Are you looking for the perfect UK weekend getaway destination? Look no further than a great Manchester Weekend Away!! Manchester is a vibrant and dynamic city in the north of England packed with cultural attractions, world-class shopping, and a buzzing nightlife scene. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, a football fan or just looking to soak up some local English culture, Manchester has something for everyone.
In our Best Manchester Weekend Away guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best that Manchester has to offer, from iconic landmarks to trendy neighbourhoods like the Northern Quarter, Ancoats and Spinningfields. We’ll explore Mancherster’s diverse food scene, from traditional British pub grub to international cuisine, and we’ll give you insider tips on the best places to shop, enjoy culture, drink, and dance the night away. So pack your bags, grab your phone, and get ready to discover Manchester – the perfect destination for your Weekend Away!
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Manchester Weekend Away: Exploring Manchester’s Iconic Landmarks
Manchester has helped define the modern age we live in now and Manchester continues to make huge strides. The world as we know it today would not be the same without Manchester – the birthplace of the industrial revolution and huge technological, artistic, political and social advances have been made in Manchester. Enjoy the energy of the city with a Manchester Weekend Away!
Manchester is a city steeped in history, and there’s no better place to start your adventure than at one of its iconic landmarks. The Manchester Cathedral is a must-see for many visitors to the city. This stunning building has been a place of worship for over 600 years and is a wonderful example of Gothic architecture. Perhaps take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the cathedral and its role in the city’s past and present.
Another landmark not to be missed is the Museum of Science and Industry. This museum is dedicated to the history of science, industry, and innovation in Manchester and the North West. It’s housed in the historic buildings of the world’s first-ever railway station, and you can explore everything from steam engines to space travel.
If you’re a football fan, no trip to Manchester would be complete without a visit to Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, or the Etihad Stadium, the home of Manchester City to see a match or to take a stadium tour to see behind the scenes and learn more about the history and achievements. You can also visit the National Football Museum, the world’s biggest and best football museum, telling the stories of the beautiful game.
For a taste of Manchester’s musical heritage, head to the legendary venue, the Hacienda. This former nightclub was the birthplace of the ‘Madchester’ scene in the 1980s and 90s and played host to some of the biggest names in music. While the original club is long gone, you can still visit the site and see the famous blue and yellow stripes on the façade. Manchester makes the soundtrack for any visit to the North-West – Oasis, The Smiths, Stone Roses and Take That all grew to fame in Manchester.
Manchester Town Hall in Albert Square
Manchester Town Hall in Albert Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and one of the finest examples of Neo-Gothic architecture in the United Kingdom and it is one of the most important Grade One listed buildings in England.
Manchester Town Hall was opened in 1877 and is Manchester’s crown jewel. Manchester Town Hall has played host to hundreds of weddings and Hollywood movie sets including Sherlock Holmes with Robert Downey Jnr, and Daniel Radcliffe’s Victor Frankenstein.
Manchester Town Hall has doubled for the Houses of Parliament in many film sets. Manchester Town Hall was also the venue for the historic announcement of the Brexit referendum result.
Manchester Town Hall is undergoing a comprehensive £325m restoration and the unique nature of the painstaking work to restore the Grade I listed Victorian neo-gothic building requires specific materials to be sourced; Manchester Town Hall is due to re-open in 2024 – the Manchester Town Hall restoration is one of the largest civic developments in Europe. and the site will add a large new event and cultural space for Manchester in Albert Square.
In the meanwhile, there is still plenty to see and do around Manchester Town Hall and Albert Square.
Manchester Weekend Away: Discovering Manchester’s Trendy Neighbourhoods
Manchester is a city of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. One of the trendiest areas to explore is the Northern Quarter. This is the place to be for independent shops, vintage boutiques, and quirky cafés. Take a stroll down the cobbled streets and check out the street art and graffiti, or browse the vinyl in one of the many record shops. Don’t miss the Afflecks Palace shopping emporium, a Manchester institution since the 1980s.
