Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or a Britpop fan, Manchester offers a vibe everyone can get on board with. Those who have never visited assume it rains in Manchester all the time—and you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. But those rare sunny days make the Northern Quarter call out to you like a kebab shop after a night out: cheeky and impossible to ignore!
Whether you’ve never set foot in the city or you’re dying to see it bathed in sunshine, here is your go-to guide. But, to begin, a number one tip: always bring a brolly.
Afflecks
Think of this as the kind of place your dad would take you that you would secretly fall in love with. With a mix of vintage clothing, handmade art, and music posters, you could say “indie” has thrown up all over the place—in the best way possible.
Even the cast of the film Spike Island found their costumes here (look out for the iconic stairs from the movie!). Spanning several floors, Afflecks is not only a great refuge for a rainy day but ideal for a stroll around local independent shops.
The Washhouse
Not many people can say they’ve climbed through a vending machine to grab a cocktail, but some will go to great lengths for a drink! The Washhouse is one of Manchester’s best-kept speakeasies, featuring cocktails inspired by conspiracy theories and even a DJ in the toilets.
To top it off, there is a hidden slide to exit. After a few drinks and a boogie in the loos, it is the only way to leave.
The Makers Market
Dotted around various locations in Manchester, you can find bracelets created from old guitar strings, earrings crafted from colourful clay, and cookies so full they could be classed as pies.
Come rain or shine, these markets bring the community together, allowing everyone to stroll and “mooch” to their heart’s content. If you are looking for a wholesome weekend, this is the place to be.
Gay Village
Bar crawl your way down Canal Street to end your night singing with a drag queen in EVA; your night is truly unpredictable in the Village. With its welcoming culture and vibrant nightlife, Canal Street stays lively until the early hours, giving you the perfect excuse to walk home as the sun rises; you’ll be eating breakfast before you go to bed!
It also hosts Manchester Pride every August bank holiday, so put on your wackiest outfit and come celebrate love.
Spirit of Manchester Distillery
Tucked beneath the historic arches of Deansgate, The Spirit of Manchester Distillery reflects a deep passion for flavour using locally sourced ingredients. With a gin and tonic in hand, you’ll learn about the production of the award-winning Manchester Gin in a stylish setting.
You can even explore your palate with a tasting session after a guided tour. It’s bold, creative, and independent; a perfect activity for curious gin drinkers.
Manchester Art Gallery
Best known for its Pre-Raphaelite collection, Manchester Art Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1400s. Take a stroll through the eras and enjoy some time away from your phone.
Entry is free—a bonus!—making it a perfect spot for art lovers and casual visitors alike. With rotating exhibitions, frequent talks, and a stylish cafe, the gallery always has something new to offer.
Trafford Centre
As one of the UK’s largest shopping centres, you could easily spend a whole day at the Trafford Centre. With over 200 stores ranging from high-street favourites to luxury brands, it’s a shopaholic’s paradise.
Take a “trip” to New Orleans for a mid-shopping pit stop or admire the breathtaking Italian architecture (which makes a trip to Rome feel a lot cheaper). Top tip: try to avoid Saturdays if you don’t like crowds!
The Cube
Whether you spend the afternoon winning or laughing at your failures, head over to the Arndale to see if you’ve got what it takes to beat The Cube.
Located within the Arndale Centre, The Cube Live Experience brings the famous ITV show to life. Test yourself in a high-pressure environment with a series of physical and mental challenges; be warned, it can bring out a competitive side you never knew you had!
Chinatown
With its iconic, colourful archway and authentic restaurants, Chinatown invites you to explore East Asian culture. This neighbourhood is a cultural gem where you can shop for unique ingredients at Asian supermarkets or relax with a traditional massage.
For food lovers, the authenticity is unmatched, with aromas that lure you in and portions that encourage a return visit. It is the hub for Japanese, Vietnamese, and Cantonese cuisines; put simply, it is impossible to leave hungry.
Salford Quays
If you are looking to escape the bustling city centre, Salford Quays is the place for you. Its beautiful waterfront is ideal for a relaxing stroll, offering a chance to take in world-class architecture. Home to iconic landmarks like The Lowry and MediaCityUK, the Quays pulse with innovation and a growing community of digital creators.
Whether you’re catching a show or simply admiring the skyline, the Quays allow you to view the city through a more artistic lens.
