Things to Do in Manchester

Take a scenic cruise along Manchester's historic Ship Canal and River Irwell. Discover the industrial heartland of the north of England and see historic monuments such as Stephenson's Railway Bridge.

Manchester Wine Tours are friendly, informal and fun wine-tasting events. Each tour includes four of the best Manchester wine venues (bars, pubs, restaurants and shops). Guests taste at least 6 different types of wine with high-quality snacks. Your tour guide is a Manchester local, a qualified and experienced wine professional who can show you the art of wine tasting in a light-hearted, non-stuffy way. Along the route, you will also stop at various points of interest, such as statues of notable characters in Manchester's history. Tour groups are small with no more than 12 guests per event, which means they are friendly and intimate. Everybody has the chance to ask questions and share their own insights. This is a great way to see the city and enjoy its incredible food and drink scene. There are opportunities to buy wine to take home along the way, if you wish. Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements and look out for our messages regarding meeting points, etc.

Step into a world of illusions at the Museum of Illusions in Manchester. Explore over 65 interactive exhibits, including vortex tunnels, infinity rooms, and walk-in kaleidoscopes.

Step back in time to the rain-lashed streets of Angel Meadow – the Victorian Manchester slum so vile it was dubbed ‘Hell upon Earth’ by Friedrich Engels. In the shadow of one of the world’s first cotton mills, 30,000 souls trapped by poverty are fighting for survival as the Industrial Revolution is built upon their backs. Mancunian families are struggling to keep body and soul together in overcrowded lodging houses and deep cellars on the banks of the River Irk as gangs of scuttlers stalk the pavements outside. In this new tour by me, historian and writer Dean Kirby, the author of the bestselling book Angel Meadow: Victorian Britain's Most Savage Slum, you will hear the hidden story of how the district and its people shaped one of the world's greatest cities. Whether, like me, you are a descendant of Angel Meadow ancestors or have a burning passion to explore the history of Manchester, this tour is for you.

Explore Manchester from an open-top sightseeing bus. Learn about the city's industrial past from the recorded commentary and take in the sights as you explore the city center and Salford Quays.

Welcome to Manchester. The birth place of the industrial revolution. The home of the world’s first computer and the world’s first passenger railway station. Discover much more and join me on the “soon to be famous” Miles with Mike Taxi Tour. I will be your personal tour guide, a born and bread, Mancunian and licensed Taxi Driver for over 20 years. I love this City and can’t wait to show you around in my traditional Black Cab. I'm here to help you enjoy your stay. Mike

Immerse yourself in the City story on the Manchester City Stadium Tour. Visit areas of the Etihad Stadium not usually available to the public with a professional guide and hear interesting stories.

Celebrate the history, culture and exciting future of Media City & Salford Quays on this fact-filled 5km walking tour. Meeting under the big digital screen at the Media City piazza, this healthy outdoor walk takes us alongside the banks of the mighty Manchester Ship Canal and relives the epic tale from Manchester's starring role in the Industrial Revolution to its reinvention at the heart of the UK's media and technology revolution. Discover hidden gems of information as you marvel at the stunning landmarks and listen as your guide brings the fascinating history to life. The tour takes you past many stunning landmarks such as the Lowry Arts Centre and the Imperial War Museum North, before returning to the Media City piazza where it all began. The walk beautifully showcases the UK's most ambitious urban regeneration project from its industrial heritage to its digital future. Brought to you by Quayside Walking Tours, this captivating tour is one of the North's must-do experiences!

Discover the mountains, marvels, and myths of North Wales and Chester on a guided day tour from Manchester. Explore charming villages, stately castles, and beautiful landscapes.

We would love for you to join us for a friendly and informative guided Distillery Tour and Gin Tasting at our Stockport Town Centre distillery. Our distillery tour will give you a sneak peek ‘behind the scenes’, whilst enjoying a couple of double Stockport G&T's (other mixers are also available!)! You'll also be given a guided gin tasting of our full range of spirits! We will welcome you with a double G&T and let you sit and relax whilst we tell you all about the history of gin, about us, who we are, how we got started and what is next for us! Whilst enjoying a second double G&T, we will then guide you behind the scenes and share an insight into our distilling process, chat to you about the flavor profiles of each gin, show you some of the botanicals we use, and of course you will get to taste our range of delicious gin and vodka! At the end there will be a chance for you to ask us any questions you think we've left unanswered during the tour as well as purchase items from our shop.

Explore 150 years of the world's greatest game and find out how English soccer has influenced the globe. See incredible artifacts and relive the emotions, memories, and drama of famous matches.

