Top 10 Things to do in Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Welcome to Manchester, the bustling city full of culture, history and fun activities that cater to everyone’s interests. Whether you’re a football fanatic or a lover of the arts, this city has something for you. From exploring iconic landmarks to indulging in delicious food and drinks, there are countless things to do in Manchester that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Join us as we countdown the top 10 must-see attractions and experiences in this vibrant English city!

1. Liverpool Football Club Museum and Stadium Tour

If you’re a football enthusiast, then the Liverpool Football Club Museum and Stadium Tour is a must-visit attraction for you in Manchester. This tour will take you on an immersive journey through the history of one of the most iconic clubs in English football. The museum holds fascinating exhibitions, including trophies won by the club throughout its illustrious history. You can see famous jerseys worn by legendary players like Steven Gerrard and John Barnes.

The stadium tour is equally impressive as it takes visitors behind-the-scenes to learn about what goes into running a Premier League club. You’ll get to walk down the tunnel where players emerge before games and even sit in Jurgen Klopp’s seat at press conferences! This experience offers a unique insight into one of England’s greatest footballing institutions, making it an unmissable attraction for sports fans visiting Manchester!

2. Coronation Street Tour

If you’re a fan of the long-running British soap opera “Coronation Street,” then a tour of its set and filming locations is definitely worth it. The Coronation Street Tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the show’s history, with knowledgeable guides pointing out iconic spots like Audrey’s hair salon, Roy’s Rolls café, and even the Rovers Return pub. During your visit, you’ll get to see actual sets used for filming scenes and learn insider information about how episodes are made. You might even be lucky enough to spot some cast members going about their work!

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and covers both indoor and outdoor locations within MediaCityUK in Salford. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes as there will be plenty of walking involved. If you’re a die-hard Coronation Street fan or just curious about what goes on behind-the-scenes of a TV show, this is definitely one attraction not to miss while in Manchester!

3. Lake District and Windermere

Lake District and Windermere is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This picturesque location offers breath-taking landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning mountain views that will leave you mesmerized. The Lake District National Park is the most visited national park in the UK, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing and water sports. The park covers an area of 2,362 square kilometres with more than 16 major lakes including Windermere which is England’s largest lake.

Windermere is approximately 11 miles long and is surrounded by beautiful forests, hillsides dotted with sheep farms and quaint villages like Ambleside where you can indulge in local delicacies or shop for souvenirs to take back home. Apart from soaking up the natural wonders around you while taking scenic walks or drives through this region there are many other attractions on offer including boat rides across Lake Windermere itself. You could also visit Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top Farmhouse where she wrote her children’s books or explore some of the nearby castles steeped in history such as Sizergh Castle & Garden.

4. Canal & River Cruise

Embark on a relaxing and scenic journey through Manchester’s waterways with the Canal & River Cruise tour. This guided boat ride takes you through historic canals that played a crucial role in the city’s industrial past. As you cruise along, take in stunning views of Manchester’s skyline and learn about its fascinating history from your knowledgeable guide. Admire picturesque bridges, locks, and warehouses that reflect the city’s rich heritage.

Experience tranquil moments as you glide over serene waters while watching colourful narrowboats pass by. Spot local wildlife like ducks, swans, herons and more along the way. The tour offers a unique perspective of Manchester where you can enjoy panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as Beetham Tower, Old Trafford Stadium and The Lowry Theatre from a different angle. Whether you are looking for an escape from bustling urban life or just want to explore Manchester’s hidden gems at a leisurely pace- this canal & river cruise is one of the top things to do in Manchester!

5. The John Rylands Library

The John Rylands Library is an impressive neo-Gothic building located in the heart of Manchester. This library was founded by Enriqueta Rylands to honour her late husband, John Rylands, and it opened to the public in 1900. As soon as you enter this stunning library, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. The grandeur of the architecture combined with the extensive book collection creates a unique atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.

One of the most remarkable features of The John Rylands Library is its Special Collections Gallery which houses rare books and manuscripts from all over the world including one of only three surviving first editions of Shakespeare’s Sonnets. Aside from admiring these incredible pieces, visitors can also explore interactive exhibits and take guided tours around this magnificent building. You can even attend lectures or participate in workshops on various topics related to literature and history.

