The Visit Manchester Blog

3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (February 24 - 26)

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:50:00 -0800

Spring is finally in the air so head out to Manchester this weekend and enjoy our lovely region. Here’s our top 3 ideas for what to do plus some additional suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

Manchester Histories Festival kicks off today running until 4th March. The opening weekend is packed with activity including with the chance to climb 280ft to the top of Manchester Town Hall's 134-year-old clock tower or enjoy a family cycle ride alongside penny farthings and other vintage cycles.
Head down to Manchester Museum on Saturday for the Urban Naturalist workshop, where leading naturalists will guide you in the ways of wild food-foraging, bird song and insect identification. Ray Mears eat your heart out!
Another week passes, another exhibition opens, that’s just how we roll in Manchester. This week it’s the turn of Idris Khan’s The Devil’s Wall at Whitworth Art Gallery. The exhibition draws inspiration from rituals and practices of the Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca that is one of the pillars of Islam and is undertaken by millions of Muslims each year.

Here’s what our Twitter followers suggest:

@revealmcr: Sat 25th 2pm guided tour on history of Manchester Women. Pioneers, prostitutes, Pankhursts & more. Meet Town Hall steps Alb Sq £6
@jackiecrozier: Ahh at my favourite place in Manchester. The Royal Exchange Theatre @rxtheatre @visit_mcr so many good nights here #highlyrecommended
@DiscoverMH: its got to be @mcrhistfest starting today, exhibitions, walking tours, talks, bicycle rides - 10 days of entertainment!
@ClaireTTweets: take part in @mcrhistfest as there's something for everyone with Cranford's Elizabeth Gaskell, Egyptology, walking tours and more
@cheekyminky: lego discovery centre has Lego Star Wars this weekend
@artyarn: My Suggestion: 'Close Knit' free knitting workshop at Manchester Museum, saturday 25th Feb 2-4 : http://closeknitmanchester.wordpress.com/
@ryan180680: Visit the Virgin Media store in the Arndale centre as we're offering free installation on absolutely everything! This w/end only!
@louisebolotin: I'm off to Klezmer concert at Levenshulme Inspire tonight and the alternative/burlesque fair tomorrow at Sound Control

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Scott Seaman-Digby: Check out the new season at Pashion in Spinningfields
Adam Fowler: Indoor skydiving @ Airkix!

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (February 17 - 19)

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:17:00 -0800

Looking for some inspiration for the weekend ahead in Manchester? Here’s our top 3 ideas plus some great suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

Head over to the Open Day at Manchester's waterfront The Quays on Saturday for a day packed with lots of great free family activities. With a 6ft animatronic dinosaur, the Chinese State Circus limbering up and storytelling workshops, the entertainment will be flowing!
Whitworth Art Gallery has a great new exhibition called Cotton: Global Threads. At the heart of the exhibition are displays of fashion and textiles that examine India's extensive global trade networks in cotton centuries before production shifted to Northern Europe, and the impact that cotton had on Western fashion, providing the catalyst for the Industrial Revolution in which Manchester played a vital role.
Band on the Wall has a real treat for beer drinking blues music fans as it hosts a Beer 'n Blues Festival. The festival opens tonight with one of the country's top rocking blues & roots bands The Cadillac Kings plus over 20 rare and refined beers, with a further two gigs tomorrow.

Here’s what our Twitter followers suggest:

@Bubbly_Jo: a mooch around the shops in NQ, followed by a touch of lunch at either Bread or Leckenbys and then the art gallery for PM culture
@Swimmanchester: FREE swimming for all at #MilesPlatting Swimming Pools all weekend!
@LorHulmston: Lots of lovely offers across Manchester this February! http://bit.ly/xt7zxT #ilovemcr” these might come in handy this weekend
@Ben__Mitchell: I would recommend a visit to @voiceofmosi #MoSI followed by lunch/shopping at the trafford centre then go to Krispy Kreme!
@Baxter323: @manchester235, Stunning Restaurant, Pornstar Martinis, Music Classics, Everything in one place to avoid the northern cold! FAB!
@madebyand: craft & design centre on oak street in the northern quarter, lovely shops, lovely cafe & lovely peeps!
@SEOsherlock: There's a Vintage and Craft Market in Altrincham this Sunday: http://bit.ly/xCXN1g
@PrincessLulaB: Once Upon a War Time at Imperial War Museum
@Daybarkle: mediacity plays host to 10th birthday celebrations for cbbc and CBeebies tomorrow
@LHANTIQUES: Certainly a rummage around Affleks #vintage would be on my list!.
@HLCupcake: call into our cupcakery for a sweet treat. Over 12 cupcake flavours to choose from! www.heylittlecupcake.co.uk
@VisitSalford: top recommendation has got to be #QuaysOpenDay on Saturday
@naijaSolar: GhostPoet at SoundControl http://soundcontrolmanchester.co.uk/live_detail.asp?event=461 should be good :)
ehpaulo_: For the finest alt clubbing experience, get down to Bollox at Legends (while you still can)
@MancRockChick: Afternoon tea at Leckenby's Tea Rooms on King St West - see you there! *guiltypleasures*

