Experiencing Manchester: Best Things To Do
Things to do in Manchester
· 9 min read
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Manchester is a city of many faces, known for its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and exciting sporting events. Whether you're a tourist or a local looking for things to do in the city, Manchester has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore the best things to do in Manchester, from cultural experiences to family-friendly activities and everything in between.
Exploring Manchester's Rich History
If you're a history buff, there are plenty of places in Manchester that will intrigue you. One of the must-visit places in the city is the Manchester Cathedral, which dates back to the 15th century. The cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is home to many treasures, including medieval woodwork, stained glass, and monuments.
Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George in Manchester, is a stunning piece of architecture that has stood the test of time. Built in the 15th century, the cathedral has seen centuries of history unfold around it. It has been a place of worship, a site of political upheaval, and a symbol of Manchester's resilience.
The cathedral's stained glass windows are particularly impressive. They depict scenes from the Bible, as well as images of saints and other religious figures. The medieval woodwork is also worth admiring. The choir stalls, for example, are intricately carved and feature a range of religious and secular motifs.
🗺️ Address: Victoria St, Manchester M3 1SX, United Kingdom
🕤 Visiting Hours: 9.30am - 4pm from Monday to Saturday, 12pm - 4pm on Sunday
People's History Museum
For a different perspective on Manchester's history, head to the People's History Museum. The museum tells the story of the struggle for democracy and social justice in the UK and is an excellent place to learn about the labour movement and the suffragette movement.
The People's History Museum is a unique museum that is dedicated to telling the story of the working people of Britain. The museum's exhibits cover a range of topics, from the Chartists to the miners' strike of 1984-85. One of the highlights is the suffragette gallery, which features artefacts from the women's suffrage movement, including banners, posters, and even a replica prison cell.
🗺️ Address: Left Bank, Manchester M3 3ER, United Kingdom
🕤 Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm from Wednesday to Monday, closed Tuesday
Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene
Manchester is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and its vibrant arts scene is a testament to this. With a rich and diverse range of artistic offerings, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Royal Exchange Theatre
One of the city's most iconic cultural institutions is the Royal Exchange Theatre. Founded in 1976, this unique theatre is housed in a stunning Victorian building and is renowned for its innovative and thought-provoking productions. From classic dramas to contemporary pieces, the Royal Exchange Theatre offers a truly immersive theatrical experience that is not to be missed.
🗺️ Address: St Ann's Square, Manchester M2 7DH, United Kingdom
Whitworth Art Gallery
For art lovers, the Whitworth Art Gallery is a must-visit destination. Situated in the heart of Whitworth Park, this stunning gallery boasts an impressive collection of art from around the world. From contemporary works to old masterpieces, the Whitworth Art Gallery offers a fascinating insight into the world of art and is sure to leave you feeling inspired.
🗺️ Address: Oxford Rd, Manchester M15 6ER, United Kingdom
🕤 Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday to Sunday; 10am - 9pm on Thursday, closed Monday
Manchester Art Gallery
The Manchester Art Gallery is a great place to introduce your kids to art and culture. The gallery has a range of collections, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. There are also regular family-friendly events, such as art workshops and storytelling sessions.
🗺️ Address: Mosley St, Manchester M2 3JL, United Kingdom
🕤** Opening Hours:** 10am - 5pm daily
Street Art at Northern Quarter
If you're looking for a more unconventional art experience, then Northern Quarter is definitely worth a visit. This vibrant area is home to some of the city's most colourful and striking murals, which have been created by some of the world's most talented street artists. Take your time to explore the area and you'll discover a wealth of hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered.
John Rylands Library
Literature lovers can head to the John Rylands Library, a magnificent neo-Gothic building part of the University of Manchester. The library houses some of the world's rarest books. You can easily spend an afternoon browsing through the books and enjoying some quiet time. Be sure to also visit the gift shop to pick up some quirky items!
🗺️ Address: 150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH, United Kingdom
🕤 Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm from Wednesday to Saturday; closed Sunday to Tuesday
Exciting Sporting Events and Venues
As the home of two globally renowned football clubs, Manchester United and Manchester City, the city is a mecca for football fans. Sporting events are a big part of Manchester's culture, and you can't visit the city without experiencing its sporting heritage. And even if you are not an avid football fan, given the chance, be sure to catch a football match there for an unforgettable experience!
Old Trafford Stadium
A trip to Manchester without visiting Old Trafford Stadium, the home of Manchester United Football Club, is incomplete. Take a tour of the stadium to learn about the club's history and see some of the most iconic areas of the stadium.
Old Trafford Stadium has a seating capacity of 74,879, making it the second-largest football stadium in the UK. The stadium has hosted several high-profile events, including the 2003 UEFA Champions League Final and the 2012 Olympic football matches.
