Manchester is the original modern city - the birthplace of everything from the Industrial Revolution and the computer to the football league and the co-operative movement. Manchester is all about the mix. In sport, we produce world-class stars. In music, the city has inspired some of the world’s most iconic bands. In academia, Europe's biggest student population study alongside Nobel prize-winners. And in culture we produce the world-renowned Manchester International Festival - one of Europe's most forward-thinking commissioning events.
Manchester is the gateway to the North of England - home to the Roman city of Chester, the port city of Liverpool, coastal resort of Blackpool and the wonders of the Lake District National Park. Manchester has direct flights to over 200 destinations, including many major European cities, and is a two hour train journey from London.
Best Hotel Deals
in Manchester
8.8
The Principal Manchester ★★★★★
Set in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre
Tea/coffee-making facilities
9.0
Radisson Blu Edwardian ★★★★★
Housed in Manchester's famous Free Trade Hall
Indoor pool, hot tub and a health spa
8.6
Novotel Manchester Centre ★★★★
In Manchester's lively Chinatown
Steam room with a tropical rain shower
9.1
Manchester
image gallery
Tours & Activities
in Manchester
Top things to do
in Manchester
Visit John Rylands Library
This masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture looks more like a castle or cathedral. When John Rylands died in 1888, he was one of Manchester's most successful industrialists with a personal fortune of £2.75million. The library was commissioned in 1890 by his wife Enriqueta in his memory.
Explore the trendy Northern Quarter
Manchester's creative, urban heart is home to countless independent fashion stores, record shops, cafés, bars and restaurants and the world famous shopping emporium Afflecks, providing affordable outlets for independent designers and traders across four floors.
Manchester's LGBT community
Manchester has a thriving LGBT scene, centred around the world famous Canal Street - home of 'The Village'. Made up of bars, restaurants, night clubs and businesses - it is one of the city's liveliest and most welcoming areas. Whether you want a cocktail with friends, a light bite to eat or are looking to dance the night away - Manchester's LGBT culture has it all.
Discover Manchester Museum
Explore the world at Manchester Museum with its 4 floors of displays and exhibitions in 15 galleries, featuring collections from all over the world. Founded as a natural history museum in 1821, the University of Manchester-owned museum has grown to play host to a fascinating collection of exhibits.
Explore the city's sports culture
Manchester is said to be the city that 'gave' us football - and with Manchester United (MUFC) and Manchester City (MCFC) as two of the world's most successful and popular teams, it is clearly a city that still leads in this field. Take a visit to one of the two's grounds and stadiums (are you a Red or a Blue?) and go on one of the fantastic tours. Alternatively, visit the Manchester Aquatics Centre, Lancashire County Cricket Club, National Cycling Centre and more; we are a sporting city and have something for everyone.