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Lisa Hill: Go the Quays open day! Lots to do at all the attractions on the Quays
Wendy Eaton: Visit Clayton Hall Saturday open Day
Karen Mcvey: Manchester Museum, lunch on Deansgate, followed by the big wheel, then maybe printworks at waxys for a drink.
Katherine Robertson: Open day at the Quays/ CBeebies 10th birthday bash.
Paul Cartlidge: Selfridges, sushi and shoes.
Pied Piper Promotions: check out some of the amazing new music on the Manchester scene at one of the many music venues around town that support independent music
Altrincham HQ: Day trip to Altrincham for businesses like Pitta Crepe and Silver Blades Altrincham - alternatively if in Manchester go see Skint and Demoralised at Dry Bar

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (February 10 - 12)

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:21:42 -0800

Planning a trip to Manchester this weekend? Here’s our top 3 ideas of what to see and do plus some lovely suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

Tonight the Bridgewater Hall is embracing all things British to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee. If you love a bit of nostalgia, head down to see former BBC Royal Correspondent Jennie Bond host an evening of much loved music from across Britain and favourite themes from TV and Radio.
This weekend sees the climax of the National Squash Championships with two rounds of semi-finals taking place on Saturday, followed by the final on Sunday on the stunning all-glass court at Manchester’s National Squash Centre.
Opening tomorrow at Imperial War Museum North is a fascinating exhibition called Once Upon A Wartime. Based around five of the best loved children’s stories about war, the exhibition is a great place for adults and children alike and includes objects from the set of Steven Spielberg’s film War Horse. Take a look at the video below to see what’s in store.

Here's what our Twitter followers suggest:

@SarahCrosby1: @WhitworthArt #CottonGlobalThreads exhibition opens tomorrow, looks a good'un.
@MHCentre: How about coming along to see & hear @GabrielMinnikin at @MHCentre launching his new album http://tinyurl.com/73fsg43 unmissable!
@jessmarten: I'd recommend a wander round Manchester Art Gallery then jump on a tram to Chorlton and visit @BarbakanDeli and @SweetTooth_MCR
@BobTraveller: do a scavenger hunt in the Northern Quarter or just explore the bars, craft workshops and galleries
@amomentcanvas: they could visit a moment in time canvas printing at piccadilly approach there is much to be seen in the shop!
@TNSrecordsUK: They should come to this gig tonight @thelassogowrie - http://ow.ly/8ZhFR
@SilverSelina: visit @ManchesterCraft for great unique #valentine gifts http://m.flickr.com/#/photos/40912259@N08/6829789539/ and have lunch at our new cafe @OakStreetCafeNQ
@TheGreedyGirl: John Rylands followed by Sugar Junction
@rebeccagreen31: @gauntletbop and @I_W_M are always at the top of my list for fun stuff in Mancs
@Vintage_Village: We humbly submit The Vintage Village Be My Valentine Fair, this Sunday 10-4, Stockport Market Hall http://bit.ly/wNQUrg ;)
@Slattery_Cakes: jump on the tram to whitefield and come to visit @Slattery_Cakes for some chocolate treats!
@paulmray: JohnRylandsLibrary/Spinningfields4Shops; BritonsProtectionLunch; Walk via StJohnsGardens&RomanRuins Castlefield; El Rincon Supper
@Warb_1: come to Selfridges Exchange Square and see @astewartmusic singing in our fabulous new Beauty and Fashion Jewellery floor
@HiltonMCR: evening cocktails or high tea in #cloud23
@louisebolotin: I'm going to try my first Manchester Egg at the food market at Piccadilly Gardens on Saturday

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Pamela Bainbridge: Champagne afternoon tea at the Midland Hotel!
Andy Woolley: Go absolutely wild on canal street!!!
Adam Fowler: Aerial Extreme at The Trafford Centre
Michelle Atack: The Manchester bridal show at the triangle shopping centre - Saturday and Sunday its FREE!!
Amanda Alexander: do a treasure trail - follow the clues, solve a mystery, great way to spend a few hours and discover new places in Manchester. available from Monkey Puzzle Toys in Chorlton. www.monkeypuzzletoys.com

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Spring art and events in Manchester

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:32:00 -0800

Image: Yinka Shonibare, MBE, Boy on Globe 4, 2011 Mannequin, courtesy of the artist

It may be the cruellest month, but February in Manchester is a bonus one for culture lovers. Guest poster Creative Tourist highlights some of the things to do in Manchester that might just tempt you to leave your duvet behind and head outside.

