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Top things to do in Manchester

Attractions, tours and activities in Manchester

Manchester: the city's best neighbourhoods

Find a great area to stay in Manchester

About Manchester

Including tips for the best time to visit Manchester

Manchester, the third largest city in England, is rooted in industry and expressionism. It was here where the Industrial Revolution began and where many of the UK’s most revered musical talents were born.

Today, this spirit lives on in a thriving media industry and an array of fascinating museums. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry to get some perspective on the city’s industrial past and scientific achievements, or delve into the city's sporting history at the National Football Museum, which features exhibitions on the past and present day.

Those who want to catch a game should head straight for Old Trafford, home of the country’s biggest football club, Manchester United. If tickets aren’t available, be sure to take a stadium tour, or catch a game at the home ground of their rivals, Manchester City.

Manchester is also renowned for its nightlife and music culture. For a memorable night out, head to the bars and clubs of Oxford Road or the Northern Quarter to hear indie anthems and dance classics by the likes of Oasis and The Smiths – two of Manchester’s finest rock ‘n’ roll exports.

The city is well connected by trams, buses and trains to Manchester Piccadilly, the central train station.

Tonight

From £246 per night

Next weekend

From £550 per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency GBP
Language English
Average weekend price £11 per night
Average weekday price £11 per night
Typical stay 1 night

Points of interest in Manchester

Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Manchester

Latest articles featuring Manchester

Inspiration and insider tips for what to do in Manchester

Manchester in the autumn

You'll still get a warm welcome in Manchester and not just because of the curry.

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A seasonal guide to Manchester

Culture, entertainment, and fun-filled events are abundant year-round in Manchester.

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Manchester reviews

What other travellers say about Manchester

8.0

We enjoyed the tram ride.

3 June 2023

We enjoyed the tram ride. A family ticket all day was only £5.20 - buy ticket at the machine in the tram platform. We loved China Town because we picked a great Vietnamese restaurant and the kids loved their pho! My son visited the National Football Museum and the Old Trafford stadium, which he loved!

angela
angela United Kingdom
10

The best thing to do in Manchester is explore football.

30 May 2023

The best thing to do in Manchester is explore football. The national museum of football is must see and also very recommended to check out Old Trafford. Either just with a stadium tour or get there for a game!

Aleš
Aleš Slovenia
10

had the most amazing interaction with Ahmet on the front...

30 May 2023

had the most amazing interaction with Ahmet on the front desk. Such a warm welcome & helped me enjoy my stay to the max, always went above and beyond to make sure I had everything needed for a beautiful stay. Will definitely be back ❤️

Anonymous
6.0

Attended Gladys Knight concert at the Apollo.

29 May 2023

Attended Gladys Knight concert at the Apollo. Bar charges exceptionally high. £18 for two drinks an outrage. Apollo in need of revamp ASAP. Left at 10.30 to go to city centre to perhaps have something to eat and a drink however found most establishments had or were closing. Greatly surprised as a Saturday night. Bumped into some very drunk and offensive young men. Went home on the last bus after buying a sandwich in the Spar by the bus stop. Visited the Arndale on the Sunday which was pleasant enough but could have been anywhere else in the UK. The city of my partners birth but won't be rushing back and won't be using the Diamond Lodge.

Andy Sims
Andy Sims United Kingdom
10

If you like walking canals this is a good spot.

28 May 2023

If you like walking canals this is a good spot. You can easily walk into central Manchester down the Bridgewater/Rochdale canal, getting to Oxford road in ~45mins. If you want to walk further head for Piccadilly station and then pick up the canal that goes up to the Etihad, Droylesden or even Ashton. The tram can be used if you get tired. The Quays themselves are attractive.

Colin
Colin United Kingdom
10

We loved the general cleanliness of the city, and how...

26 May 2023

We loved the general cleanliness of the city, and how vintage is integrated with modern. Restaurants and self-help food venues are plentiful & varied. It is very easy to get around in Manchester, with many choices of modes of travel. People are generally helpful and approachable.

Dewald
Dewald Ireland

Popular places to stay in Manchester

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