Our favourite hidden gems in Manchester

Looking to explore Manchester beyond the usual tourist spots? Sometimes stumbling upon a hidden gem makes you feel like you’re in on a secret – and it’s always nice to escape the crowds. 

We've put together this guide to Manchester's lesser-known treasures, perfect for when you need a break from the busy city centre. Bookmark it for future trips!

1. Visit Britain’s oldest library – Chetham’s

Step back in time to Britain's oldest library, dating all the way back to the 1600s. It’s kept a lot of its original features, with dark decor and ceiling-to-floor bookshelves, making for a cosy escape from the busy streets of Manchester.

Interested in the library’s history? You can book an hour-long guided tour for £13.50. Or keep yourself busy with Chetham library’s array of books, manuscripts, and artwork.

2. Fletcher Moss park botanical gardens

Sometimes being in a big city makes you crave the calm of nature. Luckily, Manchester’s home to a vast amount of green spaces, but the botanical gardens at Fletcher Moss park has to be one of our favourites.

From beautiful walkways to quiet corners and river-side walks, you could spend an hour or two soaking up the views – why not bring a picnic basket with you for lunch?

Scratch your walking itch with our guide to the best walks in Manchester.

3. Take a tour around the Victoria Baths 

Manchester’s Victoria Baths offers a unique glimpse into the city's past. While it's no longer filled with water, the restored Turkish baths and stained glass windows make it one of the most peaceful spots in the city. It’s also been used in many TV shows and films, including Peaky Blinders and Bedlam.

Take a guided tour to discover the beautiful architecture and hear stories about when this was Manchester's premier bathing spot. 

Pro tip: Check their events calendar before visiting, they’ve previously hosted film screenings and gin festivals.

4. Discover a hidden bar in the Northern Quarter

Because nothing fun comes easy, you’ll have to find this bar before you can enjoy its cocktails. Look for an unmarked door in the Northern Quarter to uncover one of Manchester's best-kept secrets – Ego Death. 

Once you’ve found it, you’ll have a choice of classic cocktails, champagne and bourbon. But if you want a quiet drink, this probably isn’t your place – expect it to go from bar-turned-party as the evening draws on.

To find it: Look for the black door with a small geometric pattern.

5. Dance on a boat along Manchester’s river

From club classic events to soul experiences, Manchester River Cruises is a fun way to see the sights while singing along to your favourite music. They even have tributes from Dolly Parton and Elvis, if that floats your boat (sorry).

Bringing the kids? They’ve got a dress-up pirates and mermaids themed river cruise for them to enjoy – with a bar on board for you.

6. Catch a show at the Hope Mill theatre

This award-winning theatre, housed in a former cotton mill, proves that sometimes the best entertainment happens away from the main stage. It’s an intimate space that hosts different types of productions and has built a reputation for high-quality shows in a uniquely-Manchester setting.

The venue’s industrial past is still woven into its character, with original cast-iron columns and exposed beams. Head to the intimate restaurant for a pre-show dinner – it's a lovely spot to unwind with a drink before the show.

Check what’s on before your visit to avoid missing out on tickets.

7. Do a brewery tour and tasting session

Beer fan, but tired of the pub? Find out how independent brewery Cloudwater crafts their unique-flavoured beers with a tour and tasting session. Available at the weekends, you’ll have a go at pouring the perfect pint, alongside a tour of their grounds with a tutored tasting session.

Keep an eye on their events page too – they’ve recently hosted everything from record shop takeovers to film screenings.

8. Discover the history of Britain’s democracy

For something different but highly-rated, take a trip to the People’s History Museum – you’ll find out about Britain's struggle for democracy and workers' rights, something that's deeply connected to Manchester's identity.

Take your time wandering around its range of exhibitions, and check out their events calendar for special new additions.The riverside location makes it perfect for combining with a walk along the Irwell.

9. Get an at-home massage with the Urban app

A secret you’ll want to gatekeep – you can now book spa treatments to your home or hotel in Manchester with the Urban app. So after a day of exploring the city, there’s no need to travel to a spa for a massage, we’ll bring it to you instead.

The Urban app (which is us!) offers professional spa treatments, from deep tissue massages to relaxing massages. The pros bring everything they need – including the table – so all you need to do is open the door. 

Simply download the app, pick the time and place and we’ll sort the rest.

10. Enjoy live music at The Fitzgerald

Step back in time at The Fitzgerald, a 1920s-style speakeasy that offers more than just drinks. Their live music nights are both entertaining as they are intimate, with different singers and performances every Friday and Saturday evening.

It’s a complete experience – from the decor to the staff uniforms, everything works together to take you to a different era.

Pro tip: live music fan? Sign up to the ‘secret members club’ to get first-dibs at event tickets and happy hour prices.