Guides to Manchester

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...

Manchester is full of great things to do for all age groups. Having such a large student population, this includes lots of activities for young adults around the city. For young people looking for cool things to do, the options range from escape rooms and adrenaline-filled activities to fun games to...

Boutique hotels are small, stylish accommodations typically located in trendy urban areas—many of which Manchester is proud to host. This thriving city is a creative, cultural, and historic hot spot, something that its ever-growing offering of boutique hotels perfectly encapsulates. Rustic Victorian...

Looking for a delicious meal whilst you're out in Chorlton? Luckily, this location doesn't disappoint with a range of restaurants that offer a variety of global cuisines, from authentic Neapolitan pizza to comforting Indian food. If you need some ideas for some great places to eat around here, we've...

Asian cuisine is varied, exciting, and flavourful, and it's on full display in Manchester. You can find restaurants focusing on particular culinary traditions in our comprehensive guides just below, but if you want to travel across all of the Asian continent, try intriguing new takes on Asian food,...

Invented in Kent but now popular the world over, a tasty sandwich is a fab option for an easy breakfast, lunch, or snack. Manchester is home to a wide array of specialist sandwich shops and eateries that have tempting sandwiches on the menu to keep you satisfied at any time of day. From oozing chees...

Whether it's a team building session with work or you want something fun to do with a big group of friends or family, finding the right group activity to keep everyone interested can be difficult. Across Manchester, you'll find a variety of different things to do that are suitable for groups, whethe...

Fresh Neapolitan pizzas, creamy risotto, comforting plates of pasta – it's no surprise that Italian food is a real crowd-pleaser. Its popularity means that there are numerous restaurants around the city specialising in this kind of cuisine, from homegrown pizza heroes to family-run trattorias. When...

Manchester is home to a plethora of romantic restaurants that are perfect for a date night. From intimate bistros to elegant fine dining establishments, there's something to suit every taste and occasion. Treat your loved one to a candlelit dinner at Hawksmoor, renowned for its succulent steaks and...

The Northern Quarter's origins date back to the 19th century, when it served as the heart of Manchester's cotton and textile industry. In recent years, it's transformed into a thriving creative and artistic sliver of the city, home to numerous independent shops, quirky boutiques, and excellent lunch...

The Northern Quarter is one of Manchester's most buzzy areas, located in the middle of the city and brimming with cool places to hang out. Along with trendy bars, there are traditional pubs here, so whether you're after some pub grub or just want a great place to enjoy a few drinks, you'll find no s...

It's pretty tough to resist a buffet restaurant. Who could say no to a gorgeous spread of delicious dishes to choose from – especially when you usually get to help yourself to as much food as you like? The varied options at this type of restaurant also mean that they're great for feeding families an...

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...

Manchester is a haven for gaming enthusiasts in the North, whether you're looking for a round or two on a classic arcade machine, trying out the next big thing with a cutting-edge virtual reality experience, or a competitive esports showdown at a professional gaming centre. Our guide to where to pla...

A water park offers loads of great ways to splash about and have fun in the water. It's a great day out for families and friends and, luckily, you have several to choose from if you're based in Manchester. If you're interested in aqua parks in Greater Manchester, as well as venues that are easy to r...

Call it padel or paddle tennis, there's no denying it's fast becoming a national pastime. One of the fastest-growing sports in the world, padel appeals to players of all ages and skill levels with its blend of socialising, competitiveness, and exercise, and padel clubs are sprouting up all over the...

Welcome to our guide to luxury hotels in Manchester, where sophistication meets Northern charm. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or a special occasion, Manchester offers a range of high-end accommodations that cater to the most discerning travellers. From listed buildings transformed i...

There are so many diverse options if you're planning a meal in Manchester city centre. Whether you favour steak, Italian cuisine, fine dining, or down-to-earth burgers, the impressive variety of restaurants in the centre of Manchester means you're sure to find somewhere you'll enjoy. We've got some...

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 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...

With the cost of living constantly rising, you might feel like going out for a few drinks is a luxury you can hardly afford these days. However, all is not lost – heading to a bar when it's happy hour means you can get more value for money with great discounts on drinks. Lots of venues in Manchester...

From full-bodied reds to light and fruity whites and complex natural vintages, the world of wine offers something for everyone. If you want to savour the flavours of delicious wines or even join a tasting event and learn something new, Manchester has a variety of different wine bars to check out, wi...

If the weather isn't cooperating but you still want to get out of the house, there are lots of enjoyable things to do in Manchester that protect you from the elements. From action-packed activities to cultural experiences, the city is home to a whole host of indoor activities that'll keep you occupi...

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...

Get ready to spend a fun evening unleashing your inner artist, drink in hand, with the help of our guide to the best sip and paint experiences in Manchester. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a casual painter, or simply looking for a creative night out, sip and paint events offer the perfect blend o...

