A Complete Guide to Exciting Areas in Manchester
There are many unique and beautiful areas in Manchester, and it has everything you could want a city to offer. Home to two of the most famous football clubs in the world, the birthplace of iconic bands like The Smiths and Oasis, renowned for its varied nightlife, restaurants, and shopping life- in addition to being home to the most famous of soap streets- Manchester has everything and more to offer.
There’s a reason why Mancunians are the happiest people on earth (well, we like to think we are!), and it’s because of our fantastic city. But, if you haven’t made your way to the northern powerhouse, then you’re missing out. Here at We Buy Any Home, we’ve provided a list of exciting areas in Manchester – leading you to the city’s hotspots – so that you can be well prepared for your visit to the city.
Are you interested in a guide to Manchester for a short stay? Then, read 24 hours in Manchester.
Are you interested in living in Manchester? Then, read Best Places to Live in Manchester.
14 Wonderful Areas in Manchester to Visit Now
Central Retail District
Easily one of the best areas to visit in Manchester is the central retail district, which is home to the Arndale shopping centre and the infamous Market Street, which has shifted the city’s approach to retail therapy. The Arndale shopping centre attracts 41 million visitors a year and is the largest in the United Kingdom. The area has been redeveloped extensively since the 1996 IRA bombings, which caused mass devastation to the site. The region comprises Exchange Square, Shambles Square, Manchester Cathedral, the Cathedral Gardens, and King Street. There is a range of shops, from designer to high street goods, pop up food stalls and guaranteed street performers at any hour of the day dominating Market Street.
Northern Quarter
Known for its bohemian and indie vibes, Northern Quarter is a hub for alternative culture in the city. In previous years the area was known as the retail heart of the city centre, but as the Arndale opened in the 1970s, patronage eventually dwindled, and buildings became vacant. Following the late 1980s, the area was renamed the Northern Quarter, hoping that the area would redeem its vibrancy- and it did just that. In the 90s and early 2000s, the area boomed and is now a Manchester hotspot for bars, shops and nightclubs- all with their quirky ethos and independent atmosphere. No two places in the Northern Quarter are the same, making Manchester a favourite area with working professionals and students.
Fallowfield
If you’re looking for a cheaper area of the city to explore, then Fallowfield will be your cup of tea. This undeniably festive area is a popular choice for students after a cheap and boozy night with casual dress codes and good vibes. There are outdoor areas where you can sit and drink, or pubs and bars that offer excellent live music or bars that turn into a gaming room, which means it is one of the best areas in Manchester for a fun night out.
Rusholme
Nicknamed the ‘Curry Mile, the area of Rusholme is infamous for its excellent restaurants that are South Asian based. Located on Wilmslow Road, the Curry Mile is only a ten-minute bus journey from the city centre. It has the largest concentration of restaurants that serve Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi delicacies.
Mayfield
This urban neighbourhood was once considered a forgotten district of Manchester- however, current plans have uncovered that the area will be turned into a 6.5-acre urban park, consisting of commercial, retail, and residential hubs. This development plan aims to fit into the area’s natural elements, as there is a river nearby. Currently, Mayfield depot is where the pride festival is held annually and hosts some of the world’s biggest stars, such as Ariana Grande and Coldplay.
Castlefield
Located in the southwest between the River Irwell and Deansgate is Castlefield, arguably known for its engagement with historical events and sites. However, the area has retained much of its industrial character and is the only Urban Heritage Park in the UK. Known initially for its contribution to transport during the Industrial Era, the area is a quiet location known for its museums and mellow-atmosphere bars and pubs. Notable structures such as the Manchester Liverpool Road Station still stand and have become a part of the Museum of Science and Industry.
Read more: Best Free Museums in Manchester
Spinningfields:
The most affluent part of Manchester city centre, Spinningfields, connects the middle of Deansgate and the city’s central business district. After investment company Allied began to build several buildings around the John Rylands Library in 1997, Spinningfields became notorious for its glamorous, modern facilities- which exist as Michelin star restaurants and offices and a selection of designer stores such as Armani and Mulberry.
