Manchester’s skyline is a thing of beauty, isn’t it?
It’s ever-changing, instantly recognisable, a brilliant mix of old and new, and a real sight to behold from some of the hill tops right across the region – especially for those with a camera intent on capturing all its beauty.
But for aspiring photographers, where exactly is the best place to see the skyline in all its glory?
Last September, we featured the work of local photographer Tomasz Kozak, who decided to rank seven of his favourite spots.
Originally hailing from Rzeszow in Poland, but calling Manchester his home for many years now, Tomasz has had the chance to see and capture the city skyline from many different angles up above, so his list was as about as definitive as you could get.
By creating that initial list of his seven favourite hill views in Greater Manchester, Tomasz said he was hoping to “help those who want to start in cityscape photography but don’t know where to go”, admitting that “you don’t need to be a pilot of a drone to [capture] amazing images” of the city’s skyline and “you don’t need an expensive camera or super long zoom lens” either.
And now, he’s back with some more.
Explaining why he’s chosen to put together an updated list, Tomasz said: “It felt so good when people had written or said to me that my work inspired them to get out more, or that I helped them to become better photographers.
“This is why I kept looking for new places to go and it’s what led me to find another eight Manchester skyline photo spots.”
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1. Merton Avenue Playing Fields
Oldham
This is a real unique choice.
“I spent most of last year looking for the best place to capture cityscape of Manchester,” Tomasz explained.
“I have found a few interesting locations that led me to create my top seven best hilltop spots described in my previous post [but] at that time however, I was not aware about one spot that instantly became my favourite.
“This place is not only great for capturing amazing skyline photos, but also nice for portrait shoots or even an engagement session – especially for those who enjoy playing football.”
2. Scout Moor Wind Farm
Rochdale
Scout Moor is the second largest on shore green energy provider in England, it supplies electricity to 40,000 homes across Manchester – and it’s earned a well-deserved place on Tomasz’s list.
He said: “It’s a perfect place to cycle on a mountain bike, or simply to walk around to enjoy a good view of the city.”
“Most of the presented images are captured with a telephoto lens at about 200mm,” he added.
3. Heaton Park
Prestwich
A place every Mancunian knows well – and it’s got a special place in Tomasz’s heart.
Tomasz said: “It was the first park where I was taken by my friend when I arrived in Manchester all those years ago [and] I immediately fell in love with this place – I even moved house to be closer to it.”
“You can get really good shots of the town from the Temple area located at the north side of the park,” he added.
4. Tandle Hill
Oldham
Tandle Hill is a real gem loved by many in Greater Manchester.
“This place is not only a perfect spot for snapping the great cityscape of Manchester, but also a great to have quality time with your family at one of nearby picnic areas or a unique playground with a sand pit and long slide for kids,” Tomasz explained.
5. Snake Pass
High Peak
Not everyone’s a fan of Snake Pass, but you can’t deny the view is cracking.
“It’s a gateway road to Peak District National park some of the best areas such as Derwent Dam or Ladybower Reservoir,” explained Tomasz.
“And it’s one of most picturesque roads to drive though that offers some stunning views including this perfect sport for cityscape.”
“You are going to need at least a 100mm lens to enjoy this view,” he advised.
6. The Edge
Alderley Edge
If you head just across the border into Cheshire, you’ll find a stunning view of the city.
Explaining how he came across this spot, Tomasz said: “As I was scouting for my new assignment, I found this great place at Alderley Edge with a unique perspective on Manchester skyline.
“Unlike other locations recently visited, this one offers a very clean foreground full of greenery perfectly highlighted with setting sun and Scout Moor wind farm visible in the background.”
7. Greenbooth Reservoir
Rochdale
As Tomasz puts perfectly, this is an “underrated” pick.
“One of best walks you can find and very underrated with great views over the city,”
While Greenbooth Reservoir has made it onto the list, Tomasz has admitted there’s one caveat – “there are power lines obstructing the view of the city, but it is possible to climb a bit higher on the north side to get a clean shot.”
8. River Irwell and Pomona
Stretford
What a stunning shot to finish on.
“If you have never walked along River Irwell from Manchester to Salford Quays, there are certainly some of the best views on the city skyline worth checking out,” Tomasz reccommends.
“Although you’re never going to get a good view of the entire city due to low altitude like you can with spots mentioned earlier, I decided to include this location nonetheless because it’s such a good walk for anyone who is visiting town or those who are not aware.”
He added: “You can get both reflections on the river, as well as for those who enjoy long exposure photography as much as I do, there are Metrolink trams constantly passing by leaving plenty of light to capture.”
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You can see more of Tomasz Kozak’s work via his photography portfolio website here, and make sure to give him a follow on Facebook and Instagram too.
Featured Image – Tomasz Kozak ©
