Three years of my life were spent living in Manchester. During my time as a student in this energetic city, I exhausted the gastropubs, bars and music venues in Fallowfield and Didsbury but didn’t venture into the centre of town very often. So when I visited my old home a few weeks ago, I was grateful to have the chance to explore a new area of the city. When it comes to luxury, Manchester is lagging way behind other UK destinations, but recently a few classy venues have popped up making it more appealing.
Sleep
Lowry – Manchester’s only 5 star hotel is located a little outside the centre, but it easy to reach by foot or taxi. It is a bold, contemporary hotel, with a dramatic glass exterior. Inside there is a lovely spa and dining facilities for guests to enjoy. Rooms are spacious and stylish overlooking the River Irwell.
The Midland – though dated in some areas, the Midland Hotel is comfortable and convenient. Blissfully close to the main train station, the art gallery and all the shops and restaurants. Our room was wonderfully large with every amenity you could need for a weekend away. With two new eateries by successful chef Simon Rogan, the Midland is sure to become a foodie destination in the coming months.
Eat
Chaophraya – perhaps the most popular Thai eatery in town Chaophraya offers informal, intensely flavoured Asian cuisine in a comfortable setting. I loved the authentic prawn crackers and the fragrant red curry (be warned though it is extremely spicy!)
The French – the first fine dining establishment of its kind in Manchester, The French by Simon Rogan offers imaginative, exquisite food. The restaurant is sparsely decorated, allowing the dishes all the attention. Only 6 or 10 course tasting menus are available. I predict a first Michelin star for Manchester awarded to The French.
Almost Famous – Not a place for dieters, Almost Famous serve up dangerously calorific burgers piled high with indulgent toppings of every kind. The individual components are delicious, but I seriously recommend choosing one of the simpler options. I tried the ‘BADDABOOM’ which consists of a double patty, cheese, bacon, onions, chorizo, parmesan and sauce. I feel full just reremembering it!
Drink
Under New Management – Without a doubt my favourite new cocktail bar in Manchester. Run by two talented mixologists, the drinks here are creative and tasty, innovative and beautiful. My favourite was the Awkward Date, a unique tangerine-coloured cocktail based on the classic Sidecar.
Elixir Tonics and Treats – A magical girly cocktail bar offers birdcages adorned with coupette cocktail glasses. Speak to Andy behind the bar and he will concoct a deliciously sweet treat for you.
Takk – This hip Icelandic coffee is found on the edge of the Northern Quarter and serves up the best flat white in town. Lounge in the relaxed café on a Saturday and take in the cool atmosphere.
Caffeine & Co – Modest but marvellous, this little Manchester coffee chain offers great Square Mile caffeine kicks.
See
Joanna Vasconcelos – This new ‘Time Machine’ exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery is wild and psychedelic, certainly unlike anything else you will find on show at this traditional art gallery. Ostrich feathered pink helicopters and mutant cars hijacked by toys, you will be amused and excited by the new surprises each room brings. An ambitious and impressive show from this talented contemporary Portuguese artist.
Bridgewater Hall – visit this epic venue for concerts of all kinds or just a guided tour of the incredible building. The acoustics are astounding and the resident Halle orchestra are particularly worth hearing.
Shop
Oi Polloi – This trendy shop in the Northern Quarter offers contemporary and classic menswear stocking brands like APC, Levi’s vintage and Barbour.
Hervia Boutique – This is a luxury fashion concept store and a destination for edited and curated design. Hervia has a particularly impressive selection of Comme des Garcons, I spent far too long admiring the expensive beautiful clothes before eventually dragging myself away.
Many thanks to Manchester Tourist Board for their help with this trip, more information here.
Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with Virgin Trains.
Typical journey time between London and Manchester is just 2h 7m on one of the state-of-the-art tilting trains, six days a week. Engineering works slow things down a little on Sunday mornings, but by lunchtime they’re operating services – at 2h15m – just a shade slower than Monday to Saturday. Trains every 20 minutes, six and a half days a week.
Booking in advance and travelling off-peak is the best way to get great deals – including some fantastic First Class bargains. Single fares start at: Advance Standard £12.50 and Advance First £38.00, book here.