8 Of Manchester's Best Running Routes

With serene waterways, secluded cobbled alleys and hidden historical gems all waiting to be explored, what better way to see the city in all its glory than on foot? Whether you’re short on time, or just looking for a unique (and healthy) way to explore the city, one of the most exciting ways to see Manchester is to run it.

The city boasts numerous running route possibilities, with canal paths, city streets and cobbled walkways to explore and challenge. Below, we list some of the best ways to run in Manchester.

NOTE: The routes used here will be from GreatRuns and MapMyRuns.

8 Of Manchester City Centre's Best Running Routes

City Centre Sightseeing Loop 

 The possibilities for a central Manchester loop are endless. In just a few kilometres, you can run  a circular loop which will take you on a visual journey of Manchester’s history, future and heritage, passing by typical tourist attractions (Manchester Cathedral, The Bridgewater Hall, Chetham’s Library, Manchester Central Library to name a few) and unearthing some of the lesser known hidden gems.

From CitySuites, cross Victoria Bridge to take in the sights of the Manchester Cathedral and National Football Museum, before continuing south past the Town Hall and Central Library. Run down Oxford Street, a main shopping street, before completing the loop alongside the city’s canals and rivers. This is a good route to do early before the city gets too busy, giving you the perfect opportunity to get in some exercise and sightseeing before breakfast.

Guided Running Tour

To really delve into the history of the city, consider booking a running tour. Manchester's Runseeing Tour offers a tour for every pace, distance and ability. If you're both new to the city, and like to run on your free time, then this tour allows you to meet your daily running regiment, while exploring the vast city of Manchester. This is a comparatively short route compared to others.

However, there's also an option for a longer, more intense run designed as a loop head north on the River Irwell path for up to 4 extra miles, or even more depending on what you're aiming for.

River Irwell and Peel Park 

If you prefer a less urban run, this route takes you along the River Irwell and through some beautiful green areas. Head north to reach the River Irwell walkway. Follow the river, taking the bridge to complete a loop of The Meadow and cross the next bridge to complete a loop of Peel Park. Peel Park is one of the oldest free public parks in the UK, having opened in 1846, and was reopened in 2017 following restoration. There are a few sights to see in the park, including Salford University and the Salford Museum and Art Gallery. Head back across the bridges to retrace your path along the river back to CitySuites.

Castlefield to the Quays

A relatively short, but equally interesting run through Salford Quays, this route will take you to a historical path that loops around the three "basins" as well as the North Bay, Central Bay, and South Bay. There's plenty to see while you're running here, and if you fancy a quick stroll through a river path, then this is an ideal running route to take. 

Bridgewater Running Route

Bridgewater's canal path in Manchester is full of options for running through Manchester. You can start from Castlefield Basin, start within the canal path stemming from this area, and run towards Manchester Stadium/Old Trafford. This path is great as it has a variety of great views of the water most of the way, and a great challenge too as the surface often changes between pavement to cobblestones, to street levels and other types. 

Ashton Canal Tow Path

Ashton is part of a series of canal tow paths in Manchester, and it's a fantastic option to understand the industrial and historical parts of Manchester. You pass by old mills, iconic landmarks and more in this path, so if you want a relatively easier running route, Ashton's Canal Tow path is highly ideal. 

Heaton Park

While it's a little bit away from Manchester city centre, we couldn't help but include it as Heaton Park is - in our opinion - the perfect park for running. 

Heaton Park is a 600-acre park with trails and wooded areas that are both open and picturesque. There's also a classical monument that runners can see passing by, a neoclassical 18th century country house - Heaton Hall - for anyone curious about the park's heritage. 

Worsley Tour

Worsley is one of the more attractive areas of Manchester, not too far from the city centre itself. Another well-mentioned part of Manchester, Worsley boasts a community of well-maintained neighbourhoods, as well as green paths and parks through the canal. 

You can easily create a 3-4 mile running path here, which is perfect if you want something a bit quieter than a running route in Manchester's own city centre. 

A Place Made For Running 

Manchester is the place to be for anyone, and for runners in particular as the vast areas and alleyways located within and around Manchester makes for an interesting route for jogging, cycling, and running. 

Whether you're here for a day, or living in Manchester for longer-term, it's ideal to know that the city itself has plenty of running spots. 

Where will you go for a run? 

CitySuites is your place in the city, and it's an ideal place to book when you want a sanctuary to unwind in when you're in Manchester.

It includes plenty of exercise facilities too, from our exclusive gyms to recreational aparthotel pools, you can get lost in the options. There's plenty of benefits when you opt for hotel pools, so take this chance to book your apartment in the city.