There's loads of things to experience in Stockport - but how many have you actually done?

Steeped in heritage and culture both historical and modern, there's plenty of offerings for all tastes, whether you're local or just visiting.

We've put together a list of 65 things to tick off in and around Stockport to get you started on your way to experiencing the best of the borough.

Some might seem obvious, others you might never have heard of, but all are entirely worth a mention.

Special thanks to the Stockport Memories Facebook group who helped with their suggestions.

How many can you cross off our ultimate Stockport Bucket List?

See Stockport County play at home

Head to Edgeley Park for an electric atmosphere and quality football - something you need to experience at least once.

They've had their highs, they've had their lows, but what's indisputable is that County have some of the most loyal fans around - and probably some of the loudest, with some of the most creative football chants of any league team. 

Take a tour of Bramall Hall

Bramall Hall is one of the most exquisite examples of Tudor architecture in England, and is of national importance. 

The Hall offers unique insights into the families and servants who lived and worked there. 

You can take a guided tour with their knowledgeable staff or wander around at your own pace. 

Visitors have access to the Great Hall, the Banqueting Room, the chapel, the Servants Quarters and the Victorian Kitchen (which has some really, really old pickles) and you'll learn all about the families who made the hall what it is today. 

Make sure to look at some of the magnificent Tudor wall paintings found in the Solar Room.

And the adjoining 70 acres of formal gardens and parkland is perfect for a picnic and full of places to explore.

Take a photo outside the iconic Strawberry Studios

Founded by two members of 10cc, and where they recorded their groundbreaking hit I'm Not in Love, the 'Studio of the North' would be used by major artists including Joy Division, Neil Sedaka, the Smiths, Stone Roses, Paul McCartney and Cliff Richard, making it the birthplace of some of the most memorable music ever made.

Eat at 'Britain's coolest restaurant'

Stockport's Where the Light Gets In was heralded as Britain's coolest restaurant by food critic Steve Plotnicki and is regarded as a culinary gem in the North West. 

Described as 'magical experience', the food has earned near-flawless reviews from national critics - definitely worth a bucket list entry.

Spend an idyllic afternoon at Marple Roman Lakes

This hidden beautyspot tucked away down a quiet country lane, has a rich heritage stretching back to the 18th century, when the waters were used to power the mighty Mellor Mill. 

Set in the Picturesque Goyt Valley, there's plenty of walking and nature trails to explore the area.

Bamboo till two

It's one of the longest running nightclubs in the country.  And a rite of passage for most young Stopfordians.

Take the cobbled hill up to the market

Are you even from Stockport if you haven't struggled up the steep cobbled hill at some point?

Try a Stockport sourdough bloomer

The family-run Thatcher's bakery has been in Stockport for over 125 years.  A

lthough it has moved from its original spot at 27 Churchgate, now in its 5th generation of baking Thatcher's, they still produce  delicious, freshly made bakery and confectionery products. 

Their fresh Stockport sourdough is to die for.

Take the Robinsons Brewery tour and meet the famous Shire Horses

Stockport's famous export, Robinsons, is known the world over. 

But how many of you have ever seen the magic happen in the landmark Unicorn Brewery? 

Submerge yourself in 180 years of brewing history and learn how they create the award-winning brews.

You'll also get the chance to meet the resident shire horses - two of the few remaining working Shires in the British brewing industry and a familiar and much loved part of Stockport heritage.

Take a night tour of Air Raid shelters

Stockport's underground tunnels and historical air raid shelters are the largest in Europe and a must-see if you are in the town.

But take the extended tour at night and its even better.  Be sure to keep an eye out for the dinosaur bone...

Visit the iconic Plaza Theater and Cinema

As a Grade II-listed art-deco gem in the centre of town, the restored super-cinema is a sight to behold. 

With its original - and first - Compton Theatre Organ, a rare Kalee 8 film projector and stunning architecture, this Stockport landmark is an exceptional example of 1930s design and recognised as internationally important.

And then afternoon tea in the cafe

The genuine 1930s Art Deco style cafe boasts one of the best afternoon teas in the area. 

