As one of England’s largest cities, Manchester is often overlooked when visitors are planning a trip to the UK. However, it has character that you wouldn’t find in larger cities like London. Manchester is known for its music, football, and industrial heritage, and they’ve become one of the country’s most exciting destinations for culture. With niche independent businesses, a thriving food scene, and neighbourhoods you can get pleasantly lost in, it’s the perfect place to go for a weekend getaway or simply pass through. 

Here’s how you can make the most of your time in Manchester.

Stay:

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay that feels both like a hotel and home, Treehouse Hotel Manchester is perfect. Located in the heart of Manchester, the hotel is a child’s imagination brought to life. It blends youthful nostalgia with thoughtful, modern design, creating a warm, relaxed energy. As soon as we walked in, we noticed the quirky details throughout the interiors, from cosy corners with mismatched chairs, magazines, and found objects. 

While it’s centrally located, the hotel feels like the escape you need after a long day of travel with how quiet and serene it is. The Studio Suites are spacious and filled with natural light, thanks to the large windows and expansive city views. The room decor, unlike traditional hotel decor, has a ton of personality, combining soft textures and patterns with woody, rustic details. It’s livable and homely in a way that most traditional hotels aren’t. 

Downstairs, lunch at Pip held just as much creative energy as the rest of the hotel does. The restaurant is led by chef Mary-Ellen McTague, and the menu contains seasonal British cooking with inventive twists. Each dish we tried, from mains to sides, had a touch of flavour and comfort, making it a great addition to the stay. 

Shop:

Manchester’s shopping scene is perfect for those who enjoy a unique, mom-and-pop experience. When you ask locals where to go, they almost always suggest the Northern Quarter. Upon arrival, we realised it’s a neighbourhood you can get lost in for an entire day, with an array of independent shops, hidden cafes, and creative spaces. Our first stop was Fred Aldous, a Manchester institution that has been carrying art and creative supplies since 1886. You can find fabrics, stationery, gifts, and two retro-style photobooths that always have a queue. 

Fred Aldous

UNITOM is ideal for those who are interested in fashion and photography. The independent bookstore specialises in art books, magazines, and small-press publications from around the world. A short walk away from there is Northern Flower, an independent florist that has become a staple in the neighbourhood over the last two decades. They’re known for their beautifully arranged flowers as well as a curated selection of gifts and homeware. A block from there is a highly recommended design-focused shop. Deadstock General Store specialises in carefully sourced homeware, lifestyle pieces, niche skincare, and fragrances and candles. 

UNITOM 

Northern Flower

Deadstock General Store

Food/Drinks:

Some of the best places to eat in Manchester are actually the ones that aren’t out in the open. They’re tucked into side streets along the Northern Quarter and hidden under railway arches, such a Layla’s, a community-focused cafe beneath the arches of Castlefield. They’ve got a mix of Middle Eastern flavours with classic British brunch. You’ll find fresh dishes on the menu from shakshuka to brioche French toast, as well as speciality coffee and ceremonial matcha. If you’re looking for something a bit more classic, Gusto Italian pairs contemporary Italian dishes with a lively atmosphere. It’s great for dinners, cocktails, and smaller plates with a group.

Layla’s

A coffee spot not to miss is Bold Street Coffee. They’re right in the city centre with reliably excellent coffee, pastries, and all-day brunch, which works if you’re looking for a quick stop or a place to reset for an hour or so. Similarly, Companio has also become a local favourite in Ancoats, most known for its buttery viennoiserie, long-fermented breads, and exceptional coffee. They started as a small sourdough bakery but have grown into one of Manchester’s most-loved food spots. 

Bold Street Coffee

Companio

For those looking to check out Manchester’s bar scene in the evening, renae is one of the city’s most interesting additions. It’s a music-first cocktail bar in the Northern Quarter that is both effortlessly cool and welcoming. With a focus on sound, community, and design, the space features DJs, a record shop, and a bar. Another option is Bar Shrimp. They’ve got a darker, more intimate vibe, with a seafood-and-cocktails menu. It’s exactly the place where one can lose time over drinks late into the evening. 

renae

Bar Shrimp

Entertainment:

To cap the day off, nothing is better than exploring Manchester’s entertainment scene, and what better than a visit to Co-op Live? They’re now the largest indoor arena in the UK and have quickly become one of Manchester’s biggest cultural hubs. From hosting major music acts and sporting events to award shows, the venue was intentionally designed to feel intimate. They have a capacity of 23,500, and every seat is positioned closer to the stage with state-of-the-art acoustics, allowing for an immersive live experience. This space reflects Manchester’s wider creative spirit. They’ve got restaurants, lounges, and over 30 bars throughout the venue. In addition, they’ve got a strong focus on sustainability and accessibility, with experience taking precedence over scale alone. 

Manchester manages to balance community, creativity, and culture. The city has a lot to offer from their coffee spots and independent shops to welcoming places to stay and top-notch entertainment facilities. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve visited before, there’s always something new to discover, which makes coming back inevitable. 

Words by Naureen Nashid

Top image @konstantinamav__