Guides to Manchester

To be honest, Manchester is the sort of place where you could easily spend a week. But if you only have one day, it's important to plan ahead so you get a real taste of this powerhouse of a city. Manchester is brimming with incredible restaurants, thriving bars, cosy cafés, vibrant galleries, and fa...

Aparthotels offer a unique blend of the comfort and convenience of home with the luxury and services of a hotel, making them an ideal choice for many visitors. Regardless of whether you're looking for a short-term booking or a longer stay, our selection of the best aparthotels in Manchester will pro...

A whole host of global cuisines are represented in Manchester's food scene, including Japanese cuisine. From delicate sushi to comforting bowls of warming ramen, this cuisine is full of variety and is one of the most popular types of food in the world. If you want to know where to go for Japanese fo...

You don't necessarily have to head to a fancy restaurant when you want a delicious lunch in Manchester. All across the city you'll find scores of comfortable pubs where you can settle in and enjoy pub grub alongside a few drinks. If you're in the mood for a pub lunch and want to know about the best...

The largest district in Manchester, Wythenshawe is a busy area in the south of the city that borders the airport. It has lots to attract locals and visitors, including parks, nature reserves, and the only community farm in Manchester. The area is also home to a number of great places to go for a dri...

Cheadle Hulme is a charming Greater Manchester suburb known for its a rich local history. Conveniently close to Manchester whilst offering a more tranquil setting and plenty of green spaces, its efficient transport links make it a popular choice for commuters to Manchester and beyond. The area has s...

A steaming plate of pasta is surely one of the best comfort foods out there, with all the different shapes and sauces meaning there are infinite different versions of the dish. If pasta is one of your Italian favourites, you'll find lots of eateries around Manchester where you can get your fix. From...

If you're one of the million people who purchased a pup in lockdown, then this guide is for you. There's no worse feeling than leaving your four-legged friend at home while you go out and enjoy a meal and some drinks, but in many places around Manchester, you don't have to do that. There are a fair...

Manchester is known for welcoming the LGBTQ+ community with open arms, even being home to its own Gay Village where everyone is welcome. As you might expect, this means the city has a whole host of great LGBTQ+ venues where you can enjoy a drink or exciting entertainment in an open and welcoming set...

Sometimes all you need is a relaxing massage to get you feeling rested and rejuvenated. Luckily, if you're in Manchester or planning to visit, you've got a great list of spas you can visit to get your fix. Whether you just want a classic full body massage or you're looking for someone to tailor one...

Exploring Manchester isn't just about its legendary landmarks, although they are worth taking a look at. It's also about delving into the adrenaline-fuelled activities, culture, creativity, and countless cool experiences the city has to offer. From hidden bars and live music venues to outdoor activi...

No matter your age, you're sure to find something enjoyable to do in a city as lively as Manchester. The huge variety of places to visit around the city includes lots of attractions that are ideal for young people. From indulging in some shopping to playing games or discovering something new at a mu...

Manchester and Greater Manchester boast some of the best shooting ranges in the UK. No matter whether you're a seasoned shooter or a beginner looking to try something new, the city's shooting ranges offer a safe space to try your hand at this epic sport. There's everything from clay pigeon shooting...

Dance classes are a brilliant, fun way to boost your fitness while letting loose, and Manchester boasts dance schools offering a wide range of styles for all ability levels. No matter your experience, there's a dance class in Manchester to help you get moving. From burlesque and hip-hop to contempor...

Sometimes, if you have an early flight or a late arrival, staying in a hotel close to the airport can make your travel day all that little bit less stressful and shorter. Manchester Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK and serves millions of passengers each year, making nearby hotels a p...

Greek cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavours and hearty dishes, has found a warm home in the heart of Manchester, offering locals and visitors alike a taste of the Mediterranean. From cosy tavernas serving up traditional gyros and mezze platters to trendy eateries putting a modern spin on classic...

You don't have to make your way to the airport if you're craving French cuisine and Parisian surroundings. Manchester is home to a number of French restaurants where you can explore this much-celebrated cuisine without leaving the country. From native street food to timeless recipes, there are multi...

