Medieval Quarter, Manchester
Creative TouristThe Medieval Quarter, or Cathedral Quarter as it is sometimes known, is one of the oldest parts of Manchester and home to some historic gems and cultural must-sees.
Our top picks
Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral is, according to the Pevsner Architectural Guide, “one of the most impressive examples in England of a late medieval collegiate church”. Open all year round, it’s a venue for worship and music events alike — a monument to all of Manchester’s saints and sinners.
Cathedral Gardens
Cathedral Gardens is a partially lawned public space in Manchester city centre. Located between Manchester Cathedral and the National Football Museum, it provides a precious hint of green space in this area.
National Football Museum
The National Football Museum is one of Manchester and the UK’s top attractions. Visitors can explore the whole world of football across several floors of changing exhibitions, vast collections of memorabilia and impressive interactive installations.
The Corn Exchange
Showcasing all its original Edwardian beauty with a modern twist, The Corn Exchange is something of a food destination, housing a number of great restaurants, from Banyan Bar & Kitchen to Salvi’s Mozzarella Bar.
Chetham’s Library
Chetham’s is the oldest surviving public library in the country – and the esteemed ancestor of Central Library.
The Stoller Hall
The relative baby in the family of Manchester’s classically-inclined concert halls, The Stoller Hall opened its doors in April 2017 to further enhance the city’s already enviable live music provision.
Where to go in Manchester
Manchester
Renae
Opening in stages, renae begins its journey with the launch of its ground-floor neighbourhood music-led bar on Friday 28th March 2025. This laid-back yet stylish space will blend a cosy daytime shop with an intimate bar that flows from day into night, serving craft beers, natural wines, and cocktails at accessible prices.
Manchester
Chakalaka
The very best of South African cuisine in an intimate, friendly space in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Manchester
The Daisy
The Daisy is one of Manchester’s more in-demand basement bars, offering an underground Paris-inspired night out.
Manchester
Sampa
Colourful Brazilian fine dining at Caroline Martin’s intimate restaurant, Sampa.
Manchester
Hinterland
Alcohol-free bar and cafe in the heart of Northern Quarter. Serving mocktails, 0% beer and all your alcohol free favourites.
Manchester
Ibis Manchester Centre Princess Street
A budget hotel in central Manchester
Manchester
Chancellors Hotel
Chancellors Hotel is a Grade II listed Victorian mansion located in South Manchester surrounded by five acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, in a relaxed, scenic and picturesque setting.
Manchester
Hyatt Regency Manchester
Hyatt Regency Manchester is an elegant, modern hotel set in the heart of Oxford Road Corridor, the city’s knowledge quarter.
Manchester
Moose Coffee Media City
Independent, family-owned coffee shop, bringing North American breakfast and brunch to Media City.
City Centre
Kōdo
Kōdo, a secret bar like no other. It is all about discovery. The only way to enter is with a special code, which changes weekly.
MediaCityUK
Blanconero
High-level Italian food in Salford Quays, with no less than seven different lasagnas to choose from.
City Centre
Speak In Code
Seriously good cocktails at a one of Manchester’s most clandestine bars.
Manchester Visitor Guides
Hidden Bars in Manchester
Manchester's best secret, hidden and hard to find bars - here's our guide.
Boutique Hotels Manchester
Some of the most unique places to stay in Manchester. We pick out the top upscale accommodations with a twist.
Free family things to do in Manchester
The world's at your fingertips with free history, art, science and creative capers for all ages in Manchester.
Sunday Roasts in Manchester
Looking for the finest roast dinners in Manchester? Look no further. We've picked out the very best Sunday dinners in the city.
Manchester Restaurant Deals
Manchester's restaurants are bending over backwards to create deals that take the sting out of eating out. Here are the best of the bunch for January.
Healthy Restaurants in Manchester
Eat out and stay healthy with our guide to the best clean-living restaurants in Manchester.
Business Hotels in Manchester
Travelling to Manchester for work? We round up some of the best business hotels in Manchester.
UNESCO City of Literature: Manchester
Manchester is the 26th UNESCO City of Literature, joining illustrious alumni from across the globe. Here's our guide to literary landmarks across the city.
Vegan Food in Manchester
Whether you’re a proud vegan or merely curious, let us guide you towards the best vegan food in Manchester for Veganuary.
Bookshops in Manchester
Manchester is a UNESCO City of Literature, so of course there are a few go-tos for books. Read our guide to discover the best places to pick them up.
Manchester District Guides
Spotlight on
Things to do in Blackpool
Fancy a day trip? Explore our guide to Blackpool and build yourself an itinerary featuring attractions, galleries, restaurants and more.
Take me thereDestination Guides
Culture Guides
Exhibitions in the North
Cinematic sets, 90s nightclub photography and even new gallery - we have a great mix of exhibitions for you this month.
Theatre in the North
DaDaFest’s 40th anniversary line-up, contemporary reimaginings and outlandish fringe, check out our top theatre picks for spring onwards.
Cinema in the North
David Lynch, International Women's Day and Manchester Film Festival are amongst our cinematic highlights this March.
Literature Events in the North
Some of our favourite leftfield live literature regulars are back with their first events of the year – we’ve picked a weird and wonderful heap we think you’ll love.
Music in the North
We’re championing all things underground this month, with a selection of gigs and festivals that embrace the strange.
Classical Music in the North
Read our latest highlights from the live classical music offer in Manchester and the North, taking in a number of the region's most cherished orchestral forces and venues.
Food and Drink in the North
Not long now, spring is on its way but wave goodbye to winter with some of the North's best food and drink.
Family things to do in the North
As we edge towards spring we take a look at the best events and activities for families, from theatre to festivals, dinosaur adventures to family raves.