Manchester Things To Do

Architecture
A walking tour focusing on Manchester architecture is a fine way to explore the city. Manchester is notable for its mix of 18th and 19th century industrial heritage and cutting-edge contemporary design. Outstanding heritage buildings include the neo-Gothic Town Hall, the glorious Royal Exchange theatre, the ornate red-brick Palace Hotel, the circular Central Library, and 18th century St Ann’s Church with its Renaissance interior. The Millennium Quarter is a remarkable tribute to Manchester’s spirit of regeneration. Head out to Salford Quays for the Lowry and the Imperial War Museum North, two of Manchester’s most striking modern buildings.

Museums & Galleries
Manchester has an enjoyable selection of entertaining, family-friendly museums. The interactive Urbis centre is an innovative look at the world’s great cities. The Lowry is home to around 350 Lowry works, and also hosts temporary exhibitions The Cube gallery focuses on architecture. The Manchester Museum is particularly good on natural history, from insects to dinosaurs. The Whitworth Art Gallery has a reputation for interior design and modern art. The Manchester Art Gallery is an internationally renowned collection in a fine neo-classical building. Even the Museum of Science and Industry, housed in the world’s oldest railway building, is a lot more fun than it sounds!

The Neighbourhoods
Touring Manchester’s different neighbourhoods is a great way of exploring the city, experiencing its diversity, and getting the most from its nightlife and culture. The Northern Quarter is a buzzing area packed with idiosyncratic shops, fashion designers, trendy bars and live music venues. Castlefield is an urban heritage park. The area around The Bridgewater Canal is great for bars and restaurants. Manchester’s Gay Village around Canal Street has an international reputation. Deansgate is a key area for eating and drinking, and Deansgate Locks is a focus for contemporary nightlife.

Entertainment
Manchester has always had a trailblazing live music scene, and the tradition continues today, with at least 30 small live music venues around the city. Manchester also regularly hosts large concerts in the Manchester Arena, the Apollo and the Academy. As well as pop and rock, Manchester caters for classical and jazz fans, and every kind of specialist interest. A thriving comedy club scene includes the Comedy Store in Deansgate Lock and Jongleurs in the Gay Village. The Palace Theatre often stages famous musicals. Sports fans will hope to catch some football or cricket.

Nightlife & Clubbing
For many city break visitors this is the main attraction. Manchester nightlife is legendary, and the city’s growing reputation means new venues are opening all the time. Manchester nightlife is especially varied and terrific fun, with everything from cheap student bars to state-of-the-art trendy DJ bars. A great selection of eclectic club nights offering everything from northern soul and jazz to rock, indie, latin and ska. The thriving clubbing scene attracts top DJs. The Gay Village is superb for stylish, idiosyncratic lounge bars and full-on disco and house.

Manchester City Breaks  Getting Around Manchester

Things To Do In Manchester  Manchester Weather