Manchester is a thriving, cosmopolitan city that offers an impressive selection of four-star hotels to meet the needs of travellers. Whether you're here for business or leisure, and whether your stay is short or long, you'll easily find somewhere comfortable and tasteful in Manchester. From stylish...

Whether you're craving the classic flavours of pad Thai or the richness of a fragrant green curry, you'll undoubtedly be able to get your fix in Manchester. From lesser-known regional specials to all-time beloved favourites, the restaurants in Manchester are plating up some of the tastiest Thai food...

Manchester's culinary scene caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary requirements, including an excellent array of halal brunch options. From cosy cafés in quaint neighbourhoods to chic eateries in the city centre, foodies can indulge in some of the best halal-friendly brunches in Manchester wit...

Sunday lunch is a highlight of the culinary week for many, holding a special place in the hearts of those who cherish this quintessentially British tradition of the Sunday roast. From cosy heritage pubs to sleek, contemporary eateries, Manchester offers an array of destinations where the Sunday roas...

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day so no one should miss out, even if you've got special dietary requirements like needing gluten-free food. Gluten-free diners are in luck in Manchester because the city is home to a wide range of restaurants that serve GF food, including tempti...

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...

If you're searching for a fun family day that'll help everyone burn off some energy, going to a trampoline park in Greater Manchester is surely a winner. Bounce around, let off some steam, and enjoy a great experience whatever the weather. We can help you find fun trampoline and adventure parks arou...

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...

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...

Despite Manchester being a big city geared towards hip young crowds, hostel accommodation is rather limited here, with only a few options to choose from. That said, backpackers and other budget-conscious travellers can still find an affordable place to stay with the help of our guide to the best hos...

Manchester might be better-known for its Chinatown, but Korean food is well-represented here too. From the bustling streets of the city centre to the quaint neighbourhoods of Greater Manchester, Manchester's Korean culinary landscape offers something for everyone. Our guide to the best Korean restau...

From eclectic eateries inspired by hit TV shows to quirky spots that marry entertainment with gourmet fare, Manchester's restaurants are as fun as they are diverse and exciting. Whether you're looking for a lively spot with live music, a themed venue that transports you to another world, or a place...

Persian cuisine, also known as Iranian cuisine, is steeped in a rich history dating back thousands of years and influenced by many civilisations. In Manchester, there are several places where you can sample authentic Persian cuisine, with restaurants offering dishes crafted with fresh herbs, fruits,...

If there is one thing that Manchester isn't short of, it's cool places to wine and dine. This trendy city was once the world's first-ever industrial city, meaning it's packed with old towering mills and warehouses, many of which have been transformed into some of Manchester's trendiest dining spots....

It's fun to have a few drinks, but a fabulous view can make it even more enjoyable. Visiting a rooftop bar is a surefire way to get an attractive backdrop whilst you relax with your favourite tipple. Manchester is home to a number of rooftop bars where you can take in city views and get some great p...

Many of us have to keep a close eye on our bank balance these days, but that doesn't mean you can't have a great time in Manchester. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the city offers a host of different things to do that won't mean you have to dip into your overdraft. If you're not sure where to...

Manchester is full of great places to go shopping, including big department stores, independent local boutiques, and shopping centres where you can get everything you want all under one roof. If you're looking for a big shopping mall in Manchester city centre or further afield, we can point you in t...

Cinephiles, this one is for you. With this curated guide to the best spots for movie lovers, we've made it easier than ever to find out where the best cinemas in Manchester city centre are. Whether you're looking for luxurious seating, immersive experiences, or a great selection of independent films...

Planning a romantic first date? Celebrating a special occasion? Just looking to spend quality time with your significant other? Manchester offers a range of activities for couples to suit every taste and interest. Whether you're a thrill-seeking twosome or prefer to relax with something nice and cos...

Enjoying a romantic getaway in a vibrant city like Manchester is effortless; this incredible northern gem offers everything you need for an unforgettable escape with your loved one. When you're not out exploring, you can spend time relaxing at your hotel, and there are many romantic places to choose...

Ice skating is a fun activity that anyone can master with a bit of trial and error. Whether you're a beginner, a seasoned skater, or simply looking for a fun day out, Manchester has several top-notch ice rinks to suit every skill level. From seasonal outdoor rinks in the heart of the city to dedicat...

Manchester transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a wealth of activities and experiences that capture the festive spirit. From twinkling Christmas markets and outdoor ice-skating rinks to enchanting Christmas light displays and heart-warming performances, the city...

Every restaurant has its own personality but sometimes you want to eat somewhere where the venue and atmosphere really add to the experience. From places with robot waiters to unusual dishes you won't find anywhere else, Manchester's food scene is full of unique places to eat that promise diners a m...

Welcome to our guide to the best vegan breakfasts in Manchester! In recent years, Manchester has seen a surge in vegan eateries, catering not just to those who follow a plant-based diet, but also to food enthusiasts eager to explore diverse and flavourful options. From cosy cafés tucked away in the...

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...