Marvel at the famous Viaduct

Yes, it's probably the most iconic Stockport landmark, but have you ever stopped and truly looked at the Viaduct?

Made up of around 11,000,000 bricks, it's one of the world's biggest brick structures. 

At the time of its construction, it was the world's largest viaduct and a major feat of Victorian engineering, portrayed in the works of writer Elizabeth Gaskell and artist L.S Lowry.

Explore the Hat Works

Everyone needs to visit the hat museum at least once. 

Housed in Grade II listed VIctorian Mill, it is home to a recreated hat factory with some 20, fully restored working Victorian-style machines. 

There's also a huge collection of over 400 hats from across the globe.

Visit the oldest town house in Stockport

Discover Stockport's roots at Staircase House on the marketplace.

Famous for its rare Jacobean cage-newel staircase, this medieval building dates from 1460.

Painstakingly restored following an arson attack in 1996, it now offers a unique glimpse into the life of medieval and renaissance Stockport, and how the town came to be.

Explore the Old Town Dungeon and Courthouse

A genuine gem in the crown of Stockport's heritage, this is a must-see for locals and visitors alike. 

It's only open on the second Saturday of each month, but behind lock and key lurks the unpleasant history and has seen some gruesome sights.

First used in medieval times, a dozen or so rogues at a time might be thrown in the cramped cell downstairs – but brutal punishment was doled out in the market place via whipping post, pillory or stocks. 

Wives convicted of gossiping were put in the brank – a metal bridle with a mouth spike - and forced to parade around the market place with it.

Take a trip on the 192

Every Stopfordian has to take a trip on the 192 at some point.  Whether you literally cannot be bothered walking up the hill from Mersey Square or need to head into Manchester City centre, it's a vital service that basically always runs.

It's an experience in itself and you'll meet people from all walks of life while you journey to your destination.

Bonus points if you've ridden the 192 after a night out.

Have breakfast at Sivoris

A proper greasy spoon style cafe that's been an institution for 74 years,  and a serious contender for the best breakfast in the area.

If you recognise the name, it's run by the same Sivori family that are famous for the ice cream vans that frequent Stockport.

Experience the different market days

There's a different market running every time you visit. 

There's the resident independent stalls that operate in the Indoor Market, with over 30 businesses providing a wide range of high quality goods and services. 

And there are also regular events including Stockport Artisan Markets, Vintage Market, Book and Record Fair... and the ever popular Foodie Friday...

And Get involved at Foodie Friday

This hugely popular social street food event draws hundred of people every month with its wide variety of food and drink stalls, craft ales and live music from local talent.

The bustling marketplace, edible offerings and quality entertainment make it a great night out.

Have a go at Cycle Speedway at St Thomas's Park

Over on Hempshaw Lane there's a British Cycling affiliated cycle speedway club offering local, regional and national racing to riders aged 8 and over. 

They have free taster sessions for new members - but if you don't fancy going elbow to elbow on the track you can alway watch one of the high-octane races from the sidelines.

Have a stroll around Vernon Park

It's the oldest country park in Stockport, and has recently been restored to its former Victorian and Edwardian splendour.

It boasts mature woodland along the river terraces and unique areas for traditional pastimes such as crown green bowls, with beautifully restored areas of formal and informal parkland. 

A bit like stepping back in time.

Have a decent coffee

There's loads of cute little independent coffee shops, all of which do a decent brew. There's Laco, Rhode Island Coffee, Da Vinci's, Tiamo's, Dal Barista.. the list goes on.

Explore Bruntwood Park

The 100 acre Bruntwood park has been enjoyed by generations of Stopfordians, and a great way to spend a day. 

Wander through the grounds, the trees, the gardens and the grassy fields, enjoy a spot of pitch and putt or enjoy a coffee in the hall. 

For kids there's a world class BMX track and a large fully-accessible play area and plenty of open spaces to let off steam.

See some local artwork at the Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery

A iconic landmark on the A6 into Stockport, the War Memorial Art Gallery boasts an extensive exhibition program, which now gives emerging artists a chance to showcase their work.

They also host a programme of workshops and events. 

Fact of the day - it's the UK's only purpose-built war memorial art gallery.

