Things To Do In Manchester
If you’re planning a trip to Manchester, UK, you’re in for a treat! This vibrant city is packed full of exciting things to see and do, from world-class museums to trendy bars and restaurants. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or a foodie, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in Manchester. But with so much to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the top 10 things to do in Manchester. From visiting iconic landmarks to exploring hidden gems, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to discover the best that Manchester has to offer!
Visit the Manchester Museum

The Manchester Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and the natural world. This fascinating museum is home to an incredible collection of artefacts from all over the world, including ancient Egyptian mummies, dinosaur skeletons, and a huge selection of fossils and minerals. The museum also has an impressive collection of art and artefacts from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, as well as an extensive display of natural history specimens.
One of the highlights of the Manchester Museum is the vivarium, which houses a wide variety of live reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Visitors can get up close and personal with snakes, lizards, and even tarantulas in this fascinating exhibit. The museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to discover.
If you’re interested in learning more about Manchester’s history, be sure to check out the museum’s collection of local artefacts and exhibits. From Roman coins to medieval manuscripts, you’ll find plenty to fascinate you. And with free admission, the Manchester Museum is a great budget-friendly option for visitors to the city.
Explore the Manchester Art Gallery

Art lovers won’t want to miss the Manchester Art Gallery, which is home to an impressive collection of fine and decorative art from the 17th century to the present day. The gallery’s collection includes works by some of the world’s most famous artists, including Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, and William Blake.
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The gallery’s collection is divided into several different sections, including fine art, decorative art, and costume and textiles. Visitors can explore rooms dedicated to different art movements, from the Pre-Raphaelites to modernism. The gallery also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to discover.
One of the highlights of the Manchester Art Gallery is the stunning Victorian Gothic architecture of the building itself. The gallery is housed in a beautiful building that was originally built in the 19th century as a town hall. The building was later converted into an art gallery, and today it is one of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks.
Discover the Manchester Science and Industry Museum

If your family is interested in science and technology, then the Science and Industry Museum is the perfect place to visit. This free museum has a wide range of exhibits, including a replica of the world’s first computer and a collection of vintage cars and bicycles. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn about science and technology in a fun and engaging way.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Science and Industry Museum is the Revolution Manchester Gallery, which explores the city’s role in the Industrial Revolution. Kids can learn about the history of textile production in Manchester, as well as the development of steam engines and other important inventions. The museum also hosts regular workshops and events, so be sure to check their website for upcoming activities.
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Take a Walk Along the Rochdale Canal
The Rochdale Canal is a beautiful waterway that runs through the heart of Manchester. Taking a walk along the canal is a great way to explore the city and enjoy some fresh air with your family. There are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way, including cafes and pubs with outdoor seating.
One of the highlights of the Rochdale Canal is the Castlefield Basin, which is home to a collection of historic buildings and warehouses. Kids will love exploring this area and learning about the history of Manchester’s industrial past. The canal also offers opportunities for boating and fishing, so be sure to bring your fishing gear if you’re interested in catching some fish.
Visit the Manchester People’s History Museum
The People’s History Museum is a unique museum that explores the history of democracy and social justice in the UK. This free museum has a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts from the suffragette movement and the trade union movement. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn about history and politics in a fun and engaging way.
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One of the most popular exhibits at the People’s History Museum is the Main Galleries, which explore the history of democracy in the UK. Kids can learn about the Magna Carta, the Chartists, and other important moments in British history. The museum also hosts regular workshops and events, so be sure to check their website for upcoming activities.
Tour the National Football Museum In Manchester
The National Football Museum is a must-visit for families interested in sports and football. This free museum has a wide range of exhibits, including historic football memorabilia and interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn about the history of football in the UK. There are also plenty of opportunities to test your football skills, with interactive exhibits that allow you to take penalties and practice your dribbling.
One of the most popular exhibits at the National Football Museum is the Hall of Fame, which celebrates the greatest players and coaches in the history of football. Kids will love learning about their favourite players and teams, and parents will appreciate the educational value of the exhibit. The museum also hosts regular workshops and events, so be sure to check their website for upcoming activities.
Admire the architecture of Manchester Cathedral

Manchester Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s easy to see why. This stunning medieval cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with soaring arches, intricate stonework, and beautiful stained-glass windows.
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The cathedral has a fascinating history, dating back to the 7th century when a small wooden church was first built on the site. Over the centuries, the church was rebuilt and expanded several times, until it became the impressive cathedral that we see today.
Visitors to the cathedral can explore the beautiful interior of the building, which is filled with stunning works of art, including a series of intricate carved wooden misericords. The cathedral also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and guided tours.
Take a stroll through Heaton Park
Heaton Park is one of Manchester’s largest and most popular parks, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. This beautiful park covers over 600 acres, and its home to a range of attractions and activities, including a boating lake, a golf course, and an animal centre.
One of the highlights of Heaton Park is the beautiful ornamental gardens, which are filled with colourful flowers, fountains, and sculptures. Visitors can also explore the park’s woodland areas and meadows, which are home to a wide variety of native wildlife.
Another highlight of Heaton Park is the Heaton Hall, a beautiful 18th-century mansion that’s open to the public. Kids will love exploring the mansion and learning about its history, and parents will appreciate the educational value of the exhibit. There are also plenty of walking trails throughout the park, making it the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air and exercise.
If you’re visiting Heaton Park with children, be sure to check out the park’s play areas and adventure playgrounds, which are sure to keep little ones entertained for hours. And with plenty of picnic areas and cafes, Heaton Park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely day out.
Explore Manchester’s Parks and Gardens
Manchester is home to many beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for a family day out. One of the most popular parks in Manchester is Heaton Park, which is one of the largest municipal parks in Europe. It covers over 600 acres and has something for everyone, including an animal centre, boating lake, and a golf course. There are also plenty of playgrounds and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to spend a sunny day with your family.
Another great park to explore is Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden, located in the southern part of the city. This park is home to a variety of rare and exotic plants, as well as a beautiful rock garden and a bird-watching area. It’s also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of benches and grassy areas to relax on.
If you’re looking for a more urban park experience, check out Piccadilly Gardens in the heart of the city. This small park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with plenty of seating, fountains, and street performers to enjoy. It’s also conveniently located near many shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to take a break from shopping and grab a quick bite to eat.
Watch a football match at Old Trafford
Manchester is famous for its football teams, and a visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without catching a game at Old Trafford. This iconic stadium is home to Manchester United, one of the world’s most famous football clubs, and it’s a must-visit for any football fan.
Visitors to Old Trafford can take a guided tour of the stadium, which includes a visit to the dressing rooms, the players’ tunnel, and the pitch side area. You’ll also get to see the club’s impressive trophy room, which is filled with silverware from the team’s many victories over the years.
On match days, the atmosphere at Old Trafford is electric, with thousands of passionate fans cheering on their team. Even if you’re not a football fan, it’s worth experiencing the excitement of a live match at this iconic stadium.
Shop at the Trafford Centre
The Trafford Centre is one of the UK’s largest and most popular shopping destinations, and it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves to shop. This enormous mall covers over 1.5 million square feet, and its home to over 200 stores, as well as a range of restaurants and cafes.
Visitors to the Trafford Centre can shop for everything from high-end fashion and designer brands to affordable high street favourites. The mall also has a range of entertainment options, including a cinema, a bowling alley, and an indoor adventure golf course.
One of the highlights of the Trafford Centre is the stunning architecture of the building itself. The mall is designed to look like a grand Victorian arcade, with beautiful marble floors, ornate ironwork, and a stunning glass dome.
Enjoy the nightlife in the Northern Quarter
The Northern Quarter is one of Manchester’s trendiest neighbourhoods, and it’s a great place to experience the city’s buzzing nightlife. This vibrant area is packed full of trendy bars, live music venues, and independent shops and cafes.
Visitors to the Northern Quarter can explore the area’s many street art murals, which have become a popular attraction in their own right. The neighbourhood is also home to a range of vintage shops and record stores, as well as a thriving food and drink scene.
One of the highlights of the Northern Quarter is the range of live music venues, which host gigs and performances by local and international artists. Whether you’re into indie, rock, or electronic music, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes in this lively neighbourhood.
Attend Free Festivals and Events In Manchester
Manchester is home to many free festivals and events throughout the year, including the Manchester International Festival and the Manchester Jazz Festival. These events are a great way to experience the city’s culture and enjoy some free entertainment with your family. There are also plenty of community events throughout the year, including street fairs and food festivals.
One of the most popular festivals in Manchester is the Manchester Pride Festival, which celebrates the city’s LGBT+ community. This festival is a great way to show your support for the LGBT+ community and enjoy some free entertainment with your family. The festival features live music, parades, and plenty of food and drink stalls.
Family-friendly attractions in Manchester
Manchester is home to a variety of family-friendly attractions that are perfect for kids of all ages. One of the most popular attractions is the SEA LIFE Manchester, which is an indoor aquarium that houses over 5,000 sea creatures. Kids can get up close and personal with sharks, rays, and turtles and even touch crabs and starfish in the interactive rock pool. Another must-visit attraction is LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, which is an indoor playground that features interactive rides, 4D cinema, and LEGO building stations. Kids can unleash their creativity and build their own LEGO creations or explore the impressive LEGO city.
For a unique experience, head to the Chill Factore, which is an indoor snow park that offers a range of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow play. Kids can learn to ski or snowboard with experienced instructors or have fun in the snow play area. For something a bit more adventurous, visit the Go Ape Rivington, an outdoor forest adventure that features zip lines, rope bridges, and treetop crossings. Kids can climb, swing, and zip through the trees, while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Museums and galleries for kids in Manchester
Manchester is home to a range of museums and galleries that offer interactive exhibits and educational experiences for kids. One of the most popular museums is the Museum of Science and Industry, which is an interactive museum that explores the history of science and technology. Kids can learn about the Industrial Revolution, experiment with hands-on exhibits, and even ride on a steam train. Another must-visit museum is the National Football Museum, which is a museum dedicated to the history of football. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, take part in penalty shootouts, and even see the World Cup trophy.
