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Home » Destinations » Europe » England

Why Manchester Should Be On Your List of Places to Visit

Modified: May 14, 2025 · Published: Dec 12, 2022 by Adam Richman |

National Geographic recently announced Manchester as one of the top cities to visit in 2023, claiming it as a "mecca for soccer fans and a growing arts and culture hub." Often left in the shadows of London, the northern English city is a cool, edgy, progressive city.

Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England (photo: Jonny Gios)
Etihad Stadium in Manchester (photo: Jonny Gios)

The birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and the spirit of many a cultural movement, most notably acid house in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

And it's the city's spirit that is one of its most appealing draws and the reason why it should be on your must-visit list in 2023. Amongst other reasons, of course. So, why exactly should you visit Manchester in the next 12 months?

It's Become a Culinary Capital

After a long wait, Manchester finally received its Michelin Star in 2019 with the restaurant Mana, located in the Ancoats area of the city. The trendy neighborhood is home to many restaurants serving all types of cuisine.

While you'll find plenty of fantastic street food and food halls, too, whether you're craving a burrito, pizza, or something a little different. 

For those looking for something local, a trip to Bury for some Bury black pudding is a must. The Manchester egg is also a delicacy in the town; it's a take on a Scotch egg with black pudding inside.

Its Music is Still Excellent

Vok performs live at The Deaf Institute in Manchester (photo: Old Youth)
Vok performs at The Deaf Institute (photo: Old Youth)

Manchester has long been known for its music scene and has played a part in several influential decades, most notably in the 1970s and 1980s, into the 90s.

Joy Division, New Order, Happy Mondays, Stone Roses, and Oasis all hail from the city. And while you may associate it with opulence, dancing, and many of its stars ending up in drug rehab, times have changed somewhat, without losing its musical identity.

Today, bands such as Blossoms, Everything Everything, The 1975, and many more represent the city, with dozens of great music venues hosting the "next big thing" every night.

It's Becoming a Greener Place

Park in Manchester (photo: Merve Selcuk Simsek)
Park in Manchester (photo: Merve Selcuk Simsek)

Manchester has an honest reputation for being grey and rainy. While the weather isn't going to change anytime soon, it is becoming a much greener city.

It was once a place with little greenery running through the city center. However, two new parks have opened in the last 12 months, and more and more developments are integrating sociable outdoor spaces within the city center.

The Castlefield Viaduct National Trust site is akin to New York's High Line, while Mayfield Park, by Piccadilly train station, is also now offering a green, peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Outside the center, there are also HS Bridgewater, Fletcher Moss, and many more beautiful spaces, ideal for exploring on a relaxing afternoon.

______

This story is brought to you in partnership with Primrose Lodge.

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About Adam Richman

Dave at Ahu Ko Te Riku on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile.

Hi, I'm Dave

Editor in Chief

I've been writing about adventure travel on Go Backpacking since 2007. I've visited 68 countries.

Read more about Dave.

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