Five Things you can do in Greater Manchester this week (31 July – 6 August)

1. Watch unbelievable displays of strength at Manchester Central
 

This weekend, 5 and 6 August, the British Weight Lifting Championships will be held at Manchester Central. This annual event celebrates incredible Olympic and Commonwealth weightlifters and spectators will have the opportunity to see athletes compete in three different tiers for eight distinct weight categories. Tickets from £5.
 

2. Celebrate with the Para Swimming World athletes
 

From Monday 31 July to Sunday 6 August, the Para Swimming World Championships will be taking place at Manchester’s Aquatics Centre. In what is the 11^th edition of the competition – and the first time it is held in Manchester - over 600 para-athletes from 70 nations will be competing. Tickets from £5.50.
 

3. Enjoy a day out at the cricket with The Hundred
 

The third edition of the exciting 100-ball cricket competition is back in Manchester this month. On Saturday 5 August, head to Emirates Old Trafford for The Hundred, which will see Manchester Originals men’s and women’s teams set against London Spirit. You can also enjoy live music and family-friendly entertainment. Tickets from £10.
 

4. Spend the day with Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends
 

Take your children on a day out to meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends with East Lancashire Railway. On Saturday and Sunday - 5 and 6 August - meet Sir Topham Hatt at Bury Bolton Street Station before climbing aboard a carriage pulled by none other than friendly blue steam train Thomas. There will be plenty of Thomas-themed activities, including performances by Rusty and Dusty, face painting and funfair rides.
 

5. The early bird catches the... lion at Chester Zoo
 

Until 1 September, enjoy a breakfast with lions, meet your favourite animals or explore the secret life of Chester Zoo with an early morning tour! And this Monday 31 July, the beloved zoo is taking over St Peter’s Square tram station with face painting, competitions and giveaways. All day tickets to the zoo from £22.72.
 

6. Book Now: Manchester City Stadium Tour
 

Take pre-season to the next level by visiting the home of the Treble winners. With the Manchester City FC Stadium Tour, you get to see where your favourite players prepare for matches, interact with Pep Guardiola in the press room and even walk down the player’s tunnel. Across 75-minutes, you will hear interesting stories, facts and anecdotes about this celebrated football club. Tickets start from £16.
 

7. New opening: Public
 

Now open in the heart of the Northern Quarter, Public brings a new vibe to Stevenson Square. Serving cold beers, wine and margarita seltzers on tap, their food menu is inspired by Lower East Side New York and includes Gun Gun Noodles and a Burger with a ketchup slice – yes, slice! Open late seven days a week, it’s set to be the new local.