Ben Hart: HeX at Waterside

Bean & Brush is a family art café in Sale which serves simple, tasty food with ingredients sourced from local suppliers. The bonus for parents is the arts and crafts studio which keeps the kids busy being creative while they can join in or relax with a coffee.

A second hand shops that specialises in selling electrical goods

Grosvenor Square is one of the few open spaces along Oxford Road Manchester; on sunny days, students from the nearby Manchester School of Art come out to bask.

Walkden Gardens in the Manchester suburbs has all the makings of a fairy tale garden. As a venue, it’s hard to imagine a more magical gateway, a wonderful escape only a short(ish) stroll from the Brooklands Metrolink stop..

An intimate supper club in Sale, South Manchester, with a specialist focus on Middle Eastern and Greek cuisine.

A nature reserve between Chorlton and Sale, perfect for summer strolls and getting yourself immersed in the great outdoors (without actually leaving the city).

Stitched Up is a haven of haberdashery with an underlying message of sustainability in Stretford Mall.

Modern all-day dining space in Stretford, with a well-stocked bar.

Pub on the corner of Chorlton’s Beech Road with a good selection of ales and an excellent beer garden.

Longford Park in Stretford was created in the grounds of Longford Hall, the grand entrance steps of which remain.

With a 17th Century hall set in 109 acres of open parkland, Wythenshawe Park makes a super day out for all ages. Explore the historic woodlands, lush grasslands and meadows; take a stroll around the many themed gardens and check out the sports and leisure facilities on offer.

The Jane Eyre Chorlton is a charming independent venue, serving up superb cocktails and small plates in South Manchester.