Whenever Christmas, birthdays or big occasions come around, some people are just impossible to buy for. Even if you know them like the back of your hand, knowing what they might want as a gift can feel like an impossible task. Thankfully, Manchester and its businesses has your back, with many of them offering great experiences for you and your loved one to enjoy while you celebrate that special occasion. Here are some of our favourite Experience and Gift spots around Greater Manchester:  

1. Theatre Tickets 

Give the gift of theatre this Christmas at one of Manchester’s talent-filled theatres. From award winning Broadway productions of The King and I at The Lowry in Salford, to a heart-stopping new musical Brief Encounter, playing at the Royal Exchange Theatre. If you’ve got very little ones who love an exciting trip to the theatre, Colour the Clouds Theatre Company are presenting Little Penguins First Christmas until 15th December, filled with puppetry, original music and sensory delights – perfect for babies aged 0-36 months and their grown-ups.  

This time of year means there are an abundance of fabulous pantomimes going on all over Greater Manchester until the end of the year. The Manchester Opera House is bringing back their beloved Jack and the Beanstalk, which hosts a number of famous faces including comedian superstar Jason Manford. Heywood are hosting Snow White at West Starkey Street, staring CBBC’s beloved Basil Brush, while over in Middleton Sooty and Sweep will be starring in Middleton Arena’s showing of Jack and the Beanstalk. 

2. Emirates Old Trafford 

Have a cricket fan in the family? You can now book a guided tour of the world-famous Emirates Old Trafford, home of cricket in the North-west and Lancashire Cricket since 1864. This stadium is used to hosting world-class events and welcomes over half a million visitors every year.  

The tour starts with a guide around the famous pavilion, where you can follow in the footsteps of greats as you visit the changing rooms and training nets, as well as a unique perspective into the commentary boxes. Experience decades of history with a visit to the Members suite.  

Give the gift of international cricket tickets this Christmas, treat a special someone to England tickets, hospitality, retail or a Red Rose membership and give them the opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime.  

Book your place here.

3. Shows at AO Arena

Join over 1 million people by booking one of the incredible shows at the infamous AO Arena. Hosting an abundance of live shows and events, there is something for all tastes. In January, Arenacross British Championship is back, experience first-hand the high-octane mix of indoor Motocross racing, packed to the rafters with all-round family fun and frenzied entertainment. If motocross doesn’t take your fancy, maybe Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour is more your thing. It's time to dust off those scoring paddles and get those dancing shoes ready, with roof-raising routines and interactive voting, you won’t want to miss it!  

If you’re looking for sport, don’t miss your chance to see the iconic Harlem Globetrotters live in action in February 2024. As they celebrate their 100th anniversary, expect amazing basketball skills, outrageous athleticism and a non-stop good time as they take on the Washington Generals. Part streetball from the players who defined it, part interactive family entertainment, the live event will show off the best of the Globetrotters in a dazzling exhibition of talent and game. 

4. Coronation Street Experience 

Take a trip down Manchester’s most iconic television street – Coronation Street. Post-filming hours are your time to explore! Join the exclusive 90-minute guided tour and visit renowned locations like the Rovers Return, The Kabin, and the Platt’s family home. Venture through the meticulously designed sets, giving you a real look into the craftsmanship involved in creating this infamous institution. The journey doesn’t end there, marvel at 60 years of authentic probs, archives and costume design. 

The limited-edition Star Tours take it one step further, these VIP tickets give you the opportunity to meet and interacts with cast members and listen to their fascinating tales from their time on the street. The perfect gift for any Coronation Street lover! 

Secure your spot here.  

5. East Lancashire Railway 

Celebrate a special occasion in style and give a loved one an unforgettable experience with East Lancashire Railway Dining Experiences. Dine with distinction aboard the ceremonious railway in a number of different events, from Premium Nights and Red Rose Diners to Afternoon Tea and Murder Mystery Nights, there truly is an event for everyone.  

It isn’t just delectable dining you can undertake at East Lancashire Railway, bring your childhood dreams to life and step foot into the driving seat of one of their steam or diesel locomotives. During this hands-on, full-day diesel footplate experience – you’ll get to drive and second man a diesel or steam train, enjoy a hot lunch, join a guided tour and have plenty of wonderful photo opportunities. Truly a once in a lifetime experience and the perfect present.  

Book your place here. 

6. The Sculpts 

If you want to buy a beautiful gift for someone who loves Manchester, you can’t go wrong with something from The Sculpts. Creating beautiful ceramic housewares and stunning artwork, The Sculpts handmade gifts showcase Manchester’s history, heritage and culture. Their collection includes decorative alphabet tiles, honeycomb bee cushions, stunning art prints, and gorgeous tote bags – featuring all parts of the city-region, from the Victorian splendour of Victoria Baths, right through to the iconic Hacienda nightclub and Factory records.  

The Sculpts have illustrated Manchester’s evolution and turned it into beautiful gifts for people who simply love the city.  

Visit them either in store in Sale, or online here.  

7. Personal Shopping at Selfridges

Whether you’re picking out the perfect gift for someone special or looking to refresh your wardrobe in time for the Christmas parties, Selfridges in the Trafford Centre are here to help. Choose from a range of personal shopping options to tailor to your purchasing needs. They also offer a range of beauty and self care experiences, from the new mum pamper day to flourist workshops and much more. The perfect gift for someone you want to spoil! 

Explore everything Selfridges Trafford Centre has to offer here.

8. Football Club Stadium Tour 

Old Trafford Tour & Museum

Get the Manchester United fans the experience of a lifetime by going behind the scenes at one of the world’s most iconic stadiums, Old Trafford. Sit in the managers dugout, walk the players tunnel and explore the dressing rooms, getting a real feel for Premier League life.  

Visit the museum to see fascinating memorabilia and interactive exhibits, learn about the club’s history and achievements as you explore the museum.  

To book your Old Trafford Tour, visit here. 

Manchester City Stadium and Club Tour 

Visit the home of the Treble winners and go behind the scenes at the Etihad Stadium. The perfect gift for any City fan, walk in the footsteps of your favourite player, explore the players tunnel and home dressing room. You can even interact with a virtual Pep Guardiola in the press room, so you can really immerse yourself. 

To book your Etihad Tour, visit here. 

Both tours offer translation services and can be translated into French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish, Korean, Arabic, and Portuguese. 

9. Scranchester Walking Tours  

If you’re looking for an experience your foodie friend will love, what about Scranchester Food Tours? This walking tour of Manchester’s best kept secrets is a great way to explore the city via your tastebuds. Venture to around 8 restaurants and cafés in Manchester City Centre and learn about the cities history at the same time! Vouchers are available so your food-loving friend can book onto the tours whenever they like, so it’s the perfect give for Manchester food lovers. 

Find out more about Scranchester tours here. 

10. Distillery Tour and Guided Tasting at Manchester Gin

Get your gin-obsessed loved one the evening they won’t forget with a guided tour and tasting of Manchester’s famous Manchester Gin Distillery. Giving you a key insight into the distilling process, where you’ll see first hand what goes into making one of the most awarded gins in the country.  

Sample several of their specialist gins and get a real understanding of their flavour palettes. With tutored tasting, learn what to look out for when tasting high quality gin and find out what your favourite flavour profiles are. It will be a tipple they’ll never forget.  

Book your place here.

For more ideas to make the most of the city-region, or to plan your ideal trip to Manchester, visit our Ideas and Inspirations page. 

To find out more about events taking place around Greater Manchester this winter, visit our What’s On page.