Manchester is a diverse and vibrant city, with lots to see and do, all depending on your preferences and interests.
The city is known for its museums, including the National Football Museum and the Imperial War Museum North, and its lively soccer culture. It’s also close to many nature destinations, including the Peak District and the Lake District, so many travelers will include Manchester in a longer itinerary. There are also numerous day trips possible from Manchester, many of which can be taken via train or bus.
– Tour the National Football Museum before heading to a Manchester United match at Old Trafford stadium.
– Dine at The Old Wellington, a historic pub that dates back to 1552. It has a traditional and rustic menu, with classic options like fish and chips and burgers, and lots of beer.
– Visit the Pankhurst Centre, which celebrates the Suffragettes’ first meeting and is the former home of Emmeline Pankhurst. Entry is free.
Note:
Language: English, although numerous other languages, including Spanish, French, and Arabic, are spoken around the U.K.
Currency: England’s official currency is the pound sterling (GBP), which is more commonly called “the pound.”
Eat and Drink
The city has an expansive food scene that continues to grow every year, and most global cuisines are represented in its many neighborhoods.
Manchester also has a thriving pub and bar scene, with many historic pubs and sports bars and smaller, independent cocktail bars.
The local delicacies2 are a bit off-center , but there are a few treats to seek out, including the Manchester Tart. The traditional English baked tart, which features raspberry jam, can be hard to find, but check the dessert menus at the local British restaurants. Otherwise, be sure to try a Sunday roast, a traditional lunch that features roast meat, vegetables, and a Yorkshire pudding.
Manchester has a similar culture to London. There are also a few differences between U.K. and U.S. culture, particularly when it comes to tipping. Restaurants and bars will include a service charge (usually 12.5 percent) on the bill, so there’s no need to leave extra cash, although you can drop a few extra pounds if the service was particularly great. When grabbing a drink at a pub, leave a pound or two tip for each round you buy.
Be mindful that British culture is fairly reserved, especially compared with how we behave in public in America. When using public transportation or visiting museums, keep your voice low and be polite. Brits also appreciate a good queue.
