THE UK is home to some of the world’s most stunning coastlines, but a stay at a “big name” resort can end up costing you more than a week in the Med.
Not to worry, we’ve unearthed the seaside spots which offer an unforgettable staycation without spending a fortune.
With a golden sandy beach backed by a traditional seaside promenade the town of Cleethorpes is a great holiday destinationCredit: Nelincs.gov.uk/The Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway offers two-mile trips along the coast in a steam or diesel locomotiveCredit: Cleethorpes coast light railway
Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration
Whether you’re after a classic bucket-and-spade stay with a nostalgic promenade, or looking for those off the beaten path hiking spots, we’ve got you covered.
Best of all, we’ve found 2026 staycation deals starting from as little as £49 – meaning your next seaside escape could cost less than going out for dinner.
Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire
Often overshadowed by Skegness, Cleethorpes is an underrated seaside town on the east Lincolnshire coast.
This family-friendly resort town boasts miles of unspoilt soft sands, with a traditional pier and promenade.
In the central promenade area you’ll find an abundance of activities such as bowling, crazy golf and seaside amusements.
The Lollipop Land Train is a big hit with kids, taking you on a scenic ride along the seafront for just £2 each way – plus kids come away with a lollipop!
You’ll also find the 19th-century Ross Castle, as well as the Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway, which offers two-mile trips along the coast in a steam or diesel locomotive, costing £5.75 per adult or £5.25 per child for a return.
That’s not all – a full day can easily be spent at the Light Railway as the site also hosts a tearoom, crazy golf course and toy shop.
Plus halfway along the line you’ll find Lakeside, where a vintage railway building has been transformed into a miniature pub called The Signal Box Inn, often hailed as the smallest pub on the planet.
When you want to explore a little further, a 10-minute drive takes you to Grimsby, home to the award-winning attraction the Fishing Heritage Centre. Here you’ll be transported back to a 1950’s fishing port, and visit the famous trawler Ross Tiger.
Haven Cleethorpes Beach is a mega holiday park with its own on-site Wetherspoons, as well as a massive, action-packed Adventure Village.
You can book a four-night stay at Cleethorpes Beach in a four-bed saver caravan from just £49 with a Haven Hideaway deal.
West Mersea Beach is lined by quirky pastel beach huts in Mersea Island, EssexCredit: AlamyCudmore Grove Country Park has a wooden play area and plenty of trails for dog walksCredit: Visit Essex
Mersea Island, Essex
Mersea Island is a seaside gem accessible via a causeway that disappears under the tide twice a day, with stunning landscapes and a laid-back vibe that feels worlds away from the flashy piers of Southend.
The island is known for its unique beaches, marshland wildlife and delicious oysters.
West Mersea Beach is an old-fashioned spot backed by pastel-coloured beach huts, whilst Monkey Beach is a lesser-known spot likely named after the monkey steps leading down to its shores.
You can spend a free afternoon crabbing off the West Mersea pontoon, or exploring the Cudmore Grove Country Park, a Green Flag spot with a wooden play area and pretty meadows made for dog walks.
A 20-minute drive (at low tide) takes you to Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, where you can visit its impressive castle or take a Roman and Medieval walking tour (£9 per adult and kids go free).
Coopers Beach Holiday Park offers direct beach access, plenty of sports courts and outdoor activities, and family restaurants with sea views.
Parkdean Resorts offer a four-night stay in a Bronze caravan which sleeps six from £99.
Pretty Pwllheli sits on the Lleyn Peninsula on the coast of North WalesCredit: GettyThe beaches of Pwllheli tend to be quieter than its upmarket neighbour AbersochCredit: Getty
Pwllheli, North Wales
While the holiday crowds flocks to nearby Abersoch, savvy travellers head to the bustling market town of Pwllheli to enjoy the same stunning shores for a fraction of the cost.
The town’s two massive beaches are perfect for bucket-and-spade days as a family, plus the nearby Plas Heli sailing centre offer sailing, kayaking and stand up paddle-boarding lessons.
It’s also a brilliant base for exploring the rest of the Llŷn Peninsula. For a historical afternoon out, an 18-minute drive leads to Criccieth Castle, where 13th-century ruins overlook Cardigan Bay.
Or to soak up the sights by foot, you can walk the coastal path to reach the art galleries and sheltered bay of Llanbedrog.
Plus if you’re really up for a hiking challenge, Snowdonia is only a 30-minute drive away.
