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On the hunt for exciting things to do in Manchester this weekend? From the red-brick warehouses of the Northern Quarter to the sleek, shimmering canals of Ancoats, this vibrant city is packed with delicious eateries, cool coffee houses and creative hubs – so how do you decide what to pack into two days?
Whether you’re a lifelong Mancunian or you’re planning a weekend in Manchester for the very first time, you’re going to want to make sure you soak up the very best bits – and who better to give you the lowdown than the locals who know? Our Manchester-based teachers and ClassBento staff have come together to give you their top tips on everything you need to pack into those precious two days; from finding viral egg lattes and handmade ceramics to getting creative with aromatherapy and braving a cold plunge, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to explore the best of the North? Let’s dive into our local-approved guide!
Shop: Form Lifestyle, Northern Quarter
Where: Bradley Street, M1
Open: Daily, except Mondays
If you’re wandering through the cobbled streets of the Northern Quarter and fancy a bit of a creative retreat, you absolutely have to stop by Form Lifestyle. This isn’t your average high-street shop; it’s a beautifully serene sanctuary that celebrates the very best of independent craft.
To give you the true local lowdown, we’ve caught up with Lizzy from Cedar Lifestyle, who knows this hidden gem better than anyone. Whether you’re looking for a new favourite ceramic mug or a place to settle in for a mindful workshop, here is why Form is a must-visit during a weekend in Manchester:
My spot has to be Form Lifestyle, tucked away down a tiny street in the centre of the Northern Quarter. It’s such a beautiful space and hands down my go-to for homeware, handmade ceramics and thoughtful gifts. Everything is so carefully curated, and they’re brilliant at championing independent makers like me.
They were actually my very first stockist, and I now host my candle-making workshops in their downstairs space – which makes it even more special. But honestly, even if that wasn’t the case, I’d still be a very loyal customer. It’s just one of those places you can’t walk into without picking something up! Lizzy, Cedar Lifestyle
What’s nearby?
- The Koffee Pot, Oldham Street
- L Ü C K Y, Blossom Street
- UNITOM, Stevenson Square
Team a trip with this workshop:
Scent creation and candle making workshop from Cedar Lifestyle, at Form Lifestyle in the Northern Quarter.
Drink: Vibean Cafe, City Centre
Where: Brazennose Street, City Centre
Open: Daily
A caffeine kick has got to be on your list of weekend activities in Manchester, and if you want something a bit different you need to head to the city centre and track down Vibean Cafe. This isn't just your standard espresso bar; it’s a stunning escape that has been taking social media by storm for its incredible aesthetics and authentic flavours.
To get the inside scoop, we spoke to I-Hsuan from San & Zen Art, who knows exactly where to find the most creative sips in the city. If you're looking for places to go on Sunday in Manchester, this spot should definitely be top of your list – don’t forget the photos for your Insta feed!
My go-to place for coffee has to be Vibean. They went viral recently for their amazing interior design, and they’ve brought the most authentic Vietnamese coffee to the UK. Every Sunday they do an egg latte, which I’ve wanted to try for ages – but I’m usually teaching a workshop! I-Hsuan, San & Zen Art
What’s nearby?
- John Rylands Library
- Electric Shuffle Manchester
- People’s History Museum
Team a trip with this workshop:
Dough it yourself pizza masterclass from Pizza Pilgrims in Deansgate
Eat: Curry Mile, Rusholme
Where: Wilmslow Road
Open: Daily
If you’re looking for the absolute soul of the city’s food scene during a weekend in Manchester, you can’t miss the legendary Curry Mile in Rusholme. This isn't just a street; it’s a sensory explosion of neon lights, incredible aromas, and some of the most authentic flavours you’ll find in the UK.
To get the real lowdown, we chatted with our senior community partnerships manager Robbie, who practically considers this vibrant stretch of Wilmslow Road a second home. If you're hunting for the best things to do in Manchester on a Saturday night that involve world-class food without the eye-watering price tag, Robbie’s recommendation is top-tier:
So my top tip for eating in Manchester – and anyone that lives here already will already know this – is to get to Rusholme and go to Curry Mile.
