Big, bold and always up for a party, Manchester has plenty to offer the hedonistic day visitor. But as well as a legendary music scene and big clubnights, there’s an enviable food offering and a line-up of breweries that’d impress the most hardcore hop head. It’s a city underpinned by community, and a sense of independence that runs through everything it does. Discover indie cafés, proper pubs, and a thriving arts scene, and you’ll still barely have scratched the surface.
Manchester is carving a name for itself on the global beer scene, and plenty of breweries host pop-up taprooms and tours. Beer fans will do well to explore local favourites, but Cloudwater Brew Co – recently voted second-best brewery in the world – is a must see. Post-brewery, prop up the bar at The Smithfield Tavern, or geek out at the city’s best craft beer bars: Port Street Beer House and Café Beermoth.
Combine food and architecture at the Mackie Mayor, a casual, communal dining joint in one of Manchester’s most beautiful Grade II listed buildings. With a selection of top food, booze and coffee traders all under one stunning glass roof, a day tasting your way through the menus is a day well spent.
After a day in the city, call this swish narrowboat home. Whispering Willow is moored in Manchester’s coolest district, Ancoats, just a short stroll from the city centre. The surprisingly spacious 57ft boat is kitted out with everything you’d expect from a boutique hotel, but with bags more charm. Think stylish interiors, a king-size bed, and a deck with views over the marina. There’s also a wood-burning stove, making the waterborne hideaway a cosy place to retire, even in the middle of winter. From £65 a night.
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