The 30 Best Cultural events in Manchester

“I can honestly say this school feels like a second home. From the very first day, the atmosphere was welcoming, and the teachers made it easy to settle in. They really care, not just about grades, but about each student as a person. What I appreciate most is the sense of community – you don’t just come here to learn, you also feel supported, listened to, and encouraged to grow. It’s a place where children can learn home from home. The classrooms are bright and full of energy, and there’s always someone ready to help if you’re struggling. The school brings families together too, with events and activities that make you feel like you belong to something bigger. Whether it’s academics, creativity, or just finding your confidence, this school gives every student the chance to shine. It’s more than just a school – it’s a community. Anna was amazing helping us all the way through. Thank you”

“I attended the Monday acting class at mindful acting last week. I was extremely impressed by the whole class, from the teacher to the friendly, welcoming and supportive vibe. Unfortunately as I don't live in Manchester I can't attend every week, but I will definitely be back again and would recommend to all actors and aspiring actors. Thanks, Christopher Heyworth-Hill”

“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 a really great time, went to 4 pubs/breweries and sampled lots of quality beers, would do again! Thanks to Darren our tour guide for making it a fun day!”

“My first time at Everyman and I was blown away by the fantastic customer service. As soon as we arrived we were wonderful greeted and shown a table before we waited for the screen to be open. A lovely guy with a beard and glasses came and sat to take our order - I couldn’t get over how incredibly friendly and polite he was. The service was worth every penny and the food was delicious.”

“I visited the Consulate last Friday and was greeted with professionalism and respect by everyone I interacted with. Thank you for the fantastic service.”

“Great spot for a good priced coffee that is really nice! The staff all super friendly too. Also put on a lot of bike-based activities if that’s your cup of tea, and have plenty of cycling gear in store too”

“Very, very good venue. The quayside theatre is very small and intimate, but holds a good crowd. We were there to see the "Ideal" stage show (which was absolutely brilliant) and it was a great trip. Two minor issues were that it was unclear when the doors would open, leaving quite a few people like us standing outside in rain and wind, which was not Ideal (see what I did there) Also the toilet roll dispensers are utterly dreadful, where you have to try and pull it out of a very tight opening and it invariably tears close to the holder. You know the ones I'm talking about... The rosé wine is delightful...”

“Excellent service, polite and helpful staff at the reception. My room was superb. I paid a bit extras for a bigger room with a view, but was worth it for the comfort and relaxation. Overall clean space and nice shower. Will definitely visit again.”

“I came here for Japan week to see a theatre performance and it was fantastic. HOME is a nice theatre with a cinema as well, staff are friendly inside and the theatre is small but comfortable, good view of the stage.”

“I have been here from the start. The taste is fabulous. I can vouch for it having eaten in so many so called Kerala restaurants. The only thing missing this time is the squid Masala. I am told that it's on the menu in their Whitefield Sindhoor restaurant. Tandoori chicken was not filled with colour like elsewhere. Definitely recommended.”

“Had a wonderful experience this morning. Ruby welcomed me with a smile and suggested an addition to my order which was phenomenal. Carlos brought my full order to my table and made sure I had everything I needed. Catherine bused the dishes from my table when I was finished and ensured I was satisfied with everything. I had a lovely conversation with all three of them after I was finished and left feeling very thankful this was the coffee shop I chose while I was in town for a day. Very personable pleasant experience”

“This was our first time staying at the Edwardian Manchester, and we were so impressed from start to finish. The staff were welcoming and professional, making us feel right at home the moment we arrived. The hotel itself is stunning beautifully designed, spotless, and with a lovely relaxed atmosphere. Our room was spacious, comfortable, and had everything we needed for a perfect stay. Breakfast was excellent too, with plenty of choice and great quality. The location couldn’t be better for exploring the city, and we really appreciated the little touches that made our stay feel special. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and are already looking forward to coming back!”

“Stayed here for a night and had a really lovely experience. The hotel is beautifully designed, the room was stylish and comfortable, and the location is ideal, right in the city but surprisingly quiet, even with the trams nearby. The staff were friendly, the bar downstairs was great for a drink, and breakfast in the morning was solid. The only small hiccup was that I'd requested a sewing kit, and it didn’t get brought up as promised, so I had to go down to reception to get it myself, which made me a bit late. I understand things get busy, though. Aside from that, everything else was great. I’ve stayed at a few Hotel Indigos and this one definitely held up, I’d be happy to stay again.”

