We’ve had a good run this summer, but as we enter autumn, don’t forget you can still jet away for a break, whatever the weather.
On a recent trip to Manchester Airport, we were given an inside look at the exciting developments coming to Terminal 2, and as part of the Airport’s exciting ongoing ‘Holiday Mode Activated’ campaign, the message is clear – your holiday should begin the moment you arrive at the airport, not just when you reach your destination.
This latest chapter in the campaign highlights how passengers can start to unwind as soon as they pass through security – with a particular focus on great food, and an elevated dining experience.
The transformation of Terminal 2 is designed to enhance this pre-holiday experience, as some of the upgrades you can expect focus on modernising with new bars, restaurants, and shops, as well advanced technology, all of which will contribute to a smoother and more relaxing start to any journey.
But what really sets this terminal apart, is the culinary experience.
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We took a whistle-stop tour of a few of the eateries you can find in Terminal 2 to get a feel for the different food options on offer.
Manchester Airport’s Terminal 2 is ALREADY a high-flying experience / Credit: The Manc Group
Part of the San Carlo group, Apiary is a stunning, tranquil restaurant with warm honey-toned interiors that immediately evoke a sense of calm, and it’s the perfect place for passengers to relax before their flight, offering fine dining that feels miles away from the usual airport fare.
We tried the burrata and grilled peach salad to start, the chicken breast with nduja and feta for a main course – which was a personal highlight – topped off with two gorgeous desserts, an Eton mess and a warm sticky toffee pudding, because there’s always room for dessert.
This rustic bar and restaurant champions and supports local suppliers. We sipped some stunning gin and tonics, while grazing on a wide selection of nibbles and platters. Then we tried the khobez flatbread served with spicy chicken shawarma and dips, which definitely satisfied our tastebuds.
Again, dessert is always on the cards, so they dished up a decadent mini dessert platter full of light but rich chocolatey treats.
Terminal 2 is also soon to welcome 22 new vendors, including several Manchester indies / Credit: The Manc Group
At this playful pink spot known for its American-inspired treats, we were served the indulgent signature chocolate waffles, stacked high with whipped cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce and a choice of toppings, such as strawberries, Kinder Bueno, or Oreo.
Although we weren’t hopping on a plane after this tour, it’s easy to see the vision that Manchester Airport, and specifically Terminal 2, have in mind for the future, because this is airport dining like no other, and it truly feels like you can kick your feet up and relax.
Through the ‘Holiday Mode Activated’ campaign, Manchester Airport wants to prove the idea that your trip starts from the moment you step inside the terminal. With these revamped dining options, travelers can now enjoy high-quality meals that allow them to truly unwind and begin their holiday in style, long before they even board the plane.
Terminal 2 is also soon to welcome 22 new vendors, including several independent Manchester-based businesses, all of which further showcase the city’s rich food and retail culture, and offer travellers even more ways to kickstart their holiday with a local touch.
You can read about the new changes coming to Terminal 2 here.
Featured Image – MAG (supplied)
Travel & Tourism
The surprisingly luxurious caravan park that’s the perfect place for a Peak District getaway
Daisy Jackson
We probably all have fond memories of caravan holidays as a child, frolicking around the British countryside before tucking up on a squeaky single bed – and as fond as those memories may be, they don’t exactly scream *luxury*.
But the times are a-changing, and so are UK holiday parks, with many caravans and static homes now kitted out just as beautifully as any premium lodge or Airbnb.
You’ll find some such caravans at Newhaven Holiday Park, which sits right at the heart of the Peak District and is perfectly placed for exploring some of the area’s best attractions.
The platinum lodges here feature sizeable living spaces – a lounge, fully-equipped kitchen, and dining room (again, unlike your childhood holidays where you’d just fold away the table) – alongside three bedrooms, two of which have en suite bathrooms.
The design details are premium, like matte black bathroom fittings, pale wood details, and plush carpets.
The huge living space and kitchenNewhaven Holiday ParkAn en suite bedroom in the platinum lodge
But really, the best thing about staying at Newhaven Holiday Park is that it lands you right on the doorstep of some of the Peak District’s best bits.
Within seconds, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling hills dotted with sheep and pheasants, and within a short drive you’ll be strolling around the beautiful grounds of Chatsworth Estate, currently ablaze with autumn colours.
If you’re feeling peckish after your walk, head a short distance along into the charming village of Baslow, and to Charlotte’s of Baslow, a lovely cafe serving treats like soup in a bread bowl, apple crumble oats, and açai bowls.
Pastries at Charlotte’s of Baslow
You’re also not far from the village of Bakewell, home of the Bakewell Pudding (visit the higgledy-piggledy The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop for a potted history of the pudding and its sibling, the Bakewell tart).
The village is also packed with local independent bakeries, delis, cafes, shops, and more.
On your way back to Newhaven Holiday Park, swing by Tagg Lane Dairy, an ice cream farm making its own award-winning gelato, with flavours like apple pie, and pineapple chilli cheesecake.
Tagg Lane DairyBakewell villageThe Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
If you’re looking for a great base in the Peak District, without blowing the budget, definitely don’t overlook a caravan stay.
You can see more and book your stay at Newhaven Holiday Park HERE.
No trams to run on THREE major Greater Manchester lines for two weeks this month
Emily Sergeant
Widespread disruption is expected, as no trams will be running on three major Greater Manchester lines for two full weeks.
As the next phase of the ongoing £150m investment into Greater Manchester’s tram network gets under way later this month, it has been announced that essential improvement work is set to be be carried out on three major Metrolink lines across the region in a bid to make the network ‘safer’ and ‘more resilient and reliable’ for years to come.
From Monday 19 October to Sunday 1 November, tram improvement works will take place at Deansgate-Castlefield, and Trafford Bar.
Additional works will also take place in the city centre during this time, allowing Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to keep closures of the tram network to a minimum.
During the dates above, no trams will run on the Altrincham, Trafford Centre, and Eccles lines.
No trams will be running on three major Greater Manchester line for two weeks this month / Credit: TfGM
A number of shuttle bus services will the running over the course of the two-week closure – with services arriving every 10 or 15 minutes, depending which line it’s on, and you can find a full list of these here.
Services operating on the East Didsbury and Manchester Airport lines will terminate at Firswood, and from Firswood, passengers will then need to board a replacement bus service to continue their journey into the city centre.
Services operating on the Rochdale line will terminate at Exchange Square, it has also been announced.
Services will resume on these lines from start of service on Monday 2 November.
However there will be some minor route changes through the city centre in place from Monday 2 to Wednesday 4 November, so it’s important to check your journey before you travel.
Will Kendrick -
1st October 2024 
