Oceans Apart is an artist studios and exhibition space in Salford. Its organisers are dedicated to contemporary painting and seek to present and champion the diversity of the practice today.

Step away from the city centre and discover the thrill of go karting in Trafford Park with TeamSport Indoor Racing and their newly acquired track.

A vibrant community space in Chorlton, St Werburgh’s Church Hall hosts regular events.

Wildly popular cafe and wine bar on Liverpool’s wonderfully independent Lark Lane.

Wildly popular all-vegetarian Indian restaurant with a great range of vegan options. Based in Ashton-under-Lyne, and well worth the trip.

Arguably Manchester’s most well-known Vietnamese restaurant, Viet Shack started out as a hugely-popular street food stall before opening this restaurant in Ancoats.

A smart, modern Mexican restaurant in Liverpool’s Albert Dock, with an extensive menu featuring showstopping dishes such as half a pig’s head and butterflied sea bass.

High-class restaurant next to Victoria Station in Manchester, and attached to Hotel Indigo. Famed for steaks.

Taking over the space formerly occupied by Neighbourhood, BLVD promises ‘exceptional food and drink’.

Salvi’s Northern Quarter is the latest addition to the much-loved Salvi’s family, a series of family-run, independent Neapolitan restaurants and delis.

The Bay Horse Tavern is a laid-back pub based in the dead centre of the Northern Quarter, with a wide range of drinks and food options.

The Playhouse Theatre, originally known as the Hulme Hippodrome opened its doors on 6 October 1902. In 2018, the historic venue was relaunched as a community arts centre by NIAMOS – a collective of artists, musicians and local residents.