Visiting Manchester? Don’t miss these incredible spots.
We only spent 48 hours in Manchester but fell in love with the city. We started our UK trip in London, but after a short 2-hour train ride, we were in the heart of Manchester.
Thank you Visit Manchester for hosting our #workerbeeweekender trip. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.
Last Updated: November 30, 2023
15 Incredible Things to DO in Manchester England
Manchester is the country’s second-largest city and has a different vibe from London. There is something magical about how the city mixes the old with the new. You can be standing next to a building that is centuries old, with a brand new high-rise behind it. We loved seeing beautiful historic buildings turned into modern use spaces without losing their feel.
1. John Rylands Library
150 Deansgate, map
Whether you’re a bookworm or not, you must visit John Rylands Library. Manchester is home to the most beautiful libraries in the world, and this one was jaw-dropping and looked straight out of Harry Potter.
Other Libraries to Check Out:
- Chetham’s Library, the oldest surviving public library in the English-speaking world: Long Millgate, map
- Portico Library built in the Greek Revival style: 57 Mosley Street, map
- Manchester Central Public Library right in the center of town: St Peter’s Square, map
2. Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
Duke St & Beaufort St, map
Stroll through the Castlefield area to see the site and recreated gate of an ancient Roman fort. Walk along the canals, look for beautiful bridges, and admire the restored Victorian homes.
3. Black Cab Tours
One of the best ways to see the city is via a local! We packed in so much in a short time thanks to John from Manchester Taxi Tours. He was one of the highlights of our trip. He whisked us around town while telling us more about the area’s history. We could hop in and out as needed, and he customizes each tour to your interests.
4. Salford Lads Club
Saint Ignatius Walk, map
During our tour with John, he asked us if we were a fan of The Smiths. Esther nodded without hesitation, so he took us to Salford Lads Club where they took one of their most iconic photos. We even got a chance to go inside to see the Smiths Room! Any Smiths fan should stop by to snap a photo in front of the green door.
5. See a Show in the UK’s Music Capital
Albert’s Schloss: 27 Peter St, map
Besides the Smiths, Manchester is home to a long list of bands, singers, musicians, and producers. As a result, their live music scene is amazing as well!
Some venues to check out:
- Huge Venue – Manchester Arena
- Mid-Size – The Lowry and Albert Hall
- Intimate Shows – Gorilla and Deaf Institute
If you’re looking for a free show, head to Albert’s Schloss, a local beer garden that hosts different shows and cabarets throughout the week.
6. Shop for Vinyl
Picadilly Records: 53 Oldham St, map
To continue with the music theme, visit one of the long-standing record stores in town. We stopped by Picadilly Records, which originally opened in ’78 and has been supplying locals with vinyl since. It’s a popular spot for DJs, and the friendly staff can recommend albums if you don’t know where to start.
Other Record Shops to Check Out:
- Vinyl Exchange: 18 Oldham St, map
- Vinyl Revival: 5 Hilton St, map
- Eastern Bloc Records: 5a Stevenson Square, map
7. Museum of Science and Industry
Museum of Science and Industry Liverpool Road, map
Located on the world’s oldest railroad station site, the Museum of Science and Industry has 12 galleries covering everything from textiles to cars. It’s a beautiful space, and there are a lot of rotating exhibits. During our visit, we had the chance to check out robots, old and new. On top of that, entry to the museum is free, but certain activities and special exhibits have a fee.
8. Manchester Town Hall
Albert Square, map
As we walked into town, we couldn’t help but stop in awe at the Manchester Town Hall. This neo-Gothic building is best viewed from Albert Square or our hotel (see below). You can get different views from the backside as well. In the past, you could also explore inside, but they will be closed indefinitely for refurbishment.
9. Imperial War Museum North
The Quays Trafford Wharf Road, map
The UK has a series of Imperial Museums throughout the country that cover different conflicts from 1914 to the present day. WWI buffs can stop by to see the gun that shot the first British shell. There are also 1,400 historic documents and objects. Don’t forget to take in the museum’s beautiful architecture!
