WHY?

Stockport, dubbed the “Gateway to the Peak District,” combines the charm of a historic market town (since 1871) with the buzz of a vibrant urban centre. Named as “one of the most exciting towns around”, it’s just a stone’s throw from Manchester. But with the landscapes of the Peak District practically on your doorstep, it’s a perfect mix of city life and countryside. Stockport is renowned for its beautiful viaduct, its old town with cobbled streets and historic buildings that house a burgeoning new centre of independent shops.

EAT

Stockport’s food scene has exploded in recent years, offering everything from cosy cafés to fine dining. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Laco Cafe & Bistro in Stockport’s old town, known for its giant brunches. For lunch, Where The Light Gets In offers a unique, ever-changing menu that celebrates locally sourced ingredients. For something a bit more casual, head to The Produce Hall, a vibrant food market offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers. When the evening rolls around, make sure to check out The Allotment, Stockport’s beloved vegan restaurant that has garnered rave reviews for its innovative dishes. For yummy and authentic Italian food, head to Alfredo’s Social in the historic, Grade II listed Winters Buildings, right in the heart of the town centre’s indie parade. (Try their gigantic wood fired pizzas if you’re hungry.)

SHOP

Begin your shopping adventure at Stockport Market, one of the North West’s oldest and most adored markets. It’s the kind of place where you can pick up fresh produce, snag a one-of-a-kind gift, and maybe even spot that rare item you never knew you needed until you saw it. For quirky homeware and fashion, visit The Warren – it’s a cooperative of local artists and makers, offering everything from handcrafted jewellery to bespoke furniture. If you’re a vinyl lover, head to SK1 Records, where you can dig through crates of classic albums. And don’t forget Rare Mags, Stockport’s very own indie magazine shop. 

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Whether you’re into lifting weights, finding your zen, or just pretending to enjoy a jog in the park, try Life Leisure, with several locations around the town, which offers top-notch facilities including a swimming pool, fitness classes, and a well-equipped gym. If you’re more into mindfulness, check out Upward Frog – a brilliant community interest company bringing yoga to the community and focused on improving mental health. Thanks to Stockport’s proximity to the Peak District, you’ve got a whole playground of outdoor adventures right on your doorstep – whether you’re into hiking, cycling, or channelling your inner Spiderman. For those who prefer their rock climbing without the fear of plummeting off an actual cliff, check out Ridge Climbing Wall—the North West’s only independent climbing wall with over 30 walls to conquer.

COMMUNITY

Stockport is the kind of friendly town where community events are numerous. Whether you’re into tea dances or secret street parties, joining a choir or throwing a few punches at kickboxing, Stockport’s got something for everyone. It’s like a social buffet—whatever you fancy, it’s on the menu. Talking of food – the Foodie Friday event is a monthly must, where the town’s Market Place transforms into a lively hub of street food and live music. 

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

The award-winning Hat Works Museum, a nod to the town’s millinery heritage, is a quirky museum dedicated to the art of hat-making. For nature lovers, the Peak District National Park is just a short drive away, offering endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and stunning countryside views. If you’re a fan of history, Lyme Park, a grand National Trust property with beautiful gardens and a stunning mansion, is a must-visit. Quarry Bank Mill, another National Trust property is one of the best-preserved textile factories of the Industrial Revolution.  Check out nearby Marple Locks, where boats tackle 16 locks, climbing 209 feet in all. Built in the 18th century, it’s now a quirky spot where history buffs and curious walkers watch boats huff and puff up the canal’s ‘staircase.’

CULTURE

Crowned the Greater Manchester Town of Culture in 2023 (hold your applause until the end), Stockport’s cultural extravaganza is the gift that keeps on giving. At the heart of it all is the Stockport Plaza, a lovingly restored art deco gem where you can catch everything from dazzling West End musicals to stand-up. For those who like their tunes live and their comedy indie, the Spinning Top is the place to be. It’s where you can nod along to bands you’ve probably never heard of (but will pretend you have) For art lovers, visit Arc Gallery, where contemporary art meets “I could have done that.” If your idea of culture involves a big screen, reclining seats, and a cheeky cocktail, The Light Cinema is where luxury meets popcorn. 

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICES

The average house price in Stockport is around £295,634  making it an affordable choice compared to Manchester city centre. Terraced houses average around £ 234,387, while semi-detached homes hover around £311,128. For something a bit more spacious, detached properties fetch £490,208.

HOT PROPERTY

NURSERIES

Stockport is home to several excellent nurseries, ensuring your little ones are in safe hands. Little Giggles is a popular choice and Kids Planet Stockport offers a range of flexible childcare options, with a great outdoor space.

SCHOOLS

Stockport is well-served by a variety of excellent schools, both primary and secondary. There are a lots of ‘good’ rated primaries but Bradshaw Hall Primary School has just scored excellent in their Ofsted rating alongside Alexandra Park Primary School. Stockport Grammar School and Cheadle Hulme School are both a top-rated independent schools. For those preferring state education, Stockport School is known for its strong academic performance and wide range of extracurricular activities. 

BEST KEPT SECRET

Stockport is home to Strawberry Studios, where internationally recognised artists including Joy Division, The Stone Roses and Paul McCartney have recorded their music.

COMMUTE

Stockport is a commuter’s dream, with excellent transport links to Manchester and beyond. The town’s railway station offers 280 trains a day to Manchester, with a journey time of under 8 minutes, making it ideal for those working in the city. London is also easily accessible, taking 2 hours and 30 minutes, with around 54 trains per day. If you’re driving, the M60 motorway circles the town, providing quick access to the wider Greater Manchester area and the M6 for journeys further afield. 

View the full Top 300 Best Places to Live.