“I spent a lovely 3 nights here whilst I was in Manchester for a school reunion. The hotel is in a good location and close to the station with direct trains to Manchester airport. The room was excellent with plenty of space and a great view. It was very clean and well serviced every day. A bonus was the fridge and selection of drinks. There was a great atmosphere in the bar and restaurant. I would like to give a big thank you to the guys in the bar, Cameron, Lennox and Eden for making the most amazing cocktails and for being very hospitable hosts. In fact all the restaurant staff were lovely and very helpful. I would definitely stay there again and would highly recommend it. My only complaint would be the cold plates for the cooked breakfast, but the great coffee and pastries did make up for it.”

“My Visit to the Opera House Manchester My visit to the Opera House Manchester was an unforgettable cultural experience. This historic theatre, opened in 1912, is one of Manchester’s most elegant and iconic performance venues. With its beautifully restored Edwardian architecture, plush seating, and grand interior, it offers the perfect setting for musicals, concerts, ballets, and drama performances. The atmosphere inside was vibrant and welcoming. The acoustics were excellent, and the staff were friendly and well-organized, ensuring a smooth entry and interval experience. The show I attended was brilliantly produced — a true reflection of Manchester’s rich performing arts scene. Visitor Tips: Book tickets in advance through the ATG Tickets website for the best seats. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to enjoy the lobby and grab a drink at the theatre bar. Photography is usually not allowed during shows, so plan to enjoy the performance fully. How to Reach: The Opera House is located on Quay Street, Manchester M3 3HP, near Deansgate. It’s easily accessible by tram (St. Peter’s Square or Deansgate-Castlefield stops), bus, or a 10-minute walk from Manchester Oxford Road Station. There are also several parking options nearby, including Spinningfields Car Park. A visit to the Opera House is a must for anyone who loves theatre, music, and Manchester’s timeless charm — a perfect evening of culture and entertainment.”

“I held my wedding reception there on Sunday 12th May. Adam & Vikki could not do enough for us. They went above and beyond our expectation. Nothing seemed too much trouble and the room was set up ready for us. We would definitely recommend this venue.”

“A MAassive thank you to Shah for collecting us from my dad's oncology appointment at Crumpsall/ North Manchester General Hospital He arrived promptly, was extremely polite & professional the cab was clean, comfortable and well maintained Thank you once again”

“Extremely polite,friendly and welcoming people. The products always fresh. A little bit expensive but that is because they are bringing from abroad.”

“Really nice food, great service too, got complimentary Meze and Turkish tea too with our order.”

“Had lunch here with my son and daughter , very cozy restaurant and faster serving ! the chicken was amazing and the kids really enjoyed the food ! Staff were very friendly and help me to sorted my gift card with infinite patience! hide gem by the road work”

“Had a bottomless brunch with manager Cameron and it was the best brunch we've been to. Some of the best food we've had as well, absolutely mouth watering. Whether it's for brunch or a meal out I'd highly recommend coming here. The staff and service was 10/10 and lovley atmosphere, will definitely come again”

“Been coming here since it first opened, it's a great place for a variety of Japanese food, honestly the vegan/vegetarian sweet potato katsu is PHENOMENAL! I'm not even vegetarian and it's so good, plus the rest of the food is on point. I took a group of my friends and we ordered a great variety, I've no complaints really!”

“A very nice bar with a great atmosphere in the center of Manchester. Mostly Brewdog beers of course. We were served by Jordan and James, they were really nice”

“Had the most amazing cheese and onion pie for lunch yesterday. Everyone is so welcoming, lovely music and just so friendly. Beautiful place and people.”

“Watched The Lion King at the Palace Theatre and it was absolutely breathtaking. The atmosphere in the theatre itself is grand and historic, with great acoustics and comfortable seating. The performance was world-class, from the costumes and stage design to the music, everything was magical and immersive. Staff were friendly and helpful, and the whole experience felt smooth and well-organised. Truly one of those shows that stays with you long after the curtain falls. Highly recommend both the venue and the production!”

“I had a great stay at the Crowne Plaza Manchester. The rooms were modern, clean, and really comfortable — exactly what you want after a long day. The staff were friendly and welcoming throughout, which made the whole experience even better. Breakfast was absolutely spot on with plenty of choice and everything cooked perfectly. A special mention goes to the reception team, who were extremely helpful and informative. Nothing was too much trouble, and they made check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. Overall, a fantastic stay. I’d definitely return and highly recommend the hotel to anyone visiting Manchester.”

“Amazing night out music was fantastic, DJ played all our requests!!!!”

“Incredible !!! EF Manchester is really the destination of friendship. The activities are amazing and very friendly. The Mancunians are so friendly, and Manchester is a beautiful city with both modern and old architecture. I enjoy Manchester, and I really like the Mancunians. Congratulations to the EF School Manchester staff !!!”

“Great food! Vegan chicken and donner are the best I've had. Kind staff and good pints too!”