Manchester has more to offer than any other city in the UK outside of London (although, even that is debatable). From Manchester United to Coronation Street, there is much to be proud of and to attract interest from residents and visitors alike.
Social Circle members are the first in the queue when it comes to making the most out of this great city. We asked them to name their favourite venues and attractions.
Social Circle voted 10/10 for…Take a trip to the Quays
Mere minutes away from Manchester city centre and where Trafford and Salford meet, is the Quays. The Lowry (both gallery and shopping centre) is situated here, along with the Imperial War Museum, and Media City. A day of shopping and culture alongside the stunning waterfront would make an ideal day out for many and there is also the opportunity to watch The Jeremy Kyle Show or other shows being filmed at Media City.
Social Circle voted 10/10 for…The Gay Village
The gay village is making a bit of a comeback after being considered over exposed in recent years. In fact, it is now considered a major attraction to both those who live in Manchester and out-of-towners. The area is much smarter than it once was…
Social Circle voted 9/10 for…Chinatown
Manchester’s Chinatown is allegedly the largest in Europe. It’s supermarkets, bakeries, bars, and restaurants cover a large area of the city centre. A stunning Chinese gate welcomes anyone setting foot in the area. In the last few years, the Chinese New Year has become a far more celebrated event, not just in Chinatown, but in Manchester city centre as a whole. It is more than worth sampling the number of restaurants and other venues Chinatown has to offer.
Social Circle voted 9/10 for…Castlefield
It’s hard to believe that it was once a no-go area. The canalside district has now been rejuvenated into a waterside area with bars, galleries, and a number of attractions.
History is where the area thrives with the vicus foundations, and what’s left of the walls, granaries and gate that once belonged to the Roman Fort of Mamucium. The nearby Outdoor Arena is employed for various events throughout the course of the year.
The Roman Fort (reconstructed) shows how Manchester appeared when the Romans occupied Britain.
Social Circle voted 9/10 for…Football
Visit any city in in any country in the world and the first thing most people will think of when you say you’re from Manchester is ‘football’. It will be most likely the red of United that comes to mind but increasingly Manchester City is taking on more of a worldwide recognition thanks to their improved play in the globally popular Premier League. If taking in a game at Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium is not on the cards, a visit to the National Football Museum may be just the ticket.
Social Circle voted 9/10 for…Manchester Wheel
The 60m high Manchester Wheel, borrowing its concept straight from the London Eye, offers spectacular views of Manchester. There is also commentary as you ride around and around, with something new to see on every spin.
Social Circle voted 9/10 for…Coronation Street Tour
Coronation Street has been among the most popular soap operas in the UK since its first airing in 1960. The 45 minute tour allows fans to see step inside the houses of the beloved characters, as well as the Rovers Return. There is an opportunity for photographs at the end when walking out on to the street
Tickets for the tour cost £16.50 per person and you book yourself on a certain time slot. It is better to book the tour in advance as it is a really popular tour and tickets sell out quite quickly and especially for tours starting at peak times of the day.
Social Circle voted 8/10 for…Spinningfields
Spinningfields is a modern Manchester development for mainly professional and financial services. However, it also has a lot to offer the general public with its numerous hotels, restaurants, bars, and designer shops. The main square features an open air cinema in the summer and an ice skating rink in the winter. The area also features The People’s History Museum, which features an interesting look at the history of Britain.
Social Circle voted 7/10 for…Chill Factore- Skiing or snowboarding
For those who are curious how skiing or snowboarding in real snow feels like, without having to leave the country, ChillFactore offers the perfect solution. The snow is as real as it can be (without being actually real, of course) and the air is certainly cold enough. The instructors are also fun, kind, and patient, which helps those trying it out for the very first time.
Social Circle voted 7/10 for…The Curry Mile
It may not be exactly a mile but there’s certainly no shortage of curry available in its Arab, Persian, Pakistani and Indian restaurants and cafes. Most of the venues are affordable and the quality is just fine. There are also a number of take-aways for those who have the urge to taste something hot at home. And Indian sweets from their delicatessens can also help add some authenticity to the evening.