Medieval Quarter
Located near the city’s retail hub and the Salford City border, this area is known for its culture and history. Situated across Victoria train station is Manchester Cathedral and Chethams School of Music, which are renowned historical assets of Manchester’s landscape. Additionally, the National Football Museum and the Corn Exchange, which are popular visitor destinations.
Petersfield
Located next to the city’s Civic Quarter and Central Business District, this area is infamous for its historic buildings and unique architecture, in addition to its facilities of leisure and experiences that offer an insight into the area’s culture and history. Home to the premier conferencing venue and the Bridgewater Hall, it’s a great place to experience live music from an orchestra, as well as theatre plays and drama.
Piccadilly
The transport interchange of the city, Piccadilly, is home to a railway station, tram and bus service all within a five-minute walk of each other. It’s a busy area for commuters, and the area is dominated by Piccadilly Gardens, which is the largest public square in the centre after its redevelopment. You can find restaurants, hotels and offices, and it is infamous for its tall buildings that make you feel like you’re in New York City.
Read about other wonderful public spaces in the city here: The Best Parks in Manchester.
Manchester Millennium Quarter
Located in Manchester’s city centre’s heart, the Millennium Quarter is also known as the Central Retail District. It is one of the areas in Manchester where you will certainly get all your shopping done. Surrounded by the Arndale shopping centre, in addition to luxury shops such as Harvey Nichols and Selfridges, here you will find some of Manchester’s best attractions. Across the way is The Printworks entertainment complex, which is home to various restaurants and activities such as the cinema and bowling. Despite its modern and cosmopolitan appearance, The Manchester Millennium is also a historical site where an IRA bombing took place in 1996.
Chinatown
South of Piccadilly is Chinatown- the third-largest Chinatown in Europe. Known for its traditional oriental restaurants and other facilities that exude eastern character, the wave of Chinese immigration during the 1950s increased the Chinese population in Manchester and the migration of Japanese settlers who fled the rapid urbanisation in Hong Kong. By the 1970s, Chinese-owned businesses began to boom in the area, from traditional supermarkets, medicine shops, financial and legal services and an expanding number of restaurants. Since then, the area has retained its conventional eastern character, and as of 1987, it even has a pairing archway installed as a gift to the Chinese community.
Canal Street
Centre east of Portland Street, Canal Street is home to Manchester’s Gay Village- containing bars and clubs centred towards the LGBTQIA community- and has links back to the early 20th century when homosexuality was still a criminal offence. The area may cater to the LGBTQIA community- offering a safe space for all sexualities and genders- but it’s the most welcoming and diverse place in the city! We love visiting, and it is easy to see why it is one of the best areas in Manchester – it is full of life.
Manchester Civic Quarter
Home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings, Manchester Civic Quarter covers Mosley Street, Peter Street, Deansgate and John Dalton Street. Its late period architecture is evident in Victorian-style buildings such as the Manchester Central Library, the Town Hall and the Exchange Theatre, and the Albert Hall constructed in the early 1900s. Alongside the stunning buildings are also a varied choice of eateries, bars and expensive shops that are worth having a look at, which makes this one of the best areas in Manchester to visit on your next trip.
Deansgate Locks
If you’re looking for an area of Manchester to let your hair down and go a bit wild for the night, then Deansgate Locks is the best place. It’s the go-to place for a lively atmosphere, as the row of bars filled with partygoers is the hotspot for those looking to have a good time. The bars, located on the canal-side, are famous for students, as student accommodation is local to the bars. There are also many expensive and luxury bars, such as the Epernay and Cloud 23, and the rooftop bar in the Hilton hotel.
This article was written by a quick house sale company, We Buy Any House. If you’re wondering, “how can I sell my house fast?” head to the We Buy Any Home website for more information relating to all property-related enquiries.
Photo Credits: averagelives.com