s role as a trading city.  Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) have identified that skills are equally important: collaboration between employers, education providers and initiatives based around the airport can help create pathways into employment and ensure that local people benefit from future growth, which is fully in line with the goals of the Local Skills Improvement Program (LSIP).

For Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Manchester Airport is especially significant because connectivity, international trade, skills and economic growth are central concerns for our members.  As the UK’s largest Chamber, connected to over 50,000 businesses across the city-region, we consistently hear how important reliable domestic and international connections are to business confidence and investment decisions.  Our policy and research work, including the Quarterly Economic Survey and the LSIP gives us a strong evidence base from which to represent those business needs.

The relationship is also tangible:  the Chamber currently trades from the World Freight Terminal at Manchester Airport. That physical presence underlines how closely the airport, international commerce and the Greater Manchester business community are connected.

GMCC therefore has an important role in championing the airport while constructively representing the priorities of businesses.  That includes supporting continued investment and better surface transport connectivity, promoting international trade opportunities, helping develop the skills pipeline and ensuring that growth is sustainable and delivers benefits across all ten Greater Manchester boroughs.  We are currently in discussions with overseas locations who are keen to connect with our city.

Manchester Airport is ultimately part of Greater Manchester’s proposition to the world.  A successful, well-connected and ambitious airport strengthens the whole city-region. For the Chamber and the business community we represent, its continued success is not simply an aviation issue; it is fundamental to trade, investment, productivity, employment and Greater Manchester’s long-term economic prosperity.

The airport’s unrivalled network of more than 200 destinations, served by more than 50 airlines, gives you the opportunity to see how spooky season is marked across Europe and beyond – and explore attractions from the macabre to the bizarre.

Here we round up some of the best last-minute deals available for families looking for a thriller of a half-term getaway.

‘Dracula’s Castle’, Romania

Fly direct from Manchester to Bucharest with Ryanair from £125pp return.

High in the mountains to the north of Romania’s capital Bucharest is Bran Castle – a gothic medieval fortress clinging to a rock face that is thought to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The castle hosts a week-long Halloween Festival in the run up to the 31^st – which this year, happens to coincide perfectly with October half term. The tour features costumed actors, Dracula-themed exhibits and tours, and a Halloween party in a neighbouring park.

Spooky family fun in Denmark

Fly direct from Manchester to Copenhagen with Ryanair from £171pp return.

The Danish capital’s Tivoli Gardens, a much-loved amusement park in the heart of the city, lays one a one-month Halloween extravaganza throughout October. An open-air stage hosts artistic performances, special Halloween-themed rides appear for a limited time only, and the park is decked out in Halloween décor including more than 20,000 jack-o-lanterns.

‘Europe’s Largest Halloween Festival’, Derry

Fly direct from Manchester to Derry with Ryanair from £75pp return.

Derry’s world-renowned Halloween Festival celebrates its 40^th anniversary this year. The festival, which is billed by the organisers as the largest of its kind in Europe, includes light shows, acrobatics, musical performances and ghost tours around the city’s supposedly haunted sites. An epic fireworks finale on Halloween night takes place over the River Foyle.

Ghost bus tour and medieval mysteries in Dublin

Fly direct from Manchester to Dublin with Ryanair from £34pp return.

Dublin today is a vibrant and modern metropolis, but a dark history lies underneath – and the operators of the city’s award-winning Ghost Bus Kids Tour bring that history to life, with a tour storyteller keeping the whole family entertained as they explore the city’s past. The city streets are filled with decorations as Halloween draws near, and a number of the city’s popular historical sides have spooky stories attached to them.

Delve into the underworld in Prague

Fly direct from Manchester to Prague with Ryanair from £120pp return.

Prague’s medieval network of underground tunnels and passages have plenty of haunting stories to tell and are a great starting point for exploring this city, with its stunning gothic architecture and a storied history that mingles with myth and legend. The Prague Botanical Garden hosts a family-friendly program on Halloween itself, featuring lantern-making workshops, roasted sausages, and an evening lantern parade through the illuminated grounds.