Another up-and-coming neighborhood is Ancoats. This former industrial area has been transformed into a hipster’s paradise, with cool bars, artisanal coffee shops, and trendy restaurants. You can also explore the area’s industrial heritage at the Ancoats Peeps, a series of peepholes that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Mana, Manchester’s only Michelin Star Restaurant is on Ancoats’ Blossom Street – Mana is known for its inventive 16-course taster menus that “reflect the seasons”.
For a taste of Manchester’s multicultural vibe, head to Rusholme, also known as the Curry Mile – this is the place to go for some of the best Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern food in Manchester. Try a traditional biryani or tandoori dish, and don’t forget to finish off with a sweet treat from one of the many dessert shops. Although not actually a mile, this stretch of Wilmslow Road in Rusholme, just outside the city centre, is home to some of the best and oldest Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi restaurants in Manchester.
Restaurants started popping up on Wilmslow Road in the 1950s and 1960s as immigrants from the South Asian subcontinent arrived in Manchester to work in the city’s extensive textile industry. By the 1980s, the term “Curry Mile” had become well-established. Perhaps first try the Shere Khan Restaurant, 50-52 Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M14 5TQ Tel: 01612562624 which first opened in 1987 and was the first fully licensed Indian restaurant on the now famous Curry Mile.
Manchester Spinningfields
Manchester Spinningfields is a vibrant dining, shopping, leisure and event destination set in the heart of Manchester and Manchester’s Free Bus Service is the easiest and most cost-effective way to travel from Piccadilly to Spinningfields as all the free bus routes (1, 2 and 3) pass through Spinningfields.
The closest Metrolink tram stations to Spinningfields are Deansgate-Castlefield and St Peter’s Square.
Spinningfields is also well positioned for access to both mainline Manchester railway stations (Piccadilly and Victoria) and is closely served by Deansgate and Oxford Road train stations.
Spinningfields Car Parking
Spinningfields NCP Multistorey Car Park Quay Street, M3 3BE – open 24 hours
The Oast House at Spinningfields is one of Manchester’s most popular alfresco drinking and eating spots. The Oast House Bar and Courtyard Terrace is dog friendly. The Oast House also hosts free no-ticket-needed live music festivals in the Courtyard Terrace. The Oast House at Spinningfields serves genuine imported Budweiser Budvar.
Fazenda Steak Bar & Grill and Fannels Store. Fazenda Spinningfields is a Brazilian rodizio restaurant for all-you-can-eat steaks and skewered meats, carved at your table.
Bill’s in Spinningfields serves breakfast, afternoon tea, lunch, and dinner 8am to 10pm Monday to Wednesday, 8am to 11 pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday; and 9am to 10 pm on Sunday.
The Ivy Spinningfields in Manchester is open all day, seven days per week. The Ivy serves modern British classics for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
Try the glamorous Ivy Asia and Bar and late-night Ivy Bar on the 2nd floor to enjoy Asian-inspired cocktails and sharing dishes with entertainment and resident DJs. The Ivy Asia and Bar is open seven days per week – opening at 5 pm weekdays and from 12 noon Saturday and Sunday. – the central glamorous late-night bar and restaurant is illuminated with a wow-inducing semi-precious green stone floor.
The Ivy Spinningfields also has three private dining rooms; The Dalton, The Geisha Room and The Skylight Terrace.
- The Ivy Spinningfields Dalton Room is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner – and also for drinks and canapé receptions for up to 40 guests.
- The Ivy Asia Spinningfields Geisha Room accommodates up to 20 guests.
- The Ivy Asia Spinningfields Skylight Terrace has a fully retractable roof and views across Spinningfields and is on the top floor of the restaurant. The Skylight Terrace offers a great location for private events and standing receptions for up to 50 guests with a dedicated menu of cocktails and canapés are available for drinks receptions.
Manchester Oxford Road
Manchester Oxford Road is sometimes described as Manchester’s Student Quarter. Manchester Oxford Road is a popular drinking area focused around the 2-mile-long road that runs from St Peter’s Square in the city centre all the way down past the Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester to the Curry Mile in Manchester’s Rusholme.
