Fun Things To Do In Manchester In One Day

Manchester is a city that receives mixed reviews by travellers and locals alike. It is a place filled with fun things to do mixed with all the joys of the unsafely of a big city. However without a doubt, it is an incredibly popular destination made not only famous by its football clubs, but also by its vibrant cultural scene.

With a wonderful blend of day-time activity and night-time experiences, Manchester can be perfect for a weekend away but is also easy to explore in a day. So whether you are just a Man United or Man City fan searching for your kindred spirits, or some one who does not care one bit for football but loves a good party and interesting history – welcome to your next adventure!

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Travel and Accommodation In Manchester

Manchester is a hub for travel and therefore you can practically get there from anywhere in the world, whether it be by air, rail or road. However, I would recommend avoiding using cars because it’s a lot easier to discover a new place without the responsibly of a vehicle – especially when you don’t need it.

Now, the blog post explores an itinerary for the fun things to do in Manchester in one day, however, if you choose to stay longer, here are some great accommodation options.

Hotels range from 3* to 5*, independent and chains, all located close to the main attractions and buzzing town centre. Some of the most popular places include:

Fun fact: the first passenger railway, opened by The Duke of Wellington in 1830, ran from Manchester to Liverpool and thus started the railway revolution.

Eleven Things To Do In Manchester

Old Trafford Football Stadium

A visit to Old Trafford is of course, the highlight of the city’s attractions and a must-see sight for football fans regardless of whether you support Manchester United or not. The stadium is one of the largest and most iconic in the country, being United’s home ground since 1910, and was nicknamed “The Theatre of Dreams” by Bobby Charlton.

Whether you take a tour of Old Trafford or manage to catch a game, you will find yourself amongst footballing history.

National Football Museum

England’s National Football Museum is located in Manchester’s city centre, and was created to preserve and displays important collections of football memorabilia. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or simply enjoy the game, a visit here allows you to dive into the historic and cultural power of the world’s most beloved sport through 40000 precious items. From Geoff Hurst’s red England shirt and ball from the 1966 World Cup Final to the infamous Diego Maradona Hand of God jersey there is so much to admire.

Castlefield

Castlefield is a relaxed neighbourhood a short walk from the city centre. It is excellent for an afternoon stroll (as long as it’s not raining) along magnificent canals and beautiful bridges, and also hosts a selection of casual waterfront bars. During the warmer months the Castlefield Bowl, a canal-side outdoor venue, come to life with a range of rock and classical concerts, so don’t miss this if you are a music enthusiast.

Northern Quarter

The Northern Quarter is one of the most picturesque places in Manchester. Quirky shop displays, beautiful street art, and cool alleyways will absolutely satisfy your eyes, camera and probably your Instagram feed too.

The John Rylands Library

The library makes you feel as though you have stepped into the Harry Potter universe and in fact, this masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture that provides the perfect atmosphere to escape the busy streets, served as inspiration for many Hogwarts sets, including Dumbledore’s beautiful office.

Manchester Town Hall and St Peter’s Square

Like so many European city’s Manchester naturally hosts a simple, elegant space dominated by a grand and historic Neo-Gothic landmark. You will walk past this area several times as you wander around to different attractions across the city.

Manchester City Centre — Manchester Town Hall and City Centre

Cloud 23

The Cloud 23 Bar is located at the Hilton Hotel in Manchester where you receive incredible views while tasting some of the best drinks they have to offer. A list of fun things to do in Manchester cannot be complete without a little alcohol in this party-loving city, and remember, even if you can’t catch Manchester on a clear, sunny day (those are hard to find) don’t let grey skies deter you from this lively spot.

Manchester Art Gallery and Gallery of Costumes

There is quite selection of museums in the city, but none compare to these two. Between them, the Manchester Art Gallery and Gallery of Costumes host over 25000 pieces since collections began in 1823 with the Royal Manchester Institution for the Promotion of Literature, Science and the Arts. The Gallery of Costumes, specifically, have a 19th Century children’s clothing exhibit which is a particular highlight.

No 62 Nelson Street / The Pankhurst Centre

The Pankhurst Centre, which was once 60–62 Nelson Street, is a pair of Victorian villas that were home to Emmeline Pankhurst who founded the Women’s Social and Political Union in 1903, triggering the historic suffragette movement.