Retail Therapy

With its very own style and identity, Manchester offers a wide variety of sensational shopping for the fashion conscious. 

Whether you are looking for designer stores, the UK’s favourite high-street retailers or artisan independents, there is something for everyone located on almost every street in the city.

Manchester is a national shopping destination with a  wealth of appealing retail options, such as Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and the Arndale Centre, all of which are within walking distance. For those looking for more independent shops and keen to hunt out some vintage chic, the Northern Quarter is lined with a plethora of treasure troves and laid back style.

With music playing such a key role in Manchester rich modern history, those looking for the latest releases, underground groove or classic anthems will be spoilt for choice by some of the UK’s best record stores.

Dining Out

Manchester has become well-known for its culinary culture.

For more casual bites, the city is well served by the likes of Bundobust, with its unique mix of craft beer and veggie Indian delights, and Northern Soul Grilled Cheese’s twist on an American classic.

Manchester is also home to a number of food festivals throughout the year and those with an ear to the ground will be first to hear about the latest pop-ups.

Nightlife

Two of the greatest cultural movements to grace the UK in the last 30 years are those of rave and britpop - both of which were born in Manchester.

Manchester has come a long way since the days of the Hacienda, although still hosts the best house and techno artists at its annual Warehouse Project events. Indie still runs through the veins of the city too, with gig venues such as the Ritz and O2 Academy hosting the latest touring bands.

The city caters for every taste, whether it be classic cocktail lounges, underground speakeasy-inspired jazz bars or the Northern Quarter’s array of craft beer pubs, making it a city with a real buzz once the sun goes down.

Culture

Manchester is its own northern capital of culture. From sport to art, theatre, architecture and of course music, the city has more than made its cultural mark on the country. Historically a powerhouse of industry, Manchester has flourished under a sustained period of urban regeneration, all while retaining its own unique sense of identity. 

Wherever you go in this great city you’ll see examples of Manchester’s culture making an impact, from the beautiful architecture, to the fascinating Museum of Science and Industry, to the eclectic HOME, the famous Lowry and simply the busy, vibrant streets that bustle with people from all walks of life. 

Football also has a huge role to play thanks to the rivalry between its two world-famous clubs Manchester United and Manchester City. The respective stadiums (Old Trafford and the Etihad) are host to some of the biggest games in both the Premier League and Champions League, and as an added bonus, regularly hold music and other entertainment events.

Famous rivalries don’t stop there though, as Britain’s two major television networks ITV and BBC both now have their bases at the multi-million pound MediaCityUK development in Salford. Again, the allure of the city and its iconic culture simply made Manchester the perfect option for the country’s major broadcasters.