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. 

RHS Bridgewater exterior entrance

1. Go for ‘walkies’ at RHS Garden Bridgewater 

On Monday 26 September, bring your dog to the RHS Garden Bridgewater for a special, 'Walkies at Bridgewater' event, when all furry friends are welcome. The garden will stay open late from 4 pm until 7 pm, so you can enjoy extra hours exploring the outdoor areas with your canine companion, including the Weston Walled Garden, Chinese Streamside Garden and the Kitchen Garden. 

2. The story of one of the city’s most iconic groups comes to the Royal Northern College of Music 

A brand-new stage production of New Dawn Fades: A Play About Joy Division & Manchester is embarking on a tour this Autumn stopping off a Royal Northern College of Music. On Thursday 29 September listen to the story of four ordinary lads who, inspired by the punk revolution of 1970s Manchester, came together to form one of the most influential bands of all time, Joy Division. Tickets start from £19. 

3. Explore the history of one of Manchester’s most iconic zoological gardens 

Join The Monastery on Thursday 29 September for an afternoon of nostalgia and reminiscence, looking back at the history of Belle Vue Zoological Gardens. Come and listen to a fascinating talk which looks back at the history of Manchester’s Zoo from its original opening in Stockport, to its final closure in 1977. 

4. Reinvent your wardrobe with a sustainable fashion event at The Trafford Centre 

The Trafford Centre will be transformed across Friday 30 September – Saturday 1 October into a fashion extravaganza, inspiring shoppers on ways to reinvent their wardrobe whilst championing brands that are taking steps to become more environmentally conscious. With a theme of sustainable fashion,  The Trafford Centre will come alive with spectacular fashion shows and dance fusion performances whilst showcasing key  trends from the centre’s vast array of fashion retailers.  

5. Explore one of the fastest growing foodie scenes in Greater Manchester 

Foodie Friday is Stockport’s hugely popular street food event, taking place between 6 pm and 9 pm at Stockport Market Place on the last Friday of every month. This Friday 30 September, all are welcome for this feel-good gathering that offers street food, craft ales and live entertainment from local talent in the beautiful surroundings of the historic Old Town. 

New opening of the week: Mayfield Park, Piccadilly 

The 6.5-acre Mayfield Park has now opened to the public and is Manchester’s first new city centre public park for over 100 years. It sits on the sprawling Mayfield site adjacent to Piccadilly Station, which also currently houses the award-winning food and drink venue, Escape to Freight Island. The park features a festival space, an impressive play area and over 120,000 plants and trees. 

Book Now:  The Rock n Horror Graveyard Show, Stockport Forum Theatre 

On Friday 28 and Saturday 29 October, Stockport’s Forum Theatre will host the hauntingly brilliant ‘The Rock n Horror Graveyard Show’. Join Beetlejuice, Frank n Furter and devilish dancers to celebrate Halloween in style at this adults-only cabaret show. With a live band, late bar and disco alongside some gruesome comedy, it’s not for the faint-hearted. The shows run from 8 pm until late and fancy dress is encouraged. Tickets start from £15. 

If you need further Halloween inspiration, check out our guide to 10 Spooktacular Halloween Activities happening across Greater Manchester