Manchester On A Budget
There are plenty of things to do in Manchester that won’t break the bank on a day out to this popular northern city. We’ve put together some our favourite money saving ideas including FREE entry attractions, TV locations for avid Coronation Street fans & unusual places to visit, (think Victorian police cell).
1. Visitor Attractions & Vouchers
When considering a visit to some of Manchester’s most popular attractions such a SEA LIFE Manchester & LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, look out for ways to bring the entrance charges down without reducing any of the fun!
i. Within our SEA LIFE Manchester Guide you’ll find a range of 2 for 1 vouchers, discounted toddler tickets & joint combi offers that can substantial reduce your initial spend.
ii. Our LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Guide considers the benefits of loyalty vouchers, late entrance offers, half price promotions and there’s even a FREE entry offer for teachers!
Sea Life Aquarium, (photo; Phil Loach)
2. Manchester; FREE Museums
There are plenty of museums in Manchester that are FREE to visit packed with interactive exhibits that work well for all the family. Although suggested donations are likely to be in place, the choice is firmly yours to make. Follow a few of our favourite free attractions below;
i. The impressive Imperial War Museum North is based over in Media City and covers conflict from WWI. Free entry remains in place.
ii. The unusual Greater Manchester Police Museum offers FREE entry and includes a chance to ‘enjoy’ time in a Victorian cell or stand in the dock of the old Magistrates Court!
iii Look out an impressive range of interactive exhibits within the Museum of Science & Industry where your greatest challenge could be persuading the children out of this setting!
3. Coronation Street; TV Locations & Tour
Manchester is synonymous with the longest standing UK soap drama; Coronation Street. Whilst the Coronation Street tour is no longer running, avid Corrie fans will continue to be interested in TV locations and historical landmarks central to the series. We’ve put together some of our favourite places to visit within our Coronation Street TV Locations & Tours.
The Rovers taken from the Coronation Street Tour
1. Views of Manchester; IWM North, (check if this is still open)
The viewing platform from the Imperial War Museum North takes in fantastic views of Old Trafford, Media City & the Manchester Ship Canal. Whilst there is a small charge in place for this attraction, it is well worth a visit.
2. Views of Manchester; Cloud 23
There really is no other view like it in Manchester so a visit to Cloud 23 is not to be missed. Located within Hilton Hotel, this luxury bar on the 23rd floor gives exceptional views over the city. There is even a glassed bottom floor for those that dare to stand within only strengthened glass between you the ground! Whilst Cloud 23 has no admission charges, you will be expected to purchase a drink, cocktail or afternoon tea and does get booked up. Make a reservation to avoid disappointment.
3. View of Manchester; 22 Stories
A great rooftop bar set in the heart to Spinningfields offering spectacular 360-degree views over Manchester. Whilst there is a high end restaurant attached, reservations aren’t taken for the rooftop terrace for parties less than 6 making it a perfect setting for walk-ins. Find our more within our guide over at 22 Stories Rooftop Bar in Manchester.
Cocktails at Cloud 23
Budget Manchester; Industrial Heritage
Manchester is closely associated with the emergence of the Industrial Revolution and today those links remain both visible & intertwined as the city has developed through the years. Take a stroll through Castlefield to experience array of cobblestone roads, railway viaducts & canals that has also successfully re-invented itself with trendy bars & cafes.
Manchester Libraries
So a visit to a library may not normally make it onto your travel itinerary, but these two hidden Manchester gems are well worth a visit.
i. John Rylands Library; whilst many a visitor has missed the chance to visit, you’ll not be disappointed with the lavish surroundings within at this FREE attraction.
ii. Chetham’s Library; is the oldest surviving library in the UK & well worth a look inside, (free to visit). Why not combine it with a FREE lunchtime concert at the Chetham’s School of Music next door.
