Stay, Explore, Travel: A Quick Guide to Public Transport Near Dakota Manchester
Exploring Manchester is a breeze when staying at Dakota Manchester, thanks to the city’s comprehensive public transport network. Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate from our hotel at 29 Ducie Street to some of Manchester’s key destinations:
Manchester Piccadilly Train Station
Manchester Piccadilly Station is the city’s primary rail hub. It offers extensive connectivity with direct services to major cities such as London, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, as well as regional destinations like Liverpool, Leeds, and Sheffield. The station features 14 platforms and is integrated with the Metrolink tram system, providing seamless local travel. Whether you’re exploring Manchester or venturing further afield, Piccadilly Station is your gateway to convenient and accessible travel.
• Walking: Piccadilly Train Station is just a short 6 minute walk from the hotel.
Spinningfields
A sleek riverside district known for its cosmopolitan charm, Spinningfields is packed with designer boutiques – ideal for guests looking to indulge in a more upscale, city-centre experience.
• Walking: Approximately 20 minutes via Whitworth Street and Deansgate.
• Bus: Catch the free bus Route 1 from Piccadilly Station, which is a short walk from the hotel. This service runs every 10 minutes and stops near Spinningfields.
Deansgate
Lined with grand architecture, bustling bars, and landmark buildings, Deansgate is a cultural and social hotspot.
• Walking: Around 15 minutes via Whitworth Street.
• Bus: Utilise the free bus Route 1 from Piccadilly Station to Deansgate.
• Tram: From Piccadilly Station, take the Metrolink towards Altrincham and alight at Deansgate-Castlefield. Trams run frequently, with a journey time of about 5 minutes.
Northern Quarter
Manchester’s Northern Quarter is the city’s creative and cultural hub, packed with independent boutiques, live music venues, and eye-catching street art.
• Walking: A short 5-minute stroll from the hotel.
• Bus: The free bus Route 2 from Piccadilly Station loops around the Northern Quarter, offering a convenient alternative to walking.
Ancoats
Expect canalside cafés, award-winning eateries, and a fiercely independent spirit. A must for guests keen to discover Manchester’s creative edge and culinary scene.
• Walking: Approximately 10 minutes via Great Ancoats Street.
• Bus: While walking is often the quickest option, local buses from Piccadilly Gardens serve the Ancoats area regularly.
Manchester Central – Market Street / Cathedral Street
A hub for high-street fashion and fast-paced city shopping. From big-name brands to casual street performers, this pedestrian-friendly stretch offers a classic city retail experience that’s perfect for a spontaneous spree.
• Walking: About 10-15 minutes to Market Street; Cathedral Street is a short distance further.
• Bus: The free bus Routes 1 and 2 from Piccadilly Station stop near Market Street.
• Tram: From Piccadilly Station, take any Metrolink service towards Bury or Altrincham and alight at Market Street or Exchange Square for Cathedral Street.
Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport is your gateway to international adventure and seamless onward travel. With lounges, dining options, and shopping, it offers convenience and comfort before or after your stay.
• Train: Direct trains from Piccadilly Station to Manchester Airport depart frequently, with a journey time of approximately 20 minutes.
• Tram: The Metrolink service from Piccadilly Station to Manchester Airport runs every 12 minutes, taking around 55 minutes.
Co-Op Live Arena
As Manchester’s cutting-edge new arena, Co-Op Live brings global music stars and large-scale events to the heart of the city. With a packed calendar of live entertainment, it’s a go-to destination for guests seeking a memorable event.
• Walking: Approximately 25 minutes via Great Ancoats Street and Ashton New Road.
• Bus: Local buses from Piccadilly Gardens, such as the 216, head towards the Etihad Campus, which is adjacent to the arena.
• Tram: From Piccadilly Station, take the Metrolink towards Ashton-under-Lyne and alight at Etihad Campus. Trams run every 12 minutes, with a journey time of about 8 minutes.
Etihad Stadium
More than just the home of Manchester City, the Etihad Stadium is a world-class venue for football fans and music lovers alike. On match days and event nights you can expect an electric atmosphere, perfect for guests chasing big moments and unforgettable experiences.
• Walking: Similar to the Co-Op Live Arena, it’s about a 25-minute walk.
• Bus: The 216 bus from Piccadilly Gardens provides regular service to the stadium.
• Tram: As with the arena, take the Metrolink towards Ashton-under-Lyne from Piccadilly Station and alight at Etihad Campus.
For personalised journey planning and real-time updates, consider using the Transport for Greater Manchester’s journey planner.
Whether you’re heading to a business meeting in Spinningfields, exploring the vibrant Northern Quarter, or catching a match at Etihad Stadium, Manchester’s public transport options make it easy to reach your destination from Dakota Manchester.