Stop to read the names on the memorial

The Stockport War Memorial was opened by HRH Prince Henry on October 15, 1925 and serves as a lasting reminder of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice during World War I.

The names of the fallen of both world wars are inscribed on marble tablets on the chapel walls, surrounding sculptures of two life-sized marble figures - Britannia and a man.

There are a total of 2164 names on the First World War memorial, 755 on the Second World War memorial, the names of 29 civilians and 15 who died post-conflict.

Visit the Marple Aqueduct and Lock Flight

The 16 locks at Marple make up one of the steepest flights in Britain and the highest masonry-arch aqueduct in the UK.

It's an impressive and important part of Stockport's industrial heritage, set in the picturesque Goyt Valley and offering amazing views of the surrounding area.

Or take a boat across the highest canal in England

The Peak Forest Canal, across the River Goyt, is the highest canal aqueduct in England - at 90ft above the running river below. 

You can travel by foot, but to really take in this feat of construction, you really should take a boat.

Blossoms

No, not the band, the pub. 

A landmark on the A6, this Grade II listed Robinsons pub is often regarded as a beer shrine with a wide range of cask beers available.

Atmosphere is pretty decent, too.

Explore the town's paranormal activity

Stockport is apparently a hotbed for paranormal activity. 

Ghost Walker Extraordinaire Flecky Bennett offers a number of ghost walks throughout Stockport, which are part history, part theatre and part paranormal. 

Covering the Old Town, Staircase House, Bramall Hall and the Air Raid Shelters, all the stories you hear are based on real people and actual events.

Go on a nature walk at Etherow Country Park

Believe it or not, Etherow was one of the first ever country parks in Britain.

With 240 acres of green space, it's a haven for wildlife and home to over 200 species of plants and more than 100 species of birds - including several rare varieties - and is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI). 

A peaceful retreat in a typically urban area.

The park has a self-guided nature walk which encompasses the ancient woodland, the Keg Pool and the river, all which thrive with a variety of flora and fauna.

Sample the best local craft beer

If you like real ale, Stockport has some of the best - and some of the finest establishments to sup it, too.

Recommendations include The Magnet Freehouse, The Petersgate Tap, The Midland, The Angel Inn, The Boars Head, Cocked Hat, The Arden Arms, Queens...we could go on.

There's so many there's even a dedicated Ale Trail that happens in September.  You can find out more here .

Make sure you have a pint of Trooper

It's developed by Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson and made in Stockport.  You don't really get much cooler than that. 

Have some cake from The Hillgate Cakery

This little coffee shop one the far end of Hillgate does the most amazing cakes and treats - and they're all entirely vegan. Wholeheartedly recommend a slice of their rocky road.

And some pie from Lord of the Pies

A regular winner at the British Pie Awards, Lord of the Pies has a massive selection of pastry-cased delights.

From sweet to savoury, traditional to experimental - and you even get to choose your own flavours of mash and gravy. 

See the Vulcan bomber at Avro Heritage Museum

Found on the former Woodfood Airield, The Avro Heritage Museum holds Avro Heritage Trust's collection  of over 30,000 artefacts on aircraft development, including over 10,000 artefacts and memorabilia from the site. 

What's really special is the Vulcan B2 Bomber on display, which was built at Woodford and used by the RAF. 

There's also a nose and cockpit section on display which visitors can sit in.

See the animals at Reddish Vale Farm

From the early 1930’s until late 1990, Reddish Vale was a working dairy farm.

The animal farm opened its doors in July 2003 and quickly became one of the favourite family attractions in Stockport. 

There's a large variety of surprisingly tame barnyard animals, including alpacas, llamas, shire horses, miniature donkeys, plus cows, sheep, ducks and pigs.

There's also smaller animals that you can cuddle and if you plan a spring visit, they have lots of baby animals, too.

Stop for one in the Swan with Two Necks

Nestled in the heart of modern Stockport town centre, blink and you might miss this traditional narrow pub. 

But head through the mock-Tudor facade and you'll find a friendly drinking house which has retained many original features, changing very little since it was rebuilt in 1926.

