Discover our locals' 63 hidden gems in Manchester
Discover the soul of Manchester with Spotted by Locals! From indie music venues to hidden cafes, our Spotters show you the city's vibrant culture. Experience Manchester through the eyes of true locals.
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Travel Guides by these Manchester Locals!
Know your way in Manchester like a local!
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Things to do in Manchester
Christie's Bistro
Harry Potter-esque heaven
"Christie's Bistro" is a true hidden gem in Manchester. Unknown to many Mancunians, it's one of the most visually spectacular cafes you could hope to see.
by
Denise
Tench
Wazuzhi Sushi
Cheap, fast Japanese food
"Wasabi Sushi" is the card up my sleeve when I have friends visiting in Manchester and I need somewhere central to eat well, cheaply and quirky!
by
Denise
Tench
Platt Fields Park
Urban adult playground
"Platt Fields Park" in Manchester is in the heart of the city's sleep-deprived student district Fallowfield, so believe you me, it's not just for kids...
by
Denise
Tench
Vimto Monument
Pay homage to an iconic drink
The "Vimto Monument" in Manchester is an oak sculpture carved for a much-loved Manchester-born soft drink made up of blackcurrants, raspberries & grapes.
by
Denise
Tench
Sinclair's Oyster Bar
Busy historic hub
"Sinclair's Oyster Bar" has genuine historical significance, sitting in central Manchester since the 16th century. It has plenty of that old pub feeling!
by
Denise
Tench
Ishinki Touchstone
Big gorgeous pebble
"Ishinki Touchstone" in Manchester is an 18-tonne marble scultpure that very pleasingly satisfies my inner marblehead fascination with its smooth curves...
by
Denise
Tench
Levenshulme Antiques Village
Antiques & tea
"Levenshulme Antiques Village", a short bus ride from Manchester city centre, is home to a jumble of shops selling vintage and unique items under one roof!
by
Denise
Tench
Elizabeth Gaskell's House
Literary haven
"Elizabeth Gaskell's House" in Manchester is a testament to the history of the north of England. It's an essential stop for any literature pilgrimage...
by
Denise
Tench
Cask Bar
Cozy craft beer
"Cask Bar" in Manchester is a hidden gem of a cozy hideout. It's an ideal pit stop for craft beer when wandering around the city. Check out the jukebox!
by
Denise
Tench
Parthian Climbing Centre
Get high in a church
"Manchester Climbing Centre" is in a former church! This building and the setup is mind-blowing for climbing and bouldering - do also check out their cafe!
by
Denise
Tench
Cloud 23
Glitzy sky bar
"Cloud 23" in Manchester is a bar on the 23rd floor of the Hilton hotel that offers great views, especially in the evening. It's glitzy, but not so pricey.
by
Denise
Tench
Fab Cafe
Retro-lovers' heaven
"Fab Cafe": a Manchester basement filled with retro TV and film merchandise & geek stuff, retro sweets etc. I love that this bar is just so unpretentious!
by
Denise
Tench
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What to do in Manchester?
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63 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
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We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
Responsible Travel
Hi! Nice to meet you.
We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.
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