Mid-Autumn traditions in Barcelona

Fly direct from Manchester to Barcelona with Vueling from £106pp return.

In Catalonia, 31 October is La Castanyada – a traditional festival marking the start of the darker months. The symbol of the festival is the chestnut seller, an elderly woman in a headscarf who roasts nuts over an open fire. It’s traditional to buy roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes and other snacks from street vendors on this day – but more modern Halloween traditions are also seeping in, and at the city’s Poble Espanyol museum hosts a family-friendly festival with potion workshops, haunted tunnels and DJ events in the evening.

Visit Frankenstein Castle in Germany

Fly direct from Manchester to Frankfurt with Lufthansa from £196pp return.

The medieval Frankenstein Castle on the edge of Darmstadt, near Frankfurt, is the setting for Mary Shelley’s much loved gothic horror novel. The building is more than 800 years old – and is supposedly inhabited by a plethora of ghouls, including a sleeping dragon and a coven of witches. It’s closed for renovation at the moment – but the nearby Königstein Castle is hosting the annual Frankenstein Halloween Festival. Also nearby is the Black Forest – which gave rise to many of the Brothers Grimm’s fairy stories.

Peek behind the mask in Venice

Fly direct from Manchester to Venice with Ryanair from £111pp return.

Venice is the home of the masquerade party, which has become something of a Halloween trope. The flooded streets and alleyways of this unique city have stories of hauntings and dark history attached to them and there are plenty of ghost and mystery tours available. These stories and legends are also brought to life around this time of year by the city’s museums and galleries.

*Prices quoted are the cheapest available between 23 October 2026 and 2 November 2026 inclusive, when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website, from Manchester to the destination specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included.

The Sunflower Room facility is broken down into three sections – two of which are sensory rooms offering an array of interactive features, alongside a quiet room space to act as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the terminal, with comfortable seating, low-level lighting and minimal stimuli.

Features of the two sensory rooms include bubble tubes, infinity mirrors, light projectors, adjustable lighting including brightness and colour, and weighted, padded furniture. The design of the rooms and the different types of furniture on offer accommodate for passengers who wish to sit, stand, or lie down when using these spaces. At the entrance are flight information screens, so that passengers using the facility can quickly and easily check for updates and information.

Ed Kibblewhite, Head of Terminal Services at Manchester Airport, said: “We’re proud to offer a world-class experience in our award-winning Terminal 2, which is nearing the end of a decade-long transformation. This is the latest step in that journey and the facility that we are opening here really is at the cutting edge.

“Whether you’re looking to relax, reduce sensory input, or simply recharge, these spaces are available for you to use and do not need to be pre-booked.”

The rooms have been designed by Yorkshire-based sensory specialists AmbiSpace, with additional input from the National Autistic Society, the airport’s special assistance provider ABM, and the Manchester Airport Disability Forum – a committee of airport users with disabilities and restricted mobility who advise airport management on issues related to special assistance and accessibility. AmbiSpace has also secured a contract to maintain and manage the facility.

AmbiSpace’s Marketing Manager, Dean Cook, said: “We’ve previously worked on sensory rooms and quiet spaces in a range of environments, from prisons, to schools and colleges, to shopping centres – but this is the first time we’ve worked on a space like this in an airport, so it’s great to have been able to be part of this project.

“There was a long and meticulous design and consultation process for this space, and the goal was to have a diverse sensory area that could accommodate a range of needs. Different users of this space will have different needs as they relax ahead of their flights and in such a busy international airport, the full array of needs and preferences will be represented among the passengers travelling through, so we needed to be mindful of that.”

Emma Roberts, a Greater Manchester-based Project Officer for the National Autistic Society, took part in the consultation process and was present for the opening of the new facility. She said: “From the beginning we were clear about the need for different spaces. Every autistic person is different; some people find lights and bubbles regulating, some need movement, while others just need a quiet space to sit. By offering three distinct, private spaces, Manchester Airport is supporting passengers to feel calm and regulate before their flight.’’

