Spanning parts of historic Lancashire, Cheshire and the West Riding of Yorkshire, today, Greater Manchester covers an area of nearly 500 square miles and is home to more than 2.8 million people. Some areas have seen regeneration, with the associated (and sometimes unaffordable) rise in prices, but the housing options are broad.
Didsbury
Less than 5 miles from Manchester City Centre is the affluent suburb of Didsbury. It costs more to buy or rent in Didsbury than elsewhere, and some parts are prone to flooding, but it also has a wide range of different properties, a comprehensive selection of amenities and green and pleasant spaces such as Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden and Didsbury Park.
Prestwich
You may have heard Prestwich called “the Didsbury of North Manchester”, though not every resident appreciates that. It is certainly an area growing in affluence and popularity, with all the amenities you could need, including shops, cafés and green space. Prestwich historically has had a large Jewish community who are responsible for the area’s distinctive character.
Reddish
If you want somewhere a little more affordable, Reddish in Stockport may be a good choice. It still has many of the landmarks of its industrial past, such as Houldsworth Mill, as well as plenty of pubs and amenities. Roads, buses, rail and trams provide good transport links into Manchester. Reddish Vale Country Park allows you to enjoy nature to the full.
Bury
Situated in historic Lancashire, the market town of Bury is famous for its black pudding. Bury’s indoor market is open every day but Sunday, with an open-air market three days a week is full of history, culture and a strong sense of community. Travel to the rest of Manchester is relatively simple thanks to the tram.
Timperley
Another former agricultural settlement, Timperley grew around the Bridgewater Canal, which still offers the opportunity for pleasant canal-side walks. A country fair is held every September. Timperley is now a suburban part of Trafford with good transport links such as the Manchester Metrolink Tram. It is generally described as a family friendly area.
Urmston
A slightly larger town, also in Trafford, Urmston is described as “on the up.” It is conveniently located, with easy access to the M60 and multiple railway stations linking to both Manchester and Liverpool. Schools in the area are highly rated and it is generally considered to have a good community feel. Urmston Meadows provides greenery.
Eccles
Eccles is about more than Eccles cakes, though they are certainly a draw. A hub of the textile industry during the Industrial Revolution, it has seen growth and development in recent years. There are plenty of shops, independent places to eat and good transport links including road, rail and tram.
Chorlton-on-Medlock
Described by some residents as “a village within a city”, Chorlton-on-Medlock (not to be confused with Chorlton-cum-Hardley, or Chorlton in Cheshire) is a charming and historic area. Local monuments such as the Grade II listed Victoria Baths sit alongside a wide range of amenities.
How to Choose
It may seem difficult to pick between these many excellent areas. A building survey in Manchester can verify the condition of your chosen property and local experts such as those at Sam Conveyancing can ensure you feel confident in progressing a sale or purchase in any of these locations.
These are just some of the most attractive areas to live in the Greater Manchester region. You can decide which combination of affordability, amenities and general atmosphere is best suited to you. The options are broad and should provide something for everyone if you know where to look.
