The opening of outdoor dining, pubs, non-essential shops and outdoor attractions has been a welcome step for the tourism industry in Greater Manchester. Here we’re providing you with a weekly list of ten things that you can now plan and enjoy for the week ahead, starting from Saturday 8 May. 

Please remember to check if venues require pre-booking before visiting. All businesses are following Government guidelines on Covid-19 safety, please remember to keep your distance where possible, where a face covering where required (unless exempt), wash your hands regularly, and seek spaces with good ventilation. 
 

Here are our top highlights for the week ahead:
   

1. Explore market fairs at two historic locations 
 

Support independent makers this weekend (8-9 May) at the historic Victoria Baths Creative Makers Fair, where the restored Victorian pools will be transformed to host a variety of unique handmade artwork, ceramics, crafts and textiles. You’ll also have the chance to see its newly restored stained glass, expanded gift shop, and take in the history of the 1906 building in the Exhibition Room. Entry is timed, priced at £3. 

Lovers of literature will also be able to visit Elizabeth Gaskell’s House (around the corner from Victoria Baths) this Sunday (9 May), which is hosting a second-hand book sale with two rooms packed full of everything including fiction, children’s books, vintage maps and more. Entry is £1, which includes access to the historic former home of Elizabeth Gaskell and is redeemable against any pre-loved book. Profits from the event go towards the upkeep of the Victorian villa.  
 

2. Learn about the history of a Manchester-born institution on a walking tour 
 

Mark 200 years of The Guardian newspaper, formerly The Manchester Guardian first published on 5 May 1821, with a tour of the city that shaped the stalwart paper, its historical contribution, and the Mancunian characters that led it to its success. The walking tour starts at 11am, and is run by local guide Jonathan Schofield, priced at £15 and bookable online.   

If you don’t fancy a stomp around town, join New Manchester Walks for a series of fascinating tours, without having to leave your bed! Throughout the week you can experience exciting Zoom tours including; Manchester Music: The Hacienda Years (8 May), Secrets of MI5 (9 May); and Manchester History: Chetham’s Library & Manchester Cathedral (14 May).  
 

3. Go get physical with DJ yoga and a running challenge 
 

Disco meets yoga at a new concept coming to Hatch this Wednesday (12 May). An in-person outdoor yoga session is taking place at 7:45am, open to all abilities and hosted by Hits Radio DJ Hattie Pearson. A great way to start your mid-week morning pumped, the concept from RESET lasts for 60 minutes, is outdoor but undercover with floor heaters, plus you’ll be entered into a draw to win classes at RESET.  

Alternatively, run the paths of Heaton Park and join the first-ever Chase The Sun 5k, 10k, and 10 Mile run on Wednesday (12 May). Battle to get around the course before the sun goes down to beat your personal best or raise money for charity whilst running – competitors will be provided with chip timed results, a unique medal, and there will be music and refreshments available. The event starts at 7pm, more information can be found here. 
 

4. Dine at the city’s newest outdoor terrace 
 

Manchester’s latest hotel opening Qbic on Deansgate has now opened its doors to guests, launching their new terrace at the on-site restaurant Motley, with reservations now available online. The restaurant has been praised for its range of vegetarian and vegan options, with sustainability at the forefront across the hotel. Visitors need not worry about the weather either, as Qbic and Motley’s terrace is fully covered, and we have it on good recommendation that staff will even provide you a cosy hot water bottle if you get chilly!    
 

5. Find your space in the great outdoors 
 

Whilst Manchester starts to buzz again with the reopening of hospitality and shopping, now is the perfect opportunity to escape to Greater Manchester’s countryside spots and parks that are a bit quieter than in recent months.  

Greater Manchester is full of beautiful countryside, including Dove Stone Reservoir on the outskirts of Tameside and Oldham, which provides views of stunning hills and expansive reservoirs; or Rivington Pike in Bolton for hilltop views offering panoramas of the city, as well as the Lake District and even the Blackpool Tower on a clear day! 

For more green inspiration, take a look at our countryside guides, including Top 5 Walks with a View, cycling routes across the region and Instagram Guide.