Guides to Manchester

Full of rich flavours and warming spices, Pakistani food is both tasty and satisfying. With Manchester being home to the fourth largest Pakistani community in the UK, it means there are loads of authentic places around the city to get your hands on this type of food. If you're craving a meaty kebab,...

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...

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...

Didsbury, a suburb in Manchester, boasts a rich history dating back to the medieval period when it was documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Originally a rural village, it has since evolved into a bustling part with plenty of pubs that are well worth visiting. From traditional taverns steeped in...

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...

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...

Just because you're not a kid anymore, it shouldn't stop you from having fun. You can find lots of fun activities for adults in Manchester, with options in the city centre as well as further out. If you need some ideas for exciting activities that'll easily keep you occupied, we've put together this...

Manchester isn't really known for an abundance of theme parks, but there are still options for those looking to spend a day doing fun things with their kids. Whether you're looking for a traditional amusement park with classic rides, an active outdoor adventure, or a place to indulge and develop a c...

If you're seeking a way to burn calories, enhance flexibility, and strengthen muscles, consider visiting a pilates studio in Manchester. With an increasing number of venues in the city now providing mat-based or reformer pilates classes, this guide to pilates in Manchester can help you find the idea...

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...

If you're looking for somewhere to eat in Fallowfield, you've got lots of options. This vibrant suburb is popular with students and is home to many of the big fast food chains, as well as a whole bunch of independent eateries serving quality food from around the world. Craving Ethiopian, Mexican, or...

Going for a drink is all well and good but sometimes you want something a little more special. For the times when you want to feel like you're in on a secret, Manchester is home to a number of hidden bars that feel a bit more surprising and exclusive than a trip to the local pub. If you want to know...

Whatever your age, pottery painting sessions can be an enjoyable creative activity. Unleash your artistic streak and express yourself on a ceramic piece that you can then take home or give to someone special in your life as a unique gift. If you're wondering about painting pottery classes in the cit...

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...

Following a diet free from gluten shouldn't mean you miss out on delicious food. Luckily, there are lots of places you can eat in a city with a restaurant scene as buzzing as Manchester. Whether you're craving a gluten-free version of authentic Asian food, pizza, or a burger, there's a restaurant in...

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....

Some people like their weekend brunch to be a sedate and relaxing experience, but lots of others want it to be a huge party. If you like your brunch with added music, entertainment, and fun, going to a drag brunch in Manchester could be your ideal weekend activity. If you're ready for cheeky jokes,...

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...

Despite being a sprawling city, Manchester is also home to countless green spaces and parks, perfect for some R&R away from the bustling city streets. The city is intersected by several meandering waterways as well as designated conservation areas, such as Chorlton Water Park and Boggart Hole Clough...

Are you planning a trip to Manchester and wondering about the best things to see whilst you're here? The city has no shortage of exciting attractions for visitors to enjoy and we don't want you to miss out on anything, from a centuries-old cathedral to fantastic shopping destinations. We've put toge...

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...

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...

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...

Right in the heart of the city, Spinningfields is a vibrant area to work and play. That means it's home to a great variety of restaurants – in fact, it's one of Manchester's top destinations for local and visiting foodies. From upmarket venues to great spots for casual meals, there's lots of choice...

Whether you're a full-time vegan or a flexitarian, there are more plant-based choices available than ever these days, both in restaurants and supermarkets. In Manchester there are plenty of specifically vegan eateries where you can enjoy plant-based food with confidence. From vegan pizza to plant-ba...

The distinct culinary history and unique flavours of Vietnamese cuisine mean that it has boomed in popularity. That means there are a variety of great places to sample Vietnamese food in Manchester. Whether you're after rich and comforting pho, a flavourful banh mi sandwich, or vibrant summer rolls,...

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,...

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...

For a nice way to start off your day, breakfast in an appealing local café is a great option. If you're looking for somewhere in Manchester to enjoy freshly-prepared food, tasty hot drinks, and pleasant surroundings, you'll find lots of great options all over the city. Whether you prefer a fuss-free...

Manchester has a buzzy cocktail bar scene, offering a mix of classic establishments and clandestine hideouts. The city's cocktail bars are renowned for their creativity and innovation, with many places serving unique and inventive options that push the boundaries of traditional mixology. Bartenders...

Manchester is well-known for its rich musical history and thriving live music scene. Whatever type of music you enjoy, you're bound to find it in Manchester, including jazz. The city is home to a number of bars where you can relax with a few drinks in a cool setting and take in the sounds of talente...

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...

City life might be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Manchester, but Greater Manchester has plenty of places where you can get close to nature too. There are plenty of riding schools and equestrian centres where you can try out horse riding, whether you're keen to learn the basi...

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...

Whether you're visiting Manchester for business, leisure, or a special occasion, the city's luxury accommodations offer the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and impeccable service. In this guide, we list the city's finest five-star hotels, each providing unique features and experiences. From hist...

Kurdish cuisine isn't exactly well-represented in Manchester, but you can still find places serving this intriguing food. Though there isn't much choice, the Kurdish restaurants that do cater to this niche offer dishes that are authentic, affordable, and served quickly, making them a convenient choi...

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...

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 has no shortage of fun things to do, and luckily, there are loads of places and activities you can enjoy completely free of charge. Whatever your interests are, there's a free activity in the city to suit you, from admiring impressive landmarks to getting out in the park and meeting cute...

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...

The intricacies of wine are complex and fascinating, with tastings being a popular activity for anyone who wants to learn and explore wine more deeply. Whether you're already a seasoned wine connoisseur or you're discovering wine for the first time, you can find a tasting experience in Manchester th...

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...

After a long day of travel, sightseeing, or business obligations, nothing hits the spot quite like a relaxing swim. It's especially convenient when the swimming pool is just an elevator ride away from your room, which is why we've rounded up our picks of the best Manchester hotels with a pool. Wheth...

Ancoats was once the epicentre of Manchester's global cotton industry during the Industrial Revolution, home to busy textile mills and huge manufacturing industries. But this stylish sliver of the city has since evolved into a hip hotspot where the cool kids hang out. Empty alleyways and abandoned w...

This guide is your passport to experiencing the rich flavours and aromatic spices of Malaysian cuisine, right in the heart of one of the UK's most vibrant cities. From family-run eateries serving authentic street food to contemporary venues blending traditional recipes with modern twists, Manchester...

Manchester's Chinatown is the second biggest in the country and the third largest in Europe, making it well worth a visit if you fancy some authentic Asian cuisine without jetting off to the other side of the world. Flanked by a traditional paifen that was built in the 1980s, you'll find Chinese res...

American cuisine is famously decadent, heavy, and over-the-top. It's also delicious and comforting. The spirit of the United States' culinary landscape is alive and thriving in Manchester, with the city offering everything from classic American diners to authentic dive bars. Whether you're craving s...

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 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...