• Join the crowds at Old Trafford: Fans from all over the world follow Manchester United, the most successful football team in England, and matches at their Old Trafford stadium can be electric. Tickets can be hard to come by, but arrange them early and join the crowds on the tram to Salford to take in the unique atmosphere generated at the stadium popularly known as “The Theatre of Dreams.”
  • Enjoy cutting edge performing arts: The canal-side Lowry Centre was at the heart of Salford’s regeneration in the ’90s and now stands as one of the most significant cultural centers in the north of England. Travel early, enjoy a drink by the water’s edge as the sun disappears over the horizon, and then enjoy an evening of world class entertainment.
  • Taste a world of flavors: Explore thoroughly modern European menus curated by such Michelin-starred chefs as Abodes’ Michael Caines, or find a fireside seat in a cozy pub and enjoy Sunday lunch in the Lancashire countryside. Britain’s second largest Chinatown sizzles with the scent of chilli and garlic while the famous Curry Mile’s 70 restaurants cater to Britain’s legions of curry fans. Dinnertime is a treat no matter what you feel like eating in Manchester.
  • Live it up: Manchester’s gay village is centered on Canal Street, a charming cobblestone street lined with the iconic redbrick warehouses of the city’s industrial past. On a sunny day, grab an outdoor table and enjoy the views over the canal. Once the sun goes down the gay-friendly bars that line Canal Street make it obvious why locals head here to enjoy Manchester’s most happening nightspots. Only the open-minded need apply.
  • Investigate an industrial past: Manchester’s role in the industrial revolution cannot be underestimated and the best place to see many of the mechanisms that drove its expansion in the 19th century is the enormous Museum of Transport. Make sure to check out the converted rail shed where the museum’s skilled restorationists work on Victorian steam engines among the paint and paraphernalia of their trade.
  • Take a moment to reflect: The angular metallic sheen of Daniel Libeskind’s Imperial War Museum North punctuates the sky to the west of the city center. Inside, uncomfortably designed interior spaces help to bring home the real impact of the subject matter. The room containing the personal effects of refugees from different conflicts is particularly arresting, with suitcases reaching towards the ceiling.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.