Exploring Manchester

Manchester, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions, offers countless opportunities to explore and experience something new – even for locals. Being a tourist in your own town allows you to see Manchester through a fresh lens, uncover hidden gems, and deepen your appreciation for the city.

Here’s a guide to being a tourist in Manchester, including information on guided tours and our own suggested walking tour to help you make the most of your exploration.

Museums and Galleries

  • Manchester Museum: Discover natural history, archaeology, and anthropology exhibits.
  • The Whitworth: Contemporary and historic art in a beautiful park setting.
  • Science and Industry Museum: Learn about Manchester’s industrial heritage and scientific achievements.
  • Manchester Art Gallery: Enjoy a diverse collection of art from various periods and styles in truly stunning surroundings.

Parks and Gardens

  • Heaton Park: One of the largest municipal parks in Europe, offering scenic views, boating lakes and historic buildings.
  • Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden: A tranquil garden perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Whitworth Park: Adjacent to The Whitworth gallery, ideal for picnics and watching the world go by.

Markets

  • Levenshulme Market: A lively community market with local produce, crafts, and street food.
  • Altrincham Market: A food lover’s paradise with a variety of gourmet vendors.
  • Makers Market: Showcasing local artisans and producers at various locations around the city, click here for locations and days.

Live Music Venues

  • The Albert Hall: Historic venue with stunning architecture and a diverse lineup of artists.
  • Band on the Wall: Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and eclectic music offerings.
  • Matt & Phred’s Jazz Club: Perfect for a night of live jazz in a cosy setting.

Guided Tours in Manchester

For those who prefer a more structured exploration and want to learn more about the history of the city Manchester offers a range of guided tours that cater to different interests:

  • Official Manchester Walking Tours: These tours cover various aspects of the city’s history, architecture, and culture. You can find out more at the Visit Manchester website
  • Manchester Taxi Tours: Explore the streets in comfort with your own personal taxi tour, and this guy knows Manchester! Our personal favourite as it includes afternoon tea from the famous Slattery’s – check out the website to book
  • Ghost Walks: Explore the spooky side of Manchester with guided tours that delve into the city’s haunted history. Popular providers include Manchester Ghost Walks and Haunted Manchester.

Our suggested walking tour

For a self-guided adventure, here’s our detailed 2-hour walking tour itinerary to help you experience the best of Manchester (time in brackets is average walking time between locations):

Start: Manchester Piccadilly Station

Piccadilly Gardens
A central urban park surrounded by shops, restaurants, and office buildings. Features modern landscaping and public art.

    Stop 1: Northern Quarter (15 minutes)

    Stevenson Square
    Known for its creative atmosphere, street art, and independent shops. Visit quirky cafes and vintage stores.

      Stop 2: Manchester Craft and Design Centre (10 minutes)

      Former Victorian fish market housing artist studios and shops. Browse unique crafts, jewelry, and ceramics.

        Stop 3: Manchester Cathedral (15 minutes)

        This beautifully preserved gothic cathedral dating back to the 15th century. Notable features include carved choir stalls and stained glass windows.

          Stop 4: Exchange Square (10 minutes)

          Corn Exchange and Printworks
          Bustling square with modern architecture and entertainment venues. Visit The Printworks or Corn Exchange for dining and entertainment venues – don’t forget to look up in the Printworks so you don’t miss the new moving ceiling!

            Stop 5: Royal Exchange Theatre (10 minutes)

            Housed in a grand Victorian building, originally a cotton exchange. Offers a mix of classic and contemporary plays.

              Stop 6: John Rylands Library (10 minutes)

              Spinningfields
              Opened in 1900, a stunning neo-Gothic library with rare books and manuscripts, definitely worth a wander inside. As are the surrounding streets which make up Spinningfields – relax with a coffee or explore the designer shops

                Stop 7: Albert Square (10 minutes)

                Manchester Town Hall

                Named after Prince Albert, the iconic Manchester Town Hall, is a Gothic Revival masterpiece (NB 2024 currently undertaking building work so not visible).

                  Stop 8: Lincoln Square (5 minutes)

                  Features a statue of Abraham Lincoln, commemorating Manchester’s support for the Union during the American Civil War.

                    Stop 9: St. Peter’s Square (10 minutes)

                    Home to the Central Library and the Midland Hotel. Features the Cenotaph war memorial.

                      Stop 10: Chinatown (10 minutes)

                      One of the largest Chinatowns in the UK. Features the ornate Chinatown Arch, authentic supermarkets and numerous renowned eateries.

                        End: Back to Piccadilly Gardens (10 minutes)