manchester airport area

Manchester Airport is connected to Manchester City Centre via both National Rail services and the Metrolink tram system, which gives you scope to stay in Manchester itself if you wish. Closer to the airport but not on site there are two Premier Inns, one of which is right next to Heald Green train station, and a Travelodge in Altrincham (though this isn't easily accessible from the airport via public transport).

Thanks for replies. I've been to Manchester and don't need to see it again. I was hoping that there was an interesting town or village within an 1/2 hour or so by rail, of the airport train station - a better choice than an airport hotel. Partly the question is about identifying an interesting town, but also about easy rail access to the airport. I can read a map and pick out places that look close enough, but don't know the local logistics. My flight out is around 12:00.

"Worth visiting" being a place tourists would visit for its own charms. That's a bit vague I know, but a place that is walkable and picturesque rather than suburban/ industrial. Chester I know is worth a visit, but thought it was too far.

Thanks akkejakke and Emma.