With an indoor pool and water park, lazy river, four-lane waterslide and its own lake for pedalo hire, Hafan y Mor is the place to stay in Pwllheli.
You can book a four-night stay in a two-bed apartment at Hafan y Mor from just £79.
Filey has a beach that stretches for five miles and a rocky peninsula with plenty of wildlifeCredit: GettyWalk along the beach to the cliffs of Filey Brigg for some of the best sea viewsCredit: Getty
Filey, North Yorkshire
Sat between Scarborough and Bridlington, Filey is a charming seaside town where visiting feels like stepping back in time.
There’s a five-mile stretch of golden sands, perfect for setting up a spot to play beach games and build sandcastles.
You can spend a totally free afternoon exploring the dramatic Filey Brigg – a mile-long rocky peninsula built for birdwatching and spectacular sea views.
Or wander through the peaceful Glen Gardens, where you can visit the open air boating lake, burn off energy in the play park or set up a picnic on its scenic grounds.
When you fancy a change of pace, an 18-minute drive takes you to Scarborough, where you can enjoy a classic day out of spending loose change in the arcades or tackling the rides of Luna Park.
If you travel 22 minutes in the opposite direction it will take you to Bridlington, where Brid Spa hosts fantastic, family-friendly theatre productions. Head up further along the coast to Bempton Cliffs to spot adorable puffins.
Plus, Filey is significantly easier on the pocket than its busier neighbours, with top-tier holiday parks for affordable prices.
Hoseasons offer a 7-night stay in a two-bedroom saver caravan for just £125 at Blue Dolphin holiday park.
Bembridge on the Isle of Wight is one of the UK’s largest villagesCredit: GettyBembridge is also home to the last remaining windmill in the Isle of WightCredit: Alamy
Bembridge, Isle of Wight
If you want an Isle of Wight trip that feels more like a relaxing private getaway than a tourist trap, Bembridge is the place.
Skip the business of Sandown and head to this sprawling coastal gem. As one of England‘s largest villages, everything here is spaced out and relaxed, with plenty of room to wander without pushing through crowds.
You can spend a free morning visiting the historic Bembridge Windmill -the only windmill left on the island, dating back to 1700.
Or wander the dramatic 200-metre seaside pier, where the Lifeboat Station sits perched at the end overlooking the water.
When you want to explore further, less than 30 minutes’ drive south lands you in the trendy, hilly streets of Ventnor.
Charles Dickens once described the town as “The prettiest place I ever saw in my life, at home or abroad”, and it’s clear to see why. This artsy town has colourful buildings, beautiful botanical gardens and pebbled shores that zig-zag down to the seafront.
Or you could drive 10 minutes to Culver Down, for impressive chalk cliffs that offer a panoramic view of the English Channel.
Hoseasons offer a four-night stay in a two-bedroom chalet at the perfectly-positioned Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park from £84.
Morecambe is close to busy Blackpool, but it has plenty of its own family attractionsCredit: GettyVisit nearby Lancaster Castle on a trip to Morecambe, just 15 minutes’ drive awayCredit: Alamy
Morecambe, Lancashire
With the bustle of Blackpool nearby, Morecambe offers a more relaxed, retro feel with five miles of promenade to stroll.
Kids will love Happy Mount Park, home to a soft play, adventure golf, a massive splash park, tennis courts and more – perfect for a family day out no matter the weather.
For something more unique, head to the Stone Jetty to find the Tern Project: an interactive art trail with bird-themed pavement games, mazes, and puzzles along the way.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can join a guided group (from £15) to trek across the famous sands of the Cross Bay Walks at low tide – just don’t try it alone!
Lancaster is a 15-minute drive away, where you can explore its hilltop medieval castle, while you can reach Blackpool for an exciting day out in 45 minutes.
Whether you explore the thrills of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, or explore Madame Tussauds or the Blackpool Dungeons within the tower, you’re sure to have an action-packed day out – with a quieter change of scenery to return home to.
Parkdean Resorts offer a two-night stay in a two-bedroom silver caravan at Morecambe’s Ocean Edge from £99.
Wemyss Bay Station was rated 5 stars in Britain’s 100 Best Railway StationsCredit: AlamyCatch the Victorian ferry from Weymss Bay over to Rothesay on the Island of ButeCredit: Getty
Wemyss Bay, Scotland
While most tourists charge straight past to the inner isles, the charming village of Wemyss Bay is the perfect place to enjoy the dramatic Firth of Clyde landscapes.
