8 best things to do in Manchester for an unforgettable visit

Manchester is a city of remarkable cultural depth, industrial heritage, and modern creativity. Whether visiting for the first time or returning to explore further, this guide presents a curated selection of the city's finest cultural sites, outdoor activities, and culinary destinations.

Cultural and historical things to do in Manchester

1. Explore the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral

Media credits: manchestercathedral

Website

Contact details: +44 161 833 2220

Operating hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 9 am to 4 pm
• Sunday: 12 pm to 4 pm

Price: Free

Dating back centuries, Manchester Cathedral is a key example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. As the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Manchester, the building displays high vertical lines, ornate stonework, and historic wooden carvings. Notable highlights include the medieval Minstrel Angels carved into the choir stalls and the striking contemporary stained-glass windows.

Pro tip: While admission is free, a small fee of £1 is required for taking photographs inside the cathedral.

2. Read some rare books and manuscripts at the John Rylands Library

Media credits: thejohnrylands

Website

Contact details: +44 161 306 0555

Operating hours:

• Wednesday to Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
• Sunday to Tuesday: Closed

Price: Free

The John Rylands Research Institute and Library is a notable example of late-Victorian Neo-Gothic architecture. Part of the University of Manchester, it houses a collection of rare books and manuscripts, including the St John Fragment (the oldest surviving New Testament text). The main reading room features vaulted ceilings and stained glass, creating a quiet space for research.

Pro tip: Accessing specific items from the library's special collections requires registering as a reader and submitting requests at least three days in advance.

3. Discover interactive exhibits at the Science and Industry Museum

Media credits: scienceandindustrymuseum

Website

Contact details: +44 330 058 0058

Operating hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm

Price: Free

Situated on the historic site of Liverpool Road Station, the world's oldest surviving passenger terminus, the Science and Industry Museum traces Manchester's key role in the Industrial Revolution. Exhibitions cover historic textile machinery, operational steam engines, and a replica of the 'Manchester Baby', the world's first stored-program computer.

Pro tip: Checking the daily schedule for live demonstrations by museum explainers is recommended for a more interactive experience.

Outdoor things to do in Manchester

4. Experience the city through Manchester River Cruises

Media credits: manchesterrivercruises

Website

Contact details: +44 161 960 0534

Operating hours:

• Saturday to Sunday: 11:30 am to 6 pm

Price: £

Cruising along the River Irwell and the historic Manchester Ship Canal, these tours provide a unique perspective on local landmarks. Departing from the city centre, the Princess Katherine vessel conducts a 60-minute journey to Salford Quays, passing under historic railway bridges and near Old Trafford while offering informative commentary.

Pro tip: The upper deck offers the clearest sightseeing views, while the enclosed lower saloon provides comfortable indoor seating during inclement weather.

Shopping experiences in Manchester

5. Explore independent shops at Afflecks

Media credits: afflecks_manchester

Website

Contact details: +44 161 839 0718

Operating hours:

• Monday to Friday: 10:30 am to 6 pm
• Saturday: 10 am to 6 pm
• Sunday: 11 am to 5 pm

Price: £

A staple of Manchester's Northern Quarter since 1982, Afflecks is a multi-storey indoor market hosting independent traders. Across several floors, over 70 vendors sell vintage apparel, vinyl records, handmade crafts, and alternative fashion, celebrating the city's independent culture.

Pro tip: Entering via the Oldham Street entrance provides the most straightforward starting point for navigating the building's multi-level layout.

Food and drink experiences in Manchester

6. Savor diverse culinary offerings at Mackie Mayor

Media credits: mackiemayor

Contact details: +44 161 111 1111

Operating hours:

• Tuesday to Thursday: 9 am to 10 pm
• Friday to Saturday: 9 am to 11 pm
• Sunday: 9 am to 6 pm
• Monday: Closed

Price: ££

Occupying a restored 1858 market hall in the Northern Quarter, Mackie Mayor is a bustling communal food hall with seating for up to 500 diners. Under its grand glass roof, customers can order from various independent food stalls offering sourdough pizza, dry-aged steaks, tacos, and craft beers.

Pro tip: Visiting during mid-afternoon on weekdays or early on weekends avoids the busy lunch and dinner periods.

7. Try some steaks at Gaucho Manchester

Media credits: gauchomanchester

Website

Contact details: +44 161 833 4333

Operating hours:

• Monday to Friday: 12 pm to 11 pm
• Saturday: 11 am to 11:30 pm
• Sunday: 12 pm to 11 pm

Price: £££

Located in a converted Victorian church on St Mary's Street, Gaucho Manchester features a split-level dining space that retains the original church organ. The restaurant specialises in premium Argentinian steaks, supported by an extensive wine list and Latin-inspired cocktails.

Pro tip: The venue is dog-friendly, allowing patrons to bring well-behaved pets into the bar and dining areas.

Entertaining things to do in Manchester

8. Have a good laugh at the Frog and Bucket Comedy Club

Media credits: frogandbucketcomedy

Website

Contact details: +44 161 236 9805

Operating hours:

• Monday to Friday: 7 pm to 11 pm
• Saturday: 3 pm to 11:30 pm
• Sunday: 6 pm to 10 pm

Price: ££

Established in 1994, the Frog and Bucket is a key venue in Manchester's comedy scene. Located in the Northern Quarter, this cabaret-style club hosts national touring acts alongside emerging talent, including the weekly 'Beat the Frog' open mic competition.

Pro tip: The venue serves hot food, including burgers and sharing platters, which can be ordered directly from the tables during performances.