There’s a Brewdog Outpost on Oxford Road by the Univesity Green and Five Guys. The Brewdog Outpost on Oxford Road shares half its profit with the people who work there. Manchester is home to the UK’s largest university. Visit Manchester to check out the city for yourself or on behalf of prospective students – Manchester generates more wealth than Sheffield, Leeds and Liverpool combined and has a 50% graduation retention rate, second only to London and they provide Manchester with a continuous supply of highly skilled labour.
Manchester Weekend Away: Manchester’s Diverse Food Scene
Manchester is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines on offer. For a taste of traditional British pub grub, head to Briton’s Protection – this historic pub near The Bridgewater Hall has been serving up hearty fare since the 1800s and is a firm favorite with locals and visitors alike. Try their steak and ale pie or the fish and chips, Briton’s Protection is also much loved for its huge collection of hundreds of whiskies and good real ale.
For something a little more upscale, book a table at The French at the Midland Hotel – where Rolls met Royce. The French in Manchester is a Michelin Guide restaurant that offers contemporary French cuisine with a British twist. Try the tasting menu for a true culinary experience, or opt for the à la carte menu for a more casual dining experience.
If you’re in the mood for international cuisine, head to Chinatown for some of the best Chinese food in the city. Try the dim sum at Yang Sing or the hot pot at Red Hot World Buffet.
For something a little different, head to Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza at Peter Street or Cotton Street in Ancoats for reputably some of the best pizzas outside of Italy.
Mackie Mayor in the Northern Quarter is nine independent kitchens and bars that have created one of the most vibrant and beautiful places to eat and drink in Manchester, let alone the Northern Quarter. Mackie Mayor is an impressive food hall housed inside an 1858 Grade II listed Smithfield market building, making Mackie Mayor perfect whether you’re after a fresh pizza, grilled meats and fish, or a vegan brunch – there’s something for everyone. And if you’re seeking a drink, it’s good for a good bottle of wine or a craft ale.
On King Street try El Gata Negro, an acclaimed Michelin Guide tapas restaurant and bar
Manchester Weekend Away: Insider Tips on the Best Places to Shop in Manchester
Manchester is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end designer boutiques to quirky independent stores. For designer labels, head to the luxury department store, Harvey Nichols. You’ll find everything from Alexander McQueen to Yves Saint Laurent, as well as a beauty salon and café.
For something a little more offbeat, head to the Northern Quarter where you’ll find scores of independent stores selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewellry. Check out the brilliant Oklahoma store for quirky, cheeky gifts and homewares, or Fig + Sparrow for artisanal coffee and home-baked treats.
The Manchester Arndale Centre has over 200 stores and is Manchester city centre near Exchange Square opposite Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Primark.
Manchester has many upmarket stores to explore including Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, Chanel Boutique, Dior Boutique and Tiffany, Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss, Barbour in St Anne’s Sq, The Boodles Jewellery Showroom, Hancock Jewellers on King Street, Agent Provocateur in House of Fraser Deansgate and Flannels. For upmarket stores, take a stroll around New Cathedral Street, Exchange Street, St Annes Square, King Street, Deansgate and also Spinningfields.
And if you’re in the market for some fresh produce, don’t miss the Manchester Arndale Market. This indoor market is home to over 40 stalls selling everything from fruit and vegetables to fresh fish and artisanal cheeses. It’s the perfect place to pick up some ingredients for a picnic in one of Manchester’s many parks or enjoy its tasty high-quality street food outlets from mouth-watering chicken combos to Thai cuisine, Turkish sweets and British favourites.
Manchester Weekend Away: The Buzzing Nightlife Scene in Manchester
Manchester has a nightlife scene that’s second to none, with everything from trendy bars to underground clubs. For a taste of the city’s musical heritage, head to the Night and Day Café at 26 Oldham Street. This legendary small independent grassroots venue has played host to some of the biggest names in music, from Elbow and Oasis to the Arctic Monkeys. Catch a live band or DJ set, and soak up the atmosphere.
