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Best Ways to Explore Manchester

Manchester is an exciting city to visit with a rich heritage, stunning architecture, wonderful attractions, amazing food and some great nights out! No matter what your interest is, you are sure to find something for you in this rapidly expanding city. With new skyscrapers shooting up alongside repurposed industrial heritage, there is a unique eclectic atmosphere of old and new. Manchester is a magnet for innovative new businesses and ideas, making it a fascinating place to visit. With so much to do in the city, it can seem a bit intimidating, but with the tips below you will be able to make the most of your trip to this northern powerhouse.

Manchester Town Hall

#1 Manchester Brewery Tours

If you are a beer fan, then this is the tour for you! Manchester Brewery Tours have been taking beer aficionados around some of Manchester’s best craft breweries since 2016 and have been very well received. They have two options available. Lasting three hours, the Manchester Beer Tasting Tour focuses on the beer styles found in the city with a visit to 3 of the city’s craft breweries. The other option, the Manchester Microbrewery Experience lasts around four and a half hours and explores the equipment and brewing process. You will also get the chance to sample some of the city’s prime beers. Both tours are led by expert local guides, who know all there is to know about Manchester’s beer scene and will ensure that you have an unforgettable time as you walk around the city. This unique tour is one of our favourite ways to explore Manchester!

 

#2 Walking Tours

Manchester has a fascinating history as the first industrialised city and as a centre of art and culture. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot with a knowledgeable local guide and there are plenty of different options to choose from. Free Manchester Walking Tours offer tip-based tours of the city centre, bringing the stories of the city to life over a few hours. There is also an excellent daily walking tour provided by Discover Manchester (the city’s tourist board) costing £10 per person again around the city centre. For something a bit different you can also go on a Manchester Music walking tour, exploring the Hacienda years of Manchester’s musical prowess or join Invisible Manchester tours a social enterprise run by those who have experienced homelessness for a true insight into life in modern Manchester.

Manchester United Football Stadium

#3 Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

If you don’t fancy walking much, but still want to see all the sights that the city has to offer, then a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour is the ideal option for you. The tour takes 90 minutes in total with 15 stops at Manchester’s top sights, including the town hall, the National Football Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry. You can get on and off the bus at any of the stops and your ticket is valid for two calendar days from the time of purchase. There is also a great audio guide while you are onboard ensuring you will know exactly what you are looking at!

 

#4 Food Tour

For a truly scrumptious experience in Manchester book yourself onto a Scranchester Food Tour! Across 3 to 4 hours you will get to visit 8 different venues where you will learn about the business, how the food is made and the history before getting to taste some delicious samples. It is a fantastic way to experience the stories of the city with a local who knows all about Manchester’s booming food and drink scene. The venues are spread across the city centre and can include vendors in the city’s Little Italy and you may even get to experience the diet of a Victorian mill worker. All venues are kept secret until the day with the starting point revealed when you make your booking. Make sure to reserve in advance, as the tours are popular and sell out weeks in advance!