Manchester, perhaps one of the most vibrant cities in England. A city that vibrates with amazing architecture, creative people and a nightlife to rival, Manchester is definitely a place to visit. Home to perhaps two of the most famous football clubs in the world, in addition to being known for its history as an industrial city, it has something to offer everyone. And even though it’s forecasted rain for most of the year, you can’t take away the buzz of the bee that is Manchester. The northern powerhouse is known for so much that it can be slightly overwhelming. So, if you’re looking to visit this exquisite city, We Buy Any House have put together a fun filled guide, so you can find activities that suit what you like.
Music:
Manchester has produced some musical icons including Oasis, The Smiths, Happy Mondays, The Stone Roses and Simply Red- just to name a few. The history behind Manchester’s music scene will forever be known, and has created some of the biggest musical exports from the area, a notion which hasn’t seem to slow down over the years. The music scene in Manchester is still going strong, with hundreds of upcoming artists and talented bands performing regularly at venues around the city. From arena’s that hold global artists such as Beyoncé and Michael Bublé, to smaller more intimate venues that make way for rising stars, Manchester caters for all genres of music, at all different types of venues. Here are a couple of music hotspots in the city.
- MEN Arena.
- O2 Apollo.
- O2 Ritz.
- Manchester Academy.
- Band on the Wall.
Theatre:
If you’re a theatre lover, then you’ll be right at home in Manchester, as the city is home to a number of huge venues that host plays, brilliant musicals and other types of performers. Some theatres in Manchester, such as The Palace Theatre, have been opening their doors since 1891, and have put on productions with theatre icons such as Laurel & Hardy, to modern musicals of favourite films such as Grease, Hairspray and Sister Act. The theatre scene is a huge part of Manchester’s creative element, as it enables individuals who love performing to pursue their dream successfully. If you’re looking for a Manchester theatre experience, you should check out venues such as:
- The Palace Theatre.
- The Lowry Theatre.
- Opera House
- Albert Hall.
- Bridgewater Hall.
- Royal Exchange.
Museum and Art Galleries:
Manchester is the heart of knowledge and art and caters from varying subjects such as the industrial era all the way to the history of football. The city has one of the best reputations for its art galleries and museums, and each one offers an extensive collection of information and displays around particular topics. Alongside the city’s museums are Manchester’s art galleries, which offer interesting exhibitions and display some of Manchester’s best-known pieces of art, in addition to giving upcoming artists exposure. An idea of some museums and art galleries to visit:
- The Museum of Science and Industry: home to exhibitions of the city’s industrial heritage, historical vehicles, steam railway and Industrial era living
- Manchester Museum: collections of Ancient Egypt artefacts, prehistoric minerals and rocks, and home to a vivarium where you can visit Costa Rican frogs and endangered amphibian species.
- People’s History Museum: history about key events such as the women’s suffrage movement and the Peterloo Massacre.
- National Football Museum: a must for football fans. Paintings included by Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable in addition to interactive museum football features.
Shopping:
Manchester city is a haven for shopaholics, as there is so much choice for those looking to splash the cash. Including Manchester’s surrounding areas, the city’s shopping world has a lot to offer- from thrift shopping at places such as Afflecks palace, to designer goods at Selfridges. The key places to shop are:
- Manchester Ardnale.
- Market Street, Manchester.
- Anne’s Sqaure.
- King Street.
- Trafford Centre.
- Northern Quarter (great for thrifting).
Nightlife:
With a reputation of being wild, quirky and vibrant, Manchester nightlife has everything you could want. The only negative is that there might be too many options. Between the myriad of options, there’s something that caters for everyone- whether you want a wild night out or quiet drinks with friends. To name a few of Manchester’s nightlife hotspots:
- Northern Quarter: not only known for its shopping and creative talent, but Northern Quarter is also home to quirky and trendy bars that offer a galore of wine lists and cocktails. It’s also home to traditional pubs serving up the best craft beer in the city.
- Spinningfields: dubbed the ‘Canary Whard of the North’, Spinningfields is home to some of Manchester’s classiest bars. A stylish area, the area offers some of the finest culinary treats and is the place to be.
- Canal Street: the liveliest place in the city, Canal Street is home to a number of bars, and holds the reputation of the Gay Village. Not catering for one sexuality, you find all types of Mancunians around there- no matter their sexuality!
- Deansgate Locks: catering to students and young professionals at the weekend, Deansgate Locks is always a trendy night out.
- Printworks: One of the most popular areas of Manchester, Printworks is popular for is varying clubs and bars. Home to some of Manchester’s most popular pubs such as Bierkeller, there is also cinema’s and restaurants surrounding the area.