Manchester

When you come to Manchester, you have to visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Take a tour of the spectacular Gothic cathedral! The most impressive features are its woodwork and stained-glass windows. Another major building is Manchester Town Hall. It’s impossible to miss, with its neo-Gothic architecture and striking clock tower. It’s one of the most impressive historical buildings in the UK.

Manchester is also well-known for its art. If you love art, then head on down to the Manchester Art Gallery or Whitworth Art Gallery. Both exhibit a range of different types of artwork (paintings, sculptures, textiles and more) from the modern era to the present day. The Cornerhouse centre for contemporary visual arts exhibits works by emerging artists.

The Science and Industry Museum is one of the most fascinating museums in Manchester. You’ll learn all you need to know about the city’s contribution to a number of sectors including transportation, the textile industry, urban sanitation, telecommunications and more. You’ll be impressed by the range of vehicles and machinery on display.

For a great Northern night out, head to Salford Quays! Walk along the quays, brimming with trendy bars and cultural centres. The Lowry’s contemporary architecture is particularly striking. There’s a theatre and an art gallery within The Lowry and there’s always plenty on the billing.

There’s one place in the Northern Quarter that’s been iconic since the 1980s: Afflecks. This unusual indoor market is housed in a red brick building formerly called Affleck’s Palace. Afflecks is home to a number of quirky, independent traders. You’ll find a whole host of clothes shops, interior design stores, as well as vintage and alternative boutiques there.

Traditional British food isn’t always that popular, however  delicious pies from across the Channel are sure to tempt your taste buds. Pies can have all sorts of fillings, but meat and potato pie is one of the city’s most popular dishes. Why don’t you order one in a traditional pub? Did you know that since 1992, Manchester has organised the World Pie Eating Championship?

Brits love a cup of tea at any time of the day, and often enjoy a sweet treat to go with it. So why not order a pot of tea and a tasty snack? In Manchester, eccles cakes are a popular choice with a cup of tea. These little treats are made from flaky pastry and filled with raisins or other dried fruit, such as gooseberries. You can’t help but love them!