Stockport is a town rich in history and culture, offering a variety of attractions for visitors. Whether you’re interested in stunning architecture, historical sites, or unique museums, there are many exciting things to see in Stockport.
Find the best things to see in Stockport
Stockport boasts an array of sights that capture its vibrant history and culture. Here are some must-see Stockport attractions to add to your itinerary.
Art galleries and museums in Stockport
Start your cultural exploration at the Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery. This place of remembrance doubles as a community space for exhibitions, showcasing a long history of art from renowned artists.
Today, the gallery continues to support emerging artists, offering a diverse and extensive exhibition program.
For a unique and educational experience, visit the Hat Works Museum. As the UK's only hat museum, it offers a fascinating insight into Stockport's hat-making heritage.
Explore the Gallery of Hats, featuring an impressive collection of hats from around the world. Take a tour of the factory floor to see restored Victorian hat-making machines in action and learn about the town's industrial past.
After your visit, you can enjoy a coffee break at the museum café.
Stockport landmarks
No trip to Stockport is complete without seeing Stockport Town Hall. It is affectionately known as the "Wedding Cake" for its ornate Victorian architecture.
This beautiful building is a prominent landmark in the town, making it a perfect spot for photography and soaking up the Stockport sights.
Another significant landmark is the Stockport Viaduct, which is one of the largest brick structures in the UK. This impressive Victorian-era viaduct offers stunning views of the town and is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
Historical houses
History enthusiasts will appreciate Bramall Hall, a superb example of a Tudor Manor House with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. The Hall features 16th-century wall paintings, Elizabethan plaster ceilings, Victorian kitchens and servants’ quarters.
Set within 70 acres of parkland, Bramall Hall is also a great spot for a scenic woodland walk. Enjoy a peaceful wander through nature while enjoying beautiful views of this historic building.
Another fascinating historical site is Staircase House, a beautifully restored 15th-century townhouse situated in Stockport’s historic Market Place. The house is home to one of only three surviving Jacobean cage-newel staircases in the country.
Visitors can delve into the past, discovering how people lived from the 15th to the 20th centuries. You can also learn how the house was carefully brought back to life after a devastating fire.
