There’s Something for Everyone in Manchester
By Jessica Montevago
Manchester is a vibrant city, full of interesting architecture, unique museums, and a thriving sports culture. Its collection of attractions and easy access make it a perfect fit for every traveler, whether it’s book-ending a longer journey or a long weekend away. Let the city take your clients by surprise.
For the Art Connoisseur
After a three-year closure, the Manchester Museum reopened earlier this year following a £15 million transformation. The museum now houses a new two-story extension, exhibition hall, South Asia Gallery, and Chinese Culture Gallery.
The Manchester Art Gallery opened its first designated Fashion Gallery, nodding to the city’s history as a textile giant, and presently as home to many UK fashion brands. It’s also home to works that go back to the pre-Raphaelite period as well as works by famous local artists like Lowry.
For the Family
The Science and Industry Museum showcases the pivotal role Manchester played in the Industrial Revolution across five interactive exhibition areas. The collection chronicles the city’s best-known breakthroughs and inventions, including everything from a replica steam locomotive to “Baby,” the world’s first stored-program computer and arguably the very start of modern computing. The museum’s Treasure Hunter app, complete with games and activities, is guaranteed to keep kids entertained.
Manchester United Stadium | MERCURY studio - stock.adobe.com
For the Sports Fanatic
Of course, Manchester is synonymous with soccer – or football if you’re a local – and is home to two teams Manchester City and Manchester United. Visitors can learn more about both clubs at The National Football Museum. Those already with a team allegiance can visit the respective stadiums, Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium and Manchester United’s Old Trafford Stadium for a behind the scenes tour (on non-game days).
For the Foodie
Manchester has a thriving restaurant scene. Some of the city’s best restaurants can be found in the hippest neighborhood and creative hub, the Northern Quarter. The Northern Quarter’s equally cool neighbor, Ancoats, has buzzy new eateries, as well as lively music venues. Foodie’s also have to make a stop in Altrincham market for tasty treats and Chinatown for delectable dim sum and ramen.
For the Nature Lover
Venture outside the city center for vistas of rolling hills and waterways. Greater Manchester has over 500 square miles of countryside, lined with trails perfect for picturesque strolls or bike rides.
John Rylands Library
For the Book Worm
The John Rylands Research Institute and Library is dedicated to its namesake, a cotton merchant who was instrumental in Manchester’s early development. Inside is a stunning display of Gothic architecture, with wood-paneled reading rooms, sweeping stone staircases, and glass cases that are filled with collections of rare books.
Where to Stay
The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is housed in a dramatic Edwardian building dating back to 1890. For a luxurious stay, select suites offer separate sitting and living areas, four-poster beds, and vintage details. For a night of elegant dining, Refuge by Volta serves international small plates. Guests can also enjoy a coffee or a cocktail at the Public Bar, or visit the Den for a game of foosball and snacks.
Converted from a 19th century warehouse to 4-star hotel, the Marriott Manchester Victoria & Albert Hotel offers an ideal city center location. The family-friendly property has a gym, casual dining spot, and access to an off-site indoor swimming pool and spa.
The Trafford Hall Hotel Manchester, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, is top choice for clients who prefer a quieter, boutique experience. Located on the border between Manchester and Trafford, sports fanatics will love the hotel’s proximity to Old Trafford Football and Cricket Stadium. The renovated Victorian hotel offers a range of room sizes from standard double and twin rooms through to triple and family suites, as well as on-site restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A pioneer in the industrial revolution, Manchester has transformed itself yet again. It honors the past with untouched architecture and museums; simultaneously, it’s become a vibrant metropolitan with a vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene.
Book these hotels, and more, using the TSA rate code in the GDS. Non-GDS users can book these hotels using tripXpress.
Banner photo: Countryside near Manchester
