Long one of the labour powerhouses of the United Kingdom, the mechanised city of Manchester in the heart of the northwest, with its industrial-chic charm and earthy people has become something of a cool cultural kingpin of England as a whole. In recent years it has transformed itself into a club-heavy, café-cultured centre, complete with converted eighteenth century mill bars and old weaver houses laden with late-night laser shows and beating with punk.
The town is also home to the eponymous Manchester United (and their long-time rivals Manchester City), perhaps the world’s most-recognisable footballing brand. Sporting pilgrims can tour the grounds at Old Trafford or the Etihad in the city’s greater region, or simply breathe in the vibe amidst fervent fans on match day around the ubiquitous English cathedral or the glorious Gothic town hall in the central area.
Then there’s Manchester’s arty side, refreshingly hosted at the Lowry, its location on the Quays also home to the creative architecture of the IWM North. Ask your Manchester tour guide about the art galleries and museums down the cultural corridor of Oxford Street, or the gastronomic delights at Chinatown, with its heady array of colourful archways and trademark oriental curry joints.