How to Spend 24 Hours in Manchester: Hidden Spots & Gems
Hello, Chris here! Welcome to our guide on spending a perfect day in Manchester! Why should you trust me? Well, I've called this vibrant city home since 2012 and this is not a sponsored post, so you are getting my genuine and unfiltered recommendations.
Joining me on this adventure is Zoe, who's new to Manchester. Together, we'll share our genuine recommendations for an unforgettable day, exploring hidden spots and local gems. Whether you're a newcomer or a longtime resident, there's always something new to discover in Manchester. Let’s get started.
Morning Delight: Coffee and Pastries at Pollen Bakery
Manchester boasts many excellent bakeries, but Pollen Bakery stands out as the most celebrated. Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Pollen in Ancoats, which offers a lovely view of the marina.
Located just a short walk from the city centre along a picturesque canal, Pollen is a beloved bakery and cafe known for its delectable pastries and exceptional coffee.
We enjoyed our breakfast outside in the sunshine—Zoe indulged in a seasonal Danish pastry filled with strawberry and elderflower, while I savoured a classic pain au chocolat.
The pastries were light, fluffy, and bursting with flavour. Regardless of the weather, Pollen is a must-visit spot, with equally inviting indoor seating.
Mid-Morning: Explore Ancoats and Ancoats Marina
After a delightful breakfast at Pollen, take some time to explore the historic and trendy neighbourhood of Ancoats. Once the world's first industrial suburb, Ancoats is now a vibrant area full of character and charm. Wander through the picturesque streets and marvel at the old cotton mill buildings, now stylish apartments and modern spaces. The small red brick buildings evoke a sense of history, reminiscent of Brooklyn in New York, making it easy to imagine Manchester during the Industrial Revolution.
Ancoats is also a hub for creativity and innovation, with independent boutiques, artisanal coffee shops, and unique eateries reflecting the area's dynamic spirit. The blend of old and new offers a fascinating insight into Manchester's rich heritage and contemporary culture. Don’t miss a walk around Ancoats Marina, where you can relax by the tranquil waterside, enjoy the views, and capture some stunning photographs. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Ancoats is a must-visit destination.
Late Morning: Visit Mayfield Depot Park
For a refreshing change of pace, stroll over to Myfield Depot Park, a beautiful green space that opened in 2022. As Manchester’s first new park in over a century, it offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Designed with various seating areas and scenic spots, it's perfect for a peaceful break amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
The park features a river flowing through its centre, adding to its tranquil ambience. During our visit, we enjoyed watching the geese and their goslings navigate the water.
Mayfield Depot Park is a testament to Manchester’s dedication to creating inviting, functional spaces for everyone. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or simply soak in the serene environment, this park is a must-visit.
Early Afternoon: Discover Manchester Art Gallery
Head to the Manchester Art Gallery, a free attraction boasting a diverse collection that spans centuries of artistic expression. Featuring both iconic masterpieces and contemporary creations, this gallery invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty and significance of human imagination.
With its rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and welcoming atmosphere, the Manchester Art Gallery is perfect for both art enthusiasts and casual visitors. It's a must-see destination that offers a rich cultural experience.
Lunch: Sunday Roast at Pot Kettle Black
We filmed our video on a Sunday, perfect for indulging in a classic Sunday roast. Our top pick? The roast dinner at Pot Kettle Black.
Typically a brunch spot, the Angel Gardens branch transforms on Sundays to serve up mouth-watering roasts. We both opted for the duo of pork from the specials menu, and it was fantastic. The tender meat, fluffy and crispy roast potatoes, tasty veggies, and delicious gravy made it a memorable meal.
We plan to showcase more of our favourite lunch spots in Manchester in an upcoming video, but for now, if you're in town on a Sunday, Pot Kettle Black is the place to go.
Afternoon: Walk Through Castlefield
After indulging in a hearty Sunday roast, we decided to stretch our legs with a walk through Castlefield, my favourite spot in Manchester. Once an industrial powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution, Castlefield has transformed into a lively urban area that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern vibrancy.
We meandered through the impressive canal network, admiring the industrial scenery and striking architecture. Castlefield is also home to numerous bars and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. For photographers, it's a prime location to capture Manchester's authentic and historic architecture. If you're planning a photo shoot, Castlefield is the perfect backdrop.
Late Afternoon: Drinks in the Northern Quarter
For a perfect late afternoon, especially on a sunny day, head to the Northern Quater for a drink in one of its many inviting beer gardens. This eclectic and vibrant neighbourhood is known for its lively atmosphere and creative energy.
The Northern Quarter is a hub of independent boutiques, trendy cafes, and striking street art, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary charm. Today, the area was buzzing with activity, and everyone was out enjoying the good weather and vibrant scene. It's the ideal spot to soak up Manchester's dynamic spirit.
Evening: Dinner at Nell's Pizza in Kampus
No visit to Manchester is complete without enjoying some delicious pizza, and the city boasts plenty of great pizzerias like Rudy's and Double Zero. For a more casual dining experience, we headed to Nell's at Kampus, located in the heart of the Gay Village. Nell's is an excellent spot to meet friends for a drink and a slice of their amazing pizza.
I sampled their frozen margarita, which was a perfect 10 out of 10. While Chris’s favourite is the 'Nduja Honey pizza, today we decided to share a Cugine pizza.
It was a mouthwatering combination of sausage, mozzarella, peppers, vodka sauce, and ricotta. Chris couldn't resist and sneaked in a slice of the 'Nduja Honey as well. Nell's offers a fantastic atmosphere, and during the summer, their outdoor seating provides a lovely view of the canal and Canal Street.
Wrap Up
I hope you enjoyed exploring Manchester with us! This vibrant city is full of diverse experiences and hidden gems, making it a fantastic destination to visit. We're thrilled to share our adventures with you through this new project on our channel.
We're planning to create many more videos and would love to hear your feedback. Please leave your comments, and don't forget to like this video and subscribe to our channel. Thank you for joining us, and see you in the next one!