48 Hours in Manchester
How to spend a weekend in Manchester
Depending on your interests, when you think of Manchester you may think of football, its industrial history or its iconic music scene – and that’s the glory of it all! This up-and-coming spot is constantly growing in popularity that’s rooted in it being a true melting pot of culture, creativity and imagination, leaving something to keep every visitor occupied and entertained!
Even though 48 hours in Manchester city is only going to leave you wanting more, there are some top attractions that you should tick off your list during your time here! Base yourself in the heart of it all with a stay in Clayton Hotel Manchester City Centre and get ready for a fun-filled weekend.
Day 1
Breakfast in Ezra & Gil, Peter Street
8-minute walk from the hotel
Ezra & Gil is easily one of Manchester’s busiest cafés, and for good reason! Just a short wander from Clayton Hotel Manchester City Centre, this urban café specialises in all the breakfast, lunch and coffee specials you could dream of. They also offer a wide range of plant-based options for anyone following a vegetarian or vegan diet. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to pick up a freshly baked treat before setting off for your first attraction!
Wander through the Science and Industry Museum
9-minute walk from Ezra&Gil, 17-minute walk from the hotel
Next on the agenda is the Science and Industry Museum. Located on Liverpool road, the museum is jam-packed with exhibitions and galleries that offer insight into life-changing innovations that began in Manchester! Make sure to keep an eye out for the Revolution Manchester Gallery and the Textiles Gallery in particular. Admission to the museum is free but it’s recommended to book tickets online in advance.
Explore the Manchester Art Gallery
13-minute walk from the Science and Industry Museum, 2-minute walk from the hotel
In keeping with the theme of discovering the museums of the city (just one of the top things to do in Manchester), your next port of call is the Manchester Art Gallery. This is Manchester’s main art gallery and houses a plethora of work from renowned artists. Alongside the primary collections, the museum is known to host temporary exhibitions and events so be sure to check in before your visit to see what’s on!
Lunch in the Northern Quarter
8-minute walk from the Manchester Art Gallery, 8-minute walk from the hotel
Make your way towards the Northern Quarter for a look around and a spot of lunch! This neighbourhood boasts a unique charm that represents Manchesters creative side to the fullest – think independent retail shops, vibrant street art and buzzing restaurants. Head to Mackie Mayor market hall and choose from the various food options from local traders for lunch before visiting one of the Northern Quarters most famous spots.
Check out Afflecks indoor market
2-minute walk from Northern Quarter, 9-minute walk from the hotel
Ask any local and they will tell you that a visit to Afflecks indoor market is one of the best things to do in Manchester! This bustling marketplace houses more than 70 independent stalls, each with its own speciality – expect zero-waste shops, vegan treats, tarot readings and fashion boutiques. If you want to try something a little different, keep an eye out for the Three Minute Theatre on the ground floor which hosts improvised performances every other evening.
Have dinner and cocktails at Luck, Lust, Liquor & Burn
4-minute walk from Afflecks indoor market, 12-minute walk from the hotel
Finish off your first day in Manchester with dinner and a drink at Luck, Lust, Liquor & Burn. This North-American inspired bar serves up mouth-watering tacos, burritos and nachos alongside some of the city’s best margaritas! While every item on the menu is worth trying out, we’d recommend the Famous AF burrito and Taco Truck fries! Take the short walk back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest before your final day of Manchester adventures.
Day 2
Take the train to Heaton Park
30-minute train from the hotel
After enjoying a signature Clayton Vitality Breakfast, set off to St. Peter’s Square to catch the train to Heaton Park! Spanning over 600 acres, this park boasts years worth of history and is home to some of the most fun things to do in Manchester. Hire out a rowboat or pedalo at Heaton Park rowing lake, play a round of golf on the golf course or simply enjoy the woodlands on a relaxing walk.
Have lunch in The Koffee Pot
28-minute train from Heaton Park, 11-minute walk from the hotel
After a morning of adventure, it’s time to make your way back to the city and fuel up at a local favourite: The Koffee Pot. This colourful spot has been around since the 70s and features red booths, vibrant street art and a menu that is known to cure any hangover – however, it’s perfectly fit for any occasion! Wash it all down with a Bloody Mary and make your way to the next must-see spot.
Explore Chinatown
11-minute walk from The Koffee Pot, 2-minute walk from the hotel
Manchester’s Chinatown is the second-largest in the UK and is simply bursting with vivid colours, rich culture and of course, delicious aromas. During a stroll through the area, you will spot a plethora of restaurants, bakeries, and karaoke bars. While you’re in the area, grab a honey bun or cream bun from Ho’s Bakery’s to enjoy during your next venture – trust us when we say these buns simply can’t be missed!
Have a relaxing walk through Castlefield
13-minute walk from Chinatown, 14-minute walk from the hotel
Castlefield is an area oozing with history! Known as the industrial and Roman heart of Manchester, the neighbourhood is home to canals, warehouses and canal boats that add to the charm of this already captivating spot. In the sunnier months, the canals attract groups of locals looking for an escape from the bustle of the city but Wintertime is just as endearing with lit candles and lamps lighting up the district.
Get dinner at Clayton Hotel’s No. 55 Restaurant and Bar
14-minute walk from Castlefield
End your 48 hours in Manchester city with dinner at Clayton Hotel’s No. 55 Restaurant and Bar. This modern restaurant specialises in traditional British cuisine with a contemporary twist. Finish off with a drink from the impressive range of cocktails, beers, spirits and wines and reflect on your time in Manchester – and maybe even begin planning your next trip back to the second city!
If you’re looking for hotel deals in the heart of Manchester, Clayton Hotel Manchester City Centre is located just a stone’s throw away from some of the city’s top attractions. Our spacious rooms are the ideal place to put your feet up after a day of adventure. See our Manchester hotel deals.