“This space can absolutely become a part of the travel routine in Terminal 2 for autistic passengers and their travel companions, it will allow them to plan their journeys with much more confidence and will help ensure that holidays get off to the right start.”

Anwar Hussain, Contract Manager for Special Assistance provider ABM, added: “The opening of the new sensory space is something we are really excited about. It gives our teams another way to tailor the support we provide to each individual passenger and their needs. It is about making sure we are not just getting passengers from A to B but helping them travel in a way that works best for them. Every passenger is different, and this space allows us to recognise those differences and provide the support each person needs to have a positive journey.”

Manchester Airport’s route network of more than 200 destinations, served by upwards of 50 airlines, means there are plenty of options for ‘shoulder season’ holidays – destinations with fewer crowds at famous sites and popular beaches, but broad sunshine and balmy temperatures persisting well into the autumn.

Early to mid-October is a great time for couples and families with preschool-age children to enjoy a quieter getaway, while the end of the month will see the first half-term of the new academic year, with destinations like the Canary Islands still enjoying comfortable beach weather even as Halloween decorations start to appear.

Here we look at some of the best shoulder season deals available at the North’s hub airport – with prices from just £46pp* return.

Malta

Fly direct from Manchester to Malta with Ryanair from £46pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 25C.

Malta’s stunning beaches – including its famous Blue Lagoon – are thronged with visitors in the busy summer months, but a little quieter by shoulder season, and temperatures remain perfectly beachy.

Tenerife

Fly direct from Manchester to Tenerife with Ryanair from £58pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 25C.

Tenerife is consistently in Manchester’s top five destinations by passenger numbers, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something for everyone, from the family beach resorts in Costa Adeje to the nightlife scene around Playa de las Americas and the quiet mountain retreats in the island’s north. Better still, temperatures are reliably in the mid-twenties well into Autumn.

Madeira

Fly direct from Manchester to Madeira with Ryanair from £70pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 22C.

Visitors to this lush Portuguese island in the North Atlantic are bowled over by its volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches. It’s also the birthplace of football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, and a museum in his hometown of Funchal displays more than 100 trophies and medals he has won during his career.

Larnaca

Fly direct from Manchester to Larnaca with TUI from £134pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 26C.

Cyprus is a firm favourite for families and couples, and shoulder season is in many ways the perfect time to visit – avoiding the roasting temperatures of midsummer and allowing you to explore cultural sites like ancient ruins of Kition, near Larnaca, along with enjoying its blue flag beaches.

Heraklion

Fly direct from Manchester to Heraklion with TUI from £113pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 23C.

Heraklion is the gateway to eastern Crete, Greece’s largest island. Cooler autumn temperatures lend themselves to exploring its Old Town and storied Venetian fortress. Autumn is also grape harvesting season at many of the region’s wineries, which often host festivals, with tours and stays available.

Agadir

Fly direct from Manchester to Agadir with Ryanair from £61pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 25C.

Temperatures push 30C along the North African coast well into autumn – which means weather reminiscent of Europe in summer, but without the crowds. Away from the seafront, visitors to the Moroccan city of Agadir enjoy exploring its themed gardens, Museum of Arts, and shopping for handmade souvenirs at the Souk El Had market.

Fuerteventura

Fly direct from Manchester to Fuerteventura with Ryanair from £58pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 26C.

Fuerteventura is the least-visited of the four major Canary Islands (the others being Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria) – and crowds will be even fewer in shoulder season, but you can still enjoy endless white sand beaches, warm year-round sunshine with over 3,000 hours of sun per year, and world-class water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Antalya

Fly direct from Manchester to Antalya with Sunexpress from £111pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 26C.

Antalya is the biggest city on, and entry point into, Turkey’s Turquoise Coast – more than 600 miles of coastline with sandy beaches, ancient historical sites like the ruins of Side, and rugged mountainous terrain. Its natural beauty can be enjoyed on the Lycian Way hiking trail – and the cooler climate of autumn is the best time to do that.

Palermo

Fly direct from Manchester to Palermo with Jet2.com from £110pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 23C.