There's so many different types of food there: local cuisines from all around the world, and so many different shops. You feel like you’re in so many different countries all at the same time and it's amazing All these different experiences, smells, tastes – everything!
I love going there; I go way too often and eat at way too many places, but it's affordable and you get to try new things. Plus, it's just a wicked vibe as well, it's really good fun. Robbie, Senior Community Partnerships Manager
What’s nearby?
- Plenty of green spaces: Platt Fields Park, Birchfields Park and Whitworth Park
- The Whitworth university art gallery
- The Pankhurst Centre
Team a trip with this workshop:
Kintsugi pottery class for beginners from The Creative Society Manchester in Whalley Range
Relax: Kontrast, City Centre and Idle Hands, Northern Quarter
Where: Dantzic Street (Kontrast) and Dale Street (Idle Hands)
Open: Both daily, Kontrast is closed on Tuesdays
If your idea of the best weekend activities in Manchester involves a bit of a reset button, you’re going to love this local-approved ritual. The city might be famous for its hustle and bustle, but there are some seriously cool pockets of calm if you know where to look.
To get the lowdown on the ultimate Sunday chill, we caught up with our growth partner manager Niall, who has mastered the art of the Scandi-style recovery. Whether you’re recovering from a big night out or just want to end a weekend in Manchester feeling refreshed, Niall’s two-step routine is a total game-changer:
I'm currently in my self-care, sauna and cold plunge era and have started going to Kontrast regularly. And then I usually follow that up with a coffee and slice of Key Lime Pie from Idle Hands. Two of the best Sunday activities in Manchester in my opinion! Niall, Growth Partner Manager (UK & US)
What’s nearby?
- Cathedral Gardens
- Treetop Golf Manchester
- The Museum of Illusions
Team a trip with this workshop:
Bento cake and cupcake decorating workshop from Claire Southern Macarons in Red Bank
Five more creative weekend activities in Manchester
If the local tips from Lizzy, I-Hsuan, Robbie and Niall have sparked your creative curiosity, you’re in for a treat. Manchester’s maker community is one of the most welcoming in the UK, and there’s no better way to soak up the city's spirit than by getting your hands a little bit messy.
Whether you’re looking for a calming, mindful solo escape or lively things to do with friends, these workshops are the perfect way to cap off a weekend. Here are five more creative activities to add to your city bucket list:
1. Master the potter's wheel in a clay studio
There is nothing quite like the feel of wet clay spinning between your fingers to help you switch off. Head to a local studio for a wheel-throwing taster. It’s a rhythmic, meditative experience that turns a standard afternoon into a masterpiece-making session. Plus, you’ll finally have a handmade mug for your morning brew!
2. Get colourful at a Sip and Paint evening
If you’re hunting for the ultimate things to do in Manchester on a Saturday night, a sip and paint class is a total vibe. Grab a glass of your favourite tipple and follow a local artist as you recreate a masterpiece – from Van Gogh’s starry nights to a funky Highland cow. It’s all about the "fun" in functional art, and you don’t need a shred of experience to join in.
3. Try your hand at modern brush lettering
Manchester’s creative scene is all about self-expression, and what better way to find your voice than with a modern calligraphy or brush lettering workshop? Whether you're tucked away in a cosy cafe in Chorlton or a bright studio in the Northern Quarter, you’ll learn how to turn simple strokes into stunning, flowy scripts.
4. Create trendy Terrazzo homeware
Eco-resin (or Jesmonite) is the craft of the moment, and Manchester is the place to try it. In these workshops, you’ll mix, pour, and sand your way to a set of vibrant, speckled coasters or a trinket tray. It’s incredibly satisfying to see the patterns emerge as you sand back the surface, and it’s a brilliant way to spend a rainy Manchester afternoon.
5. Try your hand at Tufting
For something truly unique, why not try a rug-tufting workshop in Salford or the city centre? Using a tufting gun to ‘paint with yarn,’ you can create your own mini-rug or wall hanging. It’s tactile, fast-paced, and incredibly rewarding – leaving you with a high-quality piece of decor that’s a real conversation starter.
Runs regularly
Manchester
1 to 60 guests
£36 - £38
6 years in business