For something a little more upscale, perhaps head to the Manchester House, Level 12 of Tower Twelve in Spinningfields.This rooftop bar and restaurant offers stunning views of the city and a menu of creative cocktails and delicious small plates. Manchester House in Spinningfields is the perfect place for a romantic date or a night out with friends as it features four covered and heated outside terraces, with retractable roofs for warm summer days.
And if you’re looking for all-night fun in Manchester, consider heading to 224 Deansgate for the Chinawhite Club, the haunt of celebrities and the sister club of Chinawhite in London. Chinawhite has exclusive Chinese décor throughout with spectacular Chinese lanterns and lamp-style lighting to massive stone-based warriors. There is a separate guest list, table service, the best DJs, performers and confetti canons.
Chinawhite Manchester Dress Code: Chinawhite is a high-end night club so you are expected to dress to impress with NO casual wear or sportswear. Chinawhite recommends collars for gentlemen – It is not necessary to have a tie, but smart shoes are a must-have, and heels for ladies.
Manchester Central is an award-winning venue with vaulted arches and its station clock have made the venue an iconic city feature for more than 140 years. Manchester Central Convention Complex formerly known as G-Mex is an exhibition and conference centre converted from the former Manchester Central railway station in Manchester.
Throughout the year Manchester Central has flexible spaces for events of all shapes, sizes and formats. However in December, Manchester Central transforms for Christmas parties set within the beautifully themed venue with tables of 8 and upwards that is perfect for a company Christmas party or a special night out with friends.
Manchester Weekend Away: Manchester Pubs
Whilst Deansgate is probably the most well-known nightlife area in Manchester and it’s particularly popular because it has everything you need in one place – restaurants, pubs, bars, and clubs plus also some of Manchester’s finest restaurants are along Deansgate including Dimitri’s Bar & Taverna which is a Manchester Institution.
Perhaps head to Sam’s Chop House on Black Pool Fold, just a 3-minute walk from Wetherspoon’s Moon Under the Water on Deansgate. Sam’s Chop House is a pub and restaurant, once frequented by the famous artist LS Lowry, of whom there’s a bronze statue inside. Many of the waitresses from his era could remember how he used to doodle on napkins and how he often gave these drawings away as tips.
Or for a lively time with a group of friends, head to the Flight Club Manchester with 14 oche darts playing areas and plenty of semi-private spaces, it is a great place for a get-together. Flight Club Manchester was awarded Best Pub in Greater Manchester in the National Pub and Bar Awards 2022.
An interesting place to take a drink or just people-watch is Shambles Square at the end of New Cathedral Street by Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and the Arndale Centre. If you’re arriving by tram, get off at the Exchange Square station – its yellow canopy can be seen by the large trees at the back mid-right of the photo.
Due to the IRA bomb on June 16, 1996, nearby Corporation Street was badly damaged but the Old Shambles was protected by concrete buildings around it and suffered only minimal damage. The pub buildings were subsequently dismantled and rebuilt brick by brick in 1999 to be in their present location 70 metres away, close to Manchester Cathedral. The Old Wellington Inn and Sinclair’s Oyster Bar were rebuilt at 90 degrees to each other and joined together by a stone extension to form two sides of the new Shambles Square. Sinclair’s Oyster Bar is a Sam Smith’s pub so the drinks are particularly good value, especially so for a prime city centre location.
To the third side of the square is The Mitre Hotel which was built in 1815.
Manchester Weekend Away: Outdoor Activities and Green Spaces in Manchester
Manchester may be a city, but it’s also home to a surprising number of green spaces and outdoor activities. Head to Heaton Park for a picnic, a game of frisbee, or a stroll around the lake. You can also visit the animal center or the historic Hall, a neoclassical mansion that’s now a museum. Heaton Park is the biggest park in Manchester and the largest municipal park in Europe.
For something a little more adventurous, head to the Manchester Ship Canal. This historic waterway is home to a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and wakeboarding. You can also take a boat tour of the canal and learn more about its role in Manchester’s industrial past.
