Whistle stop tour of Manchester

Manchester
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  • We recently revealed our top tips for a quick tour of London and due to its popularity, have decided to extend our guide up north. Manchester is one of the north’s powerhouses and the second most popular city to visit for business, meaning that it's got a lot to offer. Here is our quick guide for things to do when you’ve got a little time to explore the cobbles!

    The National Football Museum – Estimated time: 1 hour

    Situated just across the road from Manchester Victoria station, The National Football Museum is a great way to kill an hour. Pray silence for the ball from England’s World Cup win in 1966, as well as Maradonna’s jersey that he wore during the infamous ‘Hand of God’. Perfect if you’re looking to be inspired and outraged in equal measure.

    Vinyl adventures - Estimated time: 1 hour

    Oasis, The Stone Roses, The Smiths… we could go on. It may surprise you to know that Manchester is a very special place for music. Why not take a trip down memory lane (also known as vinyl valley – 5mins walk from Manchester Picadilly station) and have a look around the vast amount of vintage record shops. Nothing cures post-meeting stress like banging out a few classics…

    Read more info on Manchester’s ‘vinyl valley’

    Elizabeth Gaskell’s House - Estimated time: 1 hour 

    The home of this famous author and her family is a rare and carefully restored example of the elegant Regency-style villas once popular in Manchester. Situated slightly outside the main city centre, you may want to catch a bus or hail a taxi to visit this site of historic interest.

    Gaskell lived here 1850-1865, during which time she wrote nearly all of her best-known novels, including Cranford, Ruth, North and South and Wives and Daughters, and she was visited by many esteemed writers, including Charlotte Brontë and Charles Dickens.

    The Grade II listed property has spectacular period rooms, gardens and a tea room for visitors to enjoy - and a book shop, naturally.

    Plan your visit on the site- Elizabeth Gaskell House

    Visit The Hidden Gem — Estimated time: 45 minutes

    The clue is in the name and it’s worth taking the time to seek out this 200-year-old Catholic Church, secreted away just near Albert Square, around the corner from the fashionable Spinningfields district.

    The ornate interior is decorated with marble columns, stained glass and original contemporary artwork such as Adams Station of The Cross. Well worth a visit just to admire the exquisite architecture.

    The Washhouse - Estimated time: Until your train arrives

    Bang smack in the centre Manchester and easily accessible from all main train stations, The Washhouse offers something pretty special. From the outside it appears to be a humble laundrette, but behind the facade lies a hidden drinking den. To get past the washing machines and tumble driers you'll have to call and leave an answerphone message about how many 'loads' you want to book in. We won't spoil the rest for you...but we will let you know that unfortunately, they won’t be able to dry-clean your suit.

    Curry mile – Estimated time: 1 hour 30 mins

    A novelty entry on the list- the famous curry mile is a road with Indian restaurants galore. Its actual namesake is Wilmslow Road which is located slightly outside the central city but easily accessible via bus or taxi.

    Why not squeeze a curry in for lunch with your friends/work colleagues and gain a chance to explore this iconic culinary stretch! Trust us, you won’t regret it!

    Here’s the location