1. Spend an extraordinary evening of classical music at Bridgewater Hall 

This Friday, 12 January, head to Bridgewater Hall, where acclaimed pianist Benjamin Grosvenor will be playing some of the most romantic pieces, including Schumann’s Fantasie and Franz Liszt’s Sonata in B minor, completing the performance with three of Chopin’s works. Tickets start form £15. 

  1. Become the UK’s Mini Master LEGO builder 

This year’s exciting LEGO building competition for under 18’s has kicked off at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Trafford. The Mini Master Model Builder UK competition takes place every weekend until 4 February, with the Manchester and Birmingham winners announced as finalists and put through for the final challenge to become the latest UK Mini Master! Entry to the competition is included in standard admission. 

  1. Build your Vinyl collection with this pre-loved record fair 

Whether you are a seasoned collector or have recently become a vinyl enthusiast, this fair at The Guildhall is for you. The Stockport Vinyl Record Fair is taking place this Sunday, 14 January, from 10:00 to 16:00, with plenty of vinyl records, CD’s, books and plenty more on sale. Entry costs £1 at the door or get down early with first access from 9:00 AM for £5. 

  1. Watch this unmissable musical at Royal Exchange Theatre 

Don’t miss the last performances of this stunning musical in the iconic theatre-in-the-round at the Royal Exchange Theatre. Closing this week, Brief Encounter is a stage adaptation by Emma Rice of Noël Coward’s iconic book of the same name which tells the story of Laura and Alec who find love in a busy railway station. Tickets start from £12. 

  1. Enjoy 30% off food from MUSU throughout January and February 

Beat the January Blues by enjoying a special food deal at one of Manchester’s standout restaurants. MUSU are offering 30% off all food menus to brighten up these winter days. Offer is available with online pre-booking using the code VISITMCR30 in the reservation notes field. Book your table here. 

Book now: Don’t miss this incredible magic show at The Midland 

An amazing new show is kicking off this Saturday, 13 January, at Manchester’s iconic Midland hotel. Performed by one of the UK’s top magicians, Steve Price, Magic at the Midland will turn your Saturday evenings into hilarious, magical experiences. The show is on select dates until Saturday, 23 March, so make sure you don’t miss this mind-bending experience and book your tickets here. 

New opening: Rigatoni’s 

Four new pasta stops are coming to Greater Manchester this January, bringing heartwarming food for the Winter season. Rigatoni’s is a new restaurant by the minds behind the fan-favourite SUD spots, closed this past December. The former four SUD locations in Ancoats, Peter Street, Altrincham and Sale are now opening to serve you house made Rigatoni from £7.50, focaccia toasts, Nutella mousse and whipped cream, and plenty other delicious options in their well-crafted menu. 

Book now