Artistic inspiration in Manchester

Union Academy Manchester is a premier martial arts facility located in the Ancoats district of the city. The academy fosters a welcoming culture where individuals of all skill levels can train in a supportive environment. Primary disciplines offered include Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Kickboxing, with classes available for both adults and children. The academy features a structured beginners' programme designed to introduce the basics of grappling and striking. Specialized women-only classes are also available, providing a comfortable space for female athletes to develop their skills.

“Wayne is friendly and very professional. My newly revamped pond is lovely with very happy fish and frogs. I'm so thankful as he wouldn't normally have come this far north to Morecambe from Manchester. If you want him and you do want him, bribe him with a comfy bed and homemade dinners. You will have to drag him in though as he's a perfectionist and workaholic. Excuse the net, it's an unfortunate necessity for the heron and the fox.”

“Wish I could give a place 6 stars! Will be coming back here to get all future piercings. Had Val as my piercer and she was efficient, confident, and clearly extremely skilled as they were the smoothest and fastest piercings I've ever had done. She was also so so friendly. The studio was clean, really nicely lit, and the prices so good I've been telling anyone who will listen. I really recommend.”

“Had 17 tattoos so far from here and am obsessed with all of them, I wouldn’t go anywhere else. Kieran smashes my tattoos never had a problem with any of them. Always get compliments and refer people to him as I know they wouldn’t be disappointed.”

“Always enjoy my classes at Act up North and feel I have learnt somthing new every time. Teachers are great and the effort they put into the showreals also are excellent.. Ive been with Act up North for over three years and intend to keep going. Safe fun place to be.. :)”

“Robie did the floristry for our wedding in April 2023 and I would highly recommend him. He was really friendly and easy to deal with. He took time to understand what we wanted and delivered something incredible on the day - it was better than what we had imagined and several people commented how beautiful and breathtaking the flowers looked. Thank you so much!”

“A vibrant community of local artists working with pewter, clay, wood, metal, textiles, and more. Their studios are spread across two floors in a lovely bright historical building. There's a cafe on the ground floor, too! Whether you're looking for a gift, a new piece of jewellery, a plant pot, or simply a greeting card, you can find it here - and support local artists and crafts people!”

“Excellent quality tattoos. Reasonable rates and friendly tattooist with lots of experience. I would recommend Brandz”

Located in the Woodley area of Stockport, this specialized studio is a destination for high-end nail artistry. The business serves the local community with a focus on creativity and technical excellence. Core services include professional acrylic applications and bespoke nail designs that follow the latest industry trends. The artist takes pride in researching new techniques to provide clients with modern and durable results. Every set of nails is crafted with precision, ensuring a perfect finish that lasts for weeks.

“From an experienced eye for vintage, antique, or retro, The VintageFurnitureCo has it all. The prices are set to sell. Anything your in the market for, you will be successful, or they will keep you in mind. I have purchased many items in the past, and frankly, they were perfect for me. I can say, I spent many hours there, until my relocation to the States. And I still miss it.”

“My daughter has attended Rushbrook/Gorton Mount since nursery she is now in year 6. She has enjoyed her learning here and has accomplished so much, the staff are friendly and approachable and always willing to help. A totally brilliant school with a very good team working to enrich the lives of children.”

“Had my first ever tattoo at Inkjections recently. I was a bit nervous of the stories of pain and what if I don’t like it. Paul was quick to put me at ease from the initial consultation to actually doing it. It was quick and painless and in and out in under 2 hours. Could not be happier with the job that Paul has done and already planning on what to have done next.”

“What a fabulous artist! I took my 82 year old friend for her very first tattoo. She was doing this to raise money for the Royal British Legion Women's Section. Colin decided not to charge her, draw up a tattoo based on her design, constantly put her mind at ease an reassured her, discussing anything to take her mind off the possible pain. My friend said it did not hurt at all. I can't recommend Colin's work enough. A total professional, a fabulous artist and a kind and generous man. He is a credit to his profession and to humanity in general. I am planning on going back and driving more than 1 hour to visit his home and studio.”