1. Like music? Love art? Combine the two with an exhibition by Turner Prize winner Mark Leckey. The art/music/video artist’s exhibition draws on his fascination with the city’s 1990s rave scene, while Leckey gives a series of after-hours sonic performances at Manchester Art Gallery. Expect some immense sounds. Work & Leisure, 17 February-18 March, Manchester Art Gallery; free.

2. A Broadway smash premieres with All New People, a ‘morbidly funny’ play written by and starring US actor Zach Braff. Film fans will know Braff from his directorial debut Garden State; the less lofty will recognise him as Dr. John Dorian from Scrubs. With a stellar cast, the action centres on a band of misfits seeking solace on Long Island. 8-11 February, Opera House, £12-£29.50.

3. Fashion and art collide at the Whitworth with a new exhibition that tells the centuries-old story of cotton. COTTON: Global Threads covers everything from contemporary art to conditions for third-world workers and, this being the Whitworth, you’re pretty much guaranteed a head-turning take on a fabric that almost everyone wears every day. COTTON: Global Threads, 11 February-13 May, the Whitworth Art Gallery; free.

4. Can’t get enough of fashion? Head to the new solo exhibition by Chen Man at the Chinese Arts Centre - a chance to see work by one of China’s best known fashion photographers. Chen Man’s hyper-real snaps, a mix of sci-fi, street culture, pop and traditional Chinese culture, have featured in Elle and Vogue. Chen Man’s, 10 February -7 April, the Chinese Arts Centre; free.

5. Manchester Histories Festival kicks off at the end of the month, a 10-day, city-wide celebration of Manchester’s illustrious past. There are all sorts of events in the pipeline: comedy, film, museum sleepovers, football shenanigans, debates, bike rides, art shows… check the website for the (very full) programme. 24 February-4 March, venues across Manchester.

6. Fans of photography should head to The Lowry for its new exhibition by dance snapper Chris Nash. This international photographer has spent thirty years behind the lens, capturing the moves of some of Britain’s best-known dancers; the jaw-dropping images on display may have been planned to within a pixel of their lives but still manage to capture the energy of athlete-like dancers at the top of their game. A Flash of Light: The Dance Photography of Chris Nash, 11 February-13 May, The Lowry; free.

Creative Tourist is Manchester’s online arts and culture guide – read more about our recommended things to do on our monthly Event Radar.

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (February 03 - 05)

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:46:00 -0800

Brave the cold weather and head into Manchester this weekend and you will be rewarded with plenty of interesting things to see and do. Here’s our top three ideas plus some great suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

Escape from the chilly weather and head to the English National Badminton Championships over at Bolton Arena, which run from today until Sunday. This is the No. 1 event in the domestic badminton calendar and a great chance to see world-class stars such as Nathan Robertson and Jenny Wallwork in action.
On Saturday visit the Generation Pop Art Gallery on New York Street as it’s the last weekend of the Muhammad Ali Art Exhibition, created in celebration of the boxer’s 70th birthday. This is the first time a collection such as this has been put together, with many pieces being limited to just 95 worldwide and signed by the artist.
On Sunday wrap up warm and head down to the Castlefield Artisan Market which has a special Valentine's theme. Soak up the atmosphere in the beautiful surroundings of Castlefield and treat your loved one to something special or even better treat yourself! With award winning locally produced artisan food and craft, flower, vintage and antique stalls you won’t go home empty handed.

Here's what our Twitter followers suggest:

@TourGuideRob: Come on the Victorian Crime and Punishment Tour this Saturday for grisly tales. Leaving at 11 from the Town Hall steps. £6/5
@redbytten: please visit #WestDidsbury and the fab indie businesses there
@modernistsoc: Come on our special tour "Manchester’s post-war chapels, churches & chaplaincies" http://bit.ly/A3RyGa
@gortonmonastery: Sunday-Meditation/Talks/ Yoga/Healing. 12-4pm Adults £10/Conc £8, Child Free
@CitizenFlower: People should see the unique comedy stylings of @leisarea &
@jenbrister at @kingssalfordkingssalford on Saturday
@JonathSchofield: Doing two public tours tomorrow. Architecture at 1pm and S**t Happens at 3pm. Come along, both new tours
@Swimmanchester: Why not pay a visit to the British Gas Waterpolo Championships @ #ManchesterAquatics Centre?!
@PrincessLulaB: Castlefield market and MOSI
@heymanchester: @JescaHoop plays @CornerhouseMcr tomorrow - http://www.heymanchester.com/jesca-hoop-4

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest

Adam Fowler: Get the adrenaline pumping at Airkix indoor skydiving!!!!
Michelle Atack: Come over to the Triangle we have some ace Feb offers.
Betty & Butch: Doggy Dating at betty and butch ... find someone to leave paw prints on your heart :)
Bem Brasil Churrascaria: Bem Brasil Restaurants for a massive meat feast!
Curious Christina's Travel Blog: Manchester Jewish Museum has a great exhibition on at the moment for anyone looking for a bit of Manchester history! Windermere Boys Exhibition.

