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Runway Visitor Park

Altrincham, United Kingdom•4.5(6.5k)•City Park, Museum

Watch planes take off and land from Manchester Airport while exploring retired aircraft including the iconic Concorde, with a flight simulator, café, and play area.

Runway Visitor Park is one of the North West's most popular outdoor attractions, offering a unique combination of aviation heritage and family entertainment. Located adjacent to Manchester Airport's busy runways, visitors can stand just metres away from planes as they take off and land, with weekend live commentary of airport operations adding to the experience. The park houses an impressive collection of retired aircraft, including the spectacular supersonic airliner Concorde G-BOAC, the former RAF military spy plane Nimrod, a DC-10, Avro RJX, and a retro Trident airliner that offers a glimpse of flying in the 1960s and 1970s. Beyond aircraft exploration, the venue offers several interactive experiences. Visitors can book a full-motion Fly360 simulator for a 360-degree fighter plane experience, or take a Concorde tour complete with cabin access, a walk under the wings, and a glass of champagne. The park features a large picnic area, the RVP Cafe for refreshments, a play area for children, and the Aviation Shop stocked with plane-related souvenirs. Runway Visitor Park caters to families of all ages and aviation enthusiasts alike, with amenities including pushchair-friendly facilities and dog-friendly areas. Educational visits and group bookings are available, making it suitable for family outings, school trips, and special events. The combination of viewing live airport operations, exploring historic aircraft, and enjoying interactive attractions makes it an engaging destination for anyone interested in aviation or seeking a memorable family day out.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 08:00 – 20:00
Tuesday: 08:00 – 20:00
Wednesday: 08:00 – 20:00
Thursday: 08:00 – 20:00
Friday: 08:00 – 20:00
Saturday: 08:00 – 20:00
Sunday: 08:00 – 20:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

RVP Cafe

Coffee house offering refreshments to visitors at the park

Hours: January-February: 8am-3:30pm, March: 8am-4:30pm, April: 8am-5:30pm, May: 8am-6pm, June-August: 8am-6pm, September: 8am-5:30pm, October: 8am-4:30pm, November-December: 8am-3:30pm. Hot food service: January-March & October-December 8am-3pm, April-September 8am-4pm

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Google Reviews

4.5(6.5k reviews)
M
Michael Wallace

Michael Wallace

a month ago

I visited Manchester Airport Runway Visitor Park today with my grandparents and my sister, as I’m obsessed with planes and love watching them land and take off. I used to visit several times when I was younger, so I’ve always wanted to come back. The view of the airfield is incredible, with constant action and plenty of aircraft coming and going. On the Sunday we visited, there was also a man with a microphone over the tannoy giving really interesting information about each flight, including where it was going and coming from, the age of the aircraft, the airline, and even some brief history. It was really helpful and made it easy to understand what was happening, especially for people who aren’t aviation enthusiasts. There is also a café on site with tasty food, although it is quite overpriced, which is to be expected in a place like this. The Concorde is also really cool to see, although we didn’t go inside on this occasion. Overall, the views were amazing and I would definitely come again.

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Aidan Q

Aidan Q

2 months ago

I remember visiting here when I was a young child and I returned for the first time recently, all these years later with my own child. Safe to say she absolutely loved watching the planes, and especially loved rinsing my for all of the rides as well! Fantastic place to visit, love to see that it's still going and doing well. A lot has changed since I was a child but it's as great as ever. Will definitely be returning.

K
Kieron Evans

Kieron Evans

2 months ago

Great place for a day out whether is with the family or for plane enthusiasts. Located at the side of the runway so it makes photo opportunities a must. There is a play area for children plus a lovely cafe underneath the iconic Concorde which is open for tours. This place is not to be missed as it is stunning on a lovely day. Plenty of space for picnic aswell. Parking reasonably priced and all staff are very friendly. Highly recommend for a day out

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Adekola Azeez

Adekola Azeez

2 months ago

Manchester Airport Runway Visitor Park is a fantastic day out for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. The viewing areas provide an excellent close-up experience of aircraft taking off and landing, making it exciting from start to finish. The atmosphere is friendly and well organised, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the action. One of the highlights is the impressive range of aircraft on display, including the iconic Concorde, which adds a unique touch to the visit. The staff are welcoming, knowledgeable, and always happy to answer questions, making the experience even more enjoyable.

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Craig Brooks

Craig Brooks

2 months ago

Being into aircraft and flying I find this place one of my favourite locations to visit a couple of times a year. Free entry apart from parking which isn't bad really, the cafe is a little expensive but what do you expect in these kind of places. I normally go and pay for a full day parking, brilliant to just watch the planes coming in and out all day. Just wish they would put some sort of higher platform in that clears your photography view instead on standing on the bench to clear the boundary fence.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Runway Visitor Park

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Runway Visitor Park

Is Runway Visitor Park free to visit?

Runway Visitor Park is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Runway Visitor Park dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Runway Visitor Park.

Is there parking at Runway Visitor Park?

Yes — Runway Visitor Park has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Runway Visitor Park?

Yes — RVP Cafe is on site at Runway Visitor Park. Coffee house offering refreshments to visitors at the park

Is Runway Visitor Park pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Runway Visitor Park is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Runway Visitor Park?

Runway Visitor Park is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Runway Visitor Park by public transport?

Runway Visitor Park is well-served by public transport.
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