Our top tips for making the most of the week ahead, with brilliant things to do across the whole of Greater Manchester… For even more ideas, visit our What’s On page.

People walking through MediaCityUK in the summer  

1. Enjoy a family weekend at Media City 

Box on the Docks at Media City welcomes the Family Weekender celebration on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 August, with a festival promising a weekend packed with huge lawn games, including family favourites like Jenga, Connect 4, and Dominoes. You can also explore the Salford Literacy Trail, where you can challenge your friends or family to a game or simply sit back and enjoy the music with free entertainment from children's entertainers, musicians, craft activities, and storytelling. 

2. Spot a Pixie or two on a magical woodland walk at RHS Garden Bridgewater 

This month, RHS Garden Bridgewater is hosting an enchanting and atmospheric fairy walk in the wonderful Middle Wood. Come along and immerse yourself in a fantasy kingdom of dragons, fairies, pixies, giants, and wizardry for nature-loving families wishing to embark on a sensory trip. Discover the local historical myths and legends behind each trail point and let your imagination run wild. 

3. Indulge in a Gin Tasting dinner on board the East Lancashire Railway 

The best way to celebrate any special occasion or have a unique Friday night experience is to enjoy a tipple of the finest gins alongside a fabulous four-course meal. East Lancashire Railway’s beautifully restored Pullman-style carriage will take guests on a journey through Irwell Valley while they learn about and try some of the world’s finest gins. Tickets start from £85. 

4. Head to the big screen…at a Victorian Swimming Pool 

The Village Screen is returning to Victoria Baths on Friday 19 August for a memorable summer evening. Have the time of your life watching the 80s classic Dirty Dancing, choose from candy-striped deckchairs inside the Gala Pool or classic timber seats on the Balcony level overlooking the Gala Pool. Before the screening, you’ll be joined by some wonderful local street food sellers and a DJ, as well as a pop-up bar dishing all the good things, including cocktails, chilled beers, Prosecco, fresh popcorn, and more! Tickets start from £18. 

5. Watch a modern Disney Classic at The Trafford Centre 

Summer Daze at Trafford Centre returns with live music, a summer-themed funfair, and an outdoor summer cinema. Encanto, a Disney favourite, is coming to the big screen on Saturday 20 August, so stock up on popcorn, grab your cosiest blanket, and head outside to the Great Hall. There is no need to book; simply turn up. Admission is free. 

New opening of the week: Yum Cha, Kampus 

A new dim sum and roast meats kitchen has opened at Kampus, Manchester’s garden neighbourhood. It’s Yum Cha’s second spot after the wildly popular first restaurant on Liverpool’s Lark Lane. Diners will step into an industrial Asian vibe in the space, with polished concrete alongside hanging lanterns and murals adorning the walls. The spot – above Nell’s pizza and neighbouring recently-opened The Beeswing – also boasts a first-floor outside terrace, overlooking the lush Kampus gardens.  

Book Now: The Tiger Who Came to Tea, The Lowry Theatre 

The Tiger Who Came to Tea, the Olivier Award-winning blockbuster hit production, arrives at The Lowry in October. Join the tea-drinking tiger in this wonderful family performance full of magic, sing-along songs, and bumbling pandemonium. Don't miss this breath-taking theatrical version of the famous story of teatime mayhem.