Spend a day in Manchester and it rapidly becomes apparent just how much the city has reinvented its industrial past into a new, trendsetting present - and an ambitious future. Today, the listed buildings of the world’s first inter-city passenger railway house the Science & Industry Museum, a globally important heritage site, while the monumental columns of a former trading hall - once an international cotton exchange - hold up the UK’s biggest theatre in the round at the Royal Exchange. Manchester’s world-class art and textiles collections, held by Manchester Art Gallery and the redeveloped Whitworth, were amassed as a result of the city’s great post-industrial wealth and world standing - without which, exceptional buildings such as the Grade I listed John Rylands Library would not have been possible. The Quays - now home to MediaCityUK, the largest media hub in Europe, national museum IWM North and Manchester’s most visited cultural attraction The Lowry - is an area that has been transformed from the busiest industrial dock in the UK, to a 21st century cultural centre in just over 100 years. Of course Manchester is synonomous with football and you’ll find world-class collections at the National Football Museum.
Enjoy unmissable experiences and inspiring performances in 2026 at Salford's iconic theatre, Lowry. Lowry has been spreading joy of art and creativity for over 25 years. As a charity, Lowry puts every pound back into fantastic projects across local communities, nurturing young talent and creating a…
Discover Manchester’s hidden gems, from historic libraries and secret bars to an elevated walkway in the heart of the city. Explore the Northern Quarter’s independent scene, uncover hidden food and drink spots, dive into Manchester's late-night culture scene or venture beyond the city centre to…
Manchester is one of those cities where almost every corner has a story – and usually, a great photo waiting to happen. From hidden streets and colourful murals to grand old libraries and canals, it’s a place made for wandering with your camera. Some areas feel straight out of a film set, with…
It’s National Curry Week (6-12 October), and honestly, there’s no better place to celebrate than Manchester — a city that truly knows its spice. From the sizzling streets of Rusholme’s Curry Mile to the stylish Indian restaurants in the city centre (and even a hidden gem or two out in Rochdale)…
Celebrate Japan Week by uncovering the fascinating Japanese artifacts housed in some of Manchester’s most iconic cultural institutions. From centuries-old incense burners to intricately drawn maps and temple bells, these treasures offer a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich artistic and spiritual…
