Runway Visitor Park (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Runway Visitor Park?
What makes it 70% Couple-Friendly: Couples can share the raised mound views, book the Concorde champagne tour, or picnic on the grass, yet the atmosphere is noisy and there are few evening or sheltered romantic spaces.
Positives:
- Up-close runway action: Jets roar past within meters at the viewing mound.
- Interactive exhibits: Climb into cockpits and inspect engines on retired aircraft.
Challenges:
- Weather exposure: The outdoor mound has no shelter—check the forecast and dress for wind.
- Peak-time crowds: Summer afternoons and weekends fill quickly—arrive before 11am to beat queues.
What is Runway Visitor Park?
- A dedicated aviation heritage park on the grounds of Manchester Airport, showcasing retired airliners and aeronautical artefacts
- A curated collection of decommissioned aircraft, from a Concorde supersonic jet to classic commercial airliners, arranged across outdoor displays and a purpose-built hangar
- A facility integrating exhibition spaces, a café and a raised viewing platform, positioned alongside active runways within the airport complex
What is so special about Runway Visitor Park for couple trip?
- Witness jets taking off just meters away
- Explore Concorde interiors with guided tours
- Share a thrill on the full-motion simulator
- Relax at RVP Café with runway panoramas
- Book online to avoid sold-out slots
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: A couple can see key exhibits, take a Concorde tour and enjoy the café without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Runway Visitor Park
Plane-spotting at the viewing mound:
Watch jets taxi, take off, and land just meters away.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before busy periods and head to the north end for best views.
Concorde Tour:
Explore the classic Concorde cabin and cockpit on a guided walk-through.
Tip: Book the Classic or Platinum tour online at least a week ahead to secure your spot.
Fly 360° Simulator:
Share a full-motion WW2 fighter flight in a two-seat cockpit.
Tip: Reserve sessions at reception on arrival and wear layers in case the cabin cools.
RVP Café:
Enjoy brunch or light bites with panoramic runway views through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Tip: Grab a window table on weekends and try their signature coffee blend.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Runway Visitor Park
- Use public transport: Arrive by train or bus for free park entry and skip parking fees.
- Align with flight schedules: Check live flight boards at reception to plan spotting around arrivals.
- Book tours early: Reserve Concorde and simulator slots online to secure preferred times.
Reviews of Runway Visitor Park
Sharpy (SharpFear)
Had a fantastic experience. Great photography spot for plane spotting. Nice cafe nearby, there's a shop & also concord! You can book online for a tour of the concord, I booked the platinum tour, our guide was incredibly informative! Would reccomend.
Jack Clement
Fantastic place if you want to spot aircrafts takeoff and land. If you want to experience the fastest passenger plane on earth, they offer many tours of concorde. I would recommend platinum tour if you have time and money
R Ehan
Good place to visit not expensive.. parking is avaliable minimum 2 hours for 6 pounds. Concorde tours are paid but you can walk around for free.. Good place for plane spotting. You can see off and welcome your love ones by waving to there departing or landing airplane.. lots of interesting things for all ages.. highly recommend
Roger Knight
A lovely view of the Manchester Airport Runway and Terminal. It includes a Cafe and an Aviation shop (Good for Aviation Enthusiasts) a tour of a Concorde/ a flying experience. A lot of people come here but the highlight of going there is definitely watching the planes, so close to you. Also some Amusement rides for the children with adults or siblings that are preoccupied with the planes. If you ...
Ian Venner
Fantastic way to spend one or several hours, I love coming here. - Great views of the two main runways. - Knowledgeable commentary on the aircraft, the airport and associated trivia. -Concorde on view - for free!! -Just pay for parking. -The model shop is well stocked and well priced. Best of all, all profit goes to the runway visitor park, so I had no problem paying a little bit more than the ch...
When is the best time to visit Runway Visitor Park (Manchester, United Kingdom)?
Summer weekends get busy; visit early on weekdays for quieter spotting. The mound is exposed in winter—bring a windproof jacket and warm layers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking (2–4 hrs) | GBP 12 |
| Concorde Classic Tour for 2 | GBP 36 |
| Fly 360° Simulator for 2 | GBP 12 |
| Drinks at RVP Café | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 70 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Runway Visitor Park
Address: Runway Visitor Park, Sunbank Ln, Altrincham WA15 8XQ, UK
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Runway Visitor Park (Manchester)?
About Runway Visitor Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official Website10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities