MANCHESTER is one of the UK’s best cities, and it’s not just us locals who think so.
It’s been named one of the top places to visit by the New York Times and Time Out, and it ranked in the top ten best cities in the UK by CNN Traveler.
I live in Manchester and tourists often forget about other cooler neighbourhoods that are just as fun to visit[/caption]
Tourists love it for the music, restaurant scene, sports and nightlife. But here’s the thing – most of them miss some of the city’s best bits.
Beyond the obvious spots like the Northern Quarter, Deansgate and Old Trafford, there’s an abundance of hidden gems that locals know and love.
From canal-side hangouts to foodie hotspots, these are the areas you need to check out if you want to see the real Manchester.
Here are some of my favourite, lesser known areas to visit as a local.
Ancoats and New Islington
Once an industrial hub, Ancoats and New Islington are now buzzing, trendy neighbourhoods packed with some of the best restaurants, coffee shops and bars the city has to offer.
Located right next to one another, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into, from hipster pet shops in renovated mills to trendy homeware and vintage clothes stores all within walking distance.
Food lovers are spoilt for choice, too. The Rudy’s Pizza flagship is always busy – and for good reason as it was recently ranked fifth in the ‘Top fifty best pizzas in the world’ list compiled by global travel and food website Big 7 Travel.
The newly opened Bruco Italian is also a must-visit, especially for those who can’t get enough of arancini balls.
And if fine dining is more your thing, Mana – one of Manchester’s two Michelin-starred restaurants – offers an unforgettable tasting menu.
Then there’s the more casual Pollen Bakery, praised for its melt-in-the-mouth sourdough bread, pastries and cakes.
But it’s not just about the food. Hope Mill Theatre is another standout spot.
Nestled inside an old cotton mill, it hosts homebrew productions and edgy performances that you won’t find anywhere else, like the recent hit indie musical Gwyneth Goes Skiing.
If you’re after something more laid-back, New Islington Marina has a relaxed, canal side vibe that’s perfect for a sunny afternoon especially when grabbing a glass of wine at Flawd right on the water.
For something a bit different, Ad England just off Great Ancoats Street is an eccentric Bohemian bar and bookshop mashup with vintage reads and records. Expect obscure tunes and awkward service that only adds to the experience.
Grab a drink on New Islington Marina[/caption]
Expect some unusual shows at the Hope Mill Theatre[/caption]
NOMA
NOMA is Manchester’s creative district, and it’s got a vibe all of its own.
The star of the show here is New Century, a retro building that’s been turned into a multipurpose venue. There’s a food court teeming with independent vendors, a sophisticated mid-century modern-style bar, and live music events that draw big crowds.
For something to eat, The Sparrows is not to be missed. It’s my number one restaurant in the whole city, specialising in pasta and dumplings, with the spätzle being a standout dish (it’s seriously tasty and great value for money).
If you fancy a pint, Cloudwater Brewery is just around the corner. Famous for its craft beers, it’s one of the best places in Manchester for hopheads alongside The Green Arches, a cosy taproom tucked under a Red Bank archway.
During the warmer months, you can expect to stumble across outdoor pop-up events, food trucks and live performances at Sadler’s Yard, the district’s main square.
NOMA is the new creative district of Manchester[/caption]
Travel writer Lee Bell hails The Sparrows (pictured) as his number on restaurant in Manchester[/caption]
West Didsbury
West Didsbury is where locals go to escape the city centre’s hustle and bustle and also known as a foodie destination.
The neighbourhood feels like a world away from the city centre, despite only being a 20-minute tram ride.
The main streets, Burton Road and Lapwing Lane, are brimming with independent restaurants, cafés and bars.
Volta is one restaurant you can’t miss. Known for its small plates, it’s a snug spot with a menu that mixes bold flavours and seasonal ingredients.
Then, for a night cap, head down the road to Wine & Wallop, a vibey bar with an extensive wine list and a chilled-out atmosphere.
For brunch, Another Heart to Feed is worth a stop off. Their Aussie-inspired dishes, like smashed avocado and perfectly poached eggs, are a hit with locals.
When it comes to baked goods, West Didsbury’s famous artisan bakery, La Chouquette, is on hand, serving some of the best pastries in town.
West Didsbury is a great foodie hotspot and just 20 minutes from the centre by tram[/caption]
Travel writer Lee Bell hails the areas of Ancoats and New Islington as buzzing, trendy neighbourhoods packed with some of the best restaurants[/caption]
Chorlton
Chorlton is known as the hippy sister of West Didsbury.
What makes Chorlton special is its easy going and community vibe. From live music at local pubs to art pop-ups and markets, there’s always something popping off here.
Unicorn Grocery is a highlight. It’s an all-vegan supermarket with everything from fresh produce to snacks you didn’t know you needed.
For a sit down meal, San Juan is the go-to spot – a small but revered tapas bar that locals (even the Spanish expats) swear by.
When it comes to drinks, The Beagle is a local favourite. It’s got a great selection of craft beers and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for catching up with friends over a roast dinner, long into the evening.
Those wanting to get out and see some nature, Chorlton Water Park is nearby, providing a lovely green escape for walkers, cyclists and picnickers.
It’s a hidden gem that feels miles away from the city, even though it’s just a short journey.
Make sure to head to Chorlton’s street market[/caption]
Prestwich
Prestwich is one of Manchester’s most underrated gems, and recently named by The Times as one of the best places to live in the UK.
That’s no surprise, with its mix of great food, buzzing bars and some of the greenest spaces in Greater Manchester.
Any visit should start with a walk through Heaton Park, the largest park in Greater Manchester and home to Parklife festival as well as the upcoming Oasis shows.
Beyond the music, there are plenty of things to do, like boating on the lake, climbing through the treetop adventure course, or exploring the historic Heaton Hall.
For something quieter, Philips Park and Prestwich Clough offer peaceful walking trails, ponds and woodlands, perfect for getting away from it all.
After working up an appetite outdoors, get your fill at Chips @ No. 8, which is known for serving some of the best fish and chips in the country – complete with proper beef dripping chips and gravy.
Heaton Hall is a great historic attraction[/caption]
End the visit on some chips and gravy at Chips @ No.8[/caption]
Bagel buffs can head to Cooper’s Let’s Fress Deli for its £6 bagel deal or Triple B for New York-style salt beef sandwiches.
For something more refined, OSMA offers Scandi-inspired small plates created by a Michelin-trained chef.
The bar scene in Prestwich is just as impressive. All The Shapes and The Crooked Man are tucked-away favourites, ideal for a casual tipple. For wine lovers, Grape to Grain is a local staple, while The Pearl’s wine window adds a touch of Tuscan charm to sunny afternoons.
With its thriving food and drink scene, lush parks, and a lively community vibe, Prestwich has become a hotspot for Manchester locals in the know.
Where to stay in Manchester
We’ve reviewed some of the top hotels in Manchester – here are some of the best to stay in:
- The Alan
- Leonardo Hotel
- Leven
- Moxy
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