Salfordians will roll their eyes at Islington Mill being slotted into a guide to Manchester - Salford is, after all, a different city. However, as the two are such close neighbours and the mill is an easy walk from Manchester centre, it deserves attention from culture-loving visitors.
Islington Mill is one of the region's many abandoned industrial hubs-turned-creative-spaces, but with its inventive and eye-catching events list it deserves a special mention.
Check the listings when you're in town and you may stumble across anything from art exhibitions and cult film showings to low-key gigs from international and prolific artists such as Peaches, Bo Ningen and Gang of Four.
You may even get to attend a full-blown festival - the mill is the hub of May's much-celebrated day-long music spree, Sounds from the Other City.
Whenever you visit, Islington Mill will throw a curveball to knock you out of your Manchester comfort zone and into a night that will never blend with another.
Find your way with 63 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"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!
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"Ishinki Touchstone" in Manchester is an 18-tonne marble scultpure that very pleasingly satisfies my inner marblehead fascination with its smooth curves...
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"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...
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The "Vimto Monument" in Manchester is an oak sculpture carved for a much-loved Manchester-born soft drink made up of blackcurrants, raspberries & grapes.
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"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!
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"Sinclair's Oyster Bar" has genuine historical significance, sitting in central Manchester since the 16th century. It has plenty of that old pub feeling!
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"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...
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"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!
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"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!
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"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.
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63 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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