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (January 27 - 29)

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:58:00 -0800

Seeking inspiration for what to do in Manchester this weekend? Here's our guide to some of the best events, plus some bonus suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friend.

Looking to escape the wintery weather tonight? Take shelter at The Studio in The Hive, which is hosting a pop-up cinema night showing a screening of Secretary followed by a Mad Men-style office party at Kraak Gallery where audiences can dance the jitterbug to 60s pop, sip cocktails and vodka jelly and play Pin The Beehive on Joan!
It’s the last chance to see the Ford Maddox Brown exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery this weekend. This first major show of his works since 1964 brings together 140 works from public and private collections of the artist who played a pioneering role in the development of Pre-Raphaelitism.
On Sunday Manchester will be awash with colour for the Chinese New Year Celebrations. Head down to Chinatown and Albert Square to browse the stalls, enjoy the performances and marvel at the spectacular fireworks display to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. With Manchester's high pole lion dance performance promising to be the most spectacular in the UK so far.

Here’s what our Twitter followers suggest:

@DannyMahon: Today they could swing by the Pretty Green store on King street for free instore gig at 6pm.
@LDCManchester: We've a real life Ninja teaching kids moves for our Ninjago weekend
@flygirldesign: Visit afflecks palace, there's nowhere else like it!
@Cafe_Blend: Try coffee martinis & liqueur lattes or hot chocolates at Cafe Blend in @TriangleUK all inspired by travels www.cafeblend.co.uk
@thegibbon: I've said it before but you can't beat a cupcake and coffee at @HLCupcake :)
@louisebolotin: The Real Food Market at Piccadilly Gardens gets my vote
@elitetelecom: The free art gallery is severely underrated, they always have great exhibitions on!

And here’s what our Facebook friends suggest:

Janine Gregson: Go to Chinese celebrations in Albert sq on Sunday :)
David Brown: Section 25 at gullivers tomorrow
Andrea Jane Smith: Go for Dim Sum sat or sun at Tai Wu
Take the Family: we're off to the big saturday at the manchester museum - bug art! - http://events.manchester.ac.uk/event/event:b1j-gv2iyhr3-dff5z1/Events
Joseph Dent: Pangea Festival! Teacup for a brew and cake.
Lyndsay Alexandra Edwards: Cloud 23 Hilton bar
Ellivremo Sdrawkcabemanym Divad: Go to the Swan pub in Collyhurst and watch Man United v Liverpool...A real Manchester pub
HomeSweet Home: Head to Home Sweet Home for a batch of home-made cookies! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Home-Sweet-Home/147007992003273
Jackie Hickman: Chinese Year of the Dragon celebrations!

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (20 - 22 January)

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:35:00 -0800

Planning your weekend in Manchester? Here’s our top 3 ideas of what visitors can get up to across the region, plus some great suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

Saturday is the final day of the National Winter Ales Festival on Oldham Road. At this CAMRA-run event there will be a selection of over 300 beers, real ales in a bottle, ciders and perries on sale, plus food will be available all day until around 9:00pm. It’s a must for all ale fans.
It’s the opening weekend of 1960’s classic Alfie at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre. Made famous by the Michael Caine film of the 1960’s, Alfie is the work of acclaimed Bolton playwright Bill Naughton. Set in the Swinging Sixties, the performance features familiar Manchester face Vicky Binns who starred in Coronation Street as Molly Compton.
On Sunday take a relaxing stroll around Stockport’s Handmade Market in the fantastic Historic Covered Market Hall in Stockport Town Centre. Within the amazing glass and iron building you can feast your eyes upon delicious hand baked cakes, stunning, original pieces of jewellery and wonderful pieces of art - you'll struggle to leave empty handed.

Here's what our Twitter followers suggest:

@Andy17kelly: Harvey Nichols Supper club. Fantastic food
@The_Printworks: We have a performance from the @RNCMvoice top brass band @The_Printworks tonight at 5.30 in advance of their brass festival
@LrdBlackAdder: has to be Manchester museum!
@NewVision12: go to see the New Vision photo exhibition @ 4 Piccadilly Place
@AManchesterTour: Come on my "women who made mcr walk" Saturday 21st 2pm meet at Peoples History Museum www.manchesterguidedtours.com
@delaScul: go to teacup Piccadilly cause it’s closing on Sat x
@HobbitsWife: national winter ales festival at the Sheridan suite. Went on wed & it was fab see @CAMRA_Official for info

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Krzysztof Zemlik: Visit the Himalayan Salt Cave - perfect place to relax and treat you body. It’s a different way to spend your time!!! www.himalayan-saltcave.co.uk
Adam Fowler: This weekend I reckon visitors should visit the travel show at eventcity
Di Connolly: I used to love going to the Science & Industry Museum & go see some Lowry Art well worth a visit
Hugh Naughton: Visit the Circus Tavern on Portland St. Smallest pub in the world.

