Manchester is a vibrant and bustling city located in the heart of England. With a rich history and a thriving cultural scene, there’s no shortage of things to do and see here. Whether you’re looking for art, music, food, or just a good time, the city has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore how to spend a weekend in Manchester and what to do in some of the most popular areas of the city.
Northern Quarter, one of the best options for the most modern travelers.
One of the most fashionable areas of Manchester is the Northern Quarter. This area is known for its independent shops, street art, and vibrant nightlife. Start your weekend by exploring the streets of the area and admiring the many murals and graffiti that adorn the walls of the buildings. For the best street art in the city, head to Stevenson Square or Tib Street.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at one of the many independent cafes or restaurants in the Northern Quarter. Some popular spots include Home Sweet Home, which serves American-style comfort food, and Rudy’s Napolitan Pizza, which offers some of the best pizza in the city.
After dinner, head to one of the many bars or nightclubs in the area. The Northern Quarter has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of options for live music and DJs. Some popular venues include The Night and Day Café, which has been a staple of the Manchester music scene for over 25 years, and the Soup Kitchen, which hosts a variety of events from live music to comedy nights.
It’s a great area to use as a base and to find a rental. You can use Rentola to find an apartment in Manchester in the Northern Quarter. It is conveniently located in the city center with excellent public transport links, so you can easily get from A to B.
Ancoats, the emerging part of the city.
Another up-and-coming area of Manchester is Ancoats. This area was once the home of the city’s industrial revolution and is now being revitalized with new restaurants, bars and cafes. Start your day in Ancoats with a coffee from one of the many independent cafes in the area, such as Ancoats Coffee Co. or Kettlebell Kitchen.
Next, head to the Manchester Art Gallery to see some of the city’s best art collections. The gallery has more than 25,000 objects on display, including works by artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet.
After you’ve had your fill of art, head over to Mackie Mayor’s Diner for lunch. This beautifully restored market from 1858 is now home to some of the best food and drink vendors in the city. From pizza to tacos to craft beer, there’s something for everyone at Mackie Mayor.
In the evening, head to Jane Eyre, a bar that specializes in gin cocktails. This cozy bar has a great atmosphere and an impressive gin menu, with over 100 different types of gin to choose from. If gin isn’t your thing, Band on the Wall is a great alternative, a legendary music venue that hosts a variety of live music events, from jazz to reggae to world music.
Chinatown, for food and cultural immersion.
Manchester’s Chinatown is a vibrant and colorful area steeped in culture and history. Located in the heart of the city, this area is home to some of the best Chinese restaurants, supermarkets, and shops in the city.
Visitors to Chinatown can explore the Chinese Arch, which is the largest of its kind in Europe, and Imperial Chinese Restaurant, which has been a staple of Manchester’s food scene for over 30 years.
Chinatown is also home to a variety of cultural events, including the annual Chinese New Year celebrations, which include dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional food stalls.
If you have doubts, go to the pub.
The UK is famous for its pub culture and Manchester is no exception. For a pub experience in Manchester, start by exploring the city’s historic pubs, such as The Briton’s Protection and The Peveril of the Peak. These pubs have been around for over 150 years and are full of character and charm. They serve a range of ales and ales, including local ales, and offer classic pub fare like fish and chips, pies, and roast dinners.
For a more modern pub experience, visit the Northern Quarter, mentioned above, which is home to some of the trendiest pubs and bars in the city. Some popular spots include The Pilcrow, known for its craft beers and community spirit, and the Port Street Beer House, which offers a rotating selection of local and international beers on tap.
With these top tips, you’ll be sure to have the best time in Manchester!