To soak up the best of the local scenery, wander the coastal paths that look out over the isle of Bute. Walk down to the rocky shoreline at low tide to go beachcombing for sea glass – Wemyss Bay is a prime spot.
Or head to Kelly Burn to see the pretty woodland stream that marks the border between Renfrewshire and Ayrshire, leading you through lush greenery to hidden waterfalls.
Wemyss Bay Woods is also fantastic for nature walks, with a network of forest trails with mountain views.
Train enthusiasts will love visiting the award-winning Wemyss Bay Station, regularly hailed as one of the most beautiful railway stations in the UK thanks to its stunning glass canopy.
To explore further afield, you can hop on a ferry over to Rothesay to visit its castle and explore the isle (£8.70 adult return, kids £4.40).
And for the ideal indoor family attraction, 15 minutes by car or bus will take you to the traditional seaside town of Largs to visit the Vikingar! museum.
This interactive centre has a replica 8th century Viking house, character storytelling, an indoor swimming pool and more. Tickets cost £9.20 per adult and £6.30 per child.
The clifftop Wemyss Bay Holiday Park offers an affordable place to stay with striking views of the mountains across the water.
Hoseasons offer a four-night stay in a two-bedroom Bronze caravan from £99.
Thornwick Bay Holiday Village is perfectly located for beach access in FlamboroughCredit: GettyThe sea arch at Flamborough Head on the Yorkshire Coast is known as the Drinking DinosaurCredit: Alamy
Flamborough, East Yorkshire
Flamborough is one of East Yorkshire’s most picturesque seaside spots, with some of the UK’s most spectacular coastal walks and views.
Head to this rugged peninsula to explore North Landing – a sheltered cove dotted with traditional fishing boats, where you can explore its caves for free.
Flamborough is also home to the Living Seas Centre, which puts on family-friendly events such as fossil hunts, boat trips and rockpool safaris.
You can also drive just six minutes to Sewerby Hall and Gardens, with woodland walks and beautiful walled and rose gardens. Entering the hall to see its stately rooms costs £4.50 per adult and £3.50 per child.
Head up to Thornwick Bay to find crystal clear waters protected by chalk cliffs, which open up dozens of fascinating rockpools at low tide.
But don’t just stick to the main beaches – head to Selwicks Bay at low tide to see the “Drinking Dinosaur” rock formation – a massive natural arch that’s the perfect backdrop for a family photo to remember your holiday.
Thornwick Bay Holiday Village is an unbeatable budget base, with activities ranging from water sports at the Boathouse to indoor arts and crafts at the Activity Barn.
Hoseasons offer a four-night stay in a two-bedroom saver caravan from £69.
You can reach Great Yarmouth from Hopton in just 15 minutes to visit popular Britannia PierCredit: AlamyHaven’s Hopton Holiday Village provides direct access to the beaches of Hopton-on-SeaCredit: Haven
Hopton-on-Sea, Norfolk
If you want the golden sands of the Norfolk coast without the price tag of the posh towns like Burnham Market or Holkham, Hopton-on-Sea is your best bet.
Perched on the border between Norfolk and Suffolk, this quiet village has a pristine beach that’s far less crowded than its noisy neighbours.
Here you’re perfectly placed between two major seaside resorts: Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth.
A 15-minute drive north takes you to Yarmouth for some old-school pier fun and theme park Pleasure Beach, whilst the same time driving south lands you in Lowestoft, with its award-winning Blue Flag beaches.
Plus Hopton itself is a beautiful village worth exploring. Take a walk along its scenic grass-topped cliffs, or wander down to the water for a quiet spot to sunbathe.
Hopton Holiday Village is a bargain holiday park with direct beach access, and you can have a four-night break for less than the cost of one night in a seaside hotel.
Haven offer a four-night stay in a bronze caravan sleeping up to six at Hopton Holiday Village from £89.
Britain’s Got Talent has been accused of a ‘fix’ after one if it’s contestant has been revealed as a West End star who appeared in the musical Lion King
20:25, 05 Apr 2026Updated 21:28, 05 Apr 2026
Nic Vani was revealed as a West End star(Image: ITV)
A Britain’s Got Talent star’s West End past has been revealed. But now, Nic Vani has shared his dreams of finally being centre stage in a production, rather than in the background.
During his audition, Nic impressed all four judges with his impressive rendition of Circle of Life, taken from the hit musical, The Lion King.
