M postcode area facts for kids

The M postcode area, also known as the Manchester postcode area, is a group of special codes used for mail delivery in Greater Manchester, England. Think of it like a big map where different areas have their own unique code to help letters and packages get to the right place!

This postcode area covers three main places: the big city of Manchester, the nearby city of Salford, and the town of Sale. It also includes parts of almost all the different boroughs (like smaller local areas) within Greater Manchester, except for Stockport. Nearly all of Manchester city uses an M postcode, except for a tiny village called Ringway, which has a different code. Most of Salford and a large part of the borough of Trafford are also included.

What Does the M Postcode Area Cover?

The M postcode area is quite large and covers many different towns and parts of cities. Each postcode, like M1 or M2, helps to narrow down exactly where a letter needs to go.

Key Places in the M Postcode Area

Here's a look at some of the main areas covered by the M postcodes:

• Manchester City Centre: This is the heart of Manchester, with busy shops, offices, and famous buildings. Postcodes like M1, M2, M3 (parts), and M4 cover this central area.
• Salford: A city right next to Manchester, known for places like Salford Quays (M3 parts, M50), which is a modern area with lots of media and businesses. Other Salford areas include Seedley (M5) and Claremont (M6).
• Trafford: This borough includes important spots like Trafford Park and The Trafford Centre (M17), a huge shopping and entertainment complex. Towns like Sale (M33) and Stretford (M32) are also in Trafford.
• Other Towns and Areas: The M postcode area stretches out to include many other towns and districts, each with its own unique feel. For example:
  • Middleton (M24) in the Rochdale borough.
  • Prestwich (M25) in the Bury borough.
  • Tyldesley (M29) and Atherton (M46) in the Wigan borough.
  • Denton (M34) and Droylsden (M43) in Tameside.
  • Failsworth (M35) in Oldham.

Special Postcodes

Some M postcodes are used for special purposes:

• Large Users and PO Boxes: Postcodes like M60 are often used for very large businesses or for PO Boxes, which are special mailboxes at the post office. These might be physically located in one area but have a unique M60 code for their mail.
• Manchester Airport: The airport has its own special postcode, M90, to help manage all the mail that goes through such a busy place.

This system helps Royal Mail (the UK's postal service) sort and deliver mail quickly and efficiently across this busy part of England!