Dynamic and diverse, Manchester has come a long way since the industrial era that gave it its famous worker bee icon. Today the city has witnessed the birth of Britpop and sprawled out into quaint and beautiful lands.
Go football mad
With Premier League football clubs, two gigantic stadiums and a healthy dose of red-versus-blue rivalry, Manchester is like heaven on earth for football fans. The city has hosted Soccerex conferences and is known for its lively sports bars.
Aside from catching a lively game at one of the animated venues, you can also pay a visit to the National Football Museum, which has been scoring home goals since 2012. Inside, you’ll explore exhibits on some of the world’s most famous teams and players through the ages. There are even interactive games – it’s a great way to experience the thrill and the glory of a penalty shootout.
Experience historic Manchester
Manchester earnt its reputation as a seat of power during the Industrial Revolution when a diverse population flooded to the canal sides to work in the factories and mills. Today, this legacy finds its place in the city’s many museums and spots of architectural beauty.
Naturally, you’ll start this journey at Manchester’s railway, which was one of the world’s first passenger railways. Drive out to the Town Hall to find neo-Gothic Victorian towers – great for your holiday snaps. The Science and Industry Museum is home to the world’s first railway warehouse. Here you’ll learn about the pioneering discoveries made in Manchester and how they have shaped lives throughout the world.
The People’s History Museum explores the social side of the Industrial Revolution in a city with a long history of protesting spirit. If you prefer Olde Worlde grandeur, head to the John Rylands Library – a gilded masterpiece designed like a secular temple.
Go cultural
Manchester bubbles with creativity and this legacy is visible in the city’s star attractions. Manchester Art Gallery is the oldest of them all, housing six centuries of the finest paintings, ceramics and even costume work.
The Whitworth is its younger, trendier sibling – it won Visit England’s gold prize for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year in 2016 for its glimmering collections of international renown. There are many smaller gems, too, including the Northern Quarter’s Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art. The Turnpike is an independent venue set in an iconic brutalist building.
Escape to the peaks
Once you’ve experienced Manchester’s rugged charm, the Peak District beckons. In just over 90 minutes, you can glide into the heart of central England’s most magical haven.
Snake Pass is one of the country’s best scenic drives and the tiny towns of Derbyshire boast mountains, caves and beautiful ground for trekking.
Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, it is easy to upgrade your trip to Manchester with our premium car rental at Piccadilly Train Station.