“Awesome place to have gone to get my next tattoo rob and Ruth are so welcoming and make you feel at ease. Also lee at the front on reception is polite and even makes you coffee which I wasn’t expecting. Thanks again for the amazing piece of work you have done rob hope you enjoyed it doing as much I’m enjoying the look of it see you guys again for sure for my next project :) Darryl”

“I cannot recommend this studio highly enough. I had my first “proper” tattoo done by Mark Armstrong 21 years ago and since then have had numerous tattoos done by Big Gaz (Gary Bevan). I visited Third Light Tattoo for the first time today and am exceptionally pleased with the work done by Gaz.”

“Sharlene is absolutely brilliant. She’s painstakingly renovated and reupholstered treasured old furniture and it’s really quite emotional! I am really glad I’ve done this; it’s excellent value for money and really great to repair rather than buy new.”

“Amy is amazing. Her tattoos are second to none and can't recommend her enough!”

“Hope has done all of my tattoos and I adore them. My first tattoo she designed with very little prompt and nailed it. She made me feel very comfortable and I didn’t hesitate in contacting her for my second tattoo. I lost someone and wanted a tattoo in memory of them and she fit me in short notice and opened early to get it done for me. She really goes above and beyond!”

“I Went to matt for my first ever tattoo. He was brilliant throughout the whole day. He also give lots of good info on aftercare to make sure my tattoo all healed perfect. You will struggle to find a better artist for price and quality of work. The shop as a whole has a brilliant atmosphere and is always a good laugh. I have now almost finished a full leg sleeve off and couldn’t recommend him more. Get booked in you wont regret it.”

“Amazing performing arts club. Molly and her crew are amazing facilitators and my two daughters absolutely love them and the club. It’s such a supportive, fun and positive organisation and they’ve made so many friends. Can’t recommend enough!”

“It was an amazing experience. I got my first tattoo here and it came out beautifully. Emma was so nice with me and talked me through the process, which helped with the nerves. Paul makes nice tea too :). Highly recommend if you want to get any tattoos done”

“Guy did a tattoo for me on Friday. Lovely man and the tattoo is exceptional. All the staff are friendly and very welcoming. Definitely recommend”

“I’ve been coming here for six months now and began as a completely inexperienced novice. It was probably the best decision I’ve ever made- not only to pick up the hobby but, to have found this brilliant studio! Everyone is so lovely, encouraging, supportive and just wonderful. The instructors do a fantastic job of maintaining a very welcoming, safe and fun environment whilst also ensuring techniques and tricks are adapted to every individual’s skill level. They’re always patient and you never feel silly for asking questions or for extra demonstrations, they’re open to suggestions and encourage collaboration and feedback. If you’re new to the hobby, or looking for a different studio; I cannot recommend Asteria Studio highly enough!”

“Thanks Dai so so happy with my tattoo today and can say I really enjoyed the experience time flew by love love love it ❤️”

“So so chuffed to have found Secret Society Studio!!! Beanie is such a talented, kindhearted and amazing human!!!! She makes you feel welcome in her studio (something like being at home), you don’t feel rushed and she takes time to explain everything. I have had many experiences with tattoo artists in the past, Beanie is simply THE BEST!!! Couldn’t recommend her highly enough!!!!!”

“Great experience with Tattoo Everything Supplies! They’ve got a huge range of tattoo supplies available both online and in their Manchester store, which makes it really convenient. The team is super friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to help with advice on products. Everything I’ve ordered has been high quality and delivered quickly. Definitely my go-to place for tattoo supplies—highly recommended!”

Mirror Mirror is a premier hair and beauty destination located in the heart of Eccles, Manchester. This welcoming salon serves the local community with a focus on creating a comfortable and inclusive environment for every visitor. The expert team specializes in a wide range of hair services, including precision cutting and professional hair washing techniques. Clients can choose from various coloring options, ranging from subtle highlights to complete transformations. Beyond hair, the salon features a dedicated beauty side offering specialized treatments to complete your look.