Founded over 2,700 years ago by Phoenician traders, Palermo is one of Italy's and Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its history greets you at every turn, from its centuries-old Cathedral and Norman Palace to its museums and galleries. Travel a few miles out of the city in an easterly direction and you’ll find some of Sicily’s best beaches.

Cape Verde

Fly direct from Manchester to Sal with easyJet from £172pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 30C.

The West African island nation of Cape Verde is having its moment in the sun, after its national team’s huge overachievements at this summer’s World Cup. Sal is one of its most popular tourist spots and offers an almost Caribbean vibe, with straw umbrellas, beach bars serving up local beer, caipirinhas and fresh grilled seafood, and a relaxed feel to its cobbled streets and markets.

Among the many things that people may not realise about Manchester airport, one is our incredible chaplaincy team. Did you know that Manchester has a team of chaplains here to aid you as you travel through the airport? To find out more we talked to our Deputy Lead Chaplain, David Twomey. Written by Maisie Barnes.

How long have you been working at Manchester Airport?

I’ve been deputy lead chaplain here since January 2023.

What does you job involve on a typical day?

The chaplaincy have our office in Terminal 2, we have a multi faith team with lots of different traditions and denominations such as Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Sikh and Hindu all working together. As Christian chaplains we gather at the start of the day to pray together. From 9:00 onwards anyone can knock on the door or we could get a phone call with a referral that needs responding to and the whole day changes from there. There are three main things that shape our day, one is the everyday tasks such as visiting staff and offering pastoral care. Another includes things surrounding humanitarian care for example someone arriving to the airport who requires some kind of assistance. Finally, there is the background work like well-being, welfare, homelessness and modern slavery. Every day looks different.

Why does Manchester Airport need a chaplaincy?

Because our team is so diverse we reflect the diversity of the airport, it’s staff and it’s passengers. Due to the fact that we are an independent charity we have a lot of flexibility in terms of how we work and who we can help. I think we also offer something really distinctive, because of the way we work. We are often quite visible around the airport, if we’re visiting offices or break rooms you’ll have a Christian, a Muslim and a Jewish chaplain all visiting together which isn’t something that happens a lot outside. I think it’s really important for people to see those of different traditions working together and it shows that it’s possible to work with people who believe different things to you and think, sound or look different. Particularly at the moment with our world being quite a divided place, that in itself is quite an important mission.

What is the most memorable thing you’ve worked on?

There are some big projects that we do, for example working with colleagues on things like our airport Iftar meal. That was special to see lots of different people enjoying food and fellowship and faith together. The remembrance services, we have a lot of staff who have served in the armed forces, are a big part of our calendar. Currently, we’re working on the international Champlain conference which is coming to Manchester. We’ll be welcoming colleagues from around the world for a week in September.

What do you enjoy the most about working at the airport?

I think that every day is different and varied, sometimes that can be quite challenging especially when you have things you need to do but recognising that this is such a big and busy place, which is a joy despite bringing some of its own challenges.

How did you get into your job and were there any particular skills or qualifications you needed?

I wasn’t particularly looking to move but I was actually on holiday when someone sent me the advert for the job. I thought it was a great opportunity and something I really wanted to do but was unlikely to get. In terms of qualifications chaplains would usually be someone authorised by their faith tradition. We also have our chaplaincy volunteers who come from all different backgrounds. I think for me, you could have all the theological training in the world but it’s really about compassion, patience and an ability to remain calm amidst all the activity and noise of the airport.

What one piece of advice would you give someone considering a career at the airport?

Before I was appointed I went to have a chat with the Bishop of Manchester so he could license and get to know me, as I had come from the North east. He said it won’t take long before the airport takes over your life. I think I know what he meant, both in terms of chaplaincy where there’s a lot to manage and the airport it gets under your skin and into your bloodstream which a lot of people love and they love about the place. So I would just say be prepared, maybe not for it to take over your life, but definitely to get into your bloodstream.

How can passengers contact the chaplaincy?

We have a website – the chaplaincy at Manchester Airport. We have email and phone as well, all the details are on our website. People get in contact for all kinds of things whether that’s practical issues like where they should go or deeper topics where they just need somebody to talk to.