Africa is a large continent that houses many diverse countries and cultures. That means there's also a huge variety when it comes to African cuisine, from meaty braai in South Africa to veggie and vegan dishes from Ethiopia, or aromatic tagines in Morocco. Manchester has plenty of places where hungr...

If you're a fan of R&B or brunch, or better yet, both, this guide is just the thing for you. Whether you're a local Mancunian or a visitor seeking a memorable dining experience, our guide, the best R&B brunch in Manchester, will take you through the city's top spots where great food meets gr...

Visitors to Manchester who prefer more intimate, personal accommodation over a major hotel chain can stay at one of the city's bed and breakfasts. Balancing affordability, convenience, and atmosphere, Manchester's best B&Bs offer comfortable stays in different parts of the city and the Greater M...

Fancy a curry? You're certainly not alone in Manchester; after all, the city is home to its own Curry Mile and rice and three is an iconic local dish. Thanks to the diversity of the city's population and its food scene, you can find authentic curries from various cuisines here, from the mildest to t...

Manchester may not seem like the obvious place for a spa break, but actually, the city has plenty of hotels where you can get away from it all. From city centre accommodation to more peaceful locations in Greater Manchester, there are a number of hotels with impressive spa facilities that are ideal...

Takeaway fans are in luck in Chorlton-cum-Hardy. The area is packed full of takeaways and restaurants that offer take-out meals, allowing locals to enjoy a wide variety of tasty global cuisines at home. Whether you fancy pizza, Chinese food, fish and chips, or a kebab, you'll discover a whole host o...

Cheetham Hill is one of Manchester's most culturally diverse areas, and with diversity comes lots of delicious food from around the world. You don't have to eat out in a restaurant around here either; there are a load of local restaurants serving takeaway food in Cheetham Hill that you can enjoy at...

Manchester city centre has a reputation for its excellent wining and dining scene, but it's no secret that Manchester's suburbs are also chock full of hidden gems covering all cuisines. This means it's also a great spot to grab a takeaway. From fragrant Caribbean food to traditional Pakistani, you c...

If you're a fan of stand-up comedy, Manchester is a fab place to go to a comedy night – after all, it's the birthplace of big comedy stars like Jason Manford and Alan Carr. When you want to see a live show, the city has no shortage of options where you can check out exciting new performers as well a...

When you want to relax and get rid of aches and pains in your body, a Thai massage is a fantastic choice. This type of massage uses specialised techniques originally developed thousands of years ago by the Buddha's physician to relieve pain and tension. If you're wondering about great places around...

Whether you're planning a team-building session in Manchester or looking for a unique activity with friends that breaks away from the usual pub visit, escape rooms are a fantastic option. Manchester offers a variety of venues catering to all ages and abilities, ensuring there's something for everyon...

Whether you're a local family or visiting this vibrant city, Manchester offers a wide array of engaging and exciting attractions for families and children of all ages. From interactive museums and thrilling adventure parks to creative arts centres and scenic outdoor spaces, our guide to the best chi...

On average, it rains 152 days in Manchester each year, so it's a good idea to have a backup plan for bad weather while you're here. Thankfully, the cooler and wetter weather means there's no shortage of things to do on rainy days in Manchester, and we've rounded up some of the top ones. Read our gui...

Filled pierogi, potato pancakes, cabbage rolls, and kielbasa served with plenty of sour cream – Polish cuisine is fantastic if you're looking for delicious comfort food. This might not be one of the biggest cuisines on the world stage but there's still plenty of enjoy. Luckily, Manchester has some p...

If you're in the middle of Manchester and wondering about the best way to get your day started, why not stop off somewhere for brunch? The city centre is packed with venues serving brunch, from casual coffee shops to refined brasseries. If you're wondering where you can enjoy dishes like pancakes, c...

Tapas is surely one of Spain's greatest exports – ideal for sociable dining and for trying out lots of different flavours, a few of these small plates makes for a fun and satisfying meal. There are restaurants across Manchester that specialise in tapas and will soon make you feel like you're in Barc...

