manchester’s best old pubs & 10 things to do in manchester
As the first industrial city of the UK, Manchester is no stranger to being in the spotlight, known for its vibrant culture of sports, music, art, and football. But there’s another thing it has going for it… our historic pubs!
So, get ready for 10 of Manchester’s most must-see attractions and then join us back at our charming old pubs for a pint of cask ale and a hearty, hand-crafted British pie.
1. visit the MANCHESTER MUSEUM
Discover over 500,000 objects from natural sciences and human cultures in this renowned university museum, housing over 500,000 objects from natural sciences and human cultures. You’re sure to find a few facts that’ll help out at your next pub quiz!
2. appreciate the MANCHESTER ART GALLERY
Experience a diverse collection of fine art spanning centuries and a wide range of styles in this 200-year-old gallery. Discover how art can drive social change, then impress your mates with your knowledge over your next round.
3. wander Manchester’s NORTHERN QUARTER
Spend a day or night enjoying the independent shops, vibrant nightlife and diverse culture of Manchester’s Northern Quarter. Browse vintage markets and immerse yourself in street art, great music and café culture.
Best pub for theSe attractions: THE BANK
Originally The Portico Library, conceived in 1803, The Bank is one of the most historically important – and impressively eye-catching, might we add – buildings in Manchester, built in Runcorn stone. The library still exists upstairs, if you want to immerse yourself in our origin story, before returning to street level to find our hearty pub classics and real ales waiting for you.
4. catch a show at the ROYAL EXCHANGE THEATRE
Attend a performance in this unique theatre, housed in a historic cotton exchange building. Experience storytelling at its best in this iconic spaceship-like theatre.
5. learn at the Science and industry museum
Delve into Manchester’s industrial past and approaching future with immersive events and historic exhibitions. This is the perfect place for adults and families to learn, play, and enjoy!
6. embrace sports history at OLD TRAFFORD
Stand on the historic ground and experience the excitement of a match at one of the world’s most famous stadiums. Watch Manchester United play live or take a tour of Old Trafford – there’s really no wrong choice as long as you visit this iconic venue at least once.
7. walk around JOHN RYLANDS LIBRARY
Wander the halls of this historic library known for its impressive neo-Gothic architecture and rare book collections. World-leading researchers and conservators come together to define the human experience.
Best pub for theSe ATTRACTIONS: THE SAWYER’S ARMS
One of Manchester’s oldest pubs, dating back to the 1700s, our Grade II listed building is full of unique character and the perfect place to rest your legs after a day exploring the streets and sights of central Manchester. Linger a while at The Sawyer’s Arms and enjoy a cold crisp pint and a flaky pie worth writing home about.
8. snap a few pics of MANCHESTER CATHEDRAL
Take a pit stop to admire the stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere of this medieval cathedral, standing for over 600 years in central Manchester. Much like our pubs, let your eyes wander over its walls and you’ll always find some new detail worth discussing.
9. potter around HEATON PARK
Located on the outskirts of Manchester, relax in the largest park in Europe or work up an appetite with a jog, cycle, or walk around the lake and ornamental gardens.
10. go shopping at the TRAFFORD CENTRE
Find all your favourite must-have brands under one roof and indulge in some serious retail therapy at the Trafford Centre – with its wide range of stores and entertainment options, you’ll have every excuse to shop until you drop.
Best pub for theSe attractions: THE OLD WELLINGTON
Nicknamed ‘The Old Welly’, this pub was built in 1552 and was home to some of the founders of Manchester commerce. Drop in and feel the echoes of the oldest building of its kind in Manchester and enjoy a British pub lunch and a glass (or two) of your favourite tipple. History is still being made here every day.
If all that reading about the best attractions in Manchester – and its charming historic pubs – has you feeling thirsty, we think you deserve a break.
Find your nearest Nicholson’s pub and take a load off, treating yourself to a couple of cask ales, and perhaps a classic pub lunch, before getting back to your journey through the best cities in the UK.
8. snap a few pics of MANCHESTER CATHEDRAL
Take a pit stop to admire the stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere of this medieval cathedral, standing for over 600 years in central Manchester. Much like our pubs, let your eyes wander over its walls and you’ll always find some new detail worth discussing.