And if you’re in the mood for some culture, head to the Whitworth Art Gallery. This stunning gallery is set in a beautiful park and features a collection of art and design from around the world. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture garden, a peaceful oasis on Oxford Road.
Whitworth Art Gallery’s Cafe is located in the elegant glass and stainless steel extension that overlooks Whitworth Park and the strikingly designed Art Garden. With floor-to-ceiling windows, this is a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, whatever the weather. Whitworth Art Gallery’s Cafe is closed Monday but from Tuesday to Sunday brunch is served 10 am-11:45 am and lunch is served 11:45am-3:30 pm, and cakes/drinks from 10 am-4 pm.
Manchester city centre its surrounding areas are home to impressive new shared public spaces including:
- RHS Garden Bridgewater in Worsley
- Mayfield Park – a public park in Manchester city centre covering an area of 6.5 acres
- Circle Square’s Symphony Park where BBC Manchester Oxford Road once stood with terraces, lawns, and beautiful trees
- Sadler’s Yard NOMA – a public square and event space opposite Manchester Victoria Railway Station
- Kampus – a canal-side garden neighbourhood on Aytoun Street
- St John’s – a new development between Manchester city centre’s Castlefield and Spinningfields
- Middlewood Locks a £700m waterside development where the two great cities of Salford and Manchester meet
Manchester Weekend Away: Manchester Museums
Manchester museums include the Science and Industry Museum located in what was the world’s first Railway Station on Manchester’s Liverpool Road and The Manchester Museum on Oxford Road.
The Manchester Museum
Owned by the University of Manchester, Manchester Museum is one of the UK’s largest university museums and displays fascinating works of archaeology, anthropology and natural history.
Manchester Museum cares for 18,000 objects from Egypt and Sudan excavated from 1880-1910. The Golden Mummies of Egypt Exhibition runs from 18th February to 31st December 2023 and explores expectations of life after death. Creating a mummy was an elaborate and costly process, and was only fully performed for the wealthy.
Manchester Weekend Away: Coronation Street Tours
During your 90-minute weekend tour led by expert guides, you’ll see Roy’s Rolls, The Rovers Return, the Viaduct and the exterior live working production set. Address: ITV Studios, Trafford Wharf Rd, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 1FZ
Manchester Weekend Away: Manchester Theatres, Concert Halls and Arenas
- The three main theatres in Manchester are The Palace Theatre, The Royal Exchange Theatre and the Manchester Opera House.
- Bridgewater Hall is Manchester’s international concert hall boasting world-class acoustics and is home to two resident orchestras – the Hallé Orchestra and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. Bridgewater Hall hosts around 200 classical music events every year.
- Manchester’s A0 Manchester Arena, located in Manchester Victoria Railway Station has a 21,000-seat capacity which is the highest in the UK and it is undergoing a £50m redevelopment programme, increasing its capacity to over 24,000. Manchester’s AO Arena is the largest indoor arena in Europe, welcoming an amazing 1.2 million customers every year and attracting global artists including U2, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, and Lady Gaga, as well as the record-breaking residency by local comedian Peter Kay.
- A second Manchester arena, Co-op Live Arena, on Alan Turin Way, close to the Etihad Stadium, is due to open in December 2023 with a 23,000 capacity.
Manchester Weekend Away: The Great Northern and Great Northern Square
Great Northern is a shopping and entertainment complex located at the junction of Deansgate and Peter Street so Great Northern is perfectly positioned in the heart of the city centre as an ideal place to eat, drink, meet and play. At Great Northern there’s a cinema, boutique bowling, restaurants including James Martin’s, bars, entertainment venues including Machester 325 Casino, shops NCP car park and the biggest range of estate agents in the city centre, all alongside the public Great Northern Square.
