City of music, sport, science, culture, history, art, food, shops, pubs, clubs and altogether ‘cool’, this is Manchester. It’s one of the most exciting cities in the UK and you’re about to explore it! We’ve put together this handy guide to help you plan, book and navigate your trip to the bright lights of the north. It includes everything you might need - from where to stay, shop, eat and drink through to what’s fun and how to get around. Whatever part of town you find yourself in, there’ll be a friendly team waiting to look after you at one of Premier Inn’s Manchester hotels.
Things to do in Manchester
Attractions
As the capital of the north-west, Manchester is brimming with things to do and places to see. Whether it’s historical buildings, parks with acres of space, huge arenas or stadiums that are the stuff of sporting legend, Manchester has more than enough to keep you occupied, however long you’re here for.
Activities
Looking for activities in Manchester that excite as well as entertain? Zooming down the UK’s largest indoor ski slope or whizzing through the air at Bounce Central should be just the ticket. And if that’s not enough, there are walking tours, cycle routes, golf and watersports, too.
Culture
Not surprisingly for the town that split the atom and gave us one of the UK’s best loved-painters, LS Lowry, both history and lovers are well-catered for. And if museums and exhibitions aren’t your thing, soak up some student culture on campus at one of Manchester’s universities, including Manchester Metropolitan University or Salford University.
Entertainment
Music, comedy, sport, theatre or maybe even the Manchester Opera House - however you like to be entertained, Manchester has a venue to fit the bill. Indulge your love of classical music at the spectacular Bridgewater Hall, or go for the sheer hedonism on offer as you party with the locals at events such as Pride and Parklife.
Nightlife
From grungy raves to superclubs, traditional boozers to stylish bars, there’s no doubt about it: Manchester is a stomping place to go out at night. Although the Hacienda may be long gone, the city’s heritage of musical talent and club innovation lives on. Music lovers... you're in for a treat!
Places to eat
Famous for its neon-lit curry mile, eclectic street food scene and some seriously good pub food, you won’t go hungry in this town. With a full alphabet of familiar restaurants and a raft of great independents, we’ve picked the city’s best eateries - all of them within easy reach of our Manchester hotels.
Shopping
Manchester is a shopper’s heaven, with designer brands and department stores, high street staples and factory outlets. But best of all has to be the quirky independents - from the Northern Quarter’s eclectic boutiques, to the delightfully hipster Altrincham Market on the outskirts of the city.
Getting around
As the UK’s second biggest city, you’ll find Manchester well-equipped for getting around. If you're flying into Manchester Airport, our guide will get you from the terminal to the city centre, whether you want to take public transport or hop in the car.
Manchester Museums
Love your city breaks to be both entertaining and inspiring in equal measure? A trip to Manchester will be just the ticket - the city has more culture than a four-hour long arthouse film! In fact, with so many top-name galleries and museums crammed into its centre, like the Fusilier Museum, you could find yourself spoilt for choice when it comes to interesting places to visit, and all within walking distance of one of our Manchester hotels.