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (13 - 15 January)

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 07:44:00 -0800

The weekend is upon us once again and if you’re Manchester bound there’s plenty to see and do across the region. Here’s our top 3 ideas plus some alternative suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) hosts its Chamber Music Festival this weekend, running from today until Sunday. This year’s Festival explores the repertoire that emerged from the courts and churches of Paris in the early 18th century and the wealth of sumptuous music by the Romantic composers of the 19th and early 20th centuries, all performed by 200 RNCM students, the college's chamber music professors and a selection of world renowned visiting artists.
This weekend is the last chance to see the fantastic Dark Matters exhibition at Whitworth Art Gallery. This innovative show centred on the theme of shadow, technology and art, brings together works and new commissions from internationally acclaimed contemporary artists. The exhibition has strong interactive and digital elements, giving people new ways in which to access art and making it perfect for families to explore.
Round one of the National BMX Series comes to the brand-new Manchester BMX centre at the National Cycling Centre in Sports City this weekend. On Saturday and Sunday spectators can watch all age groups compete at the striking new facility as they prepare for the 2012 World Championships in May. Race goers will be treated to Supercross racing on Saturday evening with some of Europe’s finest riders in attendance.

Here's what our Twitter followers suggest:

@Tourmanchester: I'm doing a tour of the Town Hall on Sunday at 1pm. £6.00 pp (£5 concessions). send me DM to book
@LowryOutletMall: Our Craft Fairs are on from today through to Sunday with gifts, home-baked goods and more!
@activeengacad: Full English breakfast at Katsouris defo!
@steisared1977: Got to be a night at bellvue dogs and a trip to old traford.Try Manchester's finest ales
@evenflowuk: Night out at great club nights at Retro Bar. Rusty Cage (grunge/alternative) tonight and Nyte Heet (80s rock) tomorrow. Both ace!
@Jay_Burge: A visit to John Rylands Library (Hogwarts) followed by a pint in The Oasthouse for sure!
@chrismcguigan: Grown up boys and girls can head to @PalaceAndOpera to catch Pantos On Strike with @Jonny_Wilkes and Paddy McGuinness. #over18s
@KymSmyth86: Watch MUFC v Bolton at Old Trafford then go for evening meal @RossoRestaurant

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Pied Piper Promotions: check out Jeramiah Ferrari gigging at The Avenue tonight and In Eccles over the weekend.... busiest Reggae band on the circuit with a new single coming soon :)
Raymond Migchielsen: Visit Old Trafford, what a great stadium
Adam Bradshaw: Experience a city centre canal walk from the northern quarter to castlefield. Stopping off to drink and eat en route

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (06 - 08 January)

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:57:00 -0800

Manchester has plenty going on this weekend to combat the post-Christmas blues. Whether you want to dine in style, pick up some bargains in the January sales or visit one our great museums and galleries, Manchester will put a smile on your face. Here’s our top 3 ideas for what to do, plus some great suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

For a touch of nostalgia, music fans should pay a visit Manchester Photographic Gallery where Kevin Cummins is exhibiting a special collection of his iconic photographs of Salford band Joy Division, who form a vital part of Manchester’s musical heritage.
Over at The Lowry, Salford Quays art lovers can enjoy the Adolphe Valette: A Pioneer of Impressionism in Manchester exhibition. This major exhibition by Valette, who also taught world-famous Salford artist LS Lowry, includes over 50 loans from public and private collectors from around the country and overseas, many on show for the first time.
On Sunday Manchester Velodrome plays host to Revolution, the UK’s premier track cycling series. The event attracts some of the world’s top road and track cyclists and includes unique events that test them to their limits. The racing is fast and the competition intense providing audiences with a thrilling and action packed night at the races.

Here's what our Twitter followers suggest:

@julianskyrme: Head out to Manchester's most thriving bohemian suburb of #Chorlton, take lunch and visit boutiques along Beech Rd @chorltonlife
@johnconsterdine: How about a Taxi Tour with Manchester's only Green Badged Tour Guide and Taxi driver, see all the sights and more up to 5 people
@ciderdave: Joy Division photo exhibition at the photography gallery.
@HelenTither: I tried @richmondtearoom last week & it is an Alice In Wonderland dream. Peeeerfect escapism from January blues - top scones!!
@jwoodcreative: Manchester walking tours are a must for all, mcr veterans or visitors alike. I can highly recommend the underground mcr tour!