A stark contrast to the surrounding shops.

It's got a reputation for its decent cask beers and the lunchtime menu is highly rated too.

Watch a film at the Light Cinema

One of just a handful across the UK, Stockport was chosen as the newest location for independent cinema chain The Light. 

Dubbed 'sociable cinema', the whole experience is a little more laid back that your standard cinema trip, with reclining seats, and you can even have a drink from the bar in there too.

Browse the best fancy dress shop around

The Stage Door has been on Little Underbank for what seems like forever (1971 to be precise), and it really is the best place around to get your fancy dress costumes. 

It's literally full to the brim of all things theatre related and pretty much an institution.

Discover the Oldknow Lime Kilns

Truly a hidden gem - so much so that less than 50% of local resident even know of them.

Just 10 minutes walk out of Marple and you'll find the ruins of what was once Samuel Oldknow's limestone kilns. 

With gothic facades, tall chimneys and carved stone walls, the site looked more like a castle than an industry building.

Go Vintage shopping at Pear Mill

The Vintage Emporium offers a treasure trove of all things retro with over 50 independent traders offering an eclectic collection of vintage items - there's even a traditional sewing seamstress available for tailoring needs. 

Loads of weird and wonderful pieces you can literally spend hours browsing - and reminiscing.

Be humbled by St Mary's in the marketplace

Located in an imposing spot at the highest point of the market, St Mary's overlooks the whole of central Stockport. 

It's a landmark in its own right, but have you ever been inside?  This large parish church plays a significant role in the history of old Stockport. 

It's magnificent inside and out, but it's currently listed as a priority A on the Heritage List for England, with its poor condition meaning it's of immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss.

Heritage Grants have helped repair the church, including urgent masonry repairs to the tower and the medieval chancel arch. 

It's open most days, so why don't you have a look around and, while you're there, donate to help keep this iconic Stockport building standing tall.

See the prehistoric burial mound

There's an ancient burial mound close to Marple dating from the Late Neolithic period to the Late Bronze Age.

Known as a Bowl Barrow, the one at Brown Low has survived reasonably well. 

Previous archaeological investigations found cremated bone and traces of a funeral fire - examples of the culture of some of the very first Stopfordians.

Discover Platform Zero at Stockport Station

Stockport is home to one of the first - and only - 'Platform 0' train platforms in the UK.  It was built back in 2003 and opened fully in 2008 amid some fanfare.

It was made out of a former siding that leaves and then rejoins a mainline, making the redirection of trains to other platforms easier. 

Ride a train over the viaduct

Over 3.8 million people used Stockport station last year. 

And those lucky to travel in or out get a phenomenal view of the whole town centre from a height of over 111ft while travelling across the historic viaduct.

Have a nosy around the Town Hall

Stockport's 'wedding cake' Town Hall is one of the most ornate town halls around.

If you haven't already, you can take a look around the interior of the building with one of the tours.

If you can't get there in person, you can also take a virtual tour around the hall using Google Street View here:

Stockport Town Hall Virtual Tour:

Take a look around the historic Underbank Hall

If you bank with Natwest you've probably already seen what's behind those wooden doors.  If not, you've have to have a look at least once. 

Dating back to the 15th century, the excellently preserved Tudor townhouse was once the home of the Arden Family of Bredbury until it was sold in 1823 to pay off debts. 

It later became a bank, which is still used today.

A night at Bredbury Hall

One of the last remaining nightclubs in Stockport, it has a cult following among many locals and is a regular weekend haunt for those who want to get dressed up and let their hair down.

It's handily attached to a hotel and the fact that it is housed in a 16th century barn makes it sound so very classy. 

Walk under the seven arches

If you aren't familiar with Cheadle Hulme, you might not know of this gorgeous little walk. 

But, if you head towards the Seven Arches viaduct off Ladybridge Road and follow the river you'll end up at Bramhall Park. 

It's a lovely stroll across meadows and woodland and basically a hidden shortcut if you fancy stretching your legs.

Look out over three counties from the top of Werneth Low

Werneth Low offers panoramic views over Greater Manchester and in clear weather, the Winter Hill transmitting station can be seen from here.