What’s Included: ∙ Secret access code for exclusive entry ∙ Reserved premium table with full service ∙ 2 signature cocktail per person (4 in total) ∙ 1 premium shots per person (2 in total) · 2 washhouse branded 50cm exclusive Fans to take home ∙ Expert guidance from your knowledgeable cocktail specialists ∙ Full venue exploration with the chance to discover the hidden slide Perfect For: Cocktail enthusiasts, adventurous couples, special celebrations, or anyone seeking an unforgettable night out that’s truly different from the ordinary.

Hop on board for your fun-filled day from Manchester to North Wales. Enjoy hassle-free transport, guided insights, and stops at Snowdonia, Conwy Castle, the sky-high Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and more.

Discover the vibrant essence of Manchester on the '5 Quarters' walking tour, where history seamlessly intertwines with modern creativity. This engaging journey covers five unique quarters, each revealing a chapter of Manchester’s rich narrative—from its Roman origins to the heart of the Industrial Revolution, and its contemporary artistic scene. Led by expert local guides, you’ll uncover hidden gems and captivating stories that you won't find in any guidebook, ensuring a deeper understanding of the city’s character. Ideal for both locals and visitors, this tour promises an enriching experience for all ages. - Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including a short comfort break. - Group size limited to 20 participants, ensuring personalised attention. - Outdoor tour with stops at significant landmarks, focusing on historical insights without indoor access. - Headsets are provided for clear communication during the tour, enhancing the overall experience.

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the city as you travel back through the centuries to discover our turbulent history, and how it has shaped Manchester into the vibrant place you see today

By the end of the workshop, you will have a finished pottery masterpiece to take home (pick up within a week or postage available) and display with pride. Join us for this hands-on activity and discover the joy of pottery painting. Start your creative journey today!

Relax on a comfortable train as you travel between Manchester Airport Train Station and stations in the city's center. Connect to the Wi-Fi on board and charge your devices with the power outlets.

Effortlessly Explore Manchester with Our Convenient and Secure Luggage Service! Ideal for both the start and end of your trip, it provides a secure place to store your belongings while you enjoy the sights. Easy booking, email confirmation, and straightforward drop-off and pick-up processes make it an essential tool for travelers wanting to maximize their time in Manchester without the weight of their luggage. How it works? Book your spot and go to the designated location, where our welcoming staff will take your luggage after you show your ID or confirmation email. Enjoy your day freely, and when it's time, return with your ID or email within operating hours to quickly collect your belongings.

Experience the thrill of a Manchester City FC match at Etihad Stadium with this ticket. Enjoy assigned seating, a wide range of concessions, and matchday entertainment.

Start with a welcome drink and a reserved table before stepping behind the bar to craft your own cocktails. With expert guidance, you’ll shake, pour, and garnish two cocktails of your choice. Expect prosecco on arrival, hands-on fun, and plenty of laughs — it’s interactive, lively, and made for groups.

FunnyBoyz is a unique concept in cabaret, bringing you lively drag shows, comedy bingo, silly games, and cheesy tunes. Mingle with drag queens for an evening of hilarious entertainment in Manchester.

In the heart of Stockport, an immersive experience awaits at the Gin School, where you’ll have the opportunity to craft your very own gin. Begin your journey with a welcome double gin and tonic, followed by a guided tour of the distillery. At your personal still, select from a variety of botanicals to create a unique gin recipe under the guidance of our expert distiller. While your gin distills, enjoy additional tastings of our full range, culminating in the bottling and labeling of your creation. This intimate session, limited to just six stills, ensures personalized attention and a memorable experience, complete with a final tasting of your handcrafted gin.

Follow in the footsteps of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet on a day tour from Manchester. Visit Pride & Prejudice filming locations from the 1995 and 2005 adaptions, including Chatsworth House.

Led by an architect who’s passionate about Manchester’s past and future, this walking tour explores the city through the lens of its buildings, streets and hidden stories. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, we look at why Manchester looks the way it does… how post-war planning, industrial heritage and modern regeneration have shaped the city you see today. Expect original photos, architectural insights and thoughtful discussion rather than a rehearsed script. Each tour is relaxed, conversational and designed for anyone curious about design, place-making and how cities evolve.

Step into a life-sized PAC-MAN maze and become the iconic yellow character. Dodge ghosts, collect points, and compete with friends in this interactive adventure.