But one explanation for his outstanding performance is the fact that he starred in the production as a performer. And according to reports, he played the iconic role of Simba.
Nic received a standing ovation from the judges, Stacey Solomon, who is standing in for Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, KSI and Alesha Dixon. And he received four yesses.
Nic, a father of three, described himself as a singer, without mentioning his professional past. And the reason for appearing on the show was that he finally felt ready to take his career to the next level. During his audition, Nic said: “In my current music career, I’ve always been at the back – so now I think that it’s time for me to be on the spotlight.”
However, after his performance, viewers started to do a bit of digging and found out he was a professional singer. A source said of Nic: “Nic loves performing and has been grafting in musical theatre for decades, but he has always been the swing player waiting in the wings and never the headline West End star. BGT has opened doors for all kinds of stage talent and Nic stepping out of the shadows to show his singing to the world could be the moment to change.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson said: “Anyone can apply for Britain’s Got Talent whether they are professional or amateur, irrespective of their experience. All contestants are auditioned on merit and judged on their performance on the day. Some of the acts appearing on the show may have tasted a level of success in their craft, but are not household names. All enter the contest with the hope of elevating their career to the highest level.”
As well as starring in The Lion King, he also landed a role in The Book of Mormon and has toured with former Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse. Fans were not happy about the revelation as they believed the show should be about discovering untapped talent. Taking to X, one person wrote: “Nic vani.. the guy who literally played Simba in The Lion King.. why are they letting people like this on #bgt ??”
And his celebrity links were also on full display as Oti took to Instagram and wrote: “I love you so much and I hope this is the start of a beautiful journey for you.”
Although many were unhappy about his inclusion, others celebrated his talent as they felt he should have been given the coveted golden buzzer.
Another viewer said: “This man was phenomenal!!!! And should have had the golden buzzer!!! His performance made the hairs on my neck and spine stand on end!! Amazing!!!!”‘
Another act that was given Stacey’s golden buzzer was a primary school group who performed a unique version of All Things Bright And Beautiful. But within the song they then paused and performed a comedy skit.
Nic may be wanting to follow in the footsteps of BGT legend Susan Boyle, who shot to fame back in 2009 with her rendition of I Dreamed A Dream.
Following her performance, she made it to the final but lost out on winning the competition to dance group Diversity. Susan is now worth an estimated £22 million and has finally moved out of her childhood home.
Susan, who recently celebrated her 65th birthday, showed off her transformation. And fans were so taken aback by her news look, they said that the TV personality was ageing “backwards.”
Sharing a snap of her in a football shirt, showing off her blonde hair she captioned the post saying: “I’m so proud to support the wonderful charity, Street Soccer Scotland. I’ve absolutely loved getting my hands on this beautiful limited edition Street Soccer Scotland x Timorous Beasties football shirt.”
A TV insider has shared what they claim is the real reason behind a ‘blunder’ on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent
BGT fans spotted a blunder during a magician’s act last week(Image: ITV)
A TV insider has revealed what he claims is a behind-the-scenes Britain’s Got Talent secret ploy following a ‘blunder’ during a recent episode of the ITV programme.
The hit talent competition recently made a triumphant return to our screens as judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and KSI reunited with presenters Ant and Dec in the hunt for Britain’s next talented superstar.
Contestants have pulled out all the stops in an attempt to impress the panel and secure a life-changing £250,000 cash prize and a coveted slot at the Royal Variety Performance.
Amongst the numerous performers who have graced the stage so far is magician Fabian Fox and BGT fans know full well that magic acts are amongst the most-loved performances on the programme.
Last weekend the young magician introduced himself to judges Amanda Holden, KSI, Alesha Dixon and guest judge Stacey Solomon, while two large platforms with curtains attached stood behind him on the stage, reports Belfast Live.
However, his trick sparked conversation amongst fans as he ‘transported’ a woman and man from one of the platforms to the other using his own powers.
The way viewers were going to be able to tell that it was the same woman transported onto the platform was that she was going to be holding one white sports trainer at the point of teleportation.
Yet viewers watching at home were swift to notice an editing blunder as initially the lady was holding a trainer with the laces undone, then, when she “teleported” to the other platform, the laces were mysteriously tied up.
According to TikTok user @adamjamesonTV, who works in television, it was no accident and programme producers did that deliberately to attract more audiences.
Mirror has approached ITV for comment.
