The best attractions in Manchester

Manchester Cathedral has stood for centuries. This dramatic Gothic building is a must-visit landmark in Manchester and it's free to visit. Religious services take place here every day but visitors are welcome to tour the striking building. The cathedral also hosts a diverse array of events including bible study, concerts, and markets.

John Rylands Research Institute and Library is another iconic piece of architecture in Manchester. This neo-Gothic structure is Grade I-listed and houses one of the world's leading collections of rare books, manuscripts, and archives. It's a popular visitor attraction for its exciting architecture but you're also welcome to study here.

The home of Manchester United, Old Trafford is an iconic football stadium and the largest club football stadium in the country. Visit to watch a match or enjoy a stadium tour, including a visit to the on-site museum. There's also a themed café on the premises as well as the ultimate souvenir shop for fans.

For visitors who prefer Manchester City to Manchester United, Etihad Stadium is the place to visit. With a capacity of over 53,000, it's one of the UK's largest football stadiums. Come on a match day to watch your heroes in action, or visit for a tour. A number of different tour packages are available, and the club's official store is also based here.

You'll find lots of things to see at Heaton Park - it's the largest public park in the North West. There are historic landmarks here, including the listed Heaton Hall. Visitors will also discover sports facilities, a boating lake with boats for hire, playgrounds, an animal centre, and lots of room to relax. There are on-site cafés too.

Manchester Art Gallery believes that creativity is a positive force. The gallery is free and publicly-owned, putting on a variety of thought-provoking exhibitions with a range of themes. This gallery also has a collection of thousands of pieces of art and costume. As well as seeing shows, you can enjoy tours and creative activities here.

People's History Museum traces the history of democracy in the UK. It has the country's largest collection of materials related to democracy and the lives of working people. There are plenty of interactive elements, plus the museum runs activities. It's housed in Grade II-listed former hydraulic pumping station that's an interesting site to see itself.

One of Manchester's most interesting places to visit is Castlefield Viaduct. This Victorian steel viaduct in the city centre has been transformed into a leafy sky garden with great views. Every morning, you can join a guided tour of this peaceful landmark, but you're also welcome to explore at your own leisure.

A renowned art gallery that's part of the University of Manchester, The Whitworth was established in 1889. Exhibitions of historical and contemporary art are shown here, plus there are events like tours, family activities, and reading and writing groups. You can also see work from the gallery's permanent collection when you visit.

One interesting place to visit in the city is Victoria Baths. This distinctive brick building is Grade I-listed, and was open as public swimming baths between 1906 and 1993. Now it's a venue hosting varied events from yoga festivals to beer conventions. Visitors can also come for a tour and learn about the building's impressive architecture and history.

Considered the pioneer of modern computer science as well as a gay icon, Alan Turing is a significant historical figure for many people. He spent much of his life in Manchester and you can pay your respects at the Alan Turing Memorial, a statue located in Sackville Gardens where info about his life is also available via a QR code.

Located in Salford, The Lowry holds the world's largest collection of works by local artist L.S. Lowry. This dramatic and modern attraction also puts on temporary exhibitions that celebrate local creativity. Added to that, there are theatre spaces for a wide variety of shows, plus a range of creative initiatives.

One of the most exciting places to visit in Manchester is Printworks, a bustling entertainment venue. See a film on one of Europe's largest IMAX screens, view digital projections on the ceiling of the internal streets, or enjoy a range of entertainment and activities, as well as bars and restaurants. There's something here for all kinds of visitors.

Another of Manchester's leading tourist places is Sea Life Manchester, an aquarium based at Trafford Palazzo. There are various aquarium zones housing thousands of creatures like sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, and seahorses. It's fun for all ages, and you can learn more by attending a talk or feeding session.

Referred to locally as Alex Park, Alexandra Park covers 60 acres and opened to the public in 1870. This popular park has something for everyone; there are sports pitches and games areas, an orchard, a fishing lake, a planted garden, and play areas for kids of different ages. There's also a convenient café within the park's grounds.

Located in the city centre, Opera House Manchester is one of the city's most prominent theatres and it has a long history. The imposing building is Grade II-listed and hosts a variety of performances including theatre shows, comedy, musicals, and live music from big names. This grand building also has a restaurant and an exclusive lounge.