Being a large and cosmopolitan city, Manchester is home to a wide range of hotels and guest accommodation to suit all kinds of traveller. Whether you're in the city for work or fun, and whether it's a quick trip or a lengthy visit, there's bound to be a place to stay that's right for you. From homey...

If you ask us, we'd say Sundays are made for leisurely brunching, and if you happen to be in or around Manchester, you're in luck because there are many places you can practice this Sunday ritual all over the city. Whether you're feeling crazy and want to go all out with bottomless Sunday brunch (he...

Leafy Didsbury is a charming Manchester suburb with lots of great places for foodies to try. If you aren't in the mood for eating out, there are plenty of restaurants and takeaways in the area offering delicious food that you can savour at home. There is no shortage of options, from authentic Neapol...

Greater Manchester's rich culture and industrial history mean that the city is home to a wide range of diverse museums covering a vast number of subjects. Interested in local history, football, the suffragette movement, or the most fashionable headgear from days gone by? Manchester has a museum for...

Go-karting promises exhilarating fun and a cool way to compete against your friends – it's a great day out for any age range. Manchester has several go-kart circuits where you can satisfy your need for speed and enjoy this thrilling activity. If you're looking for karting in the city centre or furth...

If you're feeling stressed out or have discomfort in your body, going for a massage is a great way to relax both your body and your mind. A whole range of massages are available in Manchester, from traditional Thai services to massages in a luxury spa setting or sports massage that gets right to you...

Manchester has long been a pioneering city in the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the UK, playing a vital role in campaigning for equal rights and acceptance over the years. It probably comes as no surprise that the city is home to many bars and nightclubs catering to the LGBTQ+ community. Canal Street is...

Though there's no shortage of things to see and do in Manchester – just browse our site if you don't believe us – getting out of the city for a change of scenery can be just the thing sometimes. Manchester serves as a perfect starting point for numerous exciting day trips, whether you're looking to...

With so many magnificent landmarks and top sights to explore in Manchester, finding the perfect tour can be overwhelming. That's why we've compiled a list of the most popular sightseeing tours all over the city, from classic open-top buses and river cruises to free walking tours and more. Whether yo...

Manchester is a burgeoning culinary haven, but getting through all it has to offer can be quite the challenge. Thankfully, there's an array of unique and unforgettable tasting events for food and drink enthusiasts alike, helping out anyone whose belly is getting dangerously stuffed. From sophisticat...

For dog owners planning a getaway, finding a hotel that caters to both human and canine needs is essential and can make all the difference. Luckily for you, Manchester boasts a range of pet friendly hotels that offer more than just a place to rest your head, from chic boutique stays to comfortable c...

The vibrant dishes and social culture of Spanish cuisine mean that it's a popular type of food for any occasion. If you're craving bitesized tapas dishes or hearty portions of paella, there are Spanish restaurants across Greater Manchester that will satisfy you. We'll help you find the right destina...

If you love to start your day with a delicious meal but love getting up early a little bit less, you're going to need to find somewhere that serves up all-day breakfasts. If you want to munch on eggs, sausages, and bacon until late in the afternoon, Manchester is home to plenty of eateries that'll l...

Welcome to the Thatsup guide to the best pre-theatre menus in Manchester! Whether you're looking for a pre-show meal to set the stage for an evening of entertainment, a luxurious pre-theatre dinner to indulge in before the curtains rise, or a delightful pre-matinee menu that will satiate your appeti...

Every self-respecting British person knows that you have to have a pint when you're at the airport waiting for your flight. And if you're not British and were just visiting, you may as well join us – call it a cultural experience. Manchester Airport boasts a number of venues where you can enjoy this...

Manchester is a great city for culture and creativity, with lots of different galleries for art lovers to explore. Around the city, you'll find major institutions as well as independent artist-run spaces showcasing the cutting-edge of contemporary art. Whatever type of art you enjoy, we can help you...

If you fancy an adrenaline-packed activity that's great for groups, why not give paintballing a try? All ages can enjoy this action-filled activity, with several specialist venues dotted around Greater Manchester where you can play paintball games in a safe environment. If you want to plan a day out...