Escape the city and discover the very best of North Wales on this private luxury day tour with a qualified Blue Badge Tourist Guide—Britain’s highest guiding standard. Designed as a personalised experience for up to 6 guests, your day combines dramatic scenery, historic landmarks and local insight. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, explore a medieval castle such as Conwy or Rhuddlan, and experience the remarkable Pontcysyllte Aqueduct—the “river in the sky”. Travel through Snowdonia and along the North Wales coast with frequent scenic stops, avoiding long drives. Your guide will take you beyond the usual routes to hidden viewpoints and quieter locations, perfect for memorable photos. You can enjoy waterfalls, and a relaxed lunch break. Optional stops can include Wrexham AFC and The Turf (featured in Welcome to Wrexham). Canal boat or a steam train (additional cost) With door-to-door service from Manchester, Cheshire or Preston, this is a seamless and unforgettable day out.

Putt through bizarre holes such as UV slides, UFC bear cages, and a tree house bar with tickets to Junkyard Golf Club Manchester. Play 9 holes on 1 course or 18 holes on 2 courses of your choosing

Stockport is an amazing food destination just waiting to be uncovered. It is the home to one of the most exciting, young and up and coming food neighborhoods in the country. During the tour, we visited 6 local businesses. and enjoy a dish that each is famous for. We'll meet the vendors and hear their stories as well as learning how Stockport is transforming from a sleepy satellite town to one of the most talked about areas in the North. Full of amazing street art and weird and wonderful history, the Stockport food tour is a great way to explore a new town and be introduced to award winning flavors and tastes.

Discover a world of magical marine species at the SEA LIFE Manchester and come face to fin with over 2,000 creatures!

The Lake District is where you see the top ten tallest mountains in England. It’s where you discover the deepest lake in the country. And it’s where you can visit 1,779 listed buildings and 16,510 archeological sites. For place that’s famous for its poetry and quaint cottages, it certainly boasts some of England’s biggest and most brilliant destinations. You learn about the poetry of Wordsworth at his Dove Cottage, admire the serene views over Lake Windermere and Derwent Water, and wander through market towns collecting stories and photos as you go. Join this tour and experience the best of the lake district.

Experience the thrill of tubing down the UK's longest outdoor tubing slide at Zip World Manchester. Enjoy unlimited rides on two epic slides in Heaton Park.

Step into the pages of Jane Austen’s masterpiece on this comprehensive literary pilgrimage through the Peak District. Whether you are a devotee of the 1995 BBC series looking for the spot where Mr. Darcy emerged from the lake at Lyme Park, or a fan of the 2005 movie wanting to stand on the same cliff edge as Keira Knightley at Stanage Edge, this tour is designed for you. Departing from central Manchester in a premium, 100% electric vehicle, this tour offers an unparalleled look at the locations that brought Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet to life. Staying in London? Many of our guests travel from London for the day by taking the direct train to Manchester Piccadilly before joining the tour. It's one of the easiest ways to experience Chatsworth House, Stanage Edge and the Peak District without hiring a car. *Chatsworth House: The house is not open for visitors from the 1st-6th November. The gardens will remain open to visit.

Indulge in history, art, and beauty at Chatsworth House, home to a 4,000-year art collection, with over 25 rooms and surrounded by Peak District National Park.

Discover what truly sets Manchester apart on this immersive 3-hour walking food tour through the Gay Village and Northern Quarter — two of the city’s most dynamic and character-filled neighborhoods. This isn’t just a tasting tour — it’s a journey through Manchester’s culture, history, and creative spirit told through its food. What makes this tour special is its blend of authentic local flavors, fascinating stories, and hidden gems — offering not just a full meal, but a true taste of Manchester’s soul. Experience Manchester’s diverse food scene, from traditional British fare to global street food. Explore two of the city’s most iconic districts with a passionate local guide and hear stories of creativity, inclusivity, and resilience that shaped Manchester’s identity. And remember to enjoy generous tastings and drinks across four handpicked local venues!

Embark on a Manchester Guided Food Tour and savor English Breakfast, Curry rice, pie or fish & chips and Cider or Ale, while discovering the city’s rich culinary traditions.

Discover the Beatles’ story on this private full-day tour from Manchester, featuring exclusive access to the Casbah Coffee Club and a visit to Strawberry Field. Go beyond standard tours with extended time inside the Casbah Coffee Club—hosted by the Best family—where the Beatles first performed and their story truly began, long before the Cavern Club. Visit the Strawberry Field Visitor Centre, including the exhibition with John Lennon’s Imagine piano, explore the gardens, and walk through the bandstand with its iconic mosaic “Imagine” floor. Follow in the footsteps of the Beatles with photo stops outside their childhood homes, schools and Penny Lane, before experiencing the Cavern Club and Mathew Street. There is time to enjoy a drink or lunch at the historic Philharmonic Dining Rooms—John Lennon’s local and featured in Paul McCartney’s Carpool Karaoke. Travel in a luxury vehicle with door-to-door service, with music, visuals and expert storytelling bringing the journey to life.

