Gaskell Society
Ian Jones, Food and Drink EditorVisit now
Gaskell Society
These regular talks in both Manchester and Knutsford unpack the meaning and significance of Elizabeth Gaskell’s writing.
What's on near Gaskell Society
Until
Helios at Victoria Baths
For a few weeks this spring, the emptied Gala Pool at Victoria Baths will be transformed by Helios, a monumental touring installation by Luke Jerram.
From £3.00
Until
Delaine Le Bas: Un-Fair-Ground at The Whitworth
The Whitworth showcases one of contemporary art’s most unruly imaginations as 2024 Turner Prize nominee Delaine Le Bas arrives with a major solo exhibition.
Free entry
Until
Secrets of The University of Manchester
Epic architecture, hidden green spaces and ideas that changed the world. Explore the rich history of achievement at The University of Manchester.
From £20.00
Until
Inspirational Artists at RNCM
The RNCM launches its second Inspirational Artists series, spotlighting a huge range of touring musicians and ensembles, each bringing something unique to the stage.
From £12.50
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The Kimpton Clocktower Tour
Explore the incredible history behind one of Britain’s grandest and most storied commercial buildings: Manchester’s Grade II listed Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
From £25.00
Until
The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind at Depot Mayfield
Fans of the world-famous and still-anonymous street artist Banksy, gather round. Spring 2026 sees The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind take over Depot Mayfield.
From £22.00
Until
Brewery Tour and Tasting at Cloudwater’s Unit 9 Taproom
Cloudwater is a jewel in Manchester’s local brewery crown. Join them for a brewery tour and tasting at the Unit 9 Taproom.
From £25.00
deathcrash at YES
Quiet introspection and cathartic eruptions – the mysterious kids in the corner of the Brixton Windmill scene bring their new album Somersaults to YES.
From £17.45Where to go near Gaskell Society
Manchester
Elizabeth Gaskell’s House
Elizabeth Gaskell’s House has been lovingly restored; you can now sit at her desk, see where Charlotte Brontë hid behind the curtains, and have tea in the downstairs café. The Pankhurst Centre is also nearby.
Manchester
Chuck Gallery
Chuck Gallery is the first private art space in North West England dedicated to the promotion of contemporary African art in Manchester and beyond. Our focus is the provision of a varied collection of high quality, original and exceptional artwork
Manchester
Seoul Kimchi
Korean home cooking on Manchester’s Upper Brook Street.
Manchester
The Pankhurst Centre
The Pankhurst Centre houses a small museum and heritage centre that remains as a legacy to the Pankhurst family and the Suffragette movement born in this city.
Manchester
Victoria Baths
Victoria Baths no longer functions as a ‘water palace’ and Turkish Baths, but the Grade II-listed building hosts regular events and is a stunning visit.
Manchester
Big Hands
Big Hands is the one-time haunt of legendary Manchester band Elbow; it’s shabby, loud and dark, with a jukebox and excellent roof terrace.
Manchester
School of Chemistry, University of Manchester
One of the largest schools of Chemistry in the UK.
Manchester
The Whitworth Hall
Rarely-opened neo-Gothic gem that’s part of the University of Manchester.
Manchester
Martin Harris Centre for Music & Drama
The Martin Harris Centre is a performance space off Manchester’s Oxford Road
Manchester
Whitworth Park
This 18-acre park opposite the Manchester Royal Infirmary provides a welcome patch of green in an otherwise densely populated and heavily used part of the city.
Manchester
Club Academy
Basement venue at the University of Manchester Students’ Union building.
Manchester
The Holy Name of Jesus Christ
Built in the late 19th centure, the Holy Name sites in the middle of the University of Manchester.
Manchester District Guides
Culture Guides
Exhibitions
Spring has sprung a wealth of great exhibitions in the North West, from intimate photographic shows to huge installations.
Theatre
Closer, riskier, more immediate. Our small-scale theatre picks stretch from unsettling fables about nationhood to the inner workings of a mind trying to hold itself together.
Cinema in the North
There's no shortage of great films out at the moment, whether you're looking for the latest blockbuster, that hot arthouse flick fresh from Cannes or a cosy classic.
Tours and Activities in the North
Step away from the usual. Tours and activities that spark curiosity, inspire creativity and offer something refreshingly different.
Music
This month’s live music picks move between ambitious new work, grassroots celebrations and a few memorable settings.
Food and Drink in the North
Spring has arrived, bringing with it al fresco dining and a rush of high-profile food and drink-related events in Manchester.
Family things to do in the North
Whether you’re after storybook theatre, museum wanderings or illusion-bending play spaces, there’s plenty to keep curiosity ticking through winter and beyond.