Stockport offers more than just its historic markets and charming streets — it’s a surprisingly dynamic place for unique tours and activities. Whether you’re a connoisseur of spirits, a puzzle solver, or a fan of cinematic adventures, Stockport has something to excite. We especially love the Distillery Tour and Gin Tasting, with its relaxed yet informative vibe, and the moviESCAPE escape rooms, which turn puzzle-solving into an immersive adventure. These experiences showcase the town’s friendly atmosphere and creative spirit, making them perfect for a day of fun and discovery.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to three of the best tours in Stockport. From learning about gin making to breaking curses in haunted houses and graduating from a magic academy, each offers a different way to enjoy your time here. Whether you prefer tasting spirits, solving riddles, or escaping from cinematic scenarios, this list helps you find the perfect fit.
Brief Overview of the Best Tours in Stockport
The list below features a mix of craft spirit experiences and interactive escape rooms. Each tour offers a distinct flavor, from tasting local gin in a historic setting to testing your wits in themed puzzles. Want to sip gin and learn about Stockport’s distilling history? Check out the Distillery Tour and Gin Tasting. Looking for a thrilling escape room challenge? Both the Haunted House II and Merlin’s Magic Academy promise a fun, puzzle-filled experience. Read on to find out what makes each one special.
1. Distillery Tour and Gin Tasting
The Distillery Tour and Gin Tasting in Stockport Town Centre is a must for spirit lovers. This 1.5-hour guided experience takes you behind the scenes of a working distillery, where you’ll learn the ins and outs of gin production. You start with a welcome double gin and tonic that sets a relaxed tone, then move into learning about the history of gin and the journey of Stockport Gin—a local favorite with a growing reputation.
Throughout the tour, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the distilling process, including equipment and techniques used in modern gin making. The guide shares engaging stories about gin’s evolution and Stockport’s role in its history. You’ll sample a range of gins and vodkas, with plenty of time for questions during a dedicated Q&A session. The highlight for many is the chance to taste some exclusive gins you can’t find elsewhere, making this a perfect pick for spirits enthusiasts or those celebrating a special occasion.
Why it ranks high: The tour offers an authentic, up-close look at gin production, coupled with generous tastings and a friendly guide. It’s a great value for those who enjoy learning and sampling. The only potential downside? The 1.5 hours fly by quickly, and you might want to extend your visit with some snacks afterward.
Bottom Line: If you love gin or want a relaxed yet informative experience, this tour balances education with tasting and is perfect for couples or small groups.
2. moviESCAPE Stockport Haunted House II escape room game
For a thrilling challenge, the Haunted House II escape room is a standout. Rated 5/5 and priced at around $80.82 for groups of up to two, this immersive experience takes about an hour, making it ideal for a quick but intense adventure. Based in Cheshire, this game is designed to test your puzzle-solving skills while immersing you in a cinematic story. You and your teammate will work together to solve clues and escape the haunted room, before the demon’s curse claims you.
The game’s story revolves around breaking a supernatural curse, with each puzzle carefully crafted to build tension and excitement. The setting is spooky but well-designed, creating a genuine haunted house atmosphere. Guests often describe this as a fun, adrenaline-pumping experience that gets your brain working while providing plenty of scares and surprises. The game suits a range of players, from friends to couples, and is accessible for most fitness levels since physical exertion is minimal.
Why it’s a top choice: The high review score and the fact that it’s a cinematic, story-driven puzzle make this escape room a memorable experience. Plus, it’s family-friendly, so younger players can join in the fun. Be sure to check availability, as popular times fill quickly.
Bottom Line: Perfect for puzzle lovers and horror fans, this escape room offers a quick dose of suspenseful fun suitable for small groups looking for a bit of thrill.
3. moviESCAPE Stockport Merlin’s Magic Academy escape room game
If your group prefers a family-friendly adventure, then the Merlin’s Magic Academy escape room stands out. Also rated 5/5 and priced at $80.82 per group for up to two players, this game lasts about an hour. The story invites players to graduate from Merlin’s Magic Academy by solving a series of puzzles that test magical skills. The game culminates with revealing the Dragon’s Name, a fun and satisfying conclusion.
Set in a whimsical, wizard-themed environment, this escape room is designed to be accessible for children and adults alike, making it ideal for families or mixed-age groups. The puzzles are clever but not overwhelming, and the storyline encourages teamwork and imagination. Many players comment on how well the game balances challenge and fun, ensuring everyone feels involved.
The highlight? The chance to graduate from Merlin’s Academy and see if your team can unveil the secret dragon’s name. It’s a delightful, family-friendly way to spend an hour, with a magical twist that keeps everyone entertained.
Why it’s recommended: Its family-oriented theme and approachable puzzles make it a standout for those with kids or groups seeking a lighter, playful experience. Just keep in mind, if you’re after high-intensity puzzle-solving or horror, this might not be the best choice.
Bottom Line: A charming, inclusive experience for families or groups with children, combining fun, fantasy, and teamwork in a safe environment.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Stockport
When selecting your perfect tour, consider your interest and group composition. If you’re a spirits enthusiast or want to learn about gin-making, the Distillery Tour and Gin Tasting is a clear winner. For thrill-seekers who love puzzles and cinema, either of the moviESCAPE or Merlin’s Magic Academy escape rooms will suit different tastes—spooky vs. magical.
Budget, time, and physical fitness can also influence your choice. The escape rooms are quick and intense, perfect for a short outing, while the gin tour is more relaxed and educational. Booking early is advisable, especially for the escape rooms, which are popular on weekends. The gin tour can often be booked for almost any time, but check availability if you’re planning a special celebration.
Final thoughts
Stockport’s diverse tour options make it a worthwhile stop for a variety of travelers. If you’re after a relaxed, taste-focused experience, the Distillery Tour and Gin Tasting is top-notch. For those craving a puzzle-solving challenge or cinematic adventure, the moviESCAPE escape rooms and Merlin’s Magic Academy provide hours of fun. We recommend booking early to secure your preferred time slot, especially during busy weekends.
No matter your interests, Stockport has something to offer that will add a memorable twist to your visit. Enjoy exploring these engaging experiences and making your stay in Stockport truly special.