Join a day trip from Manchester and explore the Lake District National Park. Enjoy a lake cruise and discover Cumbria's historic towns and quaint villages.

- You’re part of the story – this isn’t just a treasure hunt, it’s - Manchester’s most immersive outdoor escape experience. - Self-guided and flexible – go at your own pace or race against the clock. - Designed for thinkers and doers – smart puzzles for all levels, woven into the city around you. - Better than your average scavenger hunt – every step reveals a clue, and every clue gets you closer to the truth. Extra info - Each player receives a unique link to access the game ahead of your booking date. We recommend each player experience the Hunt on their own device while working together in your team - You can break anytime and we provide recommendations within the game area - This Hunt is brilliant for friends, colleagues, dates and families (13+)

Test your skills across seven thrilling challenges inspired by the hit TV show. Compete in teams, rack up points, and see if you can beat The Cube.

Are you game for a unique outdoor activity in Manchester? Keen to discover some of Manchester's quirkier locations? From red-brick streets to the old canals of Castlefield, a mystery is waiting to be cracked. The keys to your uncle’s inheritance, locked behind hidden routes. We provide the perfect activity for a team social, entertainment for teens on school holidays, hen/stag do or birthday gatherings with friends. Your uncle has died in mysterious circumstances, leaving his estate to you, but only if you can solve a series of brain teasers. Along the way, you’ll meet various virtual characters from his past and discover that there was more to your uncle than meets the eye. Can you decode his puzzles before time runs out? 5* reviews on Tripadvisor and awarded TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Featured in The Guardian, Londonist and Timeout

Experience the delights of Derbyshire on this day tour to the Peak District from Manchester. Explore Castleton, Monsal Head, Bakewell, Peak’s Cavern, and more.

We provide Airport transfers service based in Manchester. All your booking are tailored to suit your requirements.

Challenge your friends or family on three unique nine-hole courses in Manchester. Track your score live and compete for the top spot in the city.

Explore Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter on a 1.5-hour small group walking tour that dives into the heart of the city’s creative pulse. Led by a local guide, you’ll wander through iconic streets adorned with striking street art, historic architecture, and discover the stories behind beloved independent shops. Uncover hidden histories and the legacy of music legends, all while enjoying the spirit of this artistic neighborhood. - 1.5-hour walking tour of Manchester’s Northern Quarter - Visit iconic street art and learn about local artists - Discover local independent shops and historic sites - Small group experience for personalised insights

Embark on a day trip from Manchester to the Yorkshire Dales. Visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum, see the Aysgarth Falls, and visit the Wensleydale Creamery.

Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Embark on an unforgettable craft beer tour through the vibrant city of Manchester. Indulge in a diverse selection of brews, ranging from traditional styles to boundary-pushing experiments. Get ready to immerse yourself in Manchester's lively beer culture as you visit unique establishments that showcase the city's passion for craft beer. Explore local breweries and taprooms, where you'll witness the art of brewing firsthand, learn about the intricate process, and engage with passionate brewers. With each sip, you'll uncover the rich flavors and stories behind Manchester's finest craft beers. From cozy bars to bustling beerhouses, this tour promises a memorable journey through the heart of Manchester's craft beer scene. Cheers to an adventure filled with hops, malt, and camaraderie!

Experience the beauty of the Lake District and Lake Windermere on a day tour from Manchester. Admire the views of the area with a scenic boat cruise and a guided visit to charming villages.

The weekly 2-hour walking tour is guided by a local feminist and will lead you around Manchester city centre, combining sight-seeing with information about remarkable women. This is an intersectional feminist tour which means that we will talk about women of all backgrounds including women of colour, working class women queer women and disabled women. Trans-exclusionary radical “feminists” (TERFs) are not welcome on this tour. Trans women are women. This tour is open to feminists of all genders. If you’re an ally, you’re welcome.

Expereince a movie-like prison set with this ticket to Alcotraz Manchester. Smuggle liquor past the warden and serve your time while sipping 4 cocktails created with the liquor you bring in.

Manchester’s mix of history and modernity can sometimes feel overwhelming to visitors. Take the mystery out of your visit by exploring with a local on a private walking tour. This personalized tour allows you to discover the exterior of monuments, including museums, while learning about the city’s history and culture. If you wish to include a museum visit, your guide can customize the itinerary to fit your interests—just let us know in advance. Your guide contacts you beforehand to understand your preferences, ensuring you see the places you truly want to experience. Perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples, this tour offers insider knowledge, hidden gems, and a deeper connection to Manchester.