The 8 best things to do in Manchester
Situated in the north of England, Manchester stands as one of the most popular destinations year-round. Whether it’s summer or winter, endless surprises are promised by this city. Presented here is a list of the top 8 things to do in Manchester. This blog is aimed at assisting you in planning your trip, covering everything from the best places to stay to travel information and the most popular activities to visit. Rest assured, every aspect is covered to ensure an unforgettable Manchester experience. Manchester can be explored with the official Visit Manchester pass, which includes a variety of activities and attractions. Click here to discover more about it.
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How to get to Manchester
The best way to reach Manchester from London is by train. A direct train from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly can be boarded, and within 2 hours, the heart of the city is reached. Alternatively, the cheapest way to travel is by bus, but the travel time will be longer. Manchester is connected to the rest of the world by major airlines operating at Manchester International Airport, making it a beautiful destination to explore.
Exploring the city is made even easier by its well-connected public transport. We recommend purchasing a day pass if planning to board the tram multiple times. Alternatively, you can use your contactless card to tap in directly on the bus or at the tram station entrance.
Some popular activities to do in Manchester:
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Where to stay in Manchester
Staying in Manchester city centre is the ideal option for exploring the city. During our visit, we chose to stay at the Clayton Hotel Manchester City Centre, conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly station. Its central location makes it a hub for most attractions and iconic places like St Peter’s Square, Albert Square, and Spinningfields. Additionally, it’s close to shopping and dining options. The NCP Car Park, open 24/7, is located right beside the hotel, making it convenient for those travelling by personal vehicle.
The hotel offers a wide range of rooms suitable for both business and leisure travellers, with complimentary WiFi access and access to the fitness suite. The rooms are spacious, with options for late check-out available for guests staying in Executive rooms. Luxury toiletries, a mini-fridge, comfortable beds, and a lounge area make it perfect for your trip. The morning breakfast is scrumptious, offering a full English breakfast, a variety of juices, tea, coffee, yoghurts, fruits, croissants, and cakes. Additionally, the in-house restaurant and bar provide an excellent dining option after a day of exploring the city. Click here to discover more about it.
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8 places you must visit when travelling to Manchester
During your Manchester stay, explore endless activities and attractions. Here’s a list of some of our favourite things to do during your visit. Most of the attractions below can be accessed at discounted rates using the Visit Manchester pass.
The Trafford Centre
A paradise for shopaholics and a one-stop destination for the perfect weekend getaway, The Trafford Centre is one of the most renowned and popular shopping and leisure destinations. Here, a wide range of high-street luxury brands to the most affordable ones can be found. The impressive architecture and decorative pine trees will transport you to a different world. Various eateries and restaurants located here serve as a perfect dining spot for visitors after a day of shopping. The cherry on top is the ODEON, featuring 20 screens of films showing RealD 3D, IMAX screen, and Dolby. The best way to reach here is to board a tram to The Trafford Centre and plan half a day to explore the massive area.
Manchester City Stadium Tour
The Manchester City stadium tour offers one of the most immersive ways to explore the Premier League football stadium. Access to important and VIP areas, typically off-limits to the public, is provided. The guided tour includes access to the home team dressing room, dugouts and the press conference room. The highlight is walking down the tunnel to the pitch side, where recorded audience cheers provide a match-day atmosphere. Discovering interesting stories, facts, and behind-the-scenes insights will leave you feeling fulfilled after completing this tour.
Manchester Gin Distillery
This guided tour offers you the chance to delve deep into the story of Manchester Gin, produced in-house and renowned for its award-winning status. Situated in Grade II listed railway arches, with an in-house bar & restaurant called Three Little Words, it provides a unique experience. If visiting on a Sunday, we recommend trying the Sunday roast paired with their in-house gin and tonic. During the guided tour, you’ll enjoy a gin-based welcome drink and have the opportunity to sample six different types of gin, each with its own story explained by the talented guide.
Sea Life Manchester
The Sea Life Manchester, conveniently located inside the Trafford Center, is an ideal destination for both kids and adults to explore the marine world. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a sea turtle, and an immersive set allows them to feel like they are interacting directly with the turtle near the beach. The experience includes witnessing the egg-laying phase and the hatching of little turtles, followed by their connection with their mother. Walking down the tunnel where a variety of sharks, stingrays, and other marine animals float overhead is an incredible moment. With over 2,000 different marine species, the interactive trip offers both knowledge and enjoyment.
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East Lancashire Railway
Boarding a tram from Manchester city centre to Bury unveils the legendary vintage journey. The East Lancashire Railway, a steam-powered railway with over 200 years of history, awaits. Manchester city pass holders are entitled to a full return ticket for the steam railway, but it’s advisable to check the schedule during travel. Indulging in the English countryside on a heritage trip from Bury on Bolton Street to Rawtenstall is a must. Witnessing postcard-perfect landscapes, real ale pubs, quaint tea rooms, quirky boutiques, markets, restaurants, cafés, and much more adds to the experience.
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
This library, named after one of the city’s most prominent industrialists and philanthropists, John Rylands, is free to visit. It was opened to the public in 1900 and is housed within a magnificent Victorian Gothic building—an architectural gem with towering spires and intricate stonework. The library houses a vast collection of rare manuscripts, ancient texts, and many archival materials that offer profound insights into various aspects of human history, culture, and thought. As you step inside, it will transport you to the world of Hogwarts, where every corner feels like a Harry Potter set—a real gem for Potterheads. However, the fun fact is not a single scene from Harry Potter was filmed here.
Diecast MCR
The former Presbar Diecasting factory, situated at 51 Ducie Street in Manchester, boasts a rich industrial heritage dating back to 1870. Today, the 250,000-square-foot former factory has been transformed into new uses, serving as a hub of artistic expression. As you enter, you will witness the renovation of the former factory, this massive space transformed into a social gathering hub. It houses a variety of eateries, including pizzerias, as well as places where you can dance, drink, and dine. Located close to Piccadilly station, this place is a must-add to your list for an ultimate dining and fun experience.
Freight Island Manchester
The Freight Island has quickly become one of the most vibrant spots in Manchester, attracting both locals and visitors with its unique blend of culinary delights, refreshing beverages, and live entertainment. This hotspot remains lively not only in summer but also in winter, offering surprises throughout the year. Located in the heart of the city, this dynamic destination features an eclectic array of food vendors serving everything from gourmet street food to international cuisine. The spacious outdoor area provides the perfect setting for socializing with friends or enjoying live music and performances. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, Freight Island is a must-visit for anyone exploring Manchester’s bustling cultural scene.
Is Manchester a popular Christmas destination ?
Manchester is one of the most popular places to visit during Christmas, famous for its numerous Christmas markets. The city lights up and decks out with many cosy wooden chalets, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for enjoying a hot chocolate in a Christmas-themed cup or mulled wine. The lively streets are crowded by locals and visitors from different parts of the world. The Christmas vibes are incomparable, and the unique Christmas lights set up throughout the city centre add to the festive charm.
Hope you liked our recommendations! Be sure to bookmark our website for more exciting travel content. If you’re eager to explore more of England, visit our exclusive page with lots of ideas for short city breaks in England.
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