Manchester, in the north west of England, has a rich history which, like the similar city of Leeds, grew from the industrial revolution in Victorian times. It was one of the world’s centres of the cotton textile trades.
And like Leeds it struggled in the twentieth century once this trade declined.
However it has recently reinvented itself as a centre of entertainment, music and the arts and has undergone quite a renaissance.
Here’s our guide should you be lucky to visit.
1. Take a Tour of Coronation Street
For anyone who loves daytime television, this is the stop for you. Coronation Street is an iconic British soap opera that debuted in the 1960s. It has more than six million viewers per episode, even after 60+ years of airtime.
The show is based in the fictional town of Weatherfield and is your typical soap opera, full of drama and romance with relatable characters you grow to love (or hate). The tour will take you through the sets of Coronation Street, Rosamund Street, and Victoria Street.
On this tour, you will walk along the famous cobbles and stroll past the iconic Roy’s Roll Café, Kev’s car shop, and The Rovers Return. For a little extra money, you can meet with some cast members or take an exclusive limited edition tour during holidays or other unique themes.
2. Cruise Down Manchester’s Historic Ship Canal
If you love the water, the Manchester Ship Canal near Salford Quays and Trafford Park in Greater Manchester is worth a visit. This canal is an inlet waterway that spans 36 miles linking Manchester to the Irish Sea, following routes of the Mersey and Irwell rivers.
Taking a cruise on this canal offers up beautiful historical sites and allows an inside view into the world of transporting goods back in the 19th century, typically with commentary from an experienced guide.
Grab a drink and snack from the onboard bar and server, then enjoy breathtaking Victorian architecture, including the Latchford High-Level Bridge and the Runcorn Rail Bridge.
3. Spend the Day with Wildlife at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is one of the UK’s largest zoos, with 130 acres of land and more than 35,000 animals. It is also the most visited. This zoo is owned and operated by the North of England Zoological Society and is dedicated to helping prevent extinction.
Take a break from the animals and spend some time walking the botanical gardens. Explore and discover plants and gardens that play a critical role for the local wildlife.
Some natural exhibits you should check out include the Rock Garden, Sunken Garden, Madagascar Grasses, and Cacti National Plant Collection.
4. Feel the Excitement at Gulliver’s World Theme Park
If you are looking for a bit of adventure, spend a day at Gulliver’s World Theme Park, where you can hop on more than 25 rides with six different themes. Feel the thrill of their roller coasters and take a splash on the Alpine Log Flume.
Hit up the play area to tackle climbing walls and explore the pirates play area at Smugglers Wharf. You can also meet some prehistoric pals in The Lost World on Exploration Walkways. Enjoy getting turned around in their fun-filled mazes, playing a round of Cape Canyon Crazy Golf in the heart of Safari Kingdom, or crashing into friends, family members, and strangers on the bumper cars.
During your stay, you can enjoy burgers at Gully’s Grill, hot dogs at Diamond Lil’s, or even a latte at COSTA Coffee. There is food and drinks the entire family will enjoy, no matter what you’re craving.
As the day ends, book a night at Gulliver’s Hotel, where year-round theme packages are always available.
Looking for something else to do with the kids? Head to Legoland Discovery Centre for creative, hands-on play.
5. Tour the National Football Museum
Any sports fanatic will love the experience the National Football Museum offers. These tours will take you through a large museum filled with historical football (or soccer in the US) artifacts, from FA Cup silverware to present-day retired jerseys and more.
Take photos with a Premier League trophy and other awesome props, play interactive games like penalty shootouts, and learn about the beautiful game that so many people around the world love.
Some of the most popular pieces in this FIFA collection include the game’s early history, the history of football playing equipment, and football art (paintings, sculptures, ceramics, prints, and more).
Manchester is the home of the Manchester United Football Club, often referred to as United. Manchester United has won more trophies than any other football club in England, making the city the perfect location for an interesting and exciting football museum.
If that’s not all, the city is also home to Manchester City, currently the best team in the UK.
If football is your thing, you can also head to Old Trafford (where Manchester United plays) or Etihad Stadium (where Manchester City plays) for a stadium tour.
6. Take in the Beautiful Artwork in the Manchester Art Gallery
Plan ahead and book your tour of the