Confident and cultured, Manchester is the United Kingdom’s northern powerhouse and one of England’s largest and proudest cities. Home to the world-famous soccer club Manchester United - and their successful rivals Manchester City - here you’ll find artsy corners, eye-catching civic buildings, and a vibrant atmosphere befitting a community famous for its music and entertainment.
Manchester has so many impressive things to do that it can be difficult to know where to start. But whether you’re venturing into the hip Northern Quarter or delving into the depths of Victorian history, here’s how to get the most from your journey through England’s Cottonopolis.
People’s History Museum
Long before the ‘Madchester’ movement cemented its reputation as a factory for innovative pop, rock and electronic music, the city was a central cog in Britain’s Industrial Revolution. The famous worker bee city symbol was devised when Manchester’s production lines were still milling cotton for the British Empire. Even today, much of the camaraderie and optimism that exists between Mancunians can be traced back to these times.
The People’s History Museum is a truly fascination window into working-class British life through the ages. It holds the largest collection of political material in the nation, focusing on topics such as democracy and revolution. In a city with such strong links to movements such as ‘the suffragettes’, there’s plenty of spirited history to uncover.
Old Trafford
Nicknamed the Theatre of Dreams, Old Trafford is Manchester’s answer to Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium or Vancouver’s BC Place. This impressive soccer stadium comes to life with raucous energy on match days during the Premier League season, so experiencing a game is an unforgettable experience.
You can also visit on days when there’s not a match on, and follow in the footsteps of some of the most famous names in soccer, from George Best to David Beckham, when you take a Museum Stadium Tour. Browse the options and book online to experience what it’s like to be a global sports star.
National Football Museum
To expand your soccer-themed adventure further, pay a visit to The National Football Museum – a shrine to the UK’s best-loved sport. It’s home to a staggering 140,000 soccer-themed artifacts, from paintings and postcards to boots once worn by the sporting greats – and telling some of the most fascinating stories in the history of the beautiful game
When this building re-opened in 2012, more than 100,000 visitors flocked through its doors in just six weeks, and the centre remains a leading destination. There are exhibitions for every soccer-mad generation, plus a star-studded hall of fame. The centre’s quirky Football Plus+ feature also allows budding stars to test their skills in a penalty shootout and other challenges.
Manchester Art Gallery
One of Britain’s finest art museums, the Manchester Art Gallery houses an eclectic library of works spanning intricate oil paintings and historical costumes, all housed within a trulyregal building.
Regular events explore art schools from around the world, as well as more abstract concepts like mindfulness.
Take the Highlights tour to fully experience the intersection between traditional and modern art. Each volunteer-led visit takes its own unique path, so you can return many times and still be dazzled by what’s on offer.
For even more art inspiration, you can also journey to The Lowry in the neighbouring city of Salford, and take in the life and works of Greater Manchester’s most iconic painter.
Victoria Baths
There are plans afoot to return these turn-of-the-century Victorian swimming pools to their former glory, as lavish Turkish baths. At the moment though, you’ll find a colourful arts venue here - one that’s brimming with cultural delights.
Typical events include vintage shows, music day festivals and seasonal fun for all the family. You can even take a guided tour to learn more about the history of this magnificent building. The haunting structure creates a dreamy backdrop for artistic performances, with sparkling stained glass and an elaborate glass ceiling.
The Northern Quarter
The Northern Quarter is Manchester’s creative heart, where youthful and bohemian venues set the pace. Once a gritty industrial centre, today this part of the city is draped in colourful street art, neon lights and boundless personality. If you love shopping, drop into one of the trendy boutiques on Oldham Street, or try some of the delicious eateries between Edge Street and Thomas Street.
There are jazz and comedy clubs, not to mention the rock and roll infused Richard Goodall Gallery and other impressive arts and craft ventures. In this part of Manchester, the streets are a canvas, and the unconventional is always lurking around the corner.
Chinatown
For a taste of East Asia, head to Manchester’s Chinese enclave. This is the third-largest Chinatown in Europe, with intricately decorated gates and more Asian restaurants than you can count.
At Chinese New Year, the streets are filled with lanterns and light, creating a magical atmosphere. While above the street, karaoke bars keep the spirit alive after sunset. A selection of traditional bakeries serve Chinese food like you’ve never had before, with soft buns, sweet desserts and coconut wonders to enjoy.
You’ll find a dedicated parking lot on St James Street – right in the heart of the action.
Legoland Discovery Centre
If you’re travelling with children, or are a big kid at heart, this fun-filled attraction is well worth a visit.
The indoor playground includes three rides, 10 play zones and a 4D movie theatre. Bring the little ones to experience a magical Kingdom Quest, or take part in a creative workshop and test your own Lego skills.
You’ll find it at the Trafford shopping centre on the city’s western edge. Inside, everything glistens in bright and bold primary colours – it’s like walking through a child’s imagination.
Science and Industry Museum
The innovative side of Manchester’s endless industrialism, the Science and Industry Museum is a great place to enrich your mind. It’s home to a collection of many intriguing objects and inventions from throughout the ages. See a steam engine up close or explore the birth of modern computing in 1948.
The intriguing historical centre is located on Liverpool Road, close to the parking lots by Castlefield Urban Heritage Park.
Whether you’re sticking to the main attractions, exploring hidden gems, or venturing out into the city’s evocative surrounding countryside, car rental is a great way to get around. Hertz has pick-up locations around the city, helping you explore the UK’s northern powerhouse.