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Adam Fowler: How about a spot of indoor skydiving at Airkix
Jennie Lawrenson: Have some relaxing treatments at www.spasatori.co.uk
Pied Piper Promotions: I’d recommend hitting up some of the 100's of unsigned bands that will be playing this weekend in and around Manchester and Support local Live Music
Altrincham HQ: Come to Altrincham for a pub crawl - selected as best place to have a pub crawl in uk by the guardian
Alexia Obein: go to the sales in market street on Saturday afternoon, Ice skating Saturday night and for Sunday: brunch and cinema or going to the corner house ...!

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Santa and his elves take the Metrolink to work at Manchester Arndale

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:48:00 -0800

Santa and his elves leave Rudolph and friends at home and take the Metrolink to work at Manchester Arndale's Grotto, entertaining the commuters along the way.

Visitors can pop in to say hello to Santa and meet his eleves at his Grotto in Manchester Arndale

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (16 - 18 December)

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:52:00 -0800

On the final weekend before Christmas Manchester will be packed full of festive activities for visitors to enjoy. Here’s our top three ideas for what to do plus some lovely suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends

It’s the final weekend of Manchester’s famous Christmas Markets so don’t miss your last chance to sample some of the delicious food and drinks on sale from across the globe. Spread across eight city centre locations, the markets are also a great place to pick up some unique last minute Christmas gifts.
Those looking for some festive entertainment should head to the Dancehouse Theatre to watch Sinderfella. A total sell out hit at London’s Leicester Square Theatre this wicked adult twist on the classic pantomime mixes bawdy cross dressing and feel good party anthems to kick start Christmas with a bang!
On Sunday pay a visit to the stunning neo-Gothic John Rylands Library on Deansgate for a festive afternoon of Christmas songs and carols. The performance will be led by the Salford Hospitals Choir in the beautiful surroundings of the Historic Reading Room.

Here's what our Twitter followers suggest:

@Lou_Renny: maybe the town hall click tower...ride the big wheel...visit Man Utd...Xmas markets..go ice skating...shopping,eating,panto,drink
@TwistedVinyl: @Altvtgmarket Sun 11-3.30, George St, Alty. great chance 4 special xmas gifts, xmas tunes + plenty of mulled wine, we ♥ xmas ☺
@Dodo_manchester: come and visit the new Dodo concession at @Selfridges manchester, have the best animal charms from Milan.
@LeePH68: visit @ManchesterCraft #buyhandmade
@Kate_ONeil: eat @sweetmandarin
@HiBoden: they should head down to #Hale and visit the #WinterShow at the fabulous @clarkart art gallery...great #art on show.
@thegibbon: visitors must definitely stop at @HLCupcake for cupcakes/coffee. They can even post their letters to Santa http://pic.twitter.com/QsP5iX4r

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Adam Fowler: To get warmed up for christmas, head to the trafford centre and do some shopping!
Alexander: Viol Britpop Legends "Marion" play at Academy 2 tomorrow. Arsenal are visiting Man City on Sunday. Should be enough for a good weekend, eh? :)
R J Mc Cubbin :I would suggest the Christmas markets in the snow. And then off to the Northern Quarter for a few beverages and a browse before a night on the town in Canal St or Northern Quarter depending on your preference

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Selfridges, a place of beauty this Christmas

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:16:00 -0800

Selfridges Exchange Square is the destination of choice for all those looking to perfect their party look this season. With a great mix of designer and high-street brands, it is easy to find an outfit to suit any style and budget.

No visit to the store would be complete without a trip to the enormous new beauty hall located on the lower ground floor and home to a host of new brands such as Jo Malone, Kiehls, and Crème de la Mer as well as Illamasqua and Giorgio Armani, both of which are exclusive to Exchange Square.

Everyday throughout December shoppers are invited to drop by their favourite brands for personal consultations with beauty experts. There is also a new Fake Bake Salon in store where party-goers can pop in before a big night out for a blow dry, fake tan, eyelash extensions, to get their nails done and much more.

This festive season Selfridges is also celebrating the ultimate White Christmas with a selection of exclusive accessories in Winter White. These include a Raoul clutch, the Mulberry Alexa with a festive white twist, and those looking for some festive sparkle should check out Anya Hindmarch’s box clutch, it could glam up any outfit! There is also an exclusive MAC White Colour Set and Christmas nail polishes from Dior.

Selfridges’ Sophie Hedley tells all about the Winter White collection.

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Enjoy a regal shopping break this Christmas at Manchester’s Palace Hotel

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 03:54:00 -0800

Planning a shopping trip to Manchester this Christmas? Why not make a day and night of it by treating yourself to a luxury shopping break at The Palace Hotel.

Christmas is a magical time to visit Manchester on a shopping trip. Visitors can explore the Christmas markets spread across the city centre - with wares and food from across the globe, visit Manchester Arndale shopping centre in the heart of the city centre, explore the Northern Quarter’s quirky independent stores, browse the many fashionable designer boutiques located throughout the city or visit the famous Trafford Centre.

