Top 20 Fun Things To Do In Manchester

Manchester bursts with an infectious energy that makes it a delightful destination for visitors and locals alike. Its rich tapestry of music, arts, and sports creates an atmosphere of constant excitement and discovery.

The city's bustling streets, brimming with characterful bars, vibrant cafes, and eclectic shops, offer endless entertainment options. Manchester's thriving cultural scene, from the iconic Manchester United and Manchester City football clubs to the legendary music venues that have birthed world-famous bands, provides a sense of unity and pride.

With its mix of historic charm and contemporary flair, friendly locals and a calendar packed with festivals and events, fun things to do in Manchester always have a fun and lively spirit, making it a city that truly knows how to enjoy itself.

1. Discovering Manchester's Music Scene:

Manchester's musical heritage is legendary, with bands like The Smiths, Oasis, and Joy Division hailing from here. A visit to the Salford Lads Club, made famous by The Smiths, is a must for music enthusiasts. The Manchester Music Tours offer a guided journey through the city's musical landmarks, immersing you in the stories that shaped the Manchester sound.

2. Exploring the Northern Quarter:

This trendy area is the heart of Manchester’s creative scene, filled with independent shops, cafes, and bars. Afflecks, an emporium of eclectic stalls, is perfect for finding unique gifts and handmade items. Street art is prominent here, and walking tours are available to explore the vibrant murals that adorn the buildings.

3. Visiting Manchester's Museums and Galleries:

The city is home to many museums and galleries, each offering a different experience. The Manchester Museum showcases a range of natural history and anthropology exhibits. The Science and Industry Museum, located in the world's first railway station, presents Manchester's industrial past. For art lovers, the Manchester Art Gallery and the Whitworth offer impressive collections of British and international art.

4. Enjoying the Green Spaces:

Manchester is blessed with beautiful parks and green spaces. Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, offers a tranquil escape with its boating lake, animal farm, and golf course. Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden is another hidden gem, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

5. Experiencing the Thriving Food and Drink Scene:

Manchester's culinary scene is diverse and exciting. The Curry Mile in Rusholme is famous for its array of South Asian restaurants. For a more upscale dining experience, fine dining establishments like Mana and The French offer exquisite menus. The city is also known for its craft beer, with local breweries like Cloudwater and Track offering tours and tastings.

6. Watching a Football Match:

Manchester is synonymous with football, being home to two of the world's most famous football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Experiencing a match or a tour at Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium is thrilling. For football history enthusiasts, the National Football Museum presents a comprehensive look at the sport's history in England.

7. Attending Theatre and Live Performances:

The city boasts a vibrant theatre scene. The Royal Exchange Theatre offers a unique theatre-in-the-round experience, while the Palace Theatre and the Manchester Opera House host a range of performances from musicals to ballet and opera.

8. Shopping in Manchester:

For shopping enthusiasts, Manchester has much to offer. The Arndale Centre is one of the largest city centre shopping malls in Europe. For luxury brands, Spinningfields is the go-to place, while King Street offers high-end boutique shopping.

9. Experiencing Manchester's Nightlife:

Manchester’s nightlife is legendary. From the lively clubs in the Gay Village to the hip bars in the Northern Quarter, there’s something for everyone. The Warehouse Project, a series of club nights running from September to January, is a highlight for electronic music fans.

10. Exploring Greater Manchester:

The surrounding areas of Manchester provide excellent day-trip opportunities. The picturesque Peak District National Park is a short drive away, offering stunning landscapes for hiking and cycling. The historic city of Chester, with its Roman walls and charming architecture, is also within easy reach.

11. Canal Street and the Gay Village:

A symbol of diversity and inclusivity, Canal Street is at the heart of Manchester's famous Gay Village. Lined with bars, clubs, and cafes, it's a vibrant area both day and night, known for its welcoming atmosphere. The annual Manchester Pride Festival, held here, is a celebration of LGBTQ+ life and one of the UK’s most significant pride events.

12. Visiting Manchester Cathedral:

Located in the city centre, Manchester Cathedral, dating back to the 15th century, is an architectural marvel. With its beautiful stained-glass windows and medieval woodwork, the cathedral offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. Regular concerts and events are also held here.

13. Exploring Castlefield:

Recognised as the site of the Roman era fort Mamucium, Castlefield is an urban heritage park. It's an area steeped in history, with well-preserved canal systems and reconstructed Roman ruins. The Castlefield Bowl, an outdoor events pavilion, frequently hosts concerts and festivals.

14. The Lowry:

This arts complex in Salford Quays is named after the famous painter L.S. Lowry, known for his depictions of industrial Manchester. The Lowry houses theatres for performing arts and galleries exhibiting Lowry’s work alongside contemporary art. The surrounding Salford Quays area, with its modern architecture and waterfront, is also worth exploring.

15. Chetham’s Library and School of Music:

The oldest public library in the English-speaking world, Chetham's Library, is a real hidden treasure. Founded in 1653, the library's historic reading room remains as it was over three centuries ago. Adjacent to the library is Chetham’s School of Music, a prestigious music school housed in an equally historic building.

16. Experiencing Seasonal Events:

Manchester hosts various seasonal events throughout the year. The Manchester Christmas Markets, spread across the city centre, are a highlight, offering a festive experience with hundreds of stalls selling crafts, food, and drinks. Summer brings events like the Manchester International Festival, showcasing new works in art, theatre, and music.

17. Visiting the John Rylands Library:

Part of the University of Manchester, the John Rylands Library is not only a working library but also a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture. It holds an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts, including medieval texts and early printings.

18. Enjoying Manchester's Craft Markets:

Regular craft markets in areas like Spinningfields and the Northern Quarter showcase local artisans and makers. These markets are perfect for finding unique, handmade products ranging from jewellery to art prints and homemade foods.

19. Taking a Ride on the Manchester Tram System:

The Metrolink tram system offers a unique way to explore the city. Take a ride through different neighbourhoods and suburbs to see a different side of Manchester. It’s a practical and scenic way to get around, especially for visiting places like the Trafford Centre, one of the largest shopping centres in the UK.

20. The Manchester Literature Festival:

For book lovers, the Manchester Literature Festival is an annual event not to be missed. It features readings, debates, and workshops with both international and local authors. The festival celebrates Manchester's UNESCO City of Literature status and promotes the joy of reading across all ages.

Manchester, with its blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy, offers an endless array of activities and experiences. Its lively music scene to its historical sites, from its culinary delights to its scenic green spaces, means the city caters to all tastes and interests, making it a truly exciting place to visit or live.

From its rich musical heritage to its exciting culinary scene, there is an abundance of fun things to do in Manchester. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or a football fanatic, Manchester offers a memorable experience for everyone.