What do you like to do when your not at work?

I enjoy the cricket and me and my wife have a Ridge-Back Staffy cross puppy who is about two now, so we like to take her out on walks. I enjoy reading, normally I read three at one time - something spiritual, educational and a novel. I especially enjoy fantasy, specifically Terry Pratchett. I also enjoy time with family and friends and the occasional cider.

What destination that we fly to would you most like to visit?

I’ve always wanted to see Bucharest for the history and knowing people who have gone and loved it. It’s one of those places that’s always fascinated me.

The Community Trust Fund was set up in 1997 and has since donated more than £4m to charities and community groups in its area of benefit, which extends 10 miles from the airport.

More than £30,000 was pledged in the latest round of donations – bringing the total for 2026 up to almost £91,000.

The Trust Fund is overseen by a board of trustees drawn from the airport and local councils in neighbouring communities, with applications for up to £3,000 considered on a quarterly basis.

Among those to benefit from the latest funding were Our Space Youth Club in Wythenshawe, a club for children and young people with disabilities in the 7 – 18 age range. They will receive a £1,900 donation for silent disco equipment.

Jo Hampson, one of the group’s organisers, explained: “These resources will make a huge difference to our inclusive activities, giving our young people the opportunity to enjoy their very own disco while being able to control the volume to a level that feels comfortable and safe for them. The silent headphones will help reduce sensory overload, anxiety and distress caused by loud music, while allowing young people to still enjoy the atmosphere, music and fun alongside their friends.

“This means that young people who may previously have been unable to attend a disco because of noise and sensory sensitivities can now take part, build confidence, socialise, develop friendships and feel included. Manchester Airport's support is helping us make inclusion a reality and ensuring every young person has the opportunity to have fun, participate and belong.”

Also set to benefit is 4 Cheeky Monkeys, a children’s play centre in Sale. They were awarded £2,902 to pay for a set of outdoor play and learning equipment.

Jeneane Warhurst, a co-founder of 4 Cheeky Monkeys – which is a Community Interest Company - said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Manchester Airport’s Community Trust Fund for supporting 4 Cheeky Monkeys. This funding will allow us to purchase new outdoor play and learning equipment, helping us create an even more engaging and inclusive space where local children can play, explore and learn together. As a small community organisation, funding like this makes a huge difference to what we’re able to provide for local families.”

Lach Dennis & Lostock Green Parish Council in Cheshire were awarded £1,850 for a book exchange cabinet.

Cllr Alex Scrowther, who brought forward the idea, explained: “The Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund grant will enable Lach Dennis & Lostock Green Parish Council to purchase a handmade book exchange cabinet, providing a lasting resource for the local community for many years to come.

“The book exchange will encourage residents to share and discover books, helping to bring people together and strengthen community connections. It will also promote sustainability by giving unwanted books a second life, encouraging reuse and reducing waste. The cabinet will provide an accessible and welcoming resource for residents of all ages to enjoy and will help to create a greater sense of community spirit.”

And in Heaton Chapel, Stockport, the KNDS Fairey Brass Band was granted £2,995 for the purchase of a new flugelhorn – a type of brass instrument similar to a trumpet with its origins in Alpine regions of Germany and Austria.

Nigel Beasley, chair of the band, said: “Everyone at the KNDS Band would like to express our sincere gratitude for the generous grant awarded by the Manchester Airport Community Fund. The flugelhorn is a vital addition to our ensemble.

“The cost of replacing high-quality instruments is a significant financial challenge for any band. Having this new instrument will be a fantastic boost as we head toward both the British Open and the National Brass Band Championships."

The full list of organisations to be awarded a grant at the latest meeting, and what they will be using the money for, can be found below.

"Manchester Airport is proud to serve the people of Greater Manchester and Cheshire – not just by connecting people to the places they want to travel to, but also by supporting good causes, not-for-profits organisations and grassroots campaigns in our neighbouring communities. Our Community Trust Fund reaches dozens of these groups every year and the impact of these donations collectively is huge. It’s great to be able to fund such a diverse range of applications as we’ve seen this quarter.”

