Welcome to Manchester - the beating heart of Northern England. A city of intriguing contrasts with a strong heritage and bursting with modern dynamism as a leading business and entertainment center. During your visit in town for pleasure or on business, the city's individual character and range of attractions ensure that each day will be an unforgettable one.
This carefully curated guide highlights the must-see sights to help you get the most out of your stay at Stock Exchange Hotel, one of Manchester's architectural gems at the city's dynamic heart.
A two-minute walk from the hotel takes you to St. Ann's Square, an elegant Georgian plaza surrounded by boutique shops and craft cafés. There, an early-morning espresso in the sophisticated atmosphere of the square is the perfect start to your day.
Continuing on for another five minutes or so, you arrive at the John Rylands Library, an stunning Neo-Gothic masterpiece that houses some of the world’s rarest, priceless manuscripts, including fragments from the 2nd century. Step inside and you’re transported to an age of Victorian grandeur, the intricate stonework and soaring arches make it one of Manchester’s true treasures.
Head next to Ancoats, where Cutting Room Square is a fine example of spectacular urban renovation. Once an industrial powerhouse, the district now delights visitors with al fresco dining and trendy cafés - ideal for a leisurely lunch outdoors or an evening stroll along contemporary brick-and-glass architecture.
For history enthusiasts, there’s Chetham’s Library, the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, in continuous use since 1653. Its hushed, wood-panelled reading room feels like a secret sanctuary right in the heart of the city; it’s a true gem.
A two-minute walk brings you to the Royal Exchange Theatre, ingeniously housed in the former cotton exchange building. Its innovative theatre-in-the-round presents a delightful repertoire from Shakespearean classics to avant-garde premieres within an architectural marvel.
A further eight-minute walk brings you to Manchester Art Gallery, where the carefully curated collection spans British Old Masters, European luminaries, and innovative contemporary works. For panoramic city views and refined European cuisine, ascend to 20 Stories - an exquisite rooftop restaurant and bar. For an exotic twist, Tattu offers Asian-fusion cuisine in a sumptuous dining room crowned by a symbolic cherry-blossom installation.
The Piccadilly Street Food Market offers a vibrant array of global street fare, an ideal spot for a quick, satisfying lunch. No visit is complete without the National Football Museum; nearby, the AO Arena and the state-of-the-art Co-op Live Arena host world-class concerts and sporting events throughout the year.
For sports enthusiasts, a trip to either Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium is a must. Old Trafford - the iconic Manchester United hallowed ground, is about a 15-minute southwest journey from the centre of the city, while the modern Etihad Stadium, Manchester City's home, is to the east. Each stadium occupies a different quarter of Manchester and not only hosts one of Europe's finest football derbies but also speaks volumes about how much football is bound up in our city's heritage. Nearby, the Co-op Live Arena is a state-of-the-art entertainment venue that draws top international acts year-round with a full programme of concerts and events.
For an unforgettable evening of world-class performance, Manchester’s renowned theatres are not to be missed. Just a short walk from the hotel, the Opera House hosts everything from West End musicals to cutting-edge drama, all within a grand Edwardian auditorium that exudes theatrical charm.
Nearby, the Palace Theatre—a striking red-brick landmark—welcomes major touring productions, ballets, and concerts in an atmosphere that reflects the golden age of theatre.
For music lovers, Bridgewater Hall is essential. Home to the Hallé Orchestra, this purpose-built venue offers superb acoustics and a diverse programme, from classical symphonies to international contemporary acts. Whether you're drawn to stirring strings or dazzling show tunes, these cultural institutions promise a memorable night out.
If you’re trying to plan a perfect day, begin your day with breakfast over a morning peaceful coffee in St. Ann’s Square near the hotel, a serene area perfect for reflection, then take a little time at the shelves and stonework of the John Rylands Library and admire its amazing architecture, an oasis of calm.
Just a bit beyond is Manchester Art Gallery featuring classical and contemporary masterpieces. In the afternoon, visit the lively Cutting Room Square or unwind in the historic atmosphere of Chetham's Library, before breaking for lunch at the Piccadilly Street Food Market, where global flavours meet Mancunian charm. As evening approaches, take in a performance at the Royal Exchange Theatre or catch a headline show at the AO Arena.
Manchester is more than a collection of landmarks, it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from heritage and innovation. Whether you’re here to close a deal or enjoy a weekend escape, the city offers enduring memories.
Follow this link to Visit Manchester where you can find more information for all of these great suggestions.
