Mancurian Madness in Manchester, England - 24-Hour Travel Guide

Canalside

Manchester Cathedral

Curry Mile

Overview - This gem of a town in northwestern England might be well known for football and night clubs, but there is much more to Manchester than meets the eye. It is easily explored with good public transportation and a friendly population to help you out on the way.

Breakfast - Next to Deansgate station you will find the greasy spoon Deansgate Hot Food Bar. For a good ‘fry up’ nothing beats it.

Morning - Enjoy the canals and historical architecture in Castlefield, the western side of the city center. Stroll around the beautiful Saint John’s Gardens (Byrom Street), and then stop into the free Museum of Science and Industry. The museum is built at the end of the world’s first passenger railway line and is home to a number of working engines which make for a fun, interesting visit.

Lunch - How about a Chinese buffet? Try for Number One's on Whitworth Street.

Afternoon - Hang out in the center of town around Albert Square. Manchester’s town hall, directly on the square, is beautiful any time of year. Head over to Urbis and learn more about Manchester history and enjoy views of the city. Manchester Cathedral is also another good stop as it is one of the few remaining medieval structures in Manchester.

If you run out of options, there is always the Printworks (Withy Grove and Thomas Street), named so because of its origin as a newspaper office but now a popular restaurant and drinking scene.

Dinner - Head to ‘curry mile’ to sample Manchester’s taste for Indian. In the neon glow of this busy strip you will be sure to find a treat to your satisfaction.

After Dark - Manchester is known for its intense club scene. For visitors, the best bet is probably Deansgate Locks where professionals mingle with the student population.

Sleep - See if you can spot a celebrity in the bar at the Victoria and Albert (Water Street). This downtown hot spot is popular with the stars as it is next to Granada TV, where Coronation Street is filmed.

Tags: