Steeped in a rich industrial heritage, Victorian architecture and a modern cultural scene, Manchester is a microcosm of the United Kingdom past and present.
Visit Manchester to see iconic British landmarks, including one of the oldest public libraries, and experience vibrant districts such as upscale Spinningfields, Castlefield and the trendy Northern Quarter.
The summer months are Manchester’s most popular tourist seasons, while winter is significantly less busy. When you visit Manchester, pack a raincoat and umbrella to stay comfortable despite seasonal differences. Overall, expect a mild and damp climate, with moderate rainfall.
Things to do in Manchester
Feel the pivotal role Manchester played in shaping the modern world at the grand town hall, a magnificent example of Victorian Gothic design. Marvel at the stunning stained-glass windows and impressive medieval Manchester Cathedral. Immerse yourself in the pages upon pages in the stacks at the John Rylands Library and Chetham’s Library, the first an architectural masterpiece and housing rare books, manuscripts and ancient texts, and the latter the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, dating back to 1653.
Move into the modern world in Manchester Central, a former railway station-turned-exhibition and conference centre. Visit MediaCityUK, located at Salford Quays and home to the BBC and ITV studios. Celebrate creativity of all forms at The Lowry, an arts complex showing theatre, music, dance and a gallery devoted to the works of renowned artist L.S. Lowry, who was famous for his depictions of industrial landscapes and working-class life. Get inspired with fine art spanning from pre-Raphaelite masterpieces to contemporary works at the Manchester Art Gallery. View films at The HOME, a cultural centre and theatre, and visit Band on the Wall, a music venue that has made a name for itself in Manchester’s music scene for more than a century.
Beloved for its football culture, Manchester welcomes sports enthusiasts to Old Trafford, the home stadium of the Manchester United Football Club, a legendary venue with countless historic matches played out on its pitch. If tickets aren’t available, dip into one of Manchester’s convivial pubs to watch the game with avid fans.
Take a break from the urban lifestyle in Manchester’s green spaces, such as Heaton Park with its gardens, woodlands and boating lake, or Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden in Didsbury. For outdoor recreation, venture to the nearby Peak District National Park.
Shopping and dining in Manchester
Go shopping at Manchester Arndale, one of the largest city centre shopping malls in Europe, as well as the Trafford Centre, outside the city centre, as glorious in its grand architecture as it generous with diverse shopping options. For independent boutique shopping, vintage stores and an overall bohemian vibe, head to the Northern Quarter, frequented by artists, musicians and creatives. Check out the Manchester Craft and Design Centre for unique handmade crafts, local textiles and artwork.
Dive into the culinary scene at bustling food halls, including Mackie Mayor in the Northern Quarter, Curry Mile with its numerous Indian restaurants, and Afflecks and Arndale markets, where you can pick up street food, local delicacies and fresh produce. Find numerous restaurants along King Street and Deansgate, being sure to try Manchester tart and black pudding.
Getting around Manchester
While visiting Manchester’s city centre, take advantage of the free bus service that connects main rail stations and shopping districts. Otherwise, walking, trains, the Metrolink tram and bike-sharing programmes are great ways to discover this historic city.
