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Curator’s statement
Manchester, UK is a city of legends — legendary football teams (think David Beckham!), legendary bands (they love Oasis here) and legends of history. Don’t sleep on this northern UK town — lots to see and do, especially if you think like a local. Just a two-hour train ride from London.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Manchester, UK
Hotel Gotham
A stylish, art deco-inspired luxury hotel in Manchester, offering a unique blend of elegance and quirky charm.
Moxy Manchester City
A vibrant, modern hotel in the heart of Manchester, perfect for the youthful and adventurous traveler.
AC Hotel Manchester City Centre
A sleek, contemporary hotel offering refined comfort and modern amenities in the heart of Manchester.
The Midland - Manchester
A historic hotel located in Manchester, England, known for its striking Edwardian architecture and luxurious accommodations.
Unlock perks by contacting Andrea to book your trip.
Things to do in Manchester, UK
Learn from a local
A two-hour walking tour is a perfect orientation to this urban landscape with a lot of history. While much was bombed in WWII and again in an IRA bombing in the 90s, buildings dating back to the 1500s remain. One option is City Unscripted for a local guide to take you through it all.
Shop like a local
Manchester Craft and Design Centre - More than a dozen small shops staffed by the artisans themselves. Unique items including ceramics, jewelry and art.
The Manchester Shop - for unique souvenirs, artist designed and supporting local. Themed on the bee, the local hero!
Afflecks - Manchester has a strong vintage vibe, and Afflecks brings it together under one roof (you can even get your permanent souvenir - a tattoo!)
Learn about the locals
Alan Turing was a local hero. Visit his statue on Fairfield Street, where a free audio guide will allow you to hear directly from him. And for a bonus, keep an eye out for an appearance in a cheeky building mural nearby.
Emmeline Pankhurst also makes frequent appearances in murals, and in a statue at St Peter’s Square. The suffragist is another local hero with a story to tell.
Day Trips:
Liverpool is a short 30-minute train ride from Manchester. The coastal town is a must-do for Beatles fans! Tour options abound to hit all of the highlights, from the Cavern Club to the John Lennon statue.
Places to eat & drink in Manchester, UK
All-day dining
Mackey Mayor is a one-stop shop food hall that is delicious as well as Instagrammable. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails all found here (except for Monday) with a wide variety of options to suit all tastes.
Lunch and dinner
Northern Soul Grilled Cheese is a perfect stop for a snack or a light meal — the title tells you what you need to know about the menu, but don’t forget to order tater tots!
Corn Exchange has another great food hall with options for all and a cocktail bar in the center. More modern and centrally located, you can order Italian, Indian and other global options here.
The Old Wellington is a historic bar dating back to the 1500s. Traditional pub fare and drinks, with outdoor seating (and welcomes pups!)
Noi Quattro is a great stop for pizza - can’t go wrong!
Traditional Tea
Richmond Tea Rooms is a whimsical experience that will take you to the land of Alice in Wonderland for your afternoon tea
For a more comforting teatime, visit Annie’s on St Ann’s Street for a more homespun tea experience.
After hours
Canal Street is the heart of the Gay Village. With plenty of outdoor bars and restaurants lining the canal, it's a festive and fun stop especially later in the evening.
Travel Advisor
Andrea Mokros
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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to United Kingdom. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Bijoy Shah's guide, Visiting Manchester, UK: A Local's Guide to Exploring the Vibrant Heart of England.