10. Northern Quarter Street Art Tour →
Manchester’s Northern Quarter is home to some amazing street art. During Cities of Hope, they bring in artists from all over the world to bring light to work done by non-profits. The work is constantly changing so keep your eye out if you visit multiple times.
11. Greater Manchester Police Museum
57A Newton St, map
While walking around, we stumbled across the Greater Manchester Police Museum. Unfortunately, it’s only open on Tuesdays from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM, but admission is free, and people seem to love the experience. There’s a replica court where you can attend a mock trial, many artifacts to check out, and stories from volunteer guides about previous crimes.
12. Manchester United vs Manchester City
Old Trafford: Sir Matt Busby Way, map || Etihad Stadium: Ashton New Rd, map
Is Man City or Man United better? Ask any local and you’ll get very different answers. Regardless of which team you support, Manchester is home to both of these top football teams. Visit their stadiums, catch a game, or stop by the National Football Museum to see memorabilia related to the sport.
You can also tour the stadiums: Old Trafford Stadium Tour + Etihad Stadium Tour.
13. Chinatown
Arch of Chinatown: 46 Faulkner St, map
We had no idea Manchester is home to the second-largest Chinatown in the UK and third largest in Europe. We only had a chance to stop by the main gate the last morning we were there, but the smell of restaurants preparing to feed their customers that day had us wishing we had more time to explore the area.
14. Heaton Park
Middleton Rd, map
With a footprint of roughly 600 acres, Heaton Park is the largest park in the Manchester area. See Heaton Hall, which was built in 1772, enjoy the views from the vistas, or take advantage of the 18-hole golf course onsite. There is also a botanical garden, boating lake, animal farm, observatory, playground, and more.
Bonus: Factory International
Aviva Studios, Water St, Manchester M3 4JQ, United Kingdom, map
If you’re all about music, dance, spellbinding performances, mind-expanding exhibitions, or thrilling gaming sessions, you should check out Factory International! In the vibrant heart of Manchester, they bring together a wild blend of artists and art forms.
15. Food in Beautiful Spaces
The Refuge By Volta: Oxford St, map | Evelyn’s Cafe Bar: G18 Tib St, map | Mackie Mayor: 1 Eagle St, map
Manchester is full of great food spots! On top of that, they are located in some beautiful spaces as well. We started our trip off at The Refuge, which was a massive space. Our favorites included sake-cured salmon, spiced lamb flatbread, and duck breast. We also visited Evelyn’s Cafe Bar and Mackie Mayor. From what we could tell, all three are popular for the gram.
Map of Things to DO in Manchester
Essential Tips
- It’s only a 2-hour train ride from London so you can either take a day trip to the city or spend a few days there. We took the Virgin Trains – find tickets here.
- Need to store luggage? Search Luggage Hero for a secure and convenient spot.
- You can explore the city via foot, trolley, and cab. You don’t need to bother renting a car.
- Cabs are hit or miss for credit cards, so have cash ready. Taxis cost up to 16 GBP within the city. Uber also works.
- You can buy an unlimited daily ticket on the bus for 5.60 GBP.
- People are friendly! Feel free to ask locals for directions or suggestions.
- Bring a packable raincoat so you’re always ready for the rain. Many hotels will provide umbrellas for you to use during your stay.
- Carry on essentials for every flight.
- Most comfortable airport outfits.
Best Places to Stay in Manchester
The King Street Townhouse was our home during our time in Manchester. It was comfortable and close to the center of town. We even made time to have afternoon tea there and enjoy their award-winning rooftop pool! The pool alone is worth booking a stay here. Don’t you think?
Recap of the Best Things to Do in Manchester England
- John Rylands Library
- Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
- Black Cab Tour
- Salford Lads Club
- See a Show in the UK’s Music Capital
- Shop for Vinyl
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Manchester Town Hall
- Imperial War Museum North
- Northern Quarter Street Art Tour
- Greater Manchester Police Museum
- Manchester United vs Manchester City
- Chinatown
- Heaton Park
- Food in Beautiful Spaces
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Manchester hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a Great Britain travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
Have you been to Manchester? What else should go on the list?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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