🗺️ Address: Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester M16 0RA, United Kingdom
Etihad Stadium
And of course, we can't miss the Etihad Stadium. The Etihad Stadium is a modern marvel of sports architecture and is located in the heart of the city. The stadium has a seating capacity of 55,097 and is the fourth-largest stadium in the Premier League.
The Etihad Stadium has hosted several high-profile events, including the 2008 UEFA Cup Final and the 2015 Rugby World Cup. The stadium is also home to the Manchester City Football Club museum, which showcases the club's history and achievements.
🗺️ Address: Ashton New Rd, Manchester M11 3FF, United Kingdom
National Football Museum
If you're a football fan, make sure to also visit the National Football Museum, which explores the history of football in the UK and beyond. The museum boasts an impressive collection of memorabilia, including shirts, trophies, and footballs.
The museum is located in the Urbis building in Manchester city centre and is open daily. You can learn about the evolution of football, from its humble beginnings to the global phenomenon it is today. The museum also has interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to test their football skills and knowledge.
🗺️ Address: Urbis Building Cathedral Gardens, Todd St, Manchester M4 3BG, United Kingdom
🕤 Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm daily
Manchester Arena
Manchester is also home to the Manchester Arena, one of the largest indoor arenas in Europe. The arena has a seating capacity of 21,000 and has hosted several high-profile sporting events, including boxing matches and basketball games.
In addition to sporting events, the Manchester Arena has also hosted concerts by some of the biggest names in music, including Madonna, Beyonce, and Ed Sheeran.
🗺️ Address: Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1AR, United Kingdom
Family-Friendly Activities
Travelling with kids can be a challenge, but Manchester has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are some additional options to consider:
Heaton Park
Heaton Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, covering over 600 acres. It has something for everyone, including a boating lake, an animal centre, a tram museum, and a golf course. You can also take a stroll through the park's beautiful gardens and woodland areas.
🗺️ Address: Middleton Rd, Manchester M25 2SW, United Kingdom
Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden
If you're a nature lover, then the Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden is a must-visit. This stunning garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city and is home to a range of flora and fauna. The garden is a popular spot for birdwatching, and you might even spot some rare species if you're lucky. Take a stroll through the garden's winding paths and admire the beautiful flowers and plants that are on display.
🗺️ Address: 100 Millgate Ln, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2SW, United Kingdom
Salford Quays Waterfront
For a more urban outdoor experience, head to the Salford Quays Waterfront. This area is home to the Lowry Theatre and the Imperial War Museum North and is a great place to take a walk along the water's edge. The waterfront is also home to a range of restaurants and cafes, so you can stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink as you soak up the atmosphere.
Museum of Science and Industry
Another place that you must add to your itinerary is the Museum of Science and Industry. It's a fascinating museum that tells the story of Manchester's industrial past. You'll find exhibits on textiles, transport, and power, as well as some of the city's most important inventions, such as the first computer.
The Museum of Science and Industry is a great place to learn about Manchester's industrial heritage. The museum is housed in the former Liverpool Road railway station, which was the world's first inter-city passenger railway station. The exhibits cover a range of topics, from the textile industry to the development of the steam engine. One of the highlights is the Power Hall, which features a range of steam engines and other machines from the Industrial Revolution.
🗺️ Address: Liverpool Rd, Manchester M3 4JP, United Kingdom
🕤 Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm daily
Shopping Experiences
Manchester is a city that offers a unique shopping experience. From the trendy Northern Quarter to the high-end designer boutiques in Spinningfields, there's something for everyone. If you're looking for a shopping destination that has it all, head to the Trafford Centre, which is one of the largest shopping malls in the UK. The mall boasts over 200 shops and restaurants, making it a great place for a day out. The mall has a variety of stores, from high street chains to luxury brands, making it the perfect place to find everything you need. And for vinyl lovers, consider checking out Piccadilly Records and Eastern Bloc offer an eclectic selection of tunes.
Manchester's Thriving Nightlife
Manchester is a city that never sleeps, and when the sun goes down, the city comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. The city is home to a wide range of entertainment options, from nightclubs to live music venues, and there is something for everyone.
One of the most unique destinations for partygoers is The Warehouse Project. Instead of running the all-year long, The Warehouse Project is a series of club nights that runs seasonally, usually from September to the end of the year - watch their website for the lineup for this year!
For those who prefer a more laid-back night out, Manchester has plenty of cosy pubs and trendy bars to explore. The city is home to a wide range of drinking establishments, from historic pubs to modern cocktail bars. One of the best places to start is the Northern Quarter, which is known for its independent bars and vintage shops.
Make sure to sample some of the local beers while you're in Manchester. The city has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are plenty of breweries to explore. Some of the most popular local beers include the Manchester Pale Ale and the Marble Brewery's Pint. These beers are brewed locally and are a great way to experience the city's unique culture.