From £162 visitors can receive a night’s stay at the beautiful Palace Hotel, with a 2-course dinner in the hotel’s Tempus restaurant, accompanied by a bottle of house wine, and breakfast for 2 adults. Plus you will receive a £20 shopping voucher for Harvey Nichols and a booklet stuffed with discounts and offers for the shopping wonderland that is the Trafford Centre.

Travel to the Trafford Centre is easy as you can jump on a bus in the city centre which takes you there direct. Visitors can travel around Manchester all day on Stagecoach buses for just £3.70, which means those using the X50 service to the Trafford Centre, which runs up to every 15 minutes, can also take in some great sites including The Lowry, Old Trafford Football Ground, The Imperial War Museum North and MediaCityUK.

For more information click here

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Christmas comes early at Harvey Nichols

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 02:38:00 -0800

If ever there was a reason to treat yourself at Christmas, this is it: Harvey Nichols is offering a whopping 30% off fashion and 20% off shoes & accessories for one day only on Thursday 15 December.

Whether it’s the designer bag you’ve had your eye on or that limited edition scarf – now is the time to buy!

For the more selfless out there, this is a great opportunity to wow your loved ones with gifts you couldn’t normally afford! And if you spend over £100 on beauty and fragrance you get a free gift.

You can also save money on the cost of wrapping as complimentary gift wrapping for your purchases will be available.

For more information click here

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Experience the magic of John Rylands Library this Christmas

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:30:00 -0800

Visitors to Manchester seeking shelter from the chilly weather and hoards of shoppers should head to the beautiful John Rylands Library on Deansgate.

The library has been acclaimed as the best example of neo-Gothic architecture in Europe and is considered one of the finest libraries in the world.

Part of The University of Manchester since 1972, the building houses over 250,000 printed volumes, and well over a million manuscripts and archival items.

On 18th December the library hosts Hark! its annual afternoon of Christmas songs and carols in the beautiful surroundings of our Historic Reading Room. Visitors are encouraged to join the chorus and help raise funds for Wood Street Mission – the singing will be led by the Salford Hospitals Choir.

If you prefer craft to carols, there is a Christmas Paper Crafting session on 14th December, which encourages visitors to dip their toes into creative waters, in the stunning surroundings of the library.

If you are travelling from outside Greater Manchester, you can access the city easily by train with regular direct services into Manchester Oxford Road, Piccadilly or Victoria stations from across the north.

There are good value Off-Peak Day Return tickets available from Northern Rail and on selected routes you can purchase a Duo ticket: when two adults travel together, one travels for half price.

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Turn a Walk of Shame into a Stride of Pride with Harvey Nichols this Christmas

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 02:07:00 -0800

Luxury retailer Harvey Nichols wants ladies to wear their party dresses with pride this Christmas, thanks to its Womenswear range, whatever time of day they choose to wear it!

Share your walk of shame on Twitter using #walkofshame

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Head to The Avenue for a designer Christmas

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:39:00 -0800

Nestled amongst the skyscrapers of Manchester’s Spinningfields is The Avenue, a lovely strip to designer shops, set to tickle any shopper’s festive fancy.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Christmas gift you should take a stroll along The Avenue, where you’ll find over 120 designer brands and flagship stores including Mulberry, Emporio Armani and Kurt Geiger.

Many of the stores are unique to Manchester, including Flannels, Oliver Sweeney and Ted Baker Pashion, plus there is a lovely Christmas Pop-Up Village located at the bottom of The Avenue in front of The Oast House, offering a generous festive 10% discount.

Stores are open until 7pm on Thursdays throughout December for late night Christmas shopping and you can also enjoy the Manchester Show Choir outside The Oast House from 6pm until 7pm.

You can also try your skating skills out on the open air ice rink before sipping a well earned hot cocktail at the rink side Moose Bar, a festive Canadian log cabin complete with comfy sofas to rest your weary legs and hearty food to fill your belly.

Travelling into Manchester by train? Book in advance with TransPennine Express and you could save over 50%, which leaves you with more to spend on the festive treats on The Avenue.

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3 ideas for this weekend in Manchester (09 - 11 December)

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 07:11:00 -0800

With Christmas fast approaching Manchester has a whole host of festive fun to behold. Here’s our top 3 ideas plus some suggestions from our Twitter and Facebook friends.

Visit Father Christmas in his grotto at Tatton Park on Saturday and Sunday and meet Prancer and Dancer, two adorable reindeer who will be resident at the Park's farm. All the farm animals, including the donkeys, pigs and horses and Tatton’s rare breed animals will also be on show, while some are the star attractions of the nativity scene.
Another great way to get into the festive spirit is to head to Manchester Cathedral tomorrow to hear the Cathedral's choir perform Handel's Messiah accompanied the University of Manchester Baroque Orchestra.
Those looking for a festive-themed night out should sample the delights of Guilty Pleasures Christmas Crackers Party at Manchester's famous Ruby Lounge on Saturday evening. Prepare to "ding dong merrily on high in a snowball-fuelled pop blizzard".

