This site uses affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
A fascinating city in northwestern England, Manchester is a popular place amongst football fans worldwide. Even though it is known primarily for the sport, there is a lot more this city has to offer.
Manchester boasts of good music along with some of the best museums in the world. This article presents you with some of the best places to visit in Manchester for a great English holiday experience.
As the commercial and cultural capital of Lancashire, Manchester is a celebrated center for the arts, media, and higher education.
Together with Salford and eight other municipalities, it forms the metropolitan county of Greater Manchester, in which some three million people now live.
Manchester’s history looms large in its mythology. The Stone Roses, The Smiths and the Hacienda all cemented our place in musical legend, while our rich industrial and architectural history make it a fascinating place just to take a stroll around.
But while its past is unarguably interesting, its present and future are perhaps more so. Those famous red-brick mills are now independent art hubs and the Victorian markets have a new lease of life as Instagram-friendly food halls.
The Canals of Castlefield
Designated an Urban Heritage Park, Castlefield is an excellent place to visit to begin exploring Manchester.
A walk among the lovingly restored Victorian houses along the old canals or through the reconstructed Roman Fort is time well spent.
Be sure to explore the Bridgewater Canal. It was constructed in 1761 to transport coal from the mines at Worsley to Manchester.
The many old warehouses that line the canal have been restored and turned into offices, shops, hotels, and restaurants.
A trip on one of the Bridgewater tour boats is highly recommended.
Other interesting tourist attractions include the Castlefield Art Gallery, with its exhibitions of contemporary art, and Bridgewater Hall, home to the Hallé Orchestra and first-class concerts.
The Castlefield Bowl hosts regular pop and classical concerts and is also worth a visit.
Old Trafford Museum and Football Club
Manchester is perhaps best known for Manchester United Football Club, and fans can get the full experience on a trip to the club’s training ground at Old Trafford.
Also known as the Theatre of Dreams, with the field itself dating back to 1910.
That being said, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. You’ll probably find this to be quite drab and certainly not one of the best things to do in Manchester.
Now, footie is not your thing, take a trip to China Town for a bite to eat at lunch.
There are a good few restaurants like, Teppanyaki Chinatown, that have the best lobster tails.
John Rylands Library
John Rylands Library in Manchester is something you cannot miss. Along with a collection that comprises of some of the rarest books and manuscripts, this library also boasts of magnificent architecture.
After around 10 years of construction, the library was eventually opened to the public in 1900.
The library’s collections include the oldest known pieces of the New Testament as well as some medieval manuscripts.
Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
This urban heritage park is a first-of its kind conservation area that tops the list of famed places in Manchester.
It is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Do visit the fascinating pub “The Wharf” to treat yourself to some scrumptious food and a variety of beers and this is one of the best places to see in Manchester.
Originally, this place was the site of Mamucium, a Roman Fort which today works as a peaceful retreat for all.
This 7 acre park is abode to the building of the Museum of Science and Industry, the Roman fort of Mamucium, outdoor terraces and many bars and restaurants where one can experience the true vibes of the city.