Guides to Manchester

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Leisurely cruising along the river or canal can be a great way to see a place from a different perspective. Regardless of whether you're a Manchester local or you're visiting the city, you can experience it in a different way and learn more about it by going on a boat trip. There are various trip op...

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...

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...

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...

Welcome to our guide to the best Brazilian restaurants in Manchester, a vibrant culinary journey that will take you through the heart of Brazil's rich and diverse food culture without leaving the city. Manchester is home to an array of Brazilian eateries that offer everything from traditional churra...

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,...

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...

Sushi fans in Manchester are in luck – the city boasts a great array of places serving sushi where you can get fresh and tasty food. From quick grab-and-go options and well-loved local eateries to city centre venues that are ideal for a decadent Japanese meal, the city is packed with great options,...

From quaint spots serving up freshly baked pastries to buzzy eateries crafting hearty full English spreads, this guide will list some of our favourite restaurants where you can kick-start your day with a tasty breakfast in Manchester. Whether you're craving a leisurely brunch enjoyed streetside in t...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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,...

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...

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...

Opting for a spa day in Manchester is an ideal remedy for escaping the hustle and bustle of busy city life. Manchester boasts a handful of spas boasting excellent amenities and refreshing treatments, perfect for some much-needed R&R. In this guide to Manchester's top spa breaks, we've handpicked...

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...

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...

Manchester is home to some of the best Christmas markets in the whole of the UK, with ski chalet-style huts popping up side-by-side with ice rinks and more festive decorations than you can shake a stick at. Whether you're looking to sink your teeth into giant Yorkshire puddings stuffed with pigs in...

Can't decide whether to pamper yourself with afternoon tea or a visit to the spa? Well, why not both? Combining these two timeless indulgences, Manchester's spa afternoon teas are the perfect package for those looking to boost their well-being, get rid of some stress, and spend an afternoon getting...

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...

Film fans are spoilt for choice when it comes to cinemas in Manchester. Whether you want to see huge on-screen hits in luxury and comfort, prefer to sit in historic cinema surroundings, or want indie spaces to see edgy films and cult classics, this city truly delivers. Whatever kind of films you're...

A fun activity for all ages, mini golf is great for spending time with friends, date night, or a family day out with kids. Both in Manchester city centre and further afield, you'll find a variety of adventure golf courses where you can get competitive, take on tricks and challenges, and have lots of...

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...

Manchester city centre is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and entertainment, making it a top destination for visitors looking to explore the city's rich offerings. Whether you're here to discover its world-class museums, iconic music scene, or legendary football clubs, finding the right accommoda...

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 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...

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...

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...

Finding comfortable accommodation that makes you feel at home is key to making the most of any trip, and when it comes to a big city like Manchester, many different considerations are in play. Whether you're looking to take a breather from the urban hustle and bustle, want to stay close to nature, o...

With the festive season just around the corner, it's the perfect time to gather family, friends, or colleagues and enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. Many of Manchester's restaurants will offer festive seasonal menus throughout the most wonderful time of the year, from trad...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

St. John's is a fast-evolving neighbourhood in Manchester, located next to the River Irwell. Aiming to redefine urban living in Manchester, the riverside redevelopment is envisioned as a dynamic blend of residential, work, and leisure spaces, offering a stimulating environment that nurtures innovati...

Withington is a small suburb in South Manchester, boasting a rich history that dates all the way back to medieval times when it functioned as a quaint rural village. Through the years, it has evolved into a bustling sliver of the city and is home to the renowned University of Manchester's Fallowfiel...

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...