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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Things to do in Manchester
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Temple of Convenience – Fall down an ex-toilet
"Temple of Convenience" Manchester for me is a signature bar that personifies its attitude, atmosphere and the personality of the Manchester people.
By
Denise
Tench
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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.
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