Spinningfields, Manchester

Creative Tourist

Last Updated 22 August 2018

Spinningfields is Manchester’s realm of glass and steel, where global corporations have their headquarters. It’s also become a real culinary hotspot: you can find modern tapas at Ibérica, innovative Chinese food at Tattu and even a pub in a 16th century hop kiln (called the Oast House), which has an impressive selection of beers and an attendant, fire-warmed teepee in the frosty months. In the winter, Spinningfields hosts a Christmas ice-rink and markets; in summer, Hardman Square becomes the site for pop-up activities including film screenings and mini golf.

Spinningfields is also home to one of the city’s most historic buildings: the People’s History Museum. On the banks of the Irwell, the People’s History Museum is part Grade II-listed hydraulic pump house, part weathered-steel exhibition centre, and tells the story of the 200-year march towards British democracy. It has all the more resonance because of its location here in Manchester, the birthplace of Socialism, the British Labour Party, and universal suffrage.

Behind Spinningfields is the Old Granada Studios, the headquarters of Granada Television from 1956-2013, and host to Coronation Street, Brideshead Revisited and The Beatles’ first TV performance.

Discover our top picks

Want more?
Get it in your
inbox

Theatre 6–10 August 2019, from £13.00

Amélie The Musical at Manchester Opera House

Enchanting, witty and gorgeous, boasting huge public and critical acclaim, the story of Amélie translates beautifully for the stage.

Exhibitions 10–13 October 2019, from £5.50

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair 2019 at Upper Campfield Market

For anyone with even a passing interest in the beauty of the handmade or artful design, the annual award-winning Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) in Manchester is the place to head this October.

Exhibitions 20 July 2019, FREE

Maddi Nicholson: a place lived at Hardman Square in Spinningfields

‘a place lived’ by Maddi Nicholson is a new public artwork that delves into the near-forgotten history of Manchester’s thriving financial district.

Families 18 July–3 September 2019, FREE

Doodle Den: Playful Protests at People’s History Museum

Many people have found creative, peaceful ways to protest. Take time out in the Doodle Den and explore what creative disobedience means through scribbling, sketching and silliness.

The Doodle Den is a relaxed space where visitors of all ages can take time out, pick up a pencil and explore ideas through drawing.

Family Friendly activity / suitable for all ages /No booking required, drop in activity /Pay what you feel at the event