The aAh! Guide to Manchester

Mersey Valley

Although the Mersey is better known for running through Liverpool, in fact the river starts here in Manchester, and its banks are an ideal place to walk and surround yourself with nature. Flowing through Chorlton, Didsbury, and Stockport, it’s easily accessed by public transport yet makes the city feel miles away. Alongside the river, the paths give access to some great green spaces such as Kenworthy Woods, Sale Ees, and the Trafford Watersports Centre at Sale Water Park, which is brilliant for kayaking and wild swimming.

Heaton Park

On the outskirts of the city is Heaton Park, the biggest municipal park in Europe. Known for holding summer concerts as well as the Parklife music festival, it’s also home to a wide range of activities, including everything from orienteering to rowing. Within its 600 acres, you’ll find a garden centre, golf course, Manchester’s beekeeping visitor centre, and a farmyard with a herd of highland cattle. Or climb to the top of the hill and look out over Manchester’s impressive skyline.

Discover more of Manchester’s green spaces in this article by Bradley Sansom.

The garden in the sky

Castlefield Viaduct is a beacon of the city’s greener future, and a ground-breaking way to experience Manchester’s industrial heritage. Located in the heart of the city, the grade-II listed viaduct is dubbed as Manchester’s first ‘sky park’, embracing nature’s reclamation of its industrial structure and planting beautiful gardens to bring life to the city. Part of the National Trust, pre-bookable guided tours are available every morning except Wednesday, or you can turn up and explore yourself every day from 11am to 4pm.

Visit a historic library

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the noise and action of the city, there are a number of stunning libraries which offer the perfect refuge. The John Rylands Library’s neo-gothic architecture is also magnificent and impressive. Chetham’s Library, founded in 1653, is one of the oldest public libraries in the English-speaking world. Located within Chetham’s School of Music, it’s renowned for its historic charm and rich collection of rare books, manuscripts, and archives. Manchester Central Library is also an epic example of a modern and bustling public library situated in the heart of Manchester. Don’t forget to register online for your free library card.

Discover more free days out in Manchester, with this round-up from Clayton Lopez and Lucy Vincent.

Poetry Library

For all you poetry lovers! The Manchester Poetry Library is the first free poetry library in the North West. It’s home to an amazing collection of modern poetry in lots of different languages. From books to recordings, they’ve got it all! Plus, if you’re tired of the regular library, this is a cool alternative spot to study and get inspired. The team also hosts a year-round programme of events including poetry workshops, book launches and fascinating talks. So, the next time you’re in the mood for some poetic vibes, head straight here.

Roof terrace

Check out this great hangout spot on the fourth floor of the Benzie Building. It’s a great place to take in some fresh air and views of the Manchester cityscape. The terrace also doubles up as an exhibition space too. If you’re into sustainable dye making, you can find the dye garden up here. It’s perfect for all you eco-conscious students who want to experiment with making dyes in the print room.

Discover more hidden gems on campus with this round-up from Lucy Vincent.

Archie’s

Archies was made in Manchester. And it’s definitely a Manc institution worth a visit, particularly when their maiden store is located right outside the university. Their Royale with Cheese burger was juicy and filling. There’s something nostalgic about eating a cheeseburger wrapped in paper, it takes you back to the first cheeseburger you ate.

Almost Famous

A visit here is never disappointing. Maybe I’m a bit biased on the location due to the aesthetic of this part of the city, but I think the Northern Quarter Almost Famous is the best site in the AF chain. The staff are friendly, and there’s an amazing selection of bars like Wolf at the Door right outside for a post-burger beverage.

Discover more of Manchester’s best burgers with this round-up from Isobel Bates.

Afflecks

Afflecks has titled itself an ‘emporium of eclecticism’, and it sure lives up to its reputation. Home to 60 shops across four floors, there are hours of browsing through vintage gold from independent retailers right at your fingertips (you could even get a piercing or tattoo while you’re at it). Afflecks is also known to be a safe space in which you can experiment across a variety of retailers, and there is sure to be something for everyone.

Pop Boutique

Pop Boutique first opened in 1994 in the heart of the Northern Quarter. The shop is packed with quirky vintage pieces as well as own-brand goods. The stock ranges from 1950s dresses to mod jackets, with a swinging 60s vibe to the entire shop, there is a warm atmosphere sure to give a unique shopping experience to anyone who visits.

Discover more of Manchester’s best vintage clothes shops with this round-up from Molly Granger.

Matt & Phreds

Tucked away in the Northern Quarter, this smoky underground basement lounge has some of the best live jazz, blues, and soul performances around. You can even get on stage yourself to perform with the full live backing of the impressive house band – you’ll be a professional crooner in no time.

NQ64

Fans of retro gaming look no further; NQ64 is packed with arcade classics like Time Crisis, Guitar Hero and Dance Dance Revolution. You can even get powered up on novelty-themed cocktails like the Kong Island Ice Tea and the Power Star Martini. Just try not to lose at the games too quickly.

Discover more of the city’s top nights out with this round-up from Tom Cooper.