What to do in Manchester this summer.
With last weeks sunny weather we’ve got a bit carried away and excited about the coming summer in Manchester.
The sun might shine, the beer gardens are definitely full, and the city comes alive with the kind of chaotic charm that makes you wonder why you ever considered going to Portugal. (We have canals! And pigeons! And food that doesn’t come with sand in it!)
If you’re heading our way this summer and want to experience Manchester like a true local—not just a lost tourist looking for the nearest Greggs—here are five authentic experiences you won’t want to miss. And yes, a few of them involve food. Obviously.
1. Eat Your Way Around the city (With Us, Obviously)
Let’s just get this one in early doors: if you haven’t eaten your way through the Northern Quarter and Ancoats with Manchester Bites, have you even been to Manchester?
This is your golden ticket to a food tour where we do all the hard work (walking, talking, choosing the best eats) while you relax and eat like Mancunian royalty. We’ll introduce you to passionate independent vendors, secret dishes, and flavours that’ll make your tastebuds sing with joy. Plus, we tell cracking stories, show you where the best places to do all sorts of things are and there’s wine.
2. Catch a Gig at a Proper Manchester Music Venue
Sure, the city’s musical history includes The Smiths, Joy Division, and some brothers who really like arguing. But the legacy lives on in sweaty basements and buzzing bars. Catch a live band at Band on the Wall, YES, or Night & Day Café and you’ll understand why Manchester’s still a powerhouse for live music.
Band on the wall have just bought the pub next door to the venue as well so look out for more news on that front.
3. Go Full Hipster at a Manchester Market
If you want to pretend you live here (without committing to the rent), head to one of our many weekend markets. Try the Makers Market in the Northern Quarter for vintage clothes, craft beer, and art that’ll make you say, “I don’t know what it means, but I love it.”
There is of course one of our favourite spots in Afflecks Palace which describes itself as “an emporium of eclecticism”. There’s over 60 independent traders covering 4 florrs of this old warehouse turned indoor market. Don’t miss Ginger’s comfort emmporium on the first floor for Manchester’s favourite ice cream.
You’ll leave with at least one tote bag, a sourdough loaf, and possibly a cactus you didn’t need. No regrets.
4. Visit a Boozy Independent Brewery (Because You Deserve It)
Manchester’s beer scene is foamy, fabulous, and fiercely independent. From the hoppy wonders at Cloudwater to the charming chaos of Runaway Brewery in Stockport, there’s a perfect pint for everyone.
Many breweries offer taproom sessions or tasting tours where you can sip, swirl, and pretend you know what “notes of citrus” means. If you can taste it, great. If not, just nod thoughtfully and say, “Mmm, complex.”
5. Take a Walk, Rain or Shine
Manchester’s full of surprisingly gorgeous spots for a mooch—yes, that’s the official term. Stroll along the canals in Castlefield, explore the industrial-chic vibes of Ancoats, or head to Heaton Park for greenery, goats, and the occasional ice cream van that plays Greensleeves at top volume.
And hey, if it rains? That’s just part of the experience. Pop into a cosy café, order a flat white, or better yet a proper local boozer. We’re really lucky here in Manchester to have some really old school pubs and cafes to dodge the rain in.
Final Thoughts (and a Cheeky Nudge)
Whether you’re here for the food, the music, or just to find out what the fuss is aall about, Manchester’s got something for everyone. And if you want the ultimate intro to the city—with flavour, laughs, and zero Google Maps confusion—book yourself a spot on a Manchester Bites Food Tour.
If you need any help with planning your trip to Manchester please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re here to help make your Manchester experience the best it possibly can be. Give us a shout manchester@bitestours.com