Afflecks
Think of this as the kind of place your dad would take you that you would secretly fall in love with. With a mix of vintage clothing, handmade art, and music posters, you could say “indie” has thrown up all over the place—in the best way possible.
Even the cast of the film Spike Island found their costumes here (look out for the iconic stairs from the movie!). Spanning several floors, Afflecks is not only a great refuge for a rainy day but ideal for a stroll around local independent shops.
The Washhouse
Not many people can say they’ve climbed through a vending machine to grab a cocktail, but some will go to great lengths for a drink! The Washhouse is one of Manchester’s best-kept speakeasies, featuring cocktails inspired by conspiracy theories and even a DJ in the toilets.
To top it off, there is a hidden slide to exit. After a few drinks and a boogie in the loos, it is the only way to leave.
The Makers Market
Dotted around various locations in Manchester, you can find bracelets created from old guitar strings, earrings crafted from colourful clay, and cookies so full they could be classed as pies.
Come rain or shine, these markets bring the community together, allowing everyone to stroll and “mooch” to their heart’s content. If you are looking for a wholesome weekend, this is the place to be.
Gay Village
Bar crawl your way down Canal Street to end your night singing with a drag queen in EVA; your night is truly unpredictable in the Village. With its welcoming culture and vibrant nightlife, Canal Street stays lively until the early hours, giving you the perfect excuse to walk home as the sun rises; you’ll be eating breakfast before you go to bed!
It also hosts Manchester Pride every August bank holiday, so put on your wackiest outfit and come celebrate love.
Spirit of Manchester Distillery
Tucked beneath the historic arches of Deansgate, The Spirit of Manchester Distillery reflects a deep passion for flavour using locally sourced ingredients. With a gin and tonic in hand, you’ll learn about the production of the award-winning Manchester Gin in a stylish setting.
You can even explore your palate with a tasting session after a guided tour. It’s bold, creative, and independent; a perfect activity for curious gin drinkers.
Manchester Art Gallery
Best known for its Pre-Raphaelite collection, Manchester Art Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1400s. Take a stroll through the eras and enjoy some time away from your phone.
Entry is free—a bonus!—making it a perfect spot for art lovers and casual visitors alike. With rotating exhibitions, frequent talks, and a stylish cafe, the gallery always has something new to offer.
Trafford Centre
As one of the UK’s largest shopping centres, you could easily spend a whole day at the Trafford Centre. With over 200 stores ranging from high-street favourites to luxury brands, it’s a shopaholic’s paradise.
Take a “trip” to New Orleans for a mid-shopping pit stop or admire the breathtaking Italian architecture (which makes a trip to Rome feel a lot cheaper). Top tip: try to avoid Saturdays if you don’t like crowds!
The Cube
Located within the Arndale Centre, The Cube Live Experience brings the famous ITV show to life. Test yourself in a high-pressure environment with a series of physical and mental challenges; be warned, it can bring out a competitive side you never knew you had!
Whether you spend the afternoon winning or laughing at your failures, head over to the Arndale to see if you’ve got what it takes to beat The Cube.
Chinatown
With its iconic, colourful archway and authentic restaurants, Chinatown invites you to explore East Asian culture. This neighbourhood is a cultural gem where you can shop for unique ingredients at Asian supermarkets or relax with a traditional massage.
For food lovers, the authenticity is unmatched, with aromas that lure you in and portions that encourage a return visit. It is the hub for Japanese, Vietnamese, and Cantonese cuisines; put simply, it is impossible to leave hungry.
Salford Quays
If you are looking to escape the bustling city centre, Salford Quays is the place for you. Its beautiful waterfront is ideal for a relaxing stroll, offering a chance to take in world-class architecture. Home to iconic landmarks like The Lowry and MediaCityUK, the Quays pulse with innovation and a growing community of digital creators.
Whether you’re catching a show or simply admiring the skyline, the Quays allow you to view the city through a more artistic lens.
Conclusion: Best things to do in Manchester
Manchester is a city that thrives on creativity and culture. From exploring the quirky treasures of Afflecks to sipping secret cocktails at The Washhouse, every corner has its own story.
Whether you want to shop until you drop at the Trafford Centre or wander aimlessly through a gallery, Manchester invites you to dive in and experience its energy for yourself. One trip is never enough—it will keep you coming back for more.
