48 Hours in Manchester

Day 1

Morning

Start your luxury city break in the heart of Manchester’s shopping district. Head to New Cathedral Street where you’ll find high-end department stores Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, plus a selection of top designer brands such as Hugo Boss, Paul Smith, Michael Kors, Burberry and Polo Ralph Lauren. 

Afternoon

Take a break from shopping with a decadent lunch at the Harvey Nichols Second Floor Deli Bar, serving the finest charcuterie, artisan breads and speciality cheese, alongside an enviable edit of fine wines. Stop by the food market and wine shop to discover a delectable range of food and drink to take home.

If sweet treats are your thing, enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea at San Carlo’s Gran Café in Selfridges Exchange Square. Recently awarded the prestigious title of Les Routiers Café of the Year, Gran Café serves up breakfast, all day brunch, lunch and afternoon tea with a twist.

After refuelling, treat yourself to an afternoon of pampering. Head to Harvey Nichols for a range of beauty treatments, from facials and hair styling to vegan manicures, or pop to Selfridges for a consultation with specialist beauty brands including Charlotte Tilbury, Estee Lauder, Chanel, Dior and Jo Malone.

Evening

As evening falls make a visit to one of the city’s most historic restaurants. Once frequented by L.S Lowry, Sam’s Chop House serves quality gastro-pub style cuisine with a side of Mancunian charm. Try their famous Corned Beef Hash, a local speciality.

Day 2

Morning

Known as the Bond Street of the North, Manchester’s King Street is the perfect place to start your second day of retail therapy. Here you’ll find high end boutiques Hervia, Belstaff, Hobbs, Mint Velvet and Hurlingham Polo as well as specialist retailers such as Patagonia and Rapha.

For something special visit the city’s jewellery quarter, where you can discover top jewellers Boodles, Mappin and Webb, Austen and Blake and Bremont.

Afternoon

From King Street head through St Ann’s Square to the Grade II listed Victorian Barton Arcade. Take a break at Australian inspired independent coffee house, Pot Kettle Black, serving a seasonal brunch menu alongside speciality coffee and cakes.

Alternatively make your way to King Street Townhouse. Known for its rooftop pool and spectacular views of the city centre, this iconic hotel is a great place to stop for brunch, lunch or afternoon tea.

Evening

As afternoon turns to evening, stick on King Street to sample some of the city’s best restaurants. Choose from neighbourhood bistro Kala, Middle Eastern inspired Habas, award-winning tapas at El Gato Negro or a taste of Catalonia at Tast.