What's on near Smolensky Gallery
See through the eyes of an astronaut in this epic concert and visual experience, Space Station Earth at Aviva Studios. .
From £15.00
A hilariously funny disabled-led comedy night curated and hosted by Wheels and the Legman at Aviva Studios this April.
Free entry
A major new dance work brings Sinéad O’Connor’s uncompromising voice back into the room, responding to a life lived against the grain.
From £10.00
In a live, 24-hour performance, Ai Weiwei will place himself back inside a room that once governed every aspect of his daily life.
From £10.00
Three women-led acts, a photography exhibition, and free entry: mjf closes its 2026 edition with quiet confidence.
Free entry
With a miniature steam railway, working engines and a percussion group inspired by industry, the Science and Industry Museum brings play with a point.
Free entry
In 1830, the world’s first fully operational, steam-powered passenger railway opened between Liverpool and Manchester. Take a closer look at this breakthrough moment.
From £20.00
This world-premiere exhibition offers a hands-on journey through the Solar System, making complex science tangible, playful and participatory.
From £10.00Where to go near Smolensky Gallery
Experience luxury moviegoing at this three-screen boutique cinema and bar located close to Spinningfields.
Old Granada Studios has announced Low Four: a new studio and music project that will stream and archive live music performance as part of a new generation of music TV programming. The inclusion of a viewing balcony also means that these recordings, along with special events and concerts, will be made open to a few […]
Friendly Coffee Shop that also hosts events in Spinningfields.
The Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel is an elegant hotel with a restaurant to match. We try out the new Northern-themed brunch menu.
High-end restaurant and cocktail bar, with stunning views of the Manchester skyline.
New Zealand-inspired food and drinks, plus a dedicated coffee roastery at this high-profile new restaurant, opening in August.
A Rat Pack-style restaurant with of live music and upscale Italian-American dining, and strictly no phones.
This family favourite has moved from John Dalton Street to its new home in Spinningfields, with a brand new look featuring modern decor teamed with vintage items sourced by Bill
Wagamama’s home in Spinningfields serves up high-quality Japanese cuisine in modern surroundings.
A converted Victorian school house nestled on the edge of Spinningfields, the Great John Street Hotel has a relaxed and decadent atmosphere.
The Lawn Club is Manchester’s answer to an alfresco oasis in the heart of the city.
At Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill Manchester, you can enjoy the finest all-you-can-eat steaks and skewered meats, carved at the table.
Manchester District Guides
Culture Guides
Dark comedy, visceral dance theatre, Fringe hits and open-air performances on a railway viaduct - try something new this season.
From post-it-sized art to commissions that fill entire gallery walls, five exhibitions ask what the overlooked reveals.
From manifesto-wielding DJs to bands blurring gigs with performance art, our music guide is newly stocked with artists who see live music as a place for risk.
It’s the early-May edition of the Food and Drink Guide and here's where to eat and drink while living out your warm-weather dreams.
Whether you’re after storybook theatre, museum wanderings or illusion-bending play spaces, there’s plenty to keep curiosity ticking through winter and beyond.
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.
Step away from the usual. Tours and activities that spark curiosity, inspire creativity and offer something refreshingly different.