6. People’s History Museum

The People’s History Museum is a unique museum that showcases the history of democracy and social justice in Britain. It offers an interactive experience with exhibitions, displays, and activities for visitors of all ages. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of ordinary people who fought for their rights over time. The exhibits also demonstrate how these struggles contributed to creating modern British society.

One of the most impressive sections within the museum is “The Peterloo Massacre.” This exhibit tells the story of one of Manchester’s darkest moments when peaceful protesters were attacked by cavalry resulting in 18 deaths and hundreds injured. Visiting this museum will give you a vivid understanding of Britain’s political history, social movements that changed it, and how much progress still needs to be made towards equality today. The People’s History Museum is undoubtedly an essential stop for anyone interested in learning more about Manchester’s rich culture and heritage.

7. Royal Exchange Theatre

The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester is one of the most impressive landmarks of the city’s cultural scene. The theatre was built inside a unique building that used to be a trading hall, and it has become an icon for its innovative performances. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shows throughout the year, ranging from classic plays like Shakespeare and Chekhov to modern productions with contemporary themes. The theatre also puts on musicals, dance performances, and other events that attract diverse audiences.

One of the most interesting features of this theatre is its intimate design. With seating arranged around a circular stage, everyone in the audience gets an up-close view of all the action. This immersive experience creates an unforgettable atmosphere that draws people back time after time. Aside from its excellent productions, visitors can explore many other parts of this historic building too. They can take guided tours to learn about its fascinating history or visit exhibitions showcasing local artists’ work at various times during the year.

8. Drag Brunch

If you’re looking for a unique and entertaining way to spend your weekend mornings, then Drag Brunch is definitely one of the top things to do in Manchester. This fabulous event combines two of everyone’s favourite things: delicious food and incredible live entertainment. Picture this: an amazing brunch spread with all your favourites, bottomless mimosas or bloody marys, and some of the best drag performers in town putting on a show like no other. It’s the perfect combination of glitz, glamour, and good old-fashioned fun.

What makes Drag Brunch so special is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of drag culture or just looking for a memorable way to start your day, there’s no denying that this event will leave you feeling energized and entertained. The performers are always top-notch, with stunning costumes, incredible makeup skills, and killer dance moves that will have you cheering along from start to finish. And let’s not forget about the food – whether you prefer sweet or savoury dishes (or both!), there’s sure to be something on the menu that will make your taste buds sing. So, if you want to experience one of Manchester’s most unique events while enjoying great food and drinks with friends or family members alike – then don’t miss out on Drag Brunch!

9. Old Trafford

If you’re a football fan, then Old Trafford should be on your list of things to do in Manchester. This iconic stadium is the home of one of the most successful clubs in English football history, Manchester United. Visitors can take a tour of the stadium and get behind-the-scenes access to areas normally off-limits to fans. Walk down the players’ tunnel, sit in the dugout and visit the dressing rooms where some of football’s greatest players have prepared for important matches.

The museum at Old Trafford is also worth a visit, with exhibits showcasing Manchester United’s rich history and legendary players like George Best and Sir Bobby Charlton. But even if you’re not a die-hard football fan, there’s something special about being inside such an iconic sporting venue. The atmosphere is electric on match days, with thousands of passionate supporters cheering their team on from every corner of the stadium.

10. The Modern History of the Northern Quarter

There you have it, the top 10 things to do in Manchester. From exploring football history at Old Trafford and Liverpool Football Club Museum to taking a canal & river cruise or visiting the John Rylands Library for some literary insight, there’s something here for everyone. For those who love theatre and entertainment, the Royal Exchange Theatre is a must-visit destination. And if you’re looking for a unique dining experience with plenty of laughs thrown in, don’t miss out on Drag Brunch! We can’t forget about the Northern Quarter. This trendy neighbourhood has transformed from an industrial district into a hub of creativity and innovation. Take some time to explore its modern history by checking out street art murals or vintage shops.

Manchester truly has so much to offer visitors. We hope this list inspires you to plan your next trip and discover all that this vibrant city has in store!