To the south, Stockport town centre, parts of Wythenshawe and even the Welsh Mountains can be viewed in clear weather.

The beautiful country park extends for over 200 acres across the northern and western slopes of the hill offering a picturesque view as you head to the top.

Enjoy the sweet scent of biscuits as you pass the McVities factory

You can't drive past the McVities factory without winding your windows down and inhaling the magnificent smell of biscuits being baked.  Is it the aroma of a Digestive? Or one of the 2,000 Jaffa Cakes they make each minute?  Who knows, but it smells amazing.

Feed the ducks in Alexandra Park

The reservoir at Alexandra Park in Edgeley is one of the best places in the area to go and feed the ducks.  It's also a popular place for anglers thanks to its freshwater fishing opportunities. 

Have a curry at From Bombay to Mumbai

This under the radar curryhouse in Bramhall  is regularly mentioned in the Good Food Guide and is a local favourite. 

With a vibrant and authentic menu, it's a cut above the standard curry house experience.

Have an old-school cinema experience

There aren't many traditional cinemas left these days, but there's a relic of a vintage theatre still operating in Marple.

Regent Cinema is a small neighbourhood picturehouse with old school comfy seats, traditional decor and they still have an interval where you can get ice cream.

Conquer the Plaza steps

Opened to give better pedestrian access between Mersey Square and St Peter's Square, the infamous Plaza steps are a sight to behold. 

These elegant yet commanding steps are Grade II listed in their own right and feature a series of art deco lamps and the Stockport crest emblazoned at the centre-most point.

Although they are known as the Plaza steps now, they actually predate the supercinema by three years.

Browse some rare magazines

Head to Rare Mags on Lower Hillgate and discover a huge range of magazines from around the world, covering every niche thinkable.

You can even grab a coffee while you are there.

Walk the famous Crowther Street

Take a stroll up (or down) Crowther Street, the Stockport residential row of terraces that was immortalised by famous painter L.S Lowry.

And the steps down from Wellington Road to the bus station

Another small corner of Stockport that was also captured by Lowry. 

There's even photographs of the artist taking the steps down the Wellington Bridge steps, with the viaduct and the River Mersey in the background.

Chill out at Reddish Vale Country Park

You wouldn't believe how beautiful this country park actually is. 

A paradise made up of hundreds of acres of rivers, trees, parklands and meadows full of wildlife with something different to see around every corner.

You feel miles away from the urban centre, despite being just up the road.

Enjoy some peace and quiet at Chadkirk Chapel Museum

Enjoy a walk through the surrounding picturesque woodland and along the Peak Forest Canal before stopping for refreshments inside the beautiful chapel.

If you haven't been recently, there's a new information trail around the estate which will give you further insight into the chapel and the estate.  It's also a really nice picnic spot.

See the home of one of the biggest names in tennis

Three-time Wimbledon champion Fred Perry was Stockport born and bred - born in Portwood. 

His childhood home on Carrington Road, Stockport has been commemorated with a blue plaque, honouring the birthplace of the local legend.

See a live band at The Baker's Vaults

The Baker's is renowned in Stockport for its regular live music, which showcases some of the best local and up and coming talent.

They also have a good selection of Robbie's on tap.

Take a canoe under the shopping centre

Yes, you can canoe along the river, underneath Merseyway shopping centre and right where the river Mersey originates.

And finally...

Lyme Park

This was suggested for the bucket list many times - although there was a bit of a dispute whether it was actually in Stockport.

So we contacted the folk at Lyme Park who confirmed: "Technically it is not quite within the Stockport borough, it is just over the boundary in Cheshire East.

However we still have Stockport in our postal address.

"Regarding the council, Lyme was leased from the National Trust to Stockport Council who managed it from 1947, right after the Legh family gave it up, until 1995 when it passed back into Trust management."

The spokesperson explained they still retain a close relationship with SMBC - including providing a resident's pass with one free entry to Lyme for every household in the borough between September and February.

You can find out more here.

So there you go.  It's technically not in Stockport, but they love it so much everyone who lives there gets a free pass.  Definitely deserving of an honorary mention.