What to do in Manchester for the first time? Recommended one-day tours in the UK
Welcome to Manchester. Compared with many big cities, Manchester is not very eye-catching. It does not have high-rise buildings, partying every night, and decadence, but it has a blend of ruggedness and delicacy. The ruggedness comes from its origin of the Industrial Revolution, and it has conquered the world with "steam and sweat"; the delicacy comes from its cultural diversity and creativity. Manchester is not only the capital of music, running through many important periods of the development of British music, but also the birthplace of the modern football league. It gave birth to two great football clubs, "Manchester United" and "Manchester City", and has become a pilgrimage site for fans all over the world⚽.
Walking in the streets of Manchester, the old Victorian buildings 🏛️ stand side by side with the skyscrapers 🏢, exuding an open, inclusive and never-ending spirit of innovation. In fact, there are many places worth visiting in Manchester. Robingo has been based in Manchester for 7 years. Which places are the most worth visiting in a day trip and how to visit them, Robingo has sorted them out for you~
1. Northern Quarter
In the 18th century, North Point was a humble suburb. However, throughout the 19th century, as the Industrial Revolution flourished, it became a hive of industry. By the end of the 19th century, there were more than 100 factories in the area, and North Point is said to be the birthplace of Victorian nightlife, with tourists and locals coming out in droves to eat and shop.
At the end of the 19th century, with the decline of the Industrial Revolution and urban renewal, many young subcultures gradually gathered here: second-hand furniture, two-dimensional stores, independent bookstores, small galleries, vintage clothing, vinyl records and skateboard shops, etc. You can spend an afternoon browsing.
Another major feature of Manchester's North Corner is the various graffiti that can be seen everywhere. They not only decorate the walls of old buildings, but also become an important part of the cultural atmosphere of the North Corner.
2. Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral, also known as Manchester Cathedral, is a Grade I listed building in the UK and dates back to 1421. As a medieval Gothic building, it is not only a center of religious activities, but also one of Manchester's important landmarks. The towering towers and exquisite stained glass windows make people feel like they have returned to several centuries ago.
Inside the church, you can see precious wood carvings, exquisite stone carvings and well-preserved medieval architectural details. The cathedral is also the venue for many music and cultural events in the city, carrying Manchester's rich history and evolving modern cultural atmosphere.
(Photo credit: Phil Robson)
3. John Rylands History Library
Built in 1900, the John Rylands Library, affectionately known as the "Hogwarts-like library", is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the most important research libraries in the UK.
It is a Gothic-style architectural masterpiece that houses a large number of precious documents and manuscripts, including the Gutenberg Bible and other rare ancient books in the world. The library building itself is like a small cathedral. Walking through it, you can feel the accumulation of history and knowledge, as if you have traveled back to that era full of academic pursuits.
4. Science and Industry Museum
The Museum of Science and Industry, located in the heart of Manchester, is located on the site of the world's first railway station (1830). The museum displays a large number of heritage of the Industrial Revolution, including early textile machinery, steam-powered trains, and Manchester's contributions to science and technology.
(Photo source: visitmanchester.com)
The museum's exhibits also include the first computer in human history - the Turing computer. Friends who have seen Benedict Cumberbatch's movie "The Imitation Game" will definitely be familiar with Turing. He is a great British mathematician and codebreaker. Turing led a team to decipher Nazi Germany's military codes during World War II, accelerating the end of World War II.
The interactive experience in the museum allows people to understand the development process from steam power to modern computer technology. It is a technological journey spanning centuries and is very suitable for visitors of all ages.
5. Mamucium Roman Fort
The remains of Manchester's ancient Roman city walls are located in the Castlefield area and were built around 79 AD. As a military fortress during the Roman Empire, these walls bear witness to the city's origins and defensive history.
Although only ruins remain today, walking through it one can still feel the years when ancient wars and peace coexisted, and understand the development of Manchester from a military stronghold to a modern city.
6. Castlefield
Castlefield is one of the most historic areas in Manchester. Its name comes from the ruins of a Roman castle, but it is more than just an ancient relic. It was once the center where the canal network and railways intersected, and was full of busy industrial scenes. Even with the decline of the Industrial Revolution, there was a brief period of desolation here, but with the government's transformation, the quiet canals, restored Victorian warehouses and bars and restaurants complement each other. It has become a place where modernity and history intersect.
Take a stroll here and take a break at the industrial-style Albert Bar and Restaurant to enjoy the fusion of Manchester's history and modernity. This area is also an important attraction for relaxing and exploring Manchester's past.
7. Midland Hotel
The Midland Hotel has been at the heart of Manchester's high-end social and cultural life since it opened in 1903. The luxury hotel has been the site of countless historic moments, including the first meeting between Charles Rolls and Henry Leicester, which ultimately gave rise to the famous Rolls-Royce company.
Today, the Midland Hotel remains a symbol of elegance and sophistication in city life, where you can enjoy English afternoon tea and experience the perfect fusion of classic and modern.
8. Manchester Art Gallery
Manchester Art Gallery, also known as Manchester Art Gallery, is located in the city center and is a place where history and modern culture meet. Built in 1823, this neoclassical building carries a rich artistic heritage and exhibitions. It not only displays a large number of 19th-century British paintings, but also a variety of artworks from the Renaissance to contemporary art.
As the times change, Manchester Art Gallery has also become one of the gathering places for local young culture. There are often temporary exhibitions, interactive art projects and installation art inside and outside the gallery, attracting many young people and international students to explore. The exhibitions here are not limited to traditional art, but also include avant-garde modern art and multicultural content, giving the gallery a strong sense of the times.
You can see a large number of 19th century British paintings and Pre-Raphaelite works, and there are also some temporary exhibitions to visit.
9. China Town
Manchester's Chinatown is one of the largest Chinese communities in the UK, with a strong Asian cultural atmosphere. Whether it is the bustling street market, or the rich and diverse Chinese restaurants and Asian supermarkets, they are all favorites of Chinese students and visitors. Chinatown is also a reflection of Manchester's cultural diversity, where you can feel the fusion and symbiosis of Chinese and Western cultures.
10. Gay village
Manchester's Gay Village is located on Canal Street in the city center. It is the center of LGBTQ+ culture. It is one of the oldest and most established gay communities in Europe, and the Turing Memorial Statue is also here.
The colorful bars and nightclubs make this place full of vitality, and the annual Manchester Pride Parade attracts tourists from all over the world. The Gay Village not only symbolizes Manchester's tolerance and diversity, but is also a great place for young people and international students to have nightlife.
Recommended routes:
RobinGo Manchester 2-hour walking tour
Piccadilly Gardens ‣ North Point Creative Community ‣ Victoria Station ‣ Chetham’s Medieval Library ‣ Manchester Cathedral ‣ Royal Exchange ‣ John Rylands Library ‣ 1830 Station ‣ Museum of Science and Industry ‣ Roman City Walls ‣ Bridgeworth Canal ‣ Great Northern Warehouse ‣ Former Free Trade Hall ‣ Midland Hotel ‣ St Peter’s Square
Departure time: Daily (minimum 2 persons)
