Things to Do in Manchester
Creative TouristNot many cities have had as much influence on the world as Manchester; its streets are steeped in history, from the industrial to the cultural. But it’s also an ambitious, future-facing city, one that sets trends that ripple across the wider North.
What should you be paying attention to right now? Well, after a summer off, theatre’s back in a big way. Lowry’s got a great autumn season this year, including Black Power Desk, a bold new musical brings the hidden history of Britain’s Black Power movement to Salford.
As for art, Aviva Studios scoops a huge name with Marina Abramović premiering her new work, Balkan Erotic Epic, while our favourite small galleries, from Pink to Paradise Works, have their own gems to unearth.
Music? The Hallé’s new season blends classical heavyweights, boundary-pushing premieres, and genre-straddling names like Jonny Greenwood and Anna Meredith – plus a whole festival dedicated to John Adams.
And whether you’re new to the city or a lifelong local, Jonathan Schofield’s walking tours offer a fresh way to get under Manchester’s skin — closer to the stories, sights and spirit of the city in 2025.