In footage shared to his account, he displayed an image of the ‘error’ and stated: “So everybody thinks this was an editing blunder on Britain’s Got Talent but they’re wrong.
“First of all, this edit is seen by so many people before it actually gets broadcast. There’s no way on earth they missed it.”
He went on: “Second of all, the fact that they kept this blunder in means that he’s definitely not going to win the show. Their argument will be that they’re showing the act as it was and therefore they’re doing nothing to manipulate the performance.
“However, their real reason is the fact that you guys will all stick it on social media and talk about the show. If you’re talking about the show, the show gets more viewers and the traction gets bigger. Essentially, he’s just become another pawn in Britain’s Got Talent’s machine.”
He concluded: “If they wanted him to win, they would have cut this bit out, gone to a wide shot and nobody would have known. But whether you like it or not, Britain’s Got Talent is not about having a fair talent competition. It’s about viewers and viewers equals money.”
Britain’s Got Talent airs Saturday nights on ITV and ITVX.
People are raving about a Wetherspoons pub which they say feels like being in a fancy hotelCredit: JD WetherspoonsHamilton Hall is found in London Liverpool Street StationCredit: JD WetherspoonsMany of the original features have been restoredCredit: JD Wetherspoons
Named after Great Eastern Railway Company Lord Claud Hamilton, it became a Wetherspoons in 1991.
It was both the first central London Wetherspoons and the first in a train station.
While the hotel itself is still open – you can stay at what is now the Andaz London Liverpool Street for £260 a night – many of the original features remain in the pub.
This includes the ornate mouldings and frescos, as well as the celling decorations, and artwork.
It is popular with train travellers and football fansCredit: AlamyIt was the first central London Wetherspoons to open more than 20 years agoCredit: JD Wetherspoons
Great Britain’s Josh Kerr wins gold in the men’s 3000m at the World Indoor Athletics Championships, with Cole Hocker taking silver for USA and and France’s yann Schrub taking bronze in Poland.
The 18 rooms and five suites combine original features with extravagant modern touches to make for a luxurious stay.
Our dog-friendly Cotswold Room had exposed wooden beams complemented by sleek interior design, including air con and a massive TV.
The bed was enormous and beyond comfortable, while the marble-effect bathroom had a belter of a shower.
There was also a doggy welcome pack, which included treats, toys and a plush sleeping pad.
It was the most wonderful stay in an idyllic village setting. Relaxing, even with our nutter of a cockapoo.
Rooms start at £250 including breakfast. Dogs charged at £30 per stay. See feathers.co.uk.
What is there to eat and drink there?
If the sun’s out, head to the hotel’s cute courtyard at The Aviary and get that Aperol spritz ordered.
For dinner, move inside to The Nest for fine dining with a flourish. Every item was off the scale but the star of the show was the lamb main.
For the lamb dish alone I would walk from my home in South West London.
Make sure to return for lunch as they serve a beautiful afternoon tea.
What else is there to do?
Woodstock is perfect for a genteel traipse, and a visit to nearby Blenheim Palace is a no-brainer.
The signs boast this is “Britain’s Greatest Palace” – and the beauty of the undulating grounds coupled with the striking palace itself definitely put it in there with a good shout.
Is it family friendly?
Two of the suites have sofa beds at an additional cost, for families staying with kids.
Cots can also be rented for £10 a night.
Is the hotel accessible?
The hotel has an accessible room on the ground floor.
This spectacular Victorian mansion is Britain’s original smart home and the world’s first hydroelectric-powered building, featuring historic gardens and starred as Lockwood Manor in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom
19:05, 12 Mar 2026Updated 07:59, 16 Mar 2026
The house is now in the hands of The National Trust (Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)
Nestled within a spectacular mountain setting, this Victorian property stands as a genuine architectural trailblazer and the very first of its kind.
Cragside in Rothbury, Northumberland, holds the title of Britain’s original smart home, and it’s utterly magnificent. From the exterior, the enormous mansion looms over the water beneath it, all asymmetrical and striking, resembling something straight out of a film.
Its multiple pointed roofs and curved brickwork give it a distinctly Tim Burton-esque quality, and indeed, it has featured in numerous productions thanks to its remarkably distinctive beauty.
It appeared in the 2018 blockbuster hit Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom as the location for Lockwood Manor.
Yet it’s truly the fact this was the world’s first building powered by hydroelectricity and operated by hydraulics that makes it such an extraordinary marvel. Rivers, lakes and even waterfalls all work together to power the property and its enchanting gardens.
