Manchester isn’t always the first place that you’d think of visiting when on a visit to England, but the city has plenty to offer. From culture, history and great sporting venues there are a lot of things to do in Manchester, here are our favourites.
1. Manchester Cathedral
This medieval building is one of the oldest in city and although it has been extensively altered over the centuries, it is still one of the most impressive buildings in the city centre. Start your visit in the purpose built Visitor Centre, which will give you an overview of the history of the building.
2. Museum of Science and Industry
To get a full picture of Manchester’s industrial past, spend an afternoon at MOSI. The emphasis is firmly on interactivity and visitors are encouraged to get hands on with the locomotives, aircraft and other exhibits in the museum. MOSI has somethingf for all ages, and is particularly popular with families.
3. Trafford Centre
For a spot of retail therapy, head out to the Trafford Centre on the outskirts o town. It is one of the largest shopping malls in the UK and is home to a mix of high street favourite stores, designer names, a cinema and dozens of restaurants and cafes. As everything is under cover, it’s a good option for days when the weather isn’t as good as it might be.
4. Lowry Gallery
LS Lowry is one of Manchester’s most famous artistic sons, and the Lowry gallery complex has a permanent exhibition of Lowry’s work, alongside temporary exhibitions of other artwork, a theatre, bars and restaurants. The building itself is unusual and striking, made of glass and shiny metallic surfaces which reflect the light onto the water below.
5. Old Trafford Stadium Tour
Even for people who are not into football, a visit to Old Trafford, home to Manchester United, is an interesting afternoon out. The official stadium tour will take you behind the scenes to the managers’ dugouts, the changing rooms and the tunnel onto the pitch, as well as the public areas such as the stands. There is also an impressive museum detailing the history of the club and a trophy room packed with silverware.
6. Stockport Air Raid Shelters
Just out of the city in the commuter belt town of Stockport, visitors can step back in time to the days of the Second World War and experience what life was like in the network of air raid tunnels under the city while under attack from bombing raids. Everything is as it was during the 1940s and children in particular will learn a lot from their visit.
Photo by FreeFotoUK
