The exuberance of Manchester, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution is apparent in its myriad of quaint markets, easily traversed green-and-waterways, boisterous pubs and culture laden architecture – shops, museums and world-famous events mark the launchpad of this dynamic and spirited city. Its swagger extends beyond music and football (soccer), although, nary a fan can be told otherwise. Explore its vast history of warehouses, underground nightlife and political discourse for a truly local experience.
5 things you’ll want to do in England’s Capital of the North
1
Market Street
The busiest pedestrian shopping mecca complete with the towering Arndale Shopping centre and hosts one of many festive Christmas Markets strewn throughout Manchester.
Highlight: Catch the daily buskers for a lively performance of street art.
2
The Lowry
The Lowry is a fusion of art and theatre showcasing the works of its namesake in a permanent exhibition along with ticketed performances. While there you can take in a musical, the opera or catch stand-up comedy acts then complete your visit with a pitstop at the Giftshop.
Highlight: Grab a bite at resto-bar, Pier Eight overlooking Salford Quays for a quiet reprieve.
3
Old Trafford Stadium & Museum Tour
Who wouldn’t want to visit a 75,000 square foot facility dubbed, the “Theatre of Dreams”? The museum plays homage to over 130 years of football history including interactive displays, a guided tour that takes you through the players tunnel and behind-the-scenes look at Manchester United memorabilia. Oh, and the trophies!
Highlights: Missed a game? You’re in luck, with the high-tech re-enactment screen you can queue up your favourite plays.
4
Piccadilly Gardens
Piccadilly Gardens offers something for everyone with a wide range of music and cultural events. This town square is the perfect hub that connects the city with accessible transit bringing together locals, business folks, families and visitors alike.
Highlight: Pack a picnic and people watch by the fountain or let the kids roam on the lawns.
5
Chinatown
Explore one of the biggest Chinese communities in Britain. The ornate archway welcomes all to a wide array of traditional bakeries, ethnic supermarkets, flavourful restaurants and unique shopping troves. If you’re there in February, be sure to partake in the annual Chinese New Year festival and dance along with the Dragons in the famous parade.
Highlight: Meander to the neighbouring Manchester Art Gallery after you’ve sampled street food spanning Vietnamese, Nepalese, Japanese and Thai flavours.
A spectacular day in Manchester
Creative spirits may start their UK adventure strolling record shops and whimsical boutiques in the Northern Quarter followed by a pint with bangers and mash at a local pub to take in the atmosphere.
Must-see: Chetham’s Library, a medieval archive of books, maps and photographs.
Mild summers and cool winters. Manchester has a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year but that doesn’t damper Mancunians thriving spirits.
Festivals and events
Manchester is known for its world-class events and festivals, here are just a few:
Highlight: You may catch the next big gig as huge musical acts – New Order, Oasis, Simply Red and The Bee Gees all hailed from Manchester.
Manchester bustles with gastropubs, micro-breweries, funky bars and an emerging coffee culture to rival traditional afternoon tea. Pop-up markets, street food fairs and culinary destinations like the Corn Exchange provide cuisine on tap.
The city offers a great selection of halal, vegan and vegetarian options.
Highlight: For the spice adventurist, a stop at Curry Mile is a must. Feast on Pakistani, Indian, Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi dishes.
The city boasts popular U.K. stores like Selfridges and Harvey Nichols as well as quirky and eclectic Afflecks for unique finds. A few others to consider:
Exchange Square for premium, upscale fashion.
Trafford Centre – high end at its best complete with imitation marble columns, flowing fountains and Royal inspired architecture, this shopping is fit for King or Queen.
The Northern Quarter – this bohemian enclave is filled with creative, artisan and International designers offering one-of-kind treasures.
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