Things To Do
in Eccles
Eccles is a historic market town in the City of Salford, just west of Manchester, known for its canal heritage and easy access to urban culture. It sits along the Manchester Ship Canal and the Bridgewater Canal, shaping a landscape of industrial history and leafy streets. The town is famous for the Eccles Cake, a flaky currant pastry that travelers often seek out.
Today, Eccles blends a relaxed suburban vibe with convenient links to Manchester's museums, music, and football scene.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional English fare. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Eccles, marveling at the charming architecture and historical landmarks. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Eccles Town Hall, a beautiful Victorian building that tells the story of the town's rich past.
Head to the nearby Eccles Market, where you can browse an array of local produce, crafts, and unique gifts. Grab lunch at one of the market stalls, sampling authentic food from the region. Afterward, visit the local museum to learn more about Eccles' history and cultural significance.
As the sun sets, enjoy a cozy dinner at a traditional pub, where you can taste local ales and hearty dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Bridgewater Canal, soaking in the serene atmosphere. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, enjoying live music or a quiet drink.
Begin your day with a fresh cup of coffee at a local café before exploring the stunning nature trails around Eccles. Head to the beautiful Gorsey Bank Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among the lush greenery. Take a moment to appreciate the local wildlife as you stroll through the park’s scenic paths.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, surrounded by nature's beauty. Afterwards, continue to the nearby Clifton Country Park, where you can hike along the picturesque trails and admire the serene views of the lake. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore more of the park's extensive pathways.
Return to Eccles and treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant featuring seasonal dishes. After dining, take a moment to relax at a nearby pub, where you can chat with locals and learn more about the community. Finish your evening with a stroll through the town center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (local area) | $8-15 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $12-18 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Manchester with easy transport links
- Iconic local foods (Eccles Cake) and canal-side scenery
- Calm, family-friendly town center with affordable dining
- Limited nightlife within Eccles itself
- Weather can be changeable, with frequent rain
- Public transport to some rural areas may require planning
Places to Visit in Eccles
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking iron aqueduct that carries the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal—dramatic views and a reminder of industrial heritage.
Historic church façade and bustling town square offer architectural detail and people-watching opportunities.
Waterfront views, ships passing through, and long perspective lines ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Food in Eccles
Eccles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flaky currant-filled pastry that pairs beautifully with a brisk Manchester drizzle; widely available in local bakeries and cafes in Eccles.
Must-Try!
A custard-filled tart with jam and coconut topping, a nostalgic dessert often found in cafes around Manchester.
A slow-cooked lamb or beef hotpot with potatoes; a staple at traditional pubs in Salford and surrounding towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, and street snacks—great for a quick bite and an authentic local atmosphere.
Seasonal market stalls and street food pop-ups near the quay, offering international bites and local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette favors orderly queues; join the back and wait your turn, especially for buses and at market stalls.
Be polite, greet staff with a hello, and avoid loud behavior; tipping is optional and conversations in public spaces are generally friendly.
Stand on the left on escalators if you want to stop; keep to the left on pavements if you want to pass.
Safety
Tipping in Eccles
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in the UK; 10-15% in sit-down restaurants if service is not included, rounding up at pubs or cafes, and taxi drivers occasionally expect a tip.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common on buses and in shops; some smaller venues may only take cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with frequent sunshine; occasional showers. Bring light layers, stay hydrated, and take advantage of canal-side strolls and outdoor markets.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage; misty mornings around the canal and parks make for atmospheric photography and comfortable walks.
Shorter daylight hours and potential cold snaps; plan daytime visits, layer up, and enjoy cozy pubs and indoor attractions.
Milder weather with budding trees and longer days; great for parks, wildlife spotting along Chat Moss, and canal walks.
Eccles at Night
Hiking in Eccles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic circular route around the Chat Moss peat bog, offering open landscapes and birdwatching opportunities.
Riverside trails north of Eccles along the River Mersey with occasional woodland sections.
Flat, easy walks along canal towpaths with industrial and natural scenery, popular for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Eccles by plane.
Major international gateway about 9-25 miles from Eccles with train and road links, taxis, and ride-hailing options.
Smaller international airport offering regional and some international flights; around 40-60 miles from Eccles by road.
Further afield but accessible by air; roughly 70-85 miles from Eccles, with good domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Eccles has a family-friendly community with good schools and parks.
Proximity to Manchester brings a younger demographic and university-connected residents.
A diverse population contributing to a range of cuisines and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Lovers of the game will find strong interest in Manchester’s clubs and local community teams; matches can be found on weekends.
Cricket clubs in the region during the summer; local grounds host friendly matches and leagues.
Regional teams and amateur clubs offer games and opportunities to watch or participate.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eccles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Eccles cafés and pubs—look for vegetable pies, salads, veggie curries, and dairy-friendly dishes; ask for veggie substitutes where needed.