A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Manchester vs. Huddersfield for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Manchester or Huddersfield?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Huddersfield can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Huddersfield

Huddersfield is a historic, off-the-beaten-path, and authentic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting.

Manchester and Huddersfield: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Manchester or Huddersfield?

You'll generally find more things to do in Manchester than Huddersfield. Manchester is bigger than Huddersfield, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Manchester is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Huddersfield is more popular for its small town charm. Manchester is more touristy than Huddersfield and is popular for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. Also, Manchester is famous for The National Football Museum. Huddersfield is well known for its small town atmosphere and its university.

How is Manchester different from Huddersfield?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Huddersfield and Manchester. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Manchester or Huddersfield?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Manchester specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

While most people don't head to Huddersfield specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town has nice 19th century architecture. You can check out the Huddersfield Town Hall or the Lawrence Batley Theater.


Is the Food Better in Manchester or Huddersfield? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Manchester is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Huddersfield offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town has a handful of good restaurants, some that take a modern twist to old town classics.

Is Manchester or Huddersfield Better for Nightlife?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for its evening party scene. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for nightlife.

Manchester is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Huddersfield doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are a few good pubs around town, for the most part the nightlife scene is quiet and a little slow.

Is Manchester or Huddersfield Better for Music?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for its music scene. However, Huddersfield is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Huddersfield is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Huddersfield?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for its shopping areas. However, Huddersfield is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Huddersfield is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Manchester or Huddersfield Better for Families?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Huddersfield is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Manchester is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Huddersfield offers lots of family activities. The town has a number of parks that are fun to explore with kids and many have playgrounds. There are also several indoor play areas like LaserZone for when the weather isn't great. Animal lovers will enjoy Stepping Out Alpaca Trekking.

Is Manchester or Huddersfield Better for Couples?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for couples. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for romance.

Couples visit Manchester frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Huddersfield is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The town's parks are great for taking a stroll hand in hand. You could also check out a show at the Lawrence Batley Theater or visit a spa as a couple.


Is Manchester or Huddersfield Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is very good for backpackers. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Manchester is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Huddersfield is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town for more lively areas that have more of a social scene.

Is Manchester or Huddersfield Better for Students?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for students. However, Huddersfield is not popular with students.

Manchester is very popular with students. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Huddersfield is not popular with students.

Is Manchester or Huddersfield Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is well known for its public transit. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Manchester can get you to most places easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Public transit is mostly limited in Huddersfield. There are buses around town.


Is Manchester or Huddersfield a more walkable city?

Manchester
Huddersfield

Manchester is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for its walkability.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable city. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

Huddersfield is generally not a very walkable city. It's not the most walkable town in the UK.

For even more information, also check out Is Manchester Worth Visiting? and Is Huddersfield Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Huddersfield or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Huddersfield?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Manchester or Huddersfield to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Manchester than Huddersfield because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 1-2 days is enough time in Huddersfield.

Families should spend more time in Manchester than Huddersfield. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Manchester, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Manchester than Huddersfield. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Manchester that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Manchester than Huddersfield if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Manchester.


  • How many days in Manchester or Huddersfield? Ideal Length of Stay
    Manchester 2-4 
    Huddersfield 1-2

One day in Manchester or Huddersfield?

Each neighborhood in Manchester has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With around the off-the-beaten-path town of Huddersfield, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Huddersfield, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Manchester or Huddersfield?

Manchester is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With around the destination of Huddersfield, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Manchester or Huddersfield?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the dynamic big city of Manchester. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Huddersfield, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Huddersfield?

Manchester is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Huddersfield is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Huddersfield or Manchester?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Manchester is £184, while the average daily cost in Huddersfield is £34. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Manchester and Huddersfield in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Manchester £71
    Huddersfield £7.00
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Manchester £142
    Huddersfield £14
Compare Hotels in Manchester and Huddersfield

Looking for a hotel in Manchester or Huddersfield? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Manchester


Hotels in Huddersfield


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Manchester Hotel Prices and Huddersfield Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Manchester £19
    Huddersfield £1.25
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Manchester

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Manchester are as follows:


  • Rail to Airport
    £11
  • Parking in Manchester
    £3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Manchester

Also for Manchester, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Manchester Airport MAN to Liverpool in Business Car: $121
  • Manchester Airport (MAN) to Manchester - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Manchester Airport (MAN): Private Transfer to Liverpool City: $249
  • Manchester Airport (MAN): Private Transfer to Manchester: $155
  • Manchester Airport(MAN) to Liverpool- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $157
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from London: $8.12
  • Manchester Private Transfer from Manchester Airport to City centre: $75
  • 1-Wsy Airport Bus Transfer to/from Leeds: $6.86
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Manchester Airport: $99
  • Private Round-Trip Transfer From Manchester Airport to Old Trafford Stadium: $279
  • Private Transfer from Astley to Manchester Airport (MAN): $65
  • Private Transfer from Bolton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $72