Manchester Weekend Away: Accommodation Options in Manchester
Manchester has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. If you’re looking for luxury, book a room at the Lowry Hotel. This five-star hotel is located on the banks of the River Irwell in Salford and offers stunning views of Manchester. You’ll also enjoy access to the hotel’s spa and fitness centre. Other quality hotels in Manchester include Hotel Gotham in Spring Gardens – which is a 3-minute walk from Selfridges and Harvey Nichols or perhaps choose The King Street Town House, The Midland or the Stock Exchange Hotel with The Bull & Bear restaurant
For those into popular music, try the Motel One Manchester – which is opposite the iconic circular Manchester Library and the Midland Hotel – as it is festooned with wallpaper featuring famous Manchester bands. In their bar area, there are club chairs by Varier and a seating cluster by Living Divani which create a relaxed backstage atmosphere with vinyl records and electric guitars.
Outside Hotel Motel One Manchester in St Peter’s Square, there is the statue of Emmeline Pankhurst, leader of the suffragette movement and the Meeting Circle which surrounds it.
For something much more budget-friendly, check out the YHA Manchester, a purpose-built hostel. YHA Manchester hostel is located in Castlefields and offers comfortable dorm rooms and private rooms at an affordable price. You’ll also enjoy access to the hostel’s café and bar.
Manchester Weekend Away: Getting Around Manchester
Manchester is a compact city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you prefer to cycle, you can rent a bike from one of the many rental stations around the city. And if you’re travelling further afield or prefer to hop on a bus or tram, the city’s excellent public transport system will get you where you need to go. The Metrolink Tram system is an easy way to get around, with routes covering most of the city and surrounding suburbs and there is an excellent city centre free bus service.
For instance, if you need to travel between Picadilly Train Station and Victoria Train Station hop on either bus 2 or 3 – see our route lists below on the Transport for Greater Manchester map.
There are also Black Taxi Cabs (like London) that operate on a meter system and all Manchester’s licensed ‘hackney carriages’ (black cabs) are wheelchair accessible and can carry 5 passengers.
One of Manchester’s leading taxi companies is Mantax with a fleet of over 300 traditional, iconic black cabs with fares set and regulated by Manchester City Council.
Manchester Free Bus Routes 1, 2 and 3
Manchester has a Free Bus Service with three routes – 1, 2, and 3. You’ll see the numbers identified on the buses. These are free bus services that operate around Manchester city centre.
All Manchester Free Buses are wheelchair accessible and all routes start and finish in front of Piccadilly Railway Station. Piccadilly Railway Station has direct lines from Manchester Airport and London.
Manchester Free Bus Route 1
Manchester Free Bus 1 Route Starts From Piccadilly Train Station’s Station Approach and then goes to Piccadilly, Portland Street, Charlotte Street, Spring Gardens, King Street, Cross Street, Market Street, St Mary’s Gate, Deansgate, Quay Street, Gartside Street, Bridge Street, John Dalton Street, Cross Street, King Street, Spring Gardens, York Street, New York Street, Portland Street, Chorlton Street, Aytoun Street, Auburn Street and ends at the Station Approach to Piccadilly Railway Station.
Manchester Free Bus 1 Route Times Monday to Friday
7am to 7.15pm (every ten minutes)
Manchester Free Bus 1 Route Times Saturday
8.20am to 7.15pm (every ten minutes).
Manchester Free Bus 1 Route Times Sunday and public holidays
11am to 6pm (every 12 minutes)
Manchester Free Bus Route 2
Manchester Free Bus 2 Route Starts From Piccadilly Train Station’s Station Approach and then goes to Piccadilly, Chatham Street, Aytoun Street, Piccadilly, Lever Street, Dale Street, Church Street, High Street, Nicholas Croft, Shudehill, Shudehill Interchange, Shudehill, Withy Grove, Corporation Street, Todd Street, Victoria Train Station Approach, Hunts Bank Approach, Victoria Street, Chapel Street, Victoria Bridge Street, Deansgate, Peter Street, Oxford Street, Whitworth Street, Aytoun Street, Auburn Street and ends at the Station Approach to Piccadilly Railway Station.