Here's what our Twitter followers suggest:

@EDOharaDesigns: come & see gorgeous chunky knits, leather clutches & unique jewelry collections @ Tib St Designers Saturday Market nxt 2 Debenhams
@voiceofmosi: Come to MOSI and visit Santa's grotto, see the Sleigh Ride 4D Christmas film and take a festive steam train ride around site
@millydoris: definitly go to the xmas market its very good
@VisitSalford: Celebrate Sport family event at the BBC visitsalford.info/viewevent.htm?… or Unsung Heroes @MediaCityUK visitsalford.info/viewevent.htm?… or Christmas LEGO Extravaganza @LowryOutletMall visitsalford.info/viewevent.htm?…
@InspiritDesign: come to our Festive Garden and Garage Sale on Sunday for great gifts and complimentary mulled wine ! pic.twitter.com/YpfiYNa7
@martin_rutter: go to the Briton's Protection, as recommended by @Guy_Garvey bit.ly/vOSd0I
@creativesparknq: visitors should fetch some cans, packets etc drop it in our foodbank @SimpleNQ and get a thank you free coffee - supporting Eccles foodbank
@MarieBoyer: The buzzing #Manchester Christmas markets are a must - 2 enjoy festive atmosphere, buy some gifts & for 4 some lovely food.
@HLCupcake: Christmas cupcake in our cupcakery plus we've a Santa's Post Box so kids can get their letters off safely to the north pole!
@knowly20: visit the christmas Markets and have a couple of mulled wines and Irish coffees :-)
@Difonzerelly: of course it should be go to the Christmas markets and soak up the atmosphere!! Maybe do a bit of ice skating at spinningfields!

And here's what our Facebook friends suggest:

Alexander Viol: Shed Seven playing tonight and tomorrow at the academy.
Ian Martin: visit the Arndale which is far superior to the traff centre, great variety of shops for what I call proper shopping. Great food, but best of all the traditional markets from Germany/Europe. Get a hot chocolate and feel all warm with the Christmas feeling. Such a lot going on in my City
Sharon Pollard: Xmas markets, mulled wine, nice food, followed by Dirty Dancing, oh and a great overnight stay, that me next weekend ! Can't wait!

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Enjoy Manchester for less this Christmas

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 02:42:00 -0800

With so much to see and do in and around Manchester this Christmas, it’s hard to fit it all in and afford the presents you want. Here’s our guide how to get the most out of your money in Manchester over the festive season.

First things first, why not book your travel in advance with TransPennine Express and you could save over 50% on the cost. And once you’ve arrived you can travel around the region all day for just £3.70 on Stagecoach buses.

If you’re planning to stay over you can take advantage of Britannia Hotel’s fantastic rates with an additional 10% discount from the best available rate at the time of booking.

Planning on some Christmas shopping? Hop on the bus with your saver ticket and visit the shopping paradise that is The Trafford Centre and pick up some festive bargains. On arrival be sure to pop along to the Customer Services Desk in the Main Dome and pick up your ‘Little Red Book of Treats’- packed with fantastic offers and discounts on shopping, dining and leisure.

A visit to the Piccadilly Gardens giant advent calendar is also a must, as each day it reveals great offers, competitions and information that you can take advantage of during your stay.

After a hard days shopping head to The North Pole - Manchester's Winter Bar and enjoy 2 for 1 on hot cocktails Monday - Wednesdays from 4pm - 8pm.

When you’re feeling hungry, you can dine like a rock star at the famous Hard Rock Café from Monday to Wednesday and save 10% off the Christmas menu.

There are also lots of other great offers to take advantage of at VisitManchester/Christmas – so keep checking for daily updates!

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Enjoy some festive refinement at Abode Manchester

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 06:49:00 -0800

ABode Manchester promises to set your soul on fire this Christmas with a deluxe dinner, room and breakfast package at the Grade II listed hotel - home to Manchester Tourism Awards 2011 Restaurant of the Year.

Guests enjoying the Soul on Fire package will be greeted with flowers on arrival in their ‘desirable’ room and then invited to indulge in a pre-dinner glass of MC Champagne, before tucking into a top-drawer 7-course Michael Caines Tasting Menu.

And if that’s not enough, guests can treat themselves to a full regional English breakfast the next day – the perfect preparation for the Christmas over-indulgence!

This package costs £295.00 per room based on two people sharing subject to availability.

Travel from outside the region can be booked via Virgin Trains with first class weekend upgrade options available. And once you’re here, the Metrolink system is a great way to explore the city and beyond, with daily and weekend travel tickets available.

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