The Ultimate Manchester Bucket List That Everyone Needs To Experience

These ideas to add to your Manchester bucket list will ensure your visit to the city is filled with fun - and you're going to make a lot of memories, too!

Manchester is England’s second largest city and it’s bursting with culture, entertainment and a rich nightlife. If you’re planning a trip to Manchester and need some fun activities and places to add to your bucket list, be sure to check out the compiled list below.

1. Experience the world’s cuisine in the Corn Exchange

Whether you’re living in Manchester while studying, or you’re visiting on a city break, The Corn Exchange is an ideal place to dine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Experience authentic Indian street food at Mowgli’s, tuck into a pizza at Zizzi’s or Pizza Express, or if you prefer tacos and burritos, Wahaca brings Mexican market treats to the North West.

2. Watch a gig at the Manchester Arena

Visiting the Manchester Arena to watch a gig should definitely make it onto your Manchester bucket list. The venue is the city’s hub for all things entertainment and plays host to some of the biggest names in music. If live music isn’t your thing, the arena also sees stage productions and performances from comedians.

3. Take in the view of Manchester at the sky bar

Sipping a cocktail or glass of champagne while taking in the city skyline, should definitely be a priority on your Manchester bucket list. Cloud 23’s floor to ceiling windows give you the ultimate scenic view of the city below so grab a friend, get glammed up and enjoy an evening in style.

4. Take a walk on the wild side in Affleck’s Palace

From tattoos and piercings, retro games and vintage clothes, to crystals and tarot readings, there really is something to spark everyone’s interest at Affleck’s Palace, no matter how niche. This quirky indoor market makes everyone feel welcome and is the perfect place to tick things off your shopping list and Manchester bucket list alike.

5. Pop for a pint at Sinclair’s Oyster Bar

Relax over a few pints in one of Manchester’s many traditional British pubs. With its Tudor exterior, low ceilings and classic decor, Sinclair’s Oyster Bar provides a quaint, but always bustling atmosphere to unwind and socialise in, while shovelling down some traditional pub grub, with a drink in your hand.

6. Cure your hangover at The Deaf Institute

After a night out on Saturday there is no better way to relieve yourself of that nasty hangover on Sunday, than indulging in delicious, freshly made vegan food at The Deaf Institute. The ‘Vegan Hangover’ menu changes each week and is a must for your Manchester bucket list if you’re an avid partier.

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7. Soak up some history in Manchester Central Library

Travel back in time and take in the grand architecture of Manchester Central Library. Built between 1930 and 1934, the library is so much more than just a place you can take out books. If you’re looking for somewhere to revise and need a change of scenery from the same four walls of your bedroom, the library’s reading room will leave you in complete awe.

The library’s Shakespeare Hall has stained glass windows, with the middle window illustrating scenes from various William Shakespeare plays. The ceiling within the room is art in itself and is decorated with arms and crests.

8. Enjoy a brew in the company of cats

Destress from studying or shopping while surrounded by cats at Manchester’s Cat Cafe. Take a seat on the sofas and cuddle a cat over a coffee or have fun playing with them with the cafe’s selection of cat toys. The cafe offers a safe space and sanctuary for both busy humans and feline friends alike. It also hosts film nights where visitors can enjoy blankets, popcorn and free drinks.