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Looking for things to do this weekend in Manchester? It can be a little bit overwhelming, we know – in such a vibrant city, it feels like there’s 101 things to do in Manchester at any one time.
From cosy brunch cafés and creative workshops to fascinating museums and lively cocktail spots, Manchester is the kind of city where every corner has something interesting waiting for you to discover. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking to shake up your usual weekend plans, we’ve got you covered!
To help you wade through all of the amazing possibilities, we’ve put together this little handy guide for activities in Manchester this weekend. Let’s plan your perfect weekend together!
Start your day with Manchester’s famous brunch scene
Before diving into the day’s adventures, kick off your day the right way with a delicious breakfast or brunch. Manchester’s café culture is incredible, especially around the Northern Quarter where independent coffee shops line colourful streets.
A local favourite is Federal Café Bar, known for its Australian-inspired brunch dishes, the tastiest specialty coffee and my personal favourite – an unbeatable banana bread. It’s the perfect place to ease into a weekend in Manchester before heading out to explore.
Other spots you might love:
- Ezra & Gil – a bright, stylish café famous for colourful brunch plates.
- Foundation Coffee House – minimalist interiors and gorgeous flat whites!
- Koffee Pot – classic comfort breakfasts and hearty portions.
- Pot Kettle Black – great coffee and creative brunch dishes.
Once you’re caffeinated and ready to go, the city is yours to explore!
Try a creative workshop while you're in the city
If you’re looking for the best activities in Manchester this weekend, you can’t go wrong with a creative workshop or experience. And with so many available in the city, you’re spoilt for choice! If your idea of a fun weekend is getting crafty and creative with something a bit different, you’ll absolutely love these.
A wheel throwing taster class
You’ll learn how to shape clay on a spinning pottery wheel, guided by an experienced teacher. If your weekend style is more laidback, this will be a lovely addition to your itinerary.
This Japanese painting class
More of a painter? Try this and learn about Japanese art movements and paint on rice paper or silk fans in a calm and inspiring atmosphere.
A mini rug tufting workshop
If you like something a bit more adventurous, get crafty with a tufting gun and make your own mini rug to take home as a memento of your weekend in Manchester!
This Japanese shimenawa workshop
Looking for a mindful weekend? Learn the traditional craft of creating decorative rope ornaments with dried flowers, believed to bring good fortune.
Wander through Manchester’s cultural hotspots
Manchester has an incredible cultural scene, so it’s worth setting aside some time to explore its museums and galleries. If you always feel at home wandering around an art gallery or immersing yourself in history, you can’t go wrong with this as a lovely afternoon activity.
Try these:
- Manchester Art Gallery – A beautiful space filled with both historic and contemporary artwork.
- Manchester Museum – Packed with fascinating exhibits covering science, nature and world cultures. A lovely choice for family things to do in Manchester this weekend.
- People’s History Museum – One of the most unique museums in the UK, telling the story of democracy and social change.
Adding a museum visit to your itinerary is one of the best things to do in Manchester this weekend, especially if you enjoy history, art and the cool points when someone asks you what you got up to.
Explore Manchester on foot
Sometimes the best way to discover a city is simply by walking through it. Manchester offers so many fun walking tours that reveal hidden stories about the city. If you like sightseeing with a picturesque walk, this might be the loveliest way to spend a couple of hours.
A few lovely options:
- Film and TV walking trail – Are you a TV or film buff? Explore famous filming locations around Manchester!
- Manchester LGBTQ+ walking trail – Discover the city’s rich LGBTQ+ history and cultural landmarks, from Canal Street to iconic mosaics designed by artist Mark Kennedy.
- Manchester literature trail – Follow in the footsteps of writers connected to the city and stumble upon poetry on walls, vibrant bookshops and cosy reading spots.
If you’re already planning a route from your creative workshop to your museum of choice, squeeze in a walking tour and learn a little something on your way!
Where to eat while exploring the city
All that exploring is bound to make you hungry, and you couldn’t be in safer hands with Manchester’s foodie scene. The Northern Quarter is one of the best areas to eat, filled with independent restaurants and lively food halls.
Best foodie spots to try:
- Evelyn’s – delicious seasonal small plates and cosy, trendy interiors.
- Mackie Mayor – a stunning food hall where you can pick your favourite cuisine!
- BAB – yummy flatbreads, kebabs and burgers with bold flavours.
- Deano’s Restaurant – American-Italian place serving up fresh parmos, pizza and pasta.
Evening plans: cocktails, cinema and nightlife
As evening arrives, Manchester’s energy shifts from laid-back cafés to buzzing nightlife. Kick things off with a cocktail, or better yet make your own at this Italian aperitivo cocktail masterclass in the heart of the Northern Quarter. This lively class teaches you how to mix classic Italian drinks in a fun, social atmosphere.
Afterwards, head to Night & Day Cafe for a glass of wine or a mocktail and listen to live music from some of Manchester’s incredible local talents.
If you’d prefer something a bit more relaxed, catch a movie or a show at HOME Manchester and then share small plates at the Indian Tiffin Room to discuss your thoughts.
A city full of possibilities
Whether you’re exploring museums, discovering new cafés or trying a hands-on workshop, there are endless activities in Manchester this weekend waiting to be discovered.
From creative experiences and cultural landmarks to great food and vibrant nightlife, it’s easy to see why so many visitors fall in love with this city – you won’t want to leave! And with so many things on in Manchester next weekend too, there’s always another reason to come back and explore more.
Ready to try something new? Browse our creative workshops and discover even more unforgettable activities in Manchester this weekend.
Runs regularly
Manchester
1 to 60 guests
£36 - £38
6 years in business
