Hidden gems in Manchester

Mr Smith's Dream is a small, easily overlooked artwork embedded in the brickwork of the Manchester Craft & Design Centre. It was created by ceramicist Liz Scrine and draws inspiration from the pet shops of Manchester's Northern Quarter. The piece features a miniature spiral staircase leading to a charming, hidden secret world. See what you can spot when you take a glimpse for yourself.

Sifters Records on Fog Lane in Manchester is a treasure trove of vintage records, CDs, and DVDs. This small shop was a favourite of Oasis' Liam and Noel Gallagher, who famously referenced it in their song with the line, "Mr Sifter sold me songs when I was just 16." Music enthusiasts of all genres will find something to love at Sifters, and the knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer guidance based on their extensive experience with music and records.

Afflecks is a renowned indoor market in Manchester, formerly known as Afflecks Palace. It was established in 1982 and features over 60 eclectic traders across three floors. Explore a bohemian maze of unique shops, including art galleries, record stores, tarot readers, fashion boutiques, and food options. Browse vintage clothes, original art, collectables, and more, or relax with a massage or tasty plant-based treats. Entry is free.

The Circus Tavern in Manchester City Centre is so small and understated from the outside that you might miss it even if you're searching for it. It claims to be the smallest bar not just in Manchester or the UK but in all of Europe. Despite its tiny size, it attracts football fans who cram in on match days and anyone else in need of a drink. Expect a cosy atmosphere, plenty of elbow-rubbing, and lots of refreshing pints.

The Portico Library is an architectural masterpiece built in the early 1800s and housing 215 years of literature and culture. The library is open to both members and the public and boasts a historic collection of over 25,000 books and archives spanning 450 years. Members enjoy access to the collection and the reading room, while anyone else can request access for research purposes. The library hosts free public exhibitions and features a bookshop and café accessible to everyone.

The Irwell Sculpture Trail stretches from Salford Quays to Bacup in Lancashire and features over 70 artworks along more than 33 miles. The trail showcases pieces by local, national, and international artists arranged in clusters that can be easily viewed together. It's free to visit, and you can explore at your own pace, seeing as much or as little of the art as you wish.

Victoria Baths was once a public swimming bath, operating from 1906 to 1993, but underwent restoration in 2007. It's located inside a striking Grade II-listed brick building and is widely recognised as Britain's finest historic municipal swimming pool. Today, it hosts all kinds of events, from yoga festivals to beer conventions. Visitors can also join tours to explore its impressive architecture and rich history.

Chetham's Library was founded in 1653 and is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world. It's renowned as the site where Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels began drafting “The Communist Manifesto” and houses the very desk used by Marx and Engels in 1845. It's also home to a rare first edition of John Milton's “Paradise Lost”, an archive on Belle Vue Zoological Gardens, and a Northern Soul collection. Chetham's was even considered as a filming location for Hogwarts, and it's easy to see why. The library is also connected to Chetham's School of Music, where students perform free lunchtime concerts in the Carole Nash Hall.

The People's History Museum is home to the UK's largest collection about working people and democracy. You'll find it located in Manchester's Grade II-listed former hydraulic pumping station where it showcases an eclectic mix of historical and contemporary artefacts, including political posters, trade union materials, and personal items from key figures. It was established in the 1970s and has been at its current site since 1994. It also houses the Labour History Archive & Study Centre and offers interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities.

For a bar with a twist, visit The Washhouse. This hidden cocktail bar masquerades as a laundrette, but don't expect any actual laundry services. Navigate through the cleverly designed laundry-themed façade to discover a sophisticated and cosy bar where you can enjoy unique cocktails featuring exciting flavours and stunning presentations.

Alan Turing is a key historical figure, renowned for being the father of modern computer science and celebrated for his significant contributions to codebreaking during World War II. He was also sadly prosecuted for his homosexuality. Whether you recognise him as a gay icon or a computing pioneer, you can honour his legacy at the Alan Turing Memorial in the heart of the Gay Village.

The John Rylands Research Institute and Library is a part of the University of Manchester, situated inside a breathtaking Grade I-listed neo-Gothic building, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. The library is home to a world-renowned collection of rare books, manuscripts, and archives and is a popular visitor attraction. Everyone is welcome to study its collections or admire the impressive architecture.

62 Nelson Street was the residence of Emmeline Pankhurst, a leading figure in the women's suffrage movement, alongside her daughters. Today, it is The Pankhurst Centre, a museum dedicated to the story of women's struggle for the right to vote. Visitors can explore the lives of Emmeline Pankhurst and her family and learn about their role in founding the suffragette movement. The museum also serves as a women's centre and the headquarters for Manchester Women's Aid.

Manchester Museum is located in a beautiful neo-Gothic building and boasts a history of over 130 years, offering a fascinating display of collections in archaeology, anthropology, and natural history. The museum contains millions of objects, including approximately 100,000 fossils and wonderful artefacts from all around the world. Visitors can explore its galleries, enjoy temporary exhibitions, and enjoy some time refuelling at the museum's café and shop.

The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) in Manchester is a prestigious institution known for its world-class music education. It was established in 1973 and offers comprehensive training in performance, composition, and conducting. The college boasts an excellent community of students and a distinguished faculty, hosting a variety of concerts and events year-round. Its basement also houses an impressive collection of over 300 historical instruments from around the world.