This content is drawn from the Visit Manchester Insider’s Guide. Filled with ideas and inspiration for things to see, do, and eat, as well as places to stay, the 40-page guide features dedicated sections on what's new and upcoming, along with maps and spotlight pages highlighting Greater Manchester's towns, boroughs, and trendiest neighbourhoods. It's the ideal resource for planning your next trip.

Ancoats

The world’s first industrial suburb, Ancoats has slowly been rising, threatening to take the Northern Quarter’s crown as the city’s coolest neighbourhood. It features an impressive list of bars and restaurants.

Altrincham

A 20-minute tram ride from the city centre, Altrincham has an award-winning high street and is now a foodie hub thanks to spots such as Blanchflower, The Con Club, and the iconic Altrincham Market.

Castlefield

This is where the Roman’s settled back in AD79 when they founded ‘Mamucium’. Whilst the remnants of the fort can still be seen, this neighbourhood now makes for a picturesque walking spot along the canal.

Chorlton

In laid-back Chorlton, you’ll find a medley of good pubs and bars, vegan delis, bakeries, and a strong foodie scene. Weekend strolls along Beech Road and around Chorlton Water Park make it difficult to leave.

Didsbury

Like Chorlton, the suburbs of Didsbury Village and West Didsbury have a hip, independent feel, full to the brim with restaurants, great shops and cafes, plus lush Fletcher Moss Park to explore.

Green Quarter

A growing pocket of green residential space that includes Angel Meadow Park, the Green Quarter is sowing seeds as a neighbourhood to watch with small businesses popping up under historic railway arch.

Levenshulme

Just one stop on the train out from Piccadilly station, Levenshulme has got plenty going on, from the community-run weekly market to the wonderful antiques village, plus plenty of good foodie spot.

Northern Quarter

The Northern Quarter is a hipster haven; a gritty area that’s fiercely independent. It’s overflowing with street art, galleries, cafés, bars, restaurants, boutiques and the unmissable Manchester Craft and Design Centre and Afflecks.

New Islington

Follow the canals into the marina and you’ll find New Islington blending into its neighbour, Ancoats. Spend the morning wandering, watching wildlife, or devouring goods from the locals’ favourite artisan bakery, Pollen.

Prestwich

This buzzing Bury town hosts independent and specialist retailers giving it a unique bohemian feel. You will also find plenty of green space including Prestwich Clough and nearby Heaton Park, Europe’s largest municipal park.

Sale

A plethora of local stores, canal side pubs, and Waterside Arts Centre can be found in Sale. From the town, it’s a short distance to Walkden Gardens or Sale Water Park.

Salford Quays

A unique waterfront location adjacent to MediaCity’s tech and broadcasting hub, Salford Quays is home to the Lowry arts centre, the visually striking Imperial War Museum North, The Coronation Street Experience, and a cavernous food hall at Central Bay.

Salford Central

The area of Salford that meets the western edge of Manchester city centre features great bars and restaurants along Chapel Street as well as masses of green space at Peel Park and The Meadows.

Stockport

A ten-minute train out of the city, Stockport is full of cool businesses, foodie hotspots and some unique attractions including 1930s art deco Stockport Plaza and Grade II listed 1460s Staircase House.

Stretford

With a major regeneration plan in place, Stretford has become one of Greater Manchester’s most sought-after neighbourhoods and is home to Old Trafford Stadium. The Sunday Times lists it as one of the UK’s coolest neighbourhoods.

Urmston

Having undergone revamp in recent years, Urmston is emerging as a strong alternative to Manchester’s leafy southern suburbs, with lots of great coffee shops, pubs, bars, and restaurants opening across the town.

What's Happening in Manchester?

So much is happening in our city. Looking to explore what's going on? Visit our What's On page.

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