Helen McNabb, Trustee – Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund

Applications must demonstrate a clear and lasting community benefit, seeking funding for tangible items of longstanding value. Details on how to apply for a Community Trust Fund grant, and the full criteria, can be found here.

The service will not only open up connections to Saudi Arabia for travellers from the North but will also give them access via onward connections to Riyadh Air’s network of destinations across Africa and Asia.

The airline, which is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), began its operations on June 10^th this year with its maiden flight to London and has ambitious plans to become one of the world’s largest operators, with a goal to serve 100 destinations across six continents by 2030.

In addition to improving outbound links to Saudi Arabia and beyond, Riyadh Air’s new service is expected to provide a boost to inbound tourism in the North and enhance economic ties between the two nations.

Hundreds of thousands of people visit the UK from Saudi Arabia for business or leisure each year, and the North’s world-famous football teams are among the biggest draws. The region’s universities are highly popular with Saudi students, too.

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said:

“We’re proud to connect people from across the North with destinations across the planet, so having a new route to a major global city like Riyadh is a big moment for us.

“What makes this even more special is that an ambitious airline like Riyadh Air has selected Manchester as one of its first European destinations – showing the appeal of Manchester and the North as a destination, but also indicating the strength of demand for long-haul travel from the North.

“That is something we now have more capacity to meet than ever before, thanks to our decade-long, £1.5bn transformation of Terminal 2. Whether they’re travelling to Manchester from or via Riyadh, travelling to Saudi Arabia, or connecting onwards to other parts of Asia, Africa or Australasia, passengers travelling with Riyadh Air from Manchester can be assured of a world-class experience – both at the airport, and with the airline.”

Tony Douglas, CEO at Riyadh Air said:

“It’s incredibly exciting to be launching our inaugural flight to Manchester, our second destination in the UK and 14th worldwide. Manchester is a key gateway from where our guests can fly to cities in the Middle East and Asia in addition to being a popular cultural destination for visitors from across our growing network. We look forward to welcoming guests to fly on our modern, premium aircraft and experiencing genuine Saudi hospitality, known locally as Hafawa.”

The Manchester – Riyadh service will operate three times weekly, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, using a 290-seat Boeing 787‑9, featuring four distinct cabin classes.

It will be Manchester’s second service to Saudi Arabia, with Saudia also operating flights to the city of Jeddah on the country’s Red Sea coast.

The 300-seater pub, which welcomed its first customers yesterday, is named after Manchester’s historic showground and has design features which nod to the city’s sporting heritage, including vintage event posters and memorabilia, a ‘locker wall’ hosting trophies and other sporting exhibits, and a cricket-themed design in the carpets and bar panels.

It will be open from the first flight to the final flight each day and food will be served from opening until 10pm. The pub is expected to create around 150 jobs.

The Belle Vue is the final planned new eatery to open in the airport’s redeveloped Terminal 2, marking one of the final steps in the super-terminal’s decade-long, £1.5bn transformation – which has seen it more than double in size to become the Northern hub’s focal point and win a prestigious UNESCO-backed award.

Richard Jackson, Retail Director at Manchester Airport, said: “It’s a proud moment to see the final new retail unit opening in our new-look Terminal 2, a world-class facility with an unrivalled range of options for passengers to eat, drink and shop.

“To be rounding off this 10-year programme by adding such an iconic name as Wetherspoon to the terminal is particularly special and we know that it will prove extremely popular with passengers. We think they’ll love the nods to Manchester’s heritage in the décor and design – and of course the name.”

Pub manager Jenny Warburton said: “Myself and my team are looking forward to welcoming customers into The Belle Vue and we are confident that the pub will be a great addition to the airport hospitality venues.”

·      Mallorca was the month’s most popular destination – with Alicante and Antalya also proving popular

·      September sees the start of ‘shoulder season’ – with lots of passengers seeking late season sun

Among those sharing their stories with passengers were Margaret and Jim McKie, a Stockport couple who lost their daughter to methanol poisoning in Bali in 2022.

