Manchester, the commercial and cultural capital of Lancashire, is a well-known hub for the arts, media, and higher education. It constitutes the metropolitan county of Greater Manchester and Salford and eight other municipalities and is home to around three million people.
Like its neighbouring Liverpool, Manchester has seen a rebirth with the beginning of ventures such as the Castlefield project, its many canals, and its museum complex on Liverpool Road.
If you are staying at our Luxury Serviced Apartments, read through our "Part 2" list of exciting things to do in Manchester.
4) Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral - formally the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St. Mary, St. Denys, and St. George - dated largely from 1422 to 1506 and was elevated to cathedral rank in 1847. Its chapels on both sides of the nave and choir are particularly appealing.
It was constructed between 1486 and 1508, with extensions and adjustments made in practically every succeeding century. You'll notice the stunning choir stalls, with some of the most richly decorated misericords in the country.
The Manchester Regiment's church is St. John's Chapel, and the little Lady Chapel features a 1440 wooden screen. The 1465 octagonal chapterhouse features paintings depicting Christ in contemporary attire.
Address: Victoria Street, Manchester
5) Manchester Museum
Manchester Museum is another fantastic university museum to add to your schedule. The museum is known for its natural history, archaeology, and anthropology exhibitions, with the earliest collections reaching back to 1821 (the museum itself was established in 1888).
It is recognised as the biggest university museum in the United Kingdom, with a collection of approximately 4.5 million items from all around the world. It is well-known for its extensive collection of Chinese cultural items.
Address: Oxford Road, Manchester
6) Take a Tour of St. Mary's Catholic Church
St. Mary's Catholic Church is another religious landmark worth seeing, and it's a bit of a hidden treasure in Manchester. It was built in 1794 and is located close to the old Market Hall. It is also known as "The Hidden Gem" locally.
There are some outstanding Victorian carvings here. The high marble altar, saint sculptures, and distinctive Expressionist-style stations of the cross are among the highlights. (There are guided tours available.)
Address: 17 Mulberry Street, Manchester
7) National Football Museum
Visiting the home to two of Europe's best football teams - Manchester City and Manchester United – is an excellent site to pay respect to the country's favourite sport. The National Football Museum should be your first destination. This football shrine houses intriguing football artefacts, including the very first rulebook, as well as historic trophies and clothes.
A range of fantastic short films depicts the history of the sport, while exciting hands-on (and feet-on) displays give lots of additional amusement for children. Check their website for information on upcoming special events and programmes.
It's also worthwhile to pay a visit to one (or both) of Manchester's home stadiums. Manchester City's Etihad Stadium has a number of exciting tour choices, including behind-the-scenes and gourmet dinner trips. Manchester United's home stadium, Old Trafford, provides guided tours that include access to VIP boxes and the opportunity to walk the pitch itself.
Address: Urbis Building Cathedral Gardens, Todd Street, Manchester
Are you planning a weekend away in Manchester? Book a stay online now at one of our serviced apartments and experience the most convenient and comfortable stay in Manchester.