A Complete Guide To Traveling Through Manchester, UK

When we think of taking a trip to England’s famous cities, there’s a good chance one comes to mind: London. While it might be the capital and come with a ton of history and things to see and do, it’s not the only place across the nation that’s filled with enough to keep us busy all day long.

A complete guide to traveling through Manchester, UK, goes to show that a trip to the north could be the thing we need to enjoy an England vacation unlike anything else. The best bit? With so much to see and do, we shouldn’t ever get bored exploring every inch of the city.

When is the best time to visit Manchester?

There is a reason that Manchester has been called the Rainy City throughout the years, but things might not be as bad as they seem on the surface. Like most of the UK, Manchester tends to be particularly wet throughout the winter, something that can spread into spring and fall, depending on the year. This might mean it’s little surprise that the summer is the best time to visit Manchester, but it’s not the only season that brings the city to life. Visiting outside of August means you miss the school breaks, with early fall offering shorter lines and waits. Still, it’s usually best to bring an umbrella and coat, just in case.

What are the best things to do in Manchester?

Manchester is an incredibly diverse city with so much to see and do. With so many museums on offer, the Imperial War Museum North and National Football Museum offers a look into the city’s past and its most famous sport: soccer. Manchester is also close to the Lake District and Peak District for travelers on a longer vacation who want to enjoy some open space. If you’re in the mood to really take a step back in time, be sure to visit The Old Wellington. The British pub first opened its doors in 1552 and is home to a traditional menu with some delicious drinks to wash it all down.

What is there to eat and drink in Manchester?

While London might be the UK city that gets the most attention for its dining scene, Manchester is hot on its heels. From bars to global restaurants and everything in between. There is something for everyone across the city. Manchester is known for its pubs and bars, most of which serve food alongside delicious drinks. There are also a host of food stalls for visitors on the go, with each stall offering up a new take on some tried-and-tested favorites. Whatever the case, be sure to try a Manchester Tart before you leave. The traditional pastry is baked and filled with raspberry jam, a deliciously sweet treat for the start or end of any day.

What’s the best way to get to Manchester?

Although Manchester Airport is an international airport, it primarily serves the Middle East and Europe, so flights can sometimes be limited. However, getting to London is accessible from almost anywhere in the world. From there, you have two options, a two-hour train ride takes you from one city to another, while the National Express buses can be more affordable for travelers on a budget. Just be warned, these take longer and don’t run as often. Of course, there is also the option to rent a car if you want to take a road trip from one end of the country to the other.

What are the cultures and customs in Manchester?

Like the US, England is known to tip, but many places automatically add a service charge to their checks, meaning it’s included in the bill. The only time people tend to leave any extra money behind is if they’ve enjoyed exceptional service or if they throw a few pounds (the local currency) down after ordering a round at the pub. The British are also known to be a more reserved bunch - except for certain nights of the year, such as major soccer matches - meaning you might need to get used to using quieter voices and not getting over-excited. Of course, you can’t forget their love of a line, meaning there should be no pushing your way to the front.

Are there ways to save money while traveling through Manchester?

Want to save money while traveling through Manchester? The free bus runs around the city center and covers a whole host of popular areas. There’s also the fact that most museums are free to enter, only asking for small donations at visitors’ discretion. Of course, the host of parks available also means we can get outside and soak in the city without having to spend any extra money, with most of Manchester being easy to navigate by foot once you arrive.

A complete guide to traveling through Manchester could be all some of us need to learn about the city that’s remained hidden for so long. It might not be London, but that’s the point; Manchester offers up something entirely unique from The Big Smoke.