If you are from the US, the UK is likely to be near the top of your to-visit list. The UK is a small collection of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and is home to a mighty array of stunning locations, be it country, city or coastal. Manchester is a city in the North West of the UK, and although it might not have the fame and glory that London offers, it packs a mighty punch. Manchester is the birthplace of many iconic musicians throughout history, including all four members of The Smiths; the Gallagher brothers of Oasis; Joy Division; The Bee Gees and The Stone Roses. If you’re visiting the rock ‘n’ roll town of Manchester anytime soon, you’re in the right place! Let’s take a look at the five best things to do in Manchester, UK.
Remember, if you’re traveling from the US, you will need a visa to enter the UK. If you are traveling to the US from the UK, you can find visa waiver services here.
See a play at the Royal Exchange Theatre.
The Royal Exchange Theatre is home to stunning architecture, two theatres, and an awesome bar at that. The Royal Exchange building is an old trading floor, converted into an in-the-round theatre in 1976. It has played host to some of the world’s most prestigious actors, including Andrew Garfield and Imogen Stubbs.
Nowadays, both contemporary and traditional pieces of theatre are put on there, as well as nights of poetry reading too. Get your tickets at the box office and see this stunning building for itself when you arrive for a night of entertainment!
Visit Manchester Cathedral.
Manchester Cathedral might not be as famous as Notre Dame, but it doesn’t fall short when you see it in person. Standing at 600 years old, this fascinating building is steeped in cultural and historical significance. If you are religious, you can attend worship at the Cathedral; if not, why not attend one of the many concerts that are held there, or simply visit for a free tour of the Cathedral and grounds.
Take a night out at Factory nightclub (FAC251).
If you’re a young person looking to visit an iconic music building and have a great night out, Factory 251 is for you. FAC251 (known to locals as Factory) is a building that was once host to iconic recording studios. Factory Records represented some of Manchester’s most iconic bands and artists, including Joy Division and New Order.
Spread over three dancefloors, don’t be fooled by FAC251’s meek outward appearance. Now converted into a steamy underground nightclub, Factory is the place to go if you’re looking to let your hair down and have fun with your friends in Manchester.
Peruse the German Markets at Christmas time.
If you are planning to visit Manchester during November or December time, you can’t miss the German markets. The German Christmas Markets are installed in the very heart of Manchester city, in St Ann’s Square. The square is situated just in front of Manchester Town Hall, so when you visit these markets, you’ll be getting a taste of the buzzing, lively Manchester city centre at the same time.
The Manchester Christmas Markets are home to an array of businesses selling food, drinks, handmade Christmas gifts and kooky presents. The telltale pine huts are a famous stamp of German culture, and have been set up in Manchester since 1998. You can visit during the daytime, but the evenings are where these markets truly come alive. Meander through the streets perusing the stalls with a mulled wine in hand, and you’ll feel like Manchester is your home away from home.
Visit the Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford (or both!)
If you’re a sports fan, you’ll associate Manchester with one thing: football (or soccer, if you’re from across the pond!). Manchester City and Manchester United are two of the most prestigious football clubs in the world, and both are native to this city. The Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City football club; and Old Trafford, home to Manchester United football club, are both breathtaking venues that you can tour out of hours.
On a tour you can visit the changing rooms, stand on the pitch and sit in the seats! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for football fans. If you happen to be in town during a tournament, the atmosphere is electric; make sure you try to get tickets for a game, you don’t want to miss out on the action!
Final thoughts…
If you are visiting the UK this autumn, make sure to swing by Manchester for a city break full of fun, music, and sports entertainment too!
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