Manchester

The city of Manchester is situated in the northwest of England, and has a strong reputation as being very lively and cosmopolitan. With several major universities, a large student population here has resulted in Manchester being known as one of the UK’s best nightlife spots. Keen shoppers travel great distances in order to visit Manchester city centre, as it is famous for its diverse range of shops to suit all.

Attractions

Manchester Town Hall is a stunning piece of Victorian architecture, both inside and out, and is well worth a visit for those with an interest in design. The Lowry is a definite must. Located on the Salford Quays, it is home to exhibition centres, galleries, theatres and restaurants. There are also several shops in The Lowry, so shopping trips can be extended to this centre, just ten minutes from the heart of the city itself.

One will find a comprehensive dedication to football history at the National Football Museum (free admission), which incorporates a number of interactive displays including the chance to record your own Match Of The Day program.

Various exhibitions are presented in the G-Mex (Greater Manchester Exhibition Centre), which is a good place to visit, even if it’s just to see the beautiful design of the building itself.

Shopping

The designer shopping centres of Manchester can be found in St Ann’s Square and Barton Arcade, where both British and international designers have shops. The Arndale Centre is an excellent location for high street shopping, as is the impressive Trafford Centre, which is located just outside Manchester city centre. Both shopping centres boast an extensive range of high street stores. Markets can be found in the outskirts of the city, in the towns of Altrincham and Bury.

Nightlife and Eating out

Manchester has a staggering number of night spots – with around five hundred bars alone, visitors to Manchester are spoilt for choice. Two major venues for clubs and bars are Deansgate and The Printworks.

In terms of food, Manchester has a great deal to offer. Manchester City council boasts of having over thirty different nationalities of food in the city centre – so there is lot to choose from, whatever your culinary tastes. Throughout the city there are a whole host of cafés and coffee shops.

Tourist Information

Greater Manchester Tourist Information CentreTown Hall ExtensionLloyd StreetSt Peter's SquareTel: 0161 234 3157manchester.visitor.centre@notes.manchester.gov.ukwww.destinationmanchester.com

Airport

Manchester International Airport is ten miles south of Manchester City Centre, and serves most domestic and European destinations, and a large number of other international destinations.