A buzzing city with a rich history, this northern hotspot is full of fun and exciting things to do for free – which makes your trip Travelodgical. Here’s our pick of the 10 best free things to do in Manchester.
1. Uncover history at the John Rylands Library
Looking more like a castle or a cathedral than a library, Deansgate’s John Rylands Library is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture, housing some of the world’s oldest and most important books.
The jewel in their crown has to be the oldest known piece of the New Testament, the St John Fragment, but other attractions include magnificent illuminated medieval manuscripts and a 1476 edition of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.
150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH. Open 10am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday and 12pm – 5pm Sunday – Monday.
2. Get cultural at Manchester Art Gallery
Surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Manchester’s lively shops and bars, Manchester Art Gallery is a peaceful haven of creativity in the heart of the city centre.
With almost 13,000 paintings, drawings, sculptures and photographs on display, plus a similar number in the craft and design collection, this really is a great way to while away a few hours.
Mosley St, Manchester M2 3JL. Open 10am – 5pm Friday – Wednesday and 10am – 9pm on Thursdays.
3. Go back in time at the Museum of Science and Industry
This museum is set in the world’s oldest railway station, originally Liverpool Road Station – part of the very first purpose-built passenger railway in the world. Manchester Council bought the building after the station closed in 1975, and opened the museum here in 1983.
You’ll feel inspired as you discover how science, industry and innovation have helped shape the society we live in. The museum also regularly features popular temporary exhibitions, so there will always be plenty to see.
Liverpool Rd, Manchester M3 4FP. Open 10am – 5pm every day.
4. Take a picnic to Platt Fields Park
Manchester isn’t always known for its great weather, which means that there’s a real atmosphere of fun when the sun comes out during the summer.
If you’re soaking up the rays, join the throng and head over to Platt Fields Park – a beautiful, green open space featuring a boating lake, tennis courts and plenty of room for a picnic.
Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6LA
5. Go for goal at the National Football Museum
With two of the world’s most famous football teams both calling Manchester their home, it’s no surprise that the city is football-mad! You can soak up some of this passion at the National Football Museum, the world’s biggest and best museum dedicated to the beautiful game.
Learn about the history of the sport, lift a virtual trophy and see the 1966 Jules Rimet trophy – a great day out for any football fan.
Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Todd St, Manchester M4 3BG. Open 10am – 5pm every day.
6. Take a stroll through Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
You can discover a different side of Manchester with a walk through the Castlefield Urban Heritage Park.
You’ll be able to spot beautiful old houseboats along the picturesque canals, and be transported back in time as you marvel at grand viaducts and the remains of a Roman fort.
Beaufort Street, Manchester, M3 4AG
7. Discover new talents at Manchester Craft & Design Centre
Located in the city’s trendy Northern Quarter, the Manchester Craft & Design Centre boasts over 30 artists, designers and craft makers under one roof.
You’ll find a great selection of handmade, bespoke and personal creations ranging from jewellery and bags to ceramic and furniture, all available to buy, if you fancy.
17 Oak St, Manchester M4 5JD. Open 10am – 5.30pm Monday – Saturday and 11am – 5pm on Sundays.
8. Get back to nature at Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens
Step away from the excitement of the city centre and take things at a more relaxed and natural pace at Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens.
This 21-acre park offers plenty to explore, while the gardens are renowned for their botanical beauty, containing a stunning collection of antiquated and unusual plants and flowers.
Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2RZ
9. Make a new friend at The Donkey Sanctuary
Little ones will love a day out at the Manchester Donkey Sanctuary. You’ll be able to get up-close and personal with these friendly, adorable animals, with experienced experts on hand to answer any questions. You can even choose to adopt a donkey, with your donations helping to keep the animals healthy and well looked after in the future.
Green Fold, Manchester M18 8RJ. Open 3pm – 5pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and 10am – 3pm Saturday – Sunday.
10. Browse Manchester’s famous record shops
From Oasis and The Smiths to The Stone Roses and The Chemical Brothers, Manchester has always been a city bursting with musical talent.
It’s only fitting that the city is also home to some of the UK’s best record shops, where you’ll be able to soak up an exciting creative atmosphere as you browse through classic albums and new releases. Of all the record shops in the city, the famous Piccadilly Records is by far the most recognisable.
53 Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JR. Open 10am – 6pm Monday – Saturday and 11am – 5pm on Sundays.