The Manchester Museum is another great attraction for kids, which has a range of collections and galleries that explore the natural world and human cultures. Kids can see real dinosaur skeletons, explore an Egyptian tomb, and even meet live animals in the vivarium. For art lovers, the Whitworth Art Gallery is a must-visit attraction, which houses a collection of modern and contemporary art. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, take part in workshops, and even create their own artwork.
Parks and outdoor activities in Manchester
Manchester has a range of parks and outdoor activities that are perfect for kids. One of the most popular parks is Heaton Park, which is the largest municipal park in Europe and features a range of activities such as a boating lake, animal centre, and playgrounds. Kids can explore the vast parkland, see farm animals, and even ride on a miniature railway. Another must-visit park is Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens, which is a beautiful park that features a range of gardens, ponds, and wildlife. Kids can explore the gardens, see exotic plants, and even spot birds and insects.
For something a bit more adventurous, head to the Trafford Centre, which is an indoor adventure park that features a range of activities such as mini-golf, laser tag, and indoor skydiving. Kids can test their skills, have fun with friends, and even learn new skills. Manchester also has a range of cycling and walking trails that offer stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. Kids can explore the city by bike or foot, and even enjoy a picnic in one of the many parks.
Indoor activities for kids in Manchester
Manchester has a range of indoor activities that are perfect for kids, especially on rainy days. One of the most popular indoor activities is the Escape Room, which is a fun and challenging game that requires teamwork and problem-solving skills. Kids can choose from a range of themed rooms, including Harry Potter, Sherlock Holmes, and Jurassic Park. Another must-visit indoor activity is the Virtual Hideout, which is a virtual reality experience that offers a range of games and experiences. Kids can explore new worlds, fight monsters, and even travel back in time.
For something a bit more creative, visit the Pottery Corner, which is a pottery painting studio that offers a range of pottery and ceramic items to paint. Kids can choose from a range of designs and colours and create their own masterpiece. Manchester also has a range of indoor trampoline parks that offer a range of activities such as dodgeball, basketball, and freestyle jumping. Kids can burn off some energy, have fun with friends, and even learn new skills.
Entertainment and events for families In Manchester
Manchester has a range of entertainment and events that are perfect for families. One of the most popular events is the Manchester International Festival, which is a biennial festival that features a range of music, theatre, and art events. Kids can enjoy a range of family-friendly performances, workshops, and activities. Another must-visit event is the Manchester Christmas Markets, which is a festive market that features a range of stalls, food, and entertainment. Kids can enjoy a range of festive treats, ride the carousel, and even meet Santa Claus.
For music lovers, Manchester has a range of live music venues that offer a range of genres and styles. Kids can enjoy live performances, learn new skills, and even take part in workshops. Manchester also has a range of cinemas that offer family-friendly screenings and events, including sing-alongs, parent and baby screenings, and sensory screenings.
Take a day trip to nearby attractions
While Manchester has plenty to offer visitors, there are also plenty of other attractions and destinations within easy reach of the city. Some of the most popular day trips from Manchester include:
The Peak District National Park, which is just a short drive from the city and offers stunning scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
The seaside town of Blackpool, which is home to a range of attractions including the famous Blackpool Tower and Pleasure Beach amusement park.
The historic city of Chester, which is known for its beautiful architecture, Roman ruins, and charming shopping streets.
Accommodations for families in Manchester
Manchester has a range of accommodations that are perfect for families, including hotels, apartments, and guesthouses. The Premier Inn is one of the most popular hotel chains, which offers a range of family-friendly rooms and facilities. Another popular option is the Travelodge, which offers a range of affordable rooms and locations. For something a bit more luxurious, consider the Hilton Manchester Deansgate, which offers stunning views of the city and a range of family-friendly facilities.
Manchester also has a range of serviced apartments that offer a range of amenities and facilities, including kitchenettes, living areas, and laundry facilities. Some of the most popular serviced apartments include the CitySuites and the Staycity Aparthotel. For a more personal experience, consider staying at a guesthouse or bed and breakfast, which offer a range of family-friendly rooms and breakfast options.
Getting around Manchester with kids
Manchester has a range of transport options that are perfect for families, including buses, trams, and trains. The Metrolink is one of the most popular modes of transport, which offers a range of routes and stops throughout the city. Kids can enjoy the tram ride and even explore the city on foot. Another popular option is the bus, which offers a range of routes and services throughout the city. Kids can explore the city and even enjoy the views from the top deck.
For longer journeys, consider taking the train, which offers a range of routes and services throughout the UK. Kids can enjoy the train ride and even explore new destinations. Manchester also has a range of taxi and private hire options, which offer a convenient and safe way to travel with kids.
Conclusion
Manchester is a vibrant and exciting city, with plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests. From world-class museums to trendy neighbourhoods, there’s always something new to discover in this buzzing metropolis. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Manchester veteran, be sure to check out these top 10 things to do in the city. You won’t be disappointed!