Father’s Day is fast approaching. Sunday 15 June is a day dedicated to celebrating that special man in your life. Greater Manchester has a tonne of fun activities to help make this Father’s Day one to remember whether your father figure is a beer lover, football fan or music buff, or anything in between. When we say there’s something for everyone in our city region, we really mean it. So whether you’re looking for a way to celebrate your dad, grandad, stepdad or another main man in your life this year, we’ve rounded up some great activities across the region to inspire you.
The atmosphere will be electric as Old Trafford welcomes back former Red Devils Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville, who will all be proudly wearing the Three Lions shirt. Pop royalty Louis Tomlinson, who is all too familiar with wowing stadium crowds, lines up for England this June. He's joined by a trio of former Lionesses in Jill Scott, Steph Houghton and Toni Duggan. Soccer Aid has plenty of fan favourites returning, including Tom Grennan, Sam Thompson, Steven Bartlett, Olympians Sir Mo Farah and Sam Quek, plus in a world-first, boxing legend Tyson Fury will be in their corner as manager!
England will be defending last year’s memorable win, but there’s still everything to play for this summer. Legendary defender and Euro 2020 winner Leonardo Bonucci will be lining up for the Soccer Aid World XI for his debut. He joins AC Milan star Nadia Nadim, Gladiator Diamond and Strictly Come Dancing’s Gorka Márquez – so expect some dazzling footwork across the pitch.
As the two teams go head to head, it’ll be a match you won’t want to miss this Father’s Day.
2. Classic Wings Tour at Runway Visitor Park
On Sunday 15th June 2025, Runway Visitor Park will be showcasing four of their favourite aircrafts for one day only. This exclusive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the DC10, Nimrod, Trident, and the legendary Concorde. The Father's Day tour will begin in the Alpha Charlie suite, where they will enjoy a choice of a sausage or bacon barm with a hot drink. During this time, everyone will attend a 30-minute briefing, including a short video. Leading onto a visit to each aircraft, with expert guides providing fascinating information and facts about each one.
3. Travel to Wonderland at East Lancashire Railway
Looking for a perfect adventure this Father's Day that is fun for the whole family? It’s time to take a tumble down the Rabbit Hole for a curious adventure through Wonderland with Alice and her friends at East Lancashire Railway. Family adventures includes a steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour Wonderland experience with colourful characters, themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities.
4. Dads go free at Cockfield Farm
Celebrate Father’s Day Weekend at Cockfield's Farm, where big machinery and family fun collide! Families can enjoy an exciting weekend packed with impressive machinery displays, hands-on activities, and outdoor adventures. Enjoy interactive experiences with small animals, reptiles, and more, including:
- Cuddle sessions with bunnies and guinea pigs
- Reptile and creepy-crawly encounters
- Hand-feeding cows, llamas, alpacas, goats, and sheep
Kids can explore our extensive outdoor play areas, featuring swings, slides, the Jumping Pillow, and a sand & play zone.
Plus, don’t miss the café serving delicious treats and freshly made donuts from the outdoor Shepherd Hut. Picnic areas are available if you prefer to bring your own food.
The National Theatre’s Olivier-Award winning smash hit is coming to Salford for four weeks only, following a record-breaking run in the West End. The country that gave the world football has since delivered a painful pattern of loss. Why can’t England’s men win at their own game? The team has the worst track record for penalties in the world, and manager Gareth Southgate knows he needs to open his mind and face up to the years of hurt to take team and country back to the promised land. Written by James Graham and directed by Rupert Goold, this ‘back-of-the-net winner’ (The i) is ‘more entertaining than a World Cup final’ (Tatler).
6. Head to the Football Museum
For a great day out in Manchester, football fans love the National Football Museum. This family-friendly day out is a great way to celebrate a special man in your life this Father’s Day. Celebrate the legends, see iconic trophies and objects, learn more about the beautiful game and test your skills with some interactive games. With free guided tours or the option to explore on your own, this is sure to be a top of the league day out for the whole family.
7. Tour a football stadium
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Manchester is home to two of the world’s most famous football clubs and so, if you’re looking to really treat a football-loving father figure, why not book a stadium tour? The Manchester City Football Club Stadium and Club Tour and Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour give exclusive behind the scenes access to two of the most well-known stadiums in the Premier League. See the changing rooms, press rooms and pitches as you put yourselves in the shoes (or should we say boots) of your favourite football stars. A stadium tour makes a great gift for any football fanatic, and even if you can’t make it this Father’s Day, you can book it to take the family another time.
8. Take him on a music tour
Got a father figure who’s mad about Madchester? Maybe they’re a Stone Roses Superfan, a Joy Division fanatic or even fancy themselves as another Gallagher brother. Well, Manchester’s music scene is unrivalled, and this Father’s Day you can book a unique tour to explore the city region’s musical heritage from Salford Lads Club through to the infamous Sifters Records. Founded by the drummer of Inspiral Carpets, Craig Dill, Manchester Music Tours is a unique way to learn about the history and legacy of Manchester’s music scene. With unique tours tailored to your favourite bands, this would make the perfect Father’s Day gift for any Manchester music lover.
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