When you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, London is obviously on the list. But you’d be remiss to skip Manchester—a famed industrial town that fell on hard times after the Second World War, but has been on the up and up for a while.
John and Tina Reid/Getty Images
This northern England city, about a four-hour drive from London, has a lot to offer any traveler. There’s a lot to eat, drink, see, and, of course, shop. Whether you’re there for a day or for a week, here’s what you should check out when you’re in Manchester.
DRINK
The Marble Arch Inn
Manchester has seen its fair share of gentrification over the years, so you could go a little fancy when you’re feeling thirsty. No need in Manchester. For an authentic English drinking experience, you need to check out an authentic pub. The Marble Arch fits the bill. Sitting near Manchester’s bustling Northern Quarter, the Marble Arch is where the locals go for a pint. Unassuming from the outside, it features glorious retro architecture and glazed red brick, a long list of both local and international brews, and pub fare that goes above and beyond what you’d expect. If it’s sunny, enjoy a drink in the hidden beer garden in the back.
EAT
Osma
Via Osma
Why limit yourself to English food? Osma’s name stems from the inspiration behind the restaurant’s cuisine: Oslo and Manchester. You’ll be delightedly surprised with the results. Using only locally sourced ingredients, they serve fine food with a presentation to match. Dinner is served with a suite of small plates, from cured sea bass to crispy potatoes to gnocchi and chicken and sole and so on. There for Saturday Brunch? Enjoy the eggs florentine or lobster tail on a brioche bun. You get the idea. The combination of these two cuisines may not be expected—but that’s why you’ll love it.
SEE
Etihad Stadium Tour
Via Manchester City F.C.
Football (well, to Americans, soccer) isn’t necessarily the most important thing in the world to the citizens of Manchester. But it’s pretty damn close. So while you’re in the city, stop by the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City FC, winner of last season's Premier League. For only £25, you’ll tour the stadium, get an inside look at how players prepare for games, check out the dugouts where the managers view the game, and much more. And although the club’s manager Pep Guardiola might not be in attendance, you can ask a holographic coach your most pressing footballing questions.
SHOP
UNTUCKit Manchester
Via UNTUCKit
If you happen to be at or near The Trafford Centre, stop by our newest store in the United Kingdom: UNTUCKit Manchester. We’ve got all the travel-friendly styles that are great for any season in the city, including Wrinkle-Free must-haves for a posh dinner at Osma to more relaxed Henleys when you’re heading out for a brew at The Marble Arch. Getting ready for a Premier League game? Drop by to pick up a cool polo—obviously, blue for Manchester City, or red for Manchester United. Whatever you’re up to, we’ve got your look covered.
SHARPEN UP
Mr. Beardmore's Barbershop
Via Mr. Beardmore's Barbershop
We all could use a touch-up once in a while. If you need one while you’re in Manchester, consider Mr. Beardmore’s. Opening in 2015 and located right in the middle of the Northern Quarter (so you can easily head there before your pint), they offer all the classics, all done with excellence. That includes straight-razor shaves, hot towel service, and any cut you desire. Plus, you’ll get fresh, barista-style coffee and cold drinks. Stop by this authentic, traditional barbershop with modern touches while you’re in the city.
