Global Suppliers at Manchester
Authorized partnerships with global brands stationed at MAN Car Rental Village.
All-Inclusive MAN Protection
Drive out of Manchester with absolute confidence. Every booking automatically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third-Party Liability, and Theft Protection.
We ensure total transparency: the rate you book covers your essential insurance needs and includes 24/7 UK-wide breakdown assistance as standard.
Car Rental Village Access
All rental providers at Manchester Airport are grouped together in a dedicated Car Rental Village. After claiming your baggage at Terminals 1, 2, or 3, simply follow the signs for the free, dedicated shuttle bus which runs every 10 minutes.
For terminal maps and live flight information, we recommend checking the official Manchester Airport website.
What Our Manchester Customers Say
Verified reviews from travelers who rented directly from Manchester Airport.
"Fantastic service at Manchester Airport. The free shuttle bus to the Car Rental Village was waiting outside Terminal 2 and we were on the M56 in minutes."
"Very smooth pick-up process. Used the car to drive up to the Lake District. Will use again!"
"Best prices I found for a MAN rental. The car was ready and waiting with no hard sell at the desk."
"Returning at 5 AM was a breeze with the drop box, and the early bus to Terminal 1 took 5 minutes."
"Absolutely no hidden fees. The price I saw online was exactly what I paid at the Manchester desk."
"The car broke down which was surprising as it was brand new, but I guess nothing is perfect! However, I was very happy with the support. The car change over was very quick and professional. Thank you Sarah for the great customer service."
"Very straightforward access onto the M60 straight out of the depot. The premium vehicle selection is top-notch."
"Modern fleet and efficient customer support. Got me out of the airport traffic in record time heading to Chester."
Essential Driving Guide out of Manchester
Landing at MAN? Familiarise yourself with these vital rules of the road before exiting the Car Rental Village in your rental.
Navigating the M56 & M60
Leaving the Manchester Car Rental Village places you directly onto the M56 motorway. Heading East connects you quickly to the M60 ring road and Central Manchester. Heading West takes you towards Chester, Liverpool, and North Wales. Traffic can be very heavy between 07:30-09:30.
Manual vs. Automatic
Manual transmission (stick shift) is standard. If you are jet-lagged or unfamiliar with UK roads, we strongly recommend filtering for an automatic vehicle when you book to make navigating airport traffic much easier.
Roundabout Etiquette
You will encounter roundabouts immediately after leaving the village on Ringway Road. Traffic flows clockwise. You must always give way (yield) to traffic approaching from your right.
Speed Cameras & Smart Motorways
The M60 ring road is heavily monitored by variable speed limits displayed on overhead gantries. These are strictly enforced by yellow speed cameras. Distances and speeds are measured in Miles Per Hour (mph).
Manchester Clean Air Zone (CAZ)
Greater Manchester has a Clean Air Zone, though private passenger cars are currently exempt. However, if you plan to drive into other northern cities like Liverpool or Leeds, be aware of their specific emission zone regulations.
Returning the Car (Fuel)
If you have a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy, there is a BP petrol station conveniently located on Ringway Road, right next to the airport terminals. Fill up here before turning into the Car Rental Village to avoid penalty charges.
Police Traffic Stops
If signalled to stop by a police vehicle (flashing blue lights or sirens), pull over safely as soon as possible. Stay in your vehicle, turn off the engine, and wait. Have your driving licence, passport/ID, and car rental agreement ready.
Current UK Fuel Costs
UK fuel is sold by the litre. Due to recent geopolitical events affecting global supply chains, prices are currently averaging around £1.45 upto £1.60 per litre. We advise choosing a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy to control your own refuelling costs.
*As this is a volatile and ever-changing item, these prices were last updated on: .
Popular Drives from Manchester Airport
Because MAN is centrally located in the North West, it serves as the perfect gateway to national parks and major cities. Here are the top family-friendly spots and scenic drives our customers visit after picking up their rental.
Manchester City Centre
Distance: 10 miles (25 mins via A5103)
Head north straight into the bustling heart of Manchester.
Child-Friendly? Yes! Kids will love the interactive Science and Industry Museum or a tour of Old Trafford.
Pro Tip: Parking in central Manchester is notoriously expensive. If you are staying all day, use a Metrolink Park & Ride on the outskirts.
Peak District National Park
Distance: 25 miles (40 mins via A6)
Experience the rugged hills, limestone dales, and charming villages of the Peak District.
Child-Friendly? Great for active families. Visit the vast grounds of Chatsworth House or grab a famous Bakewell Tart.
Pro Tip: Prepare for narrow, winding country lanes—an SUV handles these best.
The Lake District
Distance: 85 miles (1 hr 30 mins via M6)
A longer drive North brings you to England's most famous glacial lakes and fell mountains.
Child-Friendly? Highly recommended! Take a boat cruise on Lake Windermere or visit the World of Beatrix Potter.
Pro Tip: Traffic on the M6 can be heavy on Friday afternoons; time your drive accordingly.
Chester & Chester Zoo
Distance: 35 miles (45 mins via M56)
Drive west to explore the Roman walls of Chester and the UK's most visited zoo.
Child-Friendly? Excellent. Chester Zoo is a massive, full-day attraction that kids of all ages will love.
Pro Tip: Parking is completely free at Chester Zoo, making it a very easy trip from the airport.
Liverpool City Centre
Distance: 30 miles (45 mins via M62)
Explore the rich maritime history, The Beatles Story, and the revitalized Royal Albert Dock.
Child-Friendly? Yes, the interactive museums and the Mersey Ferries are big hits with children.
Pro Tip: The M62 connecting Manchester and Liverpool is one of the busiest motorways in the UK; avoid rush hour if possible.
Alton Towers Resort
Distance: 45 miles (1 hr 10 mins via M6/A500)
The UK's largest and most thrilling theme park, set in the Staffordshire countryside.
Child-Friendly? The ultimate kid's day out! Features CBeebies Land for toddlers and massive rollercoasters for teens.
Pro Tip: Standard parking is located quite far from the entrance; pay for Express Parking online in advance to save a long walk.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Distance: 50 miles (1 hr 10 mins via M61/M55)
Head north to the classic British seaside resort, famous for its tower and illuminations.
Child-Friendly? A sensory overload of arcades, rollercoasters, and sandy beaches.
Pro Tip: Parking near the promenade fills up extremely fast during the summer holidays and the Illuminations; arrive early.
Tatton Park
Distance: 15 miles (35 mins via M56/A556)
A magnificent historical estate featuring a neo-classical mansion, lush gardens, and a deer park.
Child-Friendly? Very. The working traditional farm and adventure playground are perfect for younger children.
Pro Tip: It is incredibly close to the airport, making it the perfect 'half-day' trip if you have a late afternoon flight home.