Whether you’re seeking culture, nightlife, history, or just good fun, there are plenty of things to do in Manchester. First finding world-fame as the heart of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester has a proud history in science, politics, music, arts and sport.
With a packed calendar of world-class events, festivals and city-wide celebrations, from the bi-annual Manchester International Festival, Manchester Pride, and the popular Manchester Christmas Markets, there’s always a reason to visit Manchester.
Immerse yourself in culture
Discover the fascinating story of the city’s evolution through its iconic landmarks, museums and heritage attractions. Explore beautiful attractions and absorb rich history and gothic architecture at John Ryland’s Library and Manchester Cathedral, and discover the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, with a tour at Chetham’s Library. Feel inspired by changing exhibitions at Manchester Art Gallery, The Whitworth, and Manchester Museum. Marvel at unmissable events and west-end performances at Aviva Studios, Palace Theatre and Lowry, and if you’re looking for a fun-filled family day out, the Science and Industry Museum is perfect for those curious minds, with hands-on experiences, laughs, and cool science facts.
Catch live sporting action
A city synonymous with sport, you can’t mention Manchester without football. There’s always something happening at both Manchester City and Manchester United football clubs. Follow in players’ footsteps as you walk through the tunnel, explore home-team dressing rooms and snap pitch-side selfies on a stadium tour, or catch adrenaline-fuelled fixtures on matchday. National Football Museum, in the heart of the city centre, is a great place to find out more about the social history of the game.
Catch the biggest start in cricket at Emirates Old Trafford, home to Lancashire County Cricket Club, playing regular host to electrifying fixtures such as England ODI and Test Match games.
Lose yourself in live music
Discover Manchester’s legendary live music and entertainment scene. With intimate clubs and grassroots gigs, to world-class arenas and star-studded features, get lost in Manchester’s musical landscape. Join a Music Walkabout Tour to dive deep into Manchester’s musical past and uncover hidden secrets. The AO Arena and Co-op Live offers a diverse line-up of global headline artists, whilst you can discover local talent with gigs at trendy pubs and clubs like Night and Day, YES and Band on the Wall.
Manchester is a city synonymous with music, and its year-round calendar of unmissable music festivals and events reflect this vibrant legacy. Taking place in the city centre and across Greater Manchester, you won’t want to miss standout events including Manchester Jazz Festival, Manchester Folk Festival, Parklife, Warehouse Project, Sounds of the City and even Manchester Psych Fest.
Tantalise your tastebuds
Manchester’s fast establishing itself as a global foodie destination, with new bars and restaurants opening weekly. Don’t miss incredible fine-dining experiences with Adam Reid at The French and Tom Barnes’ new venture Skof, recently awarded Manchester’s latest Michelin Star.
Dine in style on a steam train powering through the Lancastrian countryside, whilst tucking into a flavoursome 3-course dinner, Sunday lunch, or even a wine tasting experience with East Lancashire Railways. Devour a quintessentially British afternoon tea in an all-electric black cab whilst on a comprehensive Taxi Tour of Manchester, taste your way through Manchester’s history on a Scranchester Food Tour, and enjoy your evening learning the story behind Manchester Ginon a tour and tasting experience with a G&T in hand, of course.
Shop till you drop!
Manchester is a global retail destination with high-end luxury, unique finds, and great deals. Discover luxury department stores like Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, visit the designer boutiques around King Street, Spinningfields and New Cathedral Street, and treat yourself to exclusive timepieces in Manchester’s Jewellery Quarter.
Alternative and creative, The Northern Quarter houses vintage and independent stores, record shops, cafés, bars and restaurants, along with the famous Affleck’s Emporium, featuring four floors of independent designers and traders.
Start your journey to Manchester today
Best of Scotland Holidays is a destination management company with over 40 years of experience creating bespoke itineraries for our overseas travellers to the UK and Ireland. These itineraries provide an enriching and personalised way to experience the UK and Ireland, completely tailored to your needs whether you’re looking to explore world-class museums, enjoy food or music scenes, or discover some hidden gems. As one of the longest established destination management companies in the UK, one of our experienced team will be able to incorporate an unmissable visit to Manchester into your next trip to the UK. Contact us today with your requirements.
