Medieval Quarter, Manchester
Creative TouristThe Medieval Quarter, or Cathedral Quarter as it is sometimes known, is one of the oldest parts of Manchester and home to some historic gems and cultural must-sees.
Our top picks
Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral is, according to the Pevsner Architectural Guide, “one of the most impressive examples in England of a late medieval collegiate church”. Open all year round, it’s a venue for worship and music events alike — a monument to all of Manchester’s saints and sinners.
Cathedral Gardens
Cathedral Gardens is a partially lawned public space in Manchester city centre. Located between Manchester Cathedral and the National Football Museum, it provides a precious hint of green space in this area.
National Football Museum
The National Football Museum is one of Manchester and the UK’s top attractions. Visitors can explore the whole world of football across several floors of changing exhibitions, vast collections of memorabilia and impressive interactive installations.
The Corn Exchange
Showcasing all its original Edwardian beauty with a modern twist, The Corn Exchange is something of a food destination, housing a number of great restaurants, from Banyan Bar & Kitchen to Salvi’s Mozzarella Bar.
Chetham’s Library
Chetham’s is the oldest surviving public library in the country – and the esteemed ancestor of Central Library.
The Stoller Hall
The relative baby in the family of Manchester’s classically-inclined concert halls, The Stoller Hall opened its doors in April 2017 to further enhance the city’s already enviable live music provision.
Where to go in Manchester
Manchester
Gladstone Barber & Bistro
Upmarket family-run restaurant with an impressive Middle Eastern menu, plus an on-site barber.
Manchester
Salt & Pepper
Chinese inspired British food in the centre of Manchester, backed up by plenty of well-deserved local hype.
Manchester
Morning Glory
Morning Glory positions itself as a grab-and-go spot, with just 12 seats inside serving coffee, bagels and sweet treats.
Manchester
House of Social Food Hall
The newest addition to Manchester’s First Street, House of Social is more than mere student accommodation.
Chorlton
Fell Bar Chorlton
Old school pub in the heart of Chorlton.
Manchester
Black Redstart Gallery
Black Redstart Gallery is located in the Northern Quarter and runs a busy programme of exhibitions from emerging and established artists.
Manchester
texture mcr
Possibly one of the city’s most mysterious art galleries, texture is a small and perfectly-formed independent space in Ardwick.
Castlefield
Bar Lina Manchester
Elegant Italian cocktail bar with plush seating, low lighting and a peerless drinks menu.
Manchester
Stevenson Square
Stevenson Square, the central hub of bars and cafes in Northern Quarter. Home to some of the best bars in the city.
City Centre
CUPRA City Garage
Already based in Paris, Mexico City, Sydney and Vienna, CUPRA’s international expansion is driven by culture as much as cars, and Manchester’s creative energy has clearly caught their attention.
Manchester Visitor Guides
Sunday Roasts in Manchester
Looking for the finest roast dinners in Manchester? Look no further. We've picked out the very best Sunday dinners in the city.
Japanese restaurants in Manchester
Fancy some Japanese food? We've uncovered the five best restaurants in Manchester.
Cafes and Coffee Shops in Manchester
Here are some of the best cafés and best coffee shops we’ve come across in Manchester – independents (almost) all.
Bookshops in Manchester
Manchester is a UNESCO City of Literature, so of course there are a few go-tos for books. Read our guide to discover the best places to pick them up.
Spas in the North West
If you find yourself in the North West of England looking for a spa day, look no further, check out our guide featuring our favourite spots.
Bars in Manchester
The best new bars in Manchester, plus some old favourites for good measure.
Art Galleries in Manchester & Salford
Manchester's art scene is thriving - here's our guide to the best art galleries, from artist-led studios to major institutions.
Places to drink in The Northern Quarter
There's no shortage of places to drink in the Northern Quarter. From hidden bars in launderettes and pawn shops, to record stores and even traditional pubs.
Brewery Tours in Manchester
A growing number of breweries and independent tour operators now offer behind-the-scenes access to the city’s thriving beer scene.
Free family things to do in Manchester
The world's at your fingertips with free history, art, science and creative capers for all ages in Manchester.
Manchester District Guides
Spotlight on
Walking Tours in Manchester by Jonathan Schofield
Presenting the best walking tours in Manchester for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city.
Take me thereDestination Guides
Culture Guides
Cinema in the North
A host of Halloween horrors, experimental shorts, plus pioneering black British cinema make our October Cinema Guide.
Music in the North
From corrupted shoegaze to experimental electronica, post-hardcore to Indian classical, these are the shows that should be on your radar.
Tours and Activities in the North
Step away from the usual. Tours and activities that spark curiosity, inspire creativity and offer something refreshingly different.
Food and Drink in the North
Take some eating-out tips from our October guide to food and drink in Manchester and the North.
Theatre in the North
Theatre this month bursts with contrasts - from bold new writing and Black History Month highlights to contemporary arts and reimagined classics.
Exhibitions in the North
Galleries around the North are gearing up for a new season of exhibitions - from iconic art prizes to smaller, artist-led gems.
Literature Events in the North
One to add to your TBR pile, our latest round-up is a bumper edition and features some amazing events in Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and beyond...