Joining them were survivors Bethany Clarke and Calum Macdonald. Both were backpacking in Laos when they fell victim to a mass methanol poisoning event at a hostel in Vang Vieng. Bethany’s best friend Simone White was among six travellers who lost their lives, and Calum suffered permanent damage to his vision.

Methanol poisoning is a life-threatening illness caused by consuming alcohol contaminated with methanol, a highly toxic industrial form of alcohol that is unfit for human consumption. Methanol cannot be identified in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell and a single shot can be fatal.

Methanol can sometimes be found in counterfeit, illegally produced or contaminated alcoholic drinks. Information about the risks of methanol poisoning is currently included in FCDO travel advice for 29 destinations.

British holidaymakers are advised to take practical steps to reduce the risk, including avoiding free cocktails or shots, drinks from unlabelled bottles, and unusually cheap or heavily discounted drinks claiming to be brand-name alcohol. Sticking to beer, cider, wine and pre-mixed cocktails in sealed bottles or cans minimises the risk.

They are also encouraged to familiarise themselves with the symptoms so they can act quickly and seek medical attention for themselves or their travelling companions if necessary.

Early symptoms can resemble alcohol poisoning or a severe hangover. They can include vomiting, poor judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness, before more distinctive signs such as vision problems and breathlessness develop within 12 to 48 hours of consumption. Anyone showing signs of methanol poisoning should seek urgent medical attention immediately.

The Minister responsible for Consular and Crisis, Stephen Doughty, said: "Methanol poisoning can initially look like a bad hangover, but it can be life-threatening. Recognising the warning signs and getting urgent medical help could save a life. The symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and confusion, followed by more distinctive signs such as blurred vision and breathlessness.

"We are grateful to the survivors, families and campaigners who continue to share their experiences to help others understand the risks, and to Manchester Airport for helping to bring this important message directly to travellers. Through the FCDO's 'Know the Signs' campaign, we are encouraging travellers to recognise the symptoms of methanol poisoning and seek urgent medical attention immediately if they suspect something is wrong.”

The campaigners’ pop-up information stand in Terminal 2 Departures is complemented by informational posters at key touchpoints around the terminal, including toilet cubicles.

Margaret and Jim said: “We really appreciate Manchester Airport's support for this important campaign, especially relevant at this time of year, when young people are setting off on gap years or international travel.

“We would never want to discourage young people from travelling and exploring the world - we just want them to be armed with the information to keep themselves safe.

“We welcome Manchester Airport's proactive approach on this issue and very much hope that other airports in the UK will follow suit."

They have been supported by their MP, Tom Morrison, who has raised the family’s case in Parliament.

He said: “Margaret and Jim have shown extraordinary courage in turning their unimaginable grief into action that could save other families from the same heartbreak. I've been proud to support them in raising their daughter's case in Parliament, and I'm hugely grateful to Bethany and Calum for having the courage to share their own experiences so publicly, and to Manchester Airports Group for hosting today's campaign. Their combined efforts are what will keep other travellers safe, and I'm right behind everyone involved.”

Bethany said: “It was great to speak to members of the travelling public face to face and share some really important guidance with them on the signs and symptoms to look for. If I could offer one piece of advice it would be to ensure you’re familiar with those symptoms and seek medical attention if in any doubt.”

Calum added: “From a personal perspective it’s important for me to turn a negative into a positive and use it to help people - but more broadly I think it’s important to ensure that the issue of methanol poisoning is better known and this has been a great opportunity to reach people directly with my own experiences.”

For comprehensive information on recognising symptoms and reducing risks, Brits should visit the Travel Aware campaign website. To check travel advice for a destination, visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

This year’s series of the hit BBC show Race Across The World saw competitors traversing the country and introduced a new audience to captivating sites like the caves of Cappadocia and the towering Hagia Sofia in Istanbul.

And while it beaches remain popular, the country’s tourism board is now actively pushing Turkey as a cultural destination – with archaeological marvels, world-class museums and galleries, and sport and music events. Its natural beauty is not restricted to its coasts, either- with stunning landscapes to be found inland.

