Manchester Things to Do

The name might be unusual and it might on first glance look like a place of worship but, it is actually a very popular pub. Placed in a very prime spot, that is almost directly opposite Manchester University, it is crowded with... more

Affectionately known as the Grand Old Lady of Oxford Street, the Palace Theatre is an imposing 1,998 capacity Victorian theatre that originally opened its doors to the public in July 1891. It lends itself to larger productions... more

Renowned as a cheese pub, they have around 50 different cheeses and eight pâtés always available, each of which are served with a good chunk of granary bread. There is a clear menu, describing the various qualities of each item... more

This landmark theatre was severely damaged after the IRA bombing in 1996 and was initially relocated in Upper Campfield Market and Exhibition Centre. Fortunately it has now returned with its original, unique octagonal structure... more

Ampersand has been revitalised as a normal night club catering to a sophisticated, clued-up crowd with a selection of progressive house and downtempo, jazzy hip-hop nights. Retaining much of its original stunning purple interi... more

This tiny architectural gem is popular with the city's financial and business types as well as tourists due to its central position and welcoming atmosphere. Even the walls are lined with lots of witty epigrams about the deligh... more

If you're shopping around St Ann's Square or the Cross Street area of the city centre, you could do worse than stop off at Café Provence for a midday snack or sandwich. This colourful little café has lemon washed walls, paper t... more

The Manchester Apollo was opened in 1930s by the thirties siren Margaret Lockwood. This venue has 2,693 seats, and 3,500 can stand downstairs. Designed by Peter Cummings, Alex Irvine and Gillespie Williams, this venue has seen... more

This charming Italian restaurant with a difference, just behind Piccadilly Gardens, is the first place in town to serve Italian-style tapas. The idea for which was imported from Venice by the family who owns it. The distinctive... more

This historic and highly distinctive Tudor pub is popular with tourists and shoppers and is also frequently used as a meeting place before a night out at the Piccadilly end of town. It's a good place for cheap, basic pub lunche... more