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
Ego Death
Ego Death is a speakeasy-style secret bar in the Northern Quarter with a cocktail menu as good as its atmosphere.
Manchester
Flat Iron Manchester
Relaxed restaurant in the centre of Manchester, serving impressively high-quality steaks at an affordable price point.
Manchester
Serenity Booksellers (Romiley)
Family owned independent bookshop with branches in Romiley (Greater Manchester) and Stockport
Deansgate
Malmaison Manchester Deansgate
The building’s striking architecture combines classic brickwork with sleek, modern design elements, creating an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of Manchester’s vibrant energy.
Manchester
Exhibition
Exhibition is an elegant dining hall on Peter Street, home to Jaan and other high-level independent kitchens.
Manchester
92 Degrees Coffee Quay St
Friendly Coffee Shop that also hosts events in Spinningfields.
City Centre
Stow
Stow is a new fire-based restaurant on Bridge Street in Manchester, from the team behind Trof.
Manchester
Merseyway Shopping Centre
Merseyway is built on giant stilts over the river Mersey – hence the name! It was one of the first shopping centres to open in 1965 and was refurbished in 1995. Merseyway are proud of their heritage and their role in continuing to attract visitors to Stockport. They strive to live up to the brand promise “famous brands, fabulously close”.
Altrincham
Millington Hall Farm
Millington Hall Farm is a one of a kind destination offering field to fork dining alongside learning experiences that will stay with you long after your visit.
Manchester
MAYA Manchester Restaurant
MAYA is a high-end new restaurant on the corner of Canal Street and Chorlton Street in central Manchester.
King Street
Gail’s Bakery King Street
Popular craft bakery, selling freshly baked goods on Manchester’s King Street.
Manchester
SEA LIFE Manchester
Perfect for families, dive into the stories of the oceans’ most fascinating residents, including clownfish, stingrays, sharks and sea turtles.
Manchester Visitor Guides
Hidden Bars in Manchester
Manchester's best secret, hidden and hard to find bars - here's our guide.
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.
Boutique Hotels Manchester
Some of the most unique places to stay in Manchester. We pick out the top upscale accommodations with a twist.
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.
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.
Things to Do in Altrincham
Plan a day out down Altrincham way, and you’ll soon find that one day isn’t nearly enough. Getting there is easy on the tram, or how about cycling along the...
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
Cinema in the North
Hollywood greats and early bird film fest tickets are on our horizon as we start the New Year.
Literature Events in the North
Readings are springing up everywhere as the live literature and spoken word scene starts to defrost.
Family things to do in the North
We might be past the holiday season, but Manchester and the North's arts and cultural calendar is still packed with brilliant events and activities for families
Theatre in the North
Documentary performance, groundbreaking dance, world premieres and fresh takes on classic works - check out our early theatre highlights for 2025.
Music in the North
Warm, intimate storytelling is the thread connecting our new picks, which include a number of brilliant folk artists.
Exhibitions in the North
From genre-defying art film to vibrant embroidery and Surrealist sculpture, check out the best winter exhibitions to see right now.
Tours and Activities in the North
Get creative, allow yourself to be curious and learn something new with this month's tours and activities guide.
Food and Drink in the North
Looking for the best winter meals the North has to offer? This month's guide to food and drink has the lot.