Manchester Airport, the UK’s hub in the North, offers direct links to no fewer than five destinations in Turkey – Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, Dalaman and Antalya. The latter two are among the airport’s most popular summer routes, with up to six airlines serving them directly – ensuring plenty of choice for passengers. Between them, these routes offer easy access not only to some of Turkey’s best beach resorts but also to some of its most breathtaking landscapes and iconic cultural sites.

Here we look at some of Turkey’s best cultural experiences – and how to get there from Manchester with flights from only £65pp return.

Hot air balloons at sunrise over Cappadocia

Fly direct from Manchester to Istanbul with Pegasus Airlines from £116pp return.

Cappadocia’s ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations were hollowed out and turned into cave dwellings over thousands of years – but it’s the more recent phenomenon of hot air balloon rides over the otherworldly landscape, pioneered int the 1990s, that have captured travellers’ imaginations. Most visits centre on the town of Göreme, with tours available from Istanbul.

Spa pools fit for the Gods at Pamukkale

Fly direct from Manchester to Bodrum with easyJet from £141pp return.

A site that blends ancient history with natural wonders, Pamukkale’s famous turquoise thermal pools – staggered along a sloping white travertine cliff face – have drawn visitors for millennia. The evidence of that is in the nearby ruins of the Roman spa town Hierapolis – where you can see what remains of temples, an ancient theatre and the original baths – some of which are still in use. Pamukkale is just over three hours’ drive from Bodrum, which has direct flights from Manchester.

Greeks and Romans – from Troy to Ephesus

Fly direct from Manchester to Izmir with Jet2.com from £46pp one-way and from Antalya to Manchester with Sunexpress from £31pp one-way.

If you want to make Turkey’s ancient history the focus of your visit, hire a car and plan a road trip along the coastline from Izmir to Antalya. To the north of Izmir, you’ll find the ruins of Troy – immortalised in Homer’s Iliad, the site consists of nine archaeological layers stretching back more than 4,000 years. From there, journey southwards towards the huge cities of Pergamon and Ephesus, the spa town Hierapolis, and the marble sculptures of Aphrodisias, before ending your trip in the ruins of Side, an almost-3,000-year-old port near Antalya.

The Lycian Way

Fly direct from Manchester to Dalaman with easyJet from £65pp return.

One of Turkey’s most impressive long-distance hiking trails, the Lycian Way covers more than 300 miles of rugged coastline. It extends from the town of Hisaronu – near Dalaman – in the west to Antalya in the east, and offers hikers a taste of everything Turkish, from archaeological sites connected to the ancient Lycian Kingdom, to nature reserves and small villages with a traditional way of life and authentic Turkish cuisine.

The ‘Turkish Maldives’ and the ‘Sunken City’

Fly direct from Manchester to Antalya with Sunexpress from £102pp return.

Visitors to Antalya who want to journey off the beaten track can take boat tours to Suluada, a small island that has been nicknamed the ‘Turkish Maldives’ because of its clear turquoise water and bright sandy shores. A few miles further along the coast is the island of Kekova, famous for its ‘sunken city’ – a ruined Lycian settlement that has slipped below the waves, but is still visible through the clear waters.

The city where East meets West

Fly direct from Manchester to Istanbul with Pegasus Airlines from £116pp return.

Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul, is also its biggest tourist draw – and there’s loads to do here that doesn’t involve a beach or a sun lounger. Peruse the stalls in the world famous Grand Bazaar – one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world – and then explore the winding streets of Galati and marvel at the splendour of the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace.

*Prices quoted are the cheapest available between now and 30 April 2027 when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website, from Manchester to the destination specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included.

· Businesses across the region have shared their stories of how having true international connectivity on their doorstep has helped them grow

· Political leaders including new Mayor of Greater Manchester Bev Craig and Northern Powerhouse Partnership President Lord Jim O’Neill have backed the runway to continue to drive benefits for the North as a whole and close the UK’s productivity gap