Top Things To Do In Manchester (United Kingdom) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Manchester

1. 1. Old Trafford Stadium Tour

   Experience the thrill of walking in the footsteps of legendary Manchester United players with the Old Trafford Stadium Tour. This immersive tour takes you behind the scenes of the Theatre of Dreams, Manchester United's iconic home grounds. With an expert guide, delve into the rich history of the club, visit the dressing rooms, walk through the players' tunnel, and imagine the roar of 75,000 fans as you emerge onto the pitch. Learn about the club's greatest moments, see the impressive trophy cabinet, and gain insights unique to this celebrated football stadium. The tour also includes entry to the Manchester United Museum, where you can explore memorabilia and interactive exhibits. This activity is a must for football enthusiasts and an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: £25 per adult

2. 2. Manchester Art Gallery

   Explore the creative world at Manchester Art Gallery, located in the heart of the city. Renowned for its fine art collection, the gallery houses thousands of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art spanning six centuries. Here, you can marvel at masterpieces from British and European artists, as well as contemporary works that stimulate conversation and reflection. The gallery often hosts temporary exhibitions and has a special collection of costume and design. Educational workshops and family-friendly activities make this a venue that caters to all interests. A visit here not only educates but inspires creativity, and it's an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural fabric of Manchester.

   Duration: 1-3 hours · Price: Free entry

3. 3. The Science and Industry Museum

   Dive into Manchester's rich industrial heritage at The Science and Industry Museum. Located on the historic site of the world's oldest railway station, this museum captures the city's legacy as a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution. With interactive galleries, the museum covers fascinating themes, from transport to textiles and computing. Witness working machinery, get hands-on with science experiments, and understand the inventions that shaped modern society. See the first stored-program computer or marvel at early aircraft, all while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere that encourages exploration and discovery.

   Duration: 2-4 hours · Price: Suggested donation of £5 per person

4. 4. National Football Museum

   Football fans rejoice at the opportunity to visit the National Football Museum, the world-leading institution celebrating the beautiful game. Situated in the Urbis building, this museum offers a dynamic and immersive experience that delves deep into the sport's history, culture, and impact. You'll encounter objects that have shaped the game, from vintage memorabilia to the Premier League trophy. Interactive exhibits allow you to test your own skills or take a penalty shootout. The museum emphasizes the global significance of football and its unifying spirit, making it a compelling visit for sports enthusiasts.

   Duration: 1.5-3 hours · Price: Free entry (charges for special exhibitions may apply)

5. 5. Manchester Cathedral

   Step into the serene ambiance of Manchester Cathedral, an exquisite example of Gothic architecture with a history dating back to the 1400s. This working church is not only a place of worship but also a monument to Manchester's past and present. Inside, you'll observe intricate carvings, stunning stained glass windows, and the impressive nave. The Cathedral regularly hosts concerts and events, and visitors can participate in guided tours that reveal hidden gems and tell tales of bygone eras. It's a place of peace and reflection amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free entry (donations welcome)

6. 6. Manchester Museum

   Manchester Museum, part of the University of Manchester, offers a diverse collection that spans natural history, archaeology, anthropology, and more. Its recently redeveloped exhibition space provides a fresh look at millions of items, including a rare Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton named 'Stan'. Visitors can explore Egyptian mummies, live reptiles, and artifacts from ancient worlds, which together create a tapestry of life across the globe and through the ages. The museum's commitment to inclusion and understanding makes it an enlightening visit for anyone curious about the natural world and human culture.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Free entry

7. 7. Chetham's Library

   Visit Chetham's Library, the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, dating back to 1653. This hidden treasure, next to Manchester Cathedral, transports you back in time with its timbered halls and ancient tomes. The library collection is vast and historically significant, including works that have played a role in Manchester's intellectual history. Notably, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels studied here, and visitors can view the very alcove where they sat. Tours are led by knowledgeable guides, making this a perfect activity for book lovers and history buffs.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free entry (guided tours may have a fee)

8. 8. Heaton Park

   Heaton Park is Manchester's largest park and one of the biggest municipal parks in Europe. It offers a mixture of open spaces and woodland, making it perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. The park features an 18th-century Grade I listed, neoclassical mansion known as Heaton Hall, the historic tramway, a boating lake, a golf course, and a café. Visitors can enjoy playgrounds, walking trails, and animal encounters at the park's farm centre. It's a wonderful place to escape the city, enjoy a picnic, or participate in the frequent events and concerts held here.

   Duration: Variable · Price: Free entry (some attractions within the park may have a fee)

9. 9. Manchester Central Library

   Manchester Central Library is not only an architectural landmark, with its iconic round structure and impressive dome, but it's also a modern hive of information. This Grade II listed building contains a vast collection of literature, historical records, music, and digital resources. Whether you're conducting research or just seeking a quiet reading corner, the library's facilities cater to all. Additionally, it houses the Wolfson Reading Room, an uplifting space for study, as well as exhibition spaces and regular events for public engagement.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free entry

10. 10. People's History Museum

    Embark on a journey through the history of democracy in Britain at the People's History Museum. Through interactive galleries, discover the stories of the workers, women, and communities that fought for change over two centuries. The museum showcases the development of democracy in the UK, emphasizing participation and representation. With original artifacts, banners, and personal stories, this attraction highlights the struggles and accomplishments in the fight for equality and rights. It's a thought-provoking activity that inspires visitors to think about social justice and their own role in society.

    Duration: 1-3 hours · Price: Free entry (suggested donation of £5 per person)