1. Raise a racket supporting Britain’s tennis aces 
 

AO Arena is the place to be this week, for the ‘world cup’ of Tennis. Between 12 and 17 September, the four nations of Group B will face each other in this Group Stage of the Davis Cup Finals, to decide who moves on to Malaga for the quarterfinals in November. The team, made up of Britain’s tennis greats Cam Norrie, Dan Evans, Nea Skupski, Jack Draper and Andy Murray, are looking to repeat the success of the 2015 edition, when Britain won the cup for the first time in 79 years. Tickets available here. 
 

2. Catch a timeless play at Octagon Theatre 
 

Until 20 September, Octagon Theatre in Bolton presents a play by American playwright Arthur Miller (Death of a Salesman and The Crucible). Set in 1950’s New York, A View from the Bridge tells the story of Eddie Carbone and a life of secrets, jealousy and betrayal. The classic masterpiece is directed by Holly Race Roughan with an incredible cast including Kirsty Bushell (Beatrice) and Jonathan Slinger (Eddie). Tickets from £15. 
 

3. Put your creative skills to work with writing workshops 
 

An exciting literary event is happening all over Chorlton between the 15 and 23 September. With Chorlton’s Library undergoing refurbishment, Chorlton’s Book Festival has been moved to various locations all over the town, and will feature creative writing workshops, performance poetry and an evening with bestselling fantasy author Thomas D Lee. Most tickets are on a ‘pay what you can’ basis. 
 

4. Photography exhibition comes to Castlefield Viaduct  
 

A new, free exhibition is on show at Castlefield Viaduct until Sunday, 17 September. Conversations with a Camera is a series of photographs of Manchester and Salford by the Chapel Street Camera Club. The exhibition explores the changes in the cityscapes and provides a parallel to the connections formed between the two cities and the relationships between the members of the club. The photos can be found on display in the visitor building. 
 

5. Discover 12-miles of incredible scenery aboard a real steam train 
 

For a perfect day out this week, head to Bury and find the East Lancashire Railway, where you can board a real steam train and hop off on unique, old stations to discover what those beautiful towns have to offer. On the 15 and 16 September, you can ride one of the iconic locomotives during the Autumn Diesel Gala, during an all-diesel timetable. After, feel free to explore the Bury Transport Museum or have a wander around the gift shop. 
 

Book now: Co-op Live announces first shows 
 

The much-anticipated Co-op Live arena has started to announce the line-up for its first year, and it’s already a star-studded one. Legendary guitarist Eric Clapton will be playing the 23,500 capacity venue for his first performance in Manchester in over a decade. With 26 Billboard Hot 100 hits under their belt, the  Jonas Brothers will also play the venue as part of their Five Albums. One Night tour. And the most recently announced act is none other than former One Direction member Niall Horan, who has just this year released his new album, The Show. All tickets are now on sale here. 
 

New Opening: Central Bay 
 

One of the most exciting openings of the year is fast approaching. Central Bay is the new waterfront foodie destination in MediaCity and will be home to 11 Central microbrewery and gin distillery, as well as Kargo MKT, a huge food hall with over 20 independent traders. With 2000 square ft of outdoor space and 400 seats, this food hall will feature a mix of international food, from fresh sushi to delicious Caribbean meals. To make sure no one misses out on the fun, kids eat free every school holiday, and from Monday to Friday you can enjoy a £6 lunch deal.