Drop Down Menu

April 11, 2016

Things to Do on a Stopover in Manchester

Beetham Tower
Beetham Tower
March 2016 On my way to Iceland, I had a day Stopover in Manchester UK. If you are brown skinned get ready for some grilling and harassment by the immigration and customs. 

I stayed at Premier Inn, half way between the city and the Airport, quiet and comfortable and they had a very good English breakfast. 

One of England’s most underrated cities is Manchester which is at the heart of the North West. Full of edgy museums and fabulous shops this is a top destination for a weekend break or even longer. Here’s the lowdown on what you can do on a 24 hour stopover in Manchester.

Head to an Art Gallery

Manchester has some of the best art museums in England. The Whitworth Art Gallery is one of the best and has a vast collection of items. Manchester art Gallery is another excellent collection of paintings, sculptures, and design. For a more modern touch head to the Cornerhouse which has art, cinema and exhibitions throughout the year. And for a local artist head to the Lowry in Salford Quays where you can see the matchstick men and dogs in these iconic paintings.

Go to the Football

Manchester is renowned for football and visitors to the city can take a tour of the United ground at Old Trafford.  There are lots of memorabilia of the Manchester United players and the club’s history here and it is fascinating for any football fan. Do check out if there is a match when you are in town so you can enjoy the atmosphere and see some of the famous players in action. The National Football Museum is also in Manchester and also worth a visit.

Sail on the Manchester Ship Canal

The 35 mile stretch of the Manchester Ship Canal shaped the city and is a very interesting tour. Boats depart from Salford Quays and there are stopovers allowed to visit attractions along the way such as the imperial War Museum North and the Lowry. These trips last 2.5 hours and are a very different way to experience the city. 

Shop Until you Drop

Manchester has some of the best shopping experiences in England and there are several great places to go. The Arndale Centre is full of high street chains whilst Market Place is also popular with shoppers. You’ll find large department stores like John Lewis too and a number of independent stores. 

Go Clubbing

Manchester is one of the best places in Europe for a night out. With a wide range of bars and restaurants there is a lot to choose from. Start with a cocktail in one of the chic bars like Alchemist and then head out to dance the night away. You’ll find a lot of the action in the Northern Quarter where you can dance till the early hours.


Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral
Deansgate Manchester
Deansgate Manchester, England

Manchester has a real vibe and is a superb place to spend a 24 hour stopover.

Did you like this blog post, do share on social media and leave me some comments.

1 comment :

  1. A tour of the football stadium would be massive. I hear that their award gallery is amazing. Rightly so.

    ReplyDelete

Questions or suggestions?