Top 10 Things to Do in the City of Manchester, United Kingdom 

England’s second biggest city, Manchester, draws a lot of visitors yearly. Perhaps best known to some as home to two of football’s biggest teams, I promise, it has so much more to offer. You might wonder what it is about Manchester that is exciting. So, I’ll help out. Here are the top 10 things you absolutely can’t miss doing whenever you find yourself in Manchester.

Number 10,  Visit the Manchester Museum

This museum is the country’s largest university museum and it is well deserving of a spot on this list. I promise you an exciting time going over the astonishing collection of 4.5 million artefacts from all corners of the globe available in the museum. Housed in a magnificent gothic-style building, the Manchester Museum offers a fascinating insight into archaeology, natural history, and the ancient world. Don’t forget to say hello to Stan the T.Rex. I’m sure you’re wondering who the hell that is! Well, it is a perfectly preserved skeleton of a notorious dinosaur! And if you’re into reptiles and amphibians, the vivarium is a must-visit, as it has some of the rarest frogs on the planet. 

Number 9, Drop by John Rylands Library

Bookworms in the house, I got something for y’all. The architecture enthusiasts too. The John Rylands Library is an absolute gem if you fall into any of the above-mentioned categories. This iconic library also boasts breathtaking Gothic architecture, a serene atmosphere and some really impressive aesthetic charm. The library houses impressive collections of medieval manuscripts, early printed texts, and personal letters from historical figures. Whether you’re a student, a lifelong learner, or simply appreciate beautiful surroundings, the John Rylands Library offers a peaceful haven amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

Number 8, Explore the Manchester Art Gallery

Sitting pretty in the city centre is this historical gallery which boasts an extensive collection of local and international art spanning centuries. There are masterpieces by legendary artists like Gainsborough, Turner, and Pissarro hanging there. Heck, it’s not just paintings; you can also explore various craft collections, from ceramics to metalwork, and even fashionable clothing and accessories dating back to the 1600s. If you’re an art lover, you’re in for a treat at the Manchester Art Gallery. 

Number 7, Check out the Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is the perfect place to dive into Manchester’s significant contributions to science and technology. From the booming transport industry to the world of power and computing, this museum showcases it all. You also get to experience interactive displays, scientific experiments, virtual reality booths, and games. What could be more fun than this? It’s a fun and educational journey that showcases how science remains an integral part of Manchester’s heritage and no way you’ll regret the experience.

Number 6, Been to Old Trafford yet?

I’m a football fan myself – a Manchester United fan at that, so you can imagine how special this one is to me. I honestly believe no trip to Manchester is complete without a visit to Old Trafford, the iconic football stadium that’s been the home of Manchester United FC since 1910. I mean, how can you not visit Old Trafford? It is an unforgettable experience as you get to tour the grounds, go behind the scenes, and immerse yourself in the club’s rich history. Have you ever imagined standing in the same spots as legendary players like Bobby Charlton and George Best? Because it could become a reality if you visit. And hey, don’t forget to grab some official merchandise at the Manchester United store or indulge in delicious treats at the Red Café.

Are you following up on this point? Because it’s about to get even more exciting!

Number 5, Experience Chinatown

Manchester’s vibrant Chinatown is actually the second largest in the UK! It is a lively district boasting an array of restaurants, supermarkets, and shops offering a taste of East Asian culture. For an authentic culinary experience, head to Red Chilli and savour mouthwatering Szechuan cuisine hidden away in a store basement. And if you’re in the mood for shopping, browse through the many shops offering traditional wares and bright toys. You can even grab some ingredients from a local supermarket to cook up your own Asian feast at home.

Number 4, Go shopping at Royal Exchange

At Royal Exchange, history meets modern culture and that’s perhaps, its biggest selling point. It is Manchester’s entertainment hub and its iconic structure has really withstood the test of time. 

It houses a top-notch theatre and a shopping centre. Prepare to be amazed by the beautiful architecture as you immerse yourself in one of the city’s best theatres, offering a wide range of shows to suit every taste. There’s one fun thing you should do though. Before or after a performance, quickly take a break at one of the cafés or restaurants within the complex, and keep an eye out for the rumoured ghosts that are said to haunt the building, including the ghost of actor James Maxwell!

Number 3, Visit Manchester Cathedral

The awe-inspiring Manchester Cathedral is a testament to the city’s rich history. This gothic-style marvel has stood proudly since 1421 and holds evidence of ancient roots dating back to 700 AD. Don’t forget to drop by the Visitor Centre to delve deeper into the cathedral’s history and admire special items like the Hanging Bridge, a relic from the 15th century that served as the church’s entrance. Manchester Cathedral is a captivating place to learn about the city’s past and some stunning architecture.

Number 2, Go to the Manchester Jewish Museum

As the oldest surviving synagogue in Manchester, this Moorish-style building is brimming with history and beauty. It showcases original stained glass windows and ornate ironwork and visitors get to discover the lives and contributions of the Jewish people in Manchester through fascinating permanent collections and exciting events. There’s an impressive array of items, documents, photographs, and personal stories that provide an immersive understanding of the Jewish community’s vital role in the city’s growth.

Number 1, Picnic at Heaton Park

It is a colossal 600-acre public green space, making it the largest of its kind in Europe. It’s the perfect place for a delightful day out. I’ll tell you what to do – pack a picnic, bask in the sunshine, and take in the beauty of the park! But that’s not all; there’s so much to explore here! Visit the charming Animal Centre, home to goats, donkeys, alpacas, pigs, and more. And don’t forget to hop on the Heaton Park Tramway and experience a ride on a historic tram from the early 20th century. Plus, with regular outdoor entertainment and events, Heaton Park is always full of surprises!

I trust you will love to know what everything on this list feels like. So, next time you’re in Manchester, go ahead and do as much as you can. 

It’s gonna be an unforgettable experience!