Best Northumberland holiday cottage deals
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Northumberland is famed for its rugged coastline, ancient castles and unspoiled natural beauty. Sykes Cottages has a range of places to stay starting from £38 per night
History
Cragside was brought to life through the vision of William and Margaret Armstrong, with William serving as an engineer and industrialist responsible for numerous groundbreaking inventions.
Meanwhile, Margaret had extensive expertise in botanical life, which inspired the creation of the gardens.
What began as simply a sporting lodge in 1863 gradually evolved into a sprawling estate, developed over three decades. The architectural masterpiece was expanded in three principal phases between 1870 and 1884 by architect Richard Norman Shaw.
It quickly evolved into a hub of groundbreaking innovation as the married couple developed their revolutionary vision for electricity and power generation.
The property operates through hydraulics in an entirely unique manner, standing as the world’s first water-powered home. It pioneered central heating, electric lighting, gravity-fed plumbing, water-driven machinery and a hydraulic lift, delivering unprecedented levels of domestic comfort.
Contributing to the property’s pioneering spirit is the electric lighting, which was installed in 1878 using carbon-arc lamps in the Gallery room.
Working alongside chemist Joseph Swan, they advanced this further in 1880 by enabling the first residential installation of incandescent lightbulbs.
Following years of refurbishment and innovation, the property eventually passed to their great-nephew, William Watson Armstrong, after he inherited it.
As they had no children, he became the rightful heir to the estate, and following their passing, the home remained with his family for two additional generations.
Walking
Due to its breathtaking setting, Cragside provides an excellent location for extensive walks across and surrounding the grounds, featuring two particularly lengthy routes – one called the Hydro-power Trail and the other Views of Cragside.
Stretching a lengthy 6.5 miles, these trails are closer to a hike than a leisurely stroll and could occupy the majority of your visit, but the estate serves as an excellent launch pad for the adventure.
The Hydro-power Trail is one that guides you past every aspect of the technology used to harness water power.
On the other hand, the Views of Cragside route offers panoramic views of the Northumberland hills and beyond. It leads you past the Formal Garden, where you can pause to appreciate the meticulously arranged flower beds.
There are signposts scattered throughout the estate directing you to various trails suitable for a range of abilities. The most family-friendly and considered easy to moderate is Nelly’s Moss, which takes up to an hour to complete.
Visiting the estate
To fully enjoy all that Cragside has to offer, there’s no need to pre-book, and parking is included in your entry fee – National Trust members excepted, naturally. Adults are charged £27.00, whilst children pay £13.50 upon entry.
Families consisting of two adults and up to three children can opt for a family ticket priced at £67.50. The site opens its doors from 11am, with the house closing at 3pm and the remaining facilities open until 4pm.
BRITAIN’s third busiest airport has shut one of the terminals for good.
The terminal, which first opened in 1962, has closed as part of the airport’s £1.3billion transformation.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
Manchester airport is closing down its Terminal 1Credit: Alamy
Manchester airport is turning into a two-terminal operation under the new layout.
All airlines have moved into the expanded Terminal 2, which now handles more than 75% of passengers, while Ryanair flights will operate solely from Terminal 3.
Chris Woodroofe, managing director of Manchester Airport, said: “While this is the end of an era for Terminal 1, it’s really the start of a whole new chapter for Manchester Airport.
“We’re proud to connect the North to the world and our £1.3bn investment in Terminal 2 means that we’re now bigger and better than ever – serving our passengers in a setting that rivals any airport Terminal across Europe.
“It’s also allowing us to continue our growth and operate more flights to more destinations every single day. And we’ve achieved this at the same as making things more simple and straightforward for our passengers.
The closure also frees up space for new facilities at the airport, including hundreds of extra seats, a new bar called Sporting Chance and an Italian restaurant.
More than 2,000 signs across the airport have been replaced to reflect the changes, alongside a new parking system where all car parks are labelled P1 to P16 to make them easier to find.
The redevelopment forms part of the long-running Manchester Airport Transformation Programme, launched in 2015 to modernise the airport for future growth.
The first phase of the revamped Terminal 2 opened in 2021, with the full expansion completed in 2025, paving the way for Terminal 1 to be decommissioned.
The overhaul comes as Manchester Airport continues to grow, serving a record 32 million passengers in 2025.
This February has become the busiest on record with more than 2.05 million travellers.