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Huddersfield

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Huddersfield:


  • Parking
    £2.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Huddersfield

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Huddersfield:

  • Private Transfer from Leeds to Manchester Airport (MAN): $289
  • Private Transfer from Harrogate to Manchester Airport (MAN): $194
  • Private Leeds Bradford Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $45
  • Private Leeds Bradford Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $45

Is it cheaper to fly into Manchester or Huddersfield?

Prices for flights to both Huddersfield and Manchester change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Manchester £55
    Huddersfield £27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Manchester

For Manchester, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Hard Rock Cafe Manchester with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Pistachio LOVERS Italian Dinner Experience: $35
  • Private Italian Dinner with a Romantic Night Experience: $63
  • 2 Hours Sicilian Wine Tasting and Dinner at Manchester: $76
  • Manchester Food Tour with a Local Guide: $87
  • Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch: $89
  • 3-Hour Guided Manchester Food Tour with Lunch : $95
  • Private Food Tour with Local Guide: $199

Typical Food Prices in Huddersfield

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Huddersfield:


  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Huddersfield

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Huddersfield.

  • Roast Dinner Cruise: $40
  • Harrogate Walking Food Tour: $76
  • Small-Group Vegan Food Tour of Harrogate: $76
  • Leeds 'Hidden Gems' Food Tour: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Manchester £30
    Huddersfield -

Tours and Activities in Manchester

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Manchester.

  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Manchester City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Manchester’s Rebirth and Renewal: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • England's First Industrial City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Salford Quays Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Canal & River Cruise: $15
  • City River Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Huddersfield

Here are a few actual costs in Huddersfield for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Hour Private Otley Ghost Tour : $20
  • 1-Hour Public Cruise: $12
  • 2 Hour Leeds Highlights Walking Tour : $15
  • 3 Hours Guided Tasting Experience of Ripon: $83
  • Afternoon Tea Cruise in North Yorkshire: $35
  • Emmerdale Classic Locations Bus Tour from Leeds: $50
  • Harrogate Beer Tours: $45
  • Harrogate Food & History Tour with local guide : $131
  • Leeds Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Leeds Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Motorcycle Trials Bike Experience Day: $189
  • North York Moors Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Manchester £9.90
    Huddersfield £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Manchester

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Manchester:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Four hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars: $101


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Manchester and Huddersfield, we can see that Manchester is more expensive. And not only is Huddersfield much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Huddersfield would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Huddersfield and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Manchester would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Manchester than you might in Huddersfield.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Manchester Expensive? and Is Huddersfield Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Manchester or Huddersfield?

Manchester has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Huddersfield. When comparing the sizes of Manchester and Huddersfield, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Manchester or Huddersfield?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Manchester or Huddersfield in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Huddersfield. The summer months attract visitors to Manchester because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Huddersfield this time of year.

In July, Manchester is generally around the same temperature as Huddersfield. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 16°C (62°F), and Huddersfield fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the summer, Manchester often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Huddersfield. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Huddersfield receives 176 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Huddersfield. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Huddersfield receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Manchester 16°C (62°F) 
    Huddersfield 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Huddersfield in the Autumn?

Both Huddersfield and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Huddersfield for the small town atmosphere.

Manchester is around the same temperature as Huddersfield in the autumn. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Huddersfield fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Manchester usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Huddersfield during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Huddersfield receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Huddersfield. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Huddersfield receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Manchester 11°C (52°F) 
    Huddersfield 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Huddersfield in the Winter?

Both Huddersfield and Manchester during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Manchester for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Huddersfield in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Huddersfield can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Manchester. In the winter, Manchester is around the same temperature as Huddersfield. Typically, the winter temperatures in Manchester in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Huddersfield averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Huddersfield. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Huddersfield receives 53 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Huddersfield. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Huddersfield receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Manchester 4°C (39°F) 
    Huddersfield 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Huddersfield in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Huddersfield. Many visitors come to Manchester in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Huddersfield for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Manchester is generally around the same temperature as Huddersfield. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 8°C (46°F), and Huddersfield fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Manchester usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Huddersfield during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Huddersfield receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Huddersfield. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Huddersfield receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Manchester 8°C (46°F) 
    Huddersfield 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Huddersfield and Manchester

Manchester Huddersfield
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)