Manchester Free Bus 2 Route Times Monday to Friday
6.30am to 7.10pm (every ten minutes)
7.10pm to 11.30pm (every 20 minutes)
Manchester Free Bus 2 Route Times Saturday
8.30am to 7.30pm (every ten minutes)
7.30pm to 11.30pm (every 15 minutes)
Manchester Free Bus 2 Route Times Sundays and public holidays
9.54am to 6.54pm (every 12 minutes)
Manchester Free Bus Route 3
Manchester Free Bus 3 Route Starts From Piccadilly Train Station’s Station Approach and then goes to Piccadilly, Chatham Street, Aytoun Street, Portland Street, Piccadilly, Lever Street, Dale Street, Church Street, High Street, Nicholas Croft, Shudehill, Shudehill Interchange, Shudehill, Withy Grove, Corporation Street, Todd Street, Victoria Train Station Approach, Hunts Bank Approach, Victoria Street, Chapel Street, Victoria Bridge Street, Deansgate, Whitworth Street West, Whitworth Street, Aytoun Street Auburn Street and ends at the Station Approach to Piccadilly Railway Station.
How to Pay for Tram Tickets in Manchester
You can travel on Manchester trams with contactless cards and devices, using the smart readers located at stops to pay for journeys as you go. The system works out the adult single or travelcard prices for your journeys, up to a daily and weekly cap.
You touch-in before boarding the Manchester tram and touch-out at your destination stop. You don’t need to touch-out and touch-in again if you’re just changing trams as part of a single journey between two Metrolink stops.
You have up to two hours to complete a Manchester Metrolink single journey, but if you don’t touch off then your account will be charged the incomplete journey fare, which is currently £4.60.
The Manchester Tram System is called Metrolink and connects all major railway stations and tourist attractions, the Metrolink runs every few minutes so you don’t really need a timetable in the city centre – you can just turn up and travel anytime from early morning until late in the evening. There are 99 tram stops across Greater Manchester.
You must touch-in and touch-out with the same card or device and will need to use a different one for each person travelling. Using a Metrolink ticket machine may be a better option if you are paying for a family or a group. Don’t forget to purchase your Metrolink Tram ticket from the machine at the platform before you board.
Manchester Weekend Away Interactive Map
Use our exclusive Manchester Weekend Away Interactive Map to explore, navigate and plan.
Manchester Weekend Away – the Perfect Weekend Getaway Destination
- Manchester is 3rd the most visited destination in the UK for domestic and international visitors
- Manchester was named by National Geographic as one of the World’s Best 25 Destinations to Visit in 2023
- Manchester was named the 3rd best city in the world by Timeout in 2021
- Manchester is the UK’s 2nd city and the main driver of the ‘Northern Powerhouse’ and ‘Levelling-up’ initiatives
- Manchester is named The UK’s Most Liveable City by The Economist’s Liveability Index
- Manchester’s hotel market is very well-established – Manchester by room count is the largest hotel market outside London and the city centre having over 160 hotels with 15,000 rooms available
- 7.25 million people live within one hour’s drive of Manchester city centre
- Manchester city centre is ranked as the Top UK Retail and Leisure Destination for the 3rd year running
Manchester is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, you’ll find it all in Manchester. With its iconic landmarks, trendy neighborhoods, and diverse food scene, Manchester is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
Manchester is easily accessible by air, train, and car and is affordable whatever your budget – so pack your bags, grab your phone, and get ready to discover everything the vibrant city of Manchester has to offer! Have you been to Manchester recently and if you haven’t visited Manchester yet, having just read this PlanPlacesToVisit article why not!?
If you’re looking for an interesting European city break take a look at our informative post on Hamburg
For more information on Fine Dining in Manchester check out our information here
For more information on Mana, Manchester’s only Michelin-Star Restaurant, check out our information here
Interested in BBC’s Happy Valley with Sarah Lancashire? Happy Valley is only a short train ride or car journey from Manchester. Check out our PlanPlacesToVisit comprehensive Happy Valley Filming Location Guide here and our Happy Valley Country Pub Guide here