Based at 62 Nelson Street, The Pankhurst Centre was once the home of suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughters. Visit the museum to discover more about their lives and the fight for women's right to vote. This unique museum is also a women's centre and the HQ of Manchester Women's Aid.

The Portico Library is a grand and impressive structure dating back to the 1800s. As well as being home to one of the city's oldest lunch venues, it houses a collection of thousands of books and archives. Memberships and research access are available but anyone can visit just to check out the building.

A bohemian attraction in the Norther Quarter, Afflecks is a maze-like shopping emporium housing more than 60 independent retailers. It strives to offer something different to locals and visitors. There are a range of vibrant stores here from alternative fashion to records, crystals to collectibles. Eateries and extra services like barbers and Thai massage are available too.

Enjoy a variety of heritage train experiences at East Lancashire Railway. This line stretches for 12.5 miles from Greater Manchester to Lancashire. This tourist attraction offers experiences for all ages, including rides, dining experiences, family days, and a transport museum. There are lots of places to visit along the route too.

Set in the middle of Manchester city centre, Mamucium Roman Fort Reconstruction is a historical landmark that really stands out. There are reconstructions of Roman gates as well as original fort foundations. This tourist site gives you an idea of what Manchester looked like almost 2,000 years ago. You can visit for free at any time of day.

Based in a former synagogue in Cheetham Hill, Manchester Jewish Museum holds more than 31,000 items related to Jewish migration and settlement in the city. It connects Jewish stories to wider society with a collection deemed of international significance. There are exhibitions and events, as well as a café and shop.

Head to Chill Factore to check out the longest indoor snow slope in the country. All ages can enjoy this attraction, offering skiing and snowboarding, ice slides, sledges, and downhill donuts. There are lessons available but you can visit just for fun. The venue also has an Alpine-themed lounge where you can relax afterwards.

Portland Basin Museum in Ashton is set in a restored warehouse dating back to the 19th century. You can find out more about local history and industrial heritage here. This family-friendly museum is free to visit, housing a reconstruction of a 1920s street, a kitchen and parlour revealing how we lived in the past, and an educational play area.

Ordsall Hall has a history going back hundreds of years but today it's a popular visitor attraction in Salford. Discover more about the Tudor period when you explore the house and gardens here. There are interactive elements to keep everyone engaged, plus various activities. There's an an on-site shop and café, as well as a seasonal theatre.

Shop til you drop at Manchester Arndale. This modern shopping centre was built in the 1970s and is still one of the largest shopping destinations in Manchester. You'll find more than 200 stores here, from local traders to high street giants. Food and drink options as well as entertainment like bowling and VR gaming are on offer here too.

Visit Salford Museum & Art Gallery for a fun and free day out. The museum is known for its reconstruction of a 19th century Salford street, but also offers four galleries of art and artefacts that tell you more about Salford's history. Changing exhibitions take place here too, as well as an interesting programme of activities.

Cathedral Gardens is a pleasant place to relax, as well as being a great visitor attraction. It's in easy reach of lots of other tourist sites, plus it hosts a variety of festivals and events. It's made from granite and natural stone, flanked by trees and lawns to build a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Built in 1871, Barton Arcade is a classic Victorian shopping arcade that's Grade II-listed. It's an elegant place to walk around, attracting visitors for its architecture as much as for the stores here. This ornate arcade houses a number of exclusive shops and eateries, as well as office space.

Stockport Air Raid Shelters is an immersive museum, consisting of almost one mile of underground air raid shelters. This museum recreates what life was like during 1940s Britain, with displays and audio guides that bring the history to life. You can also buy 1940s souvenirs at the gift shop here.

One of Manchester's most unique tourist spots is Runway Visitor Park. Located at Manchester Airport, it's right next to the runway so you can watch planes take off and land, with live commentary provided at weekends. There's picnic space and a play area, plus memorable experiences are on offer like Concorde tours and flight simulators.

Altrincham Market has won multiple awards and is home to a diverse and exciting array of independent food vendors. Based in a historic market hall, it's the ultimate destination for fine local food. A wide range of drinks and street food are on offer here including wine, pizza, tacos, and sweet treats. There's plenty of seating too.

Dunham Massey is a National Trust property located near Altrincham. This 17th century stately home has a moat with a water-powered mill, gardens, and a 300 acre deer park. The gardens are ideal for walking or settling down with a picnic. Trails and events take place regularly, plus there's a restaurant, a café, and a gift shop.