If you’re looking for things to do in Manchester this weekend, then you’re in the right place! Yes, it might be set to be raining (but you never quite know!) but that’s not stopped us Northerners before, has it?
I know I say that it is things to do in Manchester this weekend, but you can always travel a little further afield if you’re looking for something off different.
Things to do this weekend
On your bike!
Head out for a bike ride either on your own bike or grab sign up for the new Mobike scheme and head out on one of those instead. There are some really good cycle lanes in the city as well as the canal towpath. Both nice for a relaxed adventure on two wheels. If you’re more of the adventurous type, you could check out the Clayton Vale Moutain Bike Trail or the National Cycling Centre for taster sessions if it’s really lashing it down.
If you fancy taking your bike a bit further out of the city to get some greener views, Tatton Park has plenty of roads that will keep you pedaling by the trees, fields, deer and sheep.
Collect Bookbenches
That might sound pretty bizarre, but the National Literacy Trust has commissioned benches shaped like books and illustrated with real book characters. Of course you can’t collect them physically, but you can take a picture and share it on your Instagram. As I know I’m not going to get to see them all, I’d love to see the ones that you find!
You can find out more about the campaign and pick up a digital map here. Or if you’re passing by Central Library (or your own local one) you can grab a paper one.
Learn about Salt
Did you know that there is a Salt Museum just down the road in Northwich? There is and it is fantastic. If the weather turns out to be a bit too wet, it might be worth taking the driver over to check it out. There is plenty to see and lots of interactive stands to keep kids (and big kids) occupied. There’s a cafe too if you fancy a snack or a spot of lunch.
Just a warning though, some of the out buildings can be pretty cold so make sure you take some layers with you.
National Trust Adventures
How about somewhere with it all? Dunham Massey has more than enough to keep you happy indoors when the heavens open. As well as when the sun is shining too. Plus you can eat there and explore around the village too – would could resist a nosy?
Dunham Massey is a National Trust property so entry fees and parking do apply, however, the are reasonable for the amount of time you can spend there. If you do love National Trust or would like option to see more, then getting membership is well worth it. We always use ours when we are camping and the weather turns!
And for some other bits and bobs going on in and around the city…
Power Up Retro gaming at Manchester Museum of Science and Industry
Power Up is your chance to get your hands on the old school games that you remember from when you were a kid! It is entry by ticket, but well worth it for £5. Get your tickets and fin out more here.
Manchester Jazz Festival
The Manchester Jazz Festival is back in the city with lots to enjoy. Although a lot of the events are paid for, there are still loads of places that you can enjoy some music and atmosphere for free. Check out the events calendar for details.
Gina Miller Concerts (Sunday at 3pm)
If you follow me on Instagram or Twitter, you will know that we regularly attend concerts at The Whitworth. These are Gina Miller Concerts as part of the Friends of The Whitworth. They are free, but a donation is very welcome to make sure that the continue. They are really great, as they feature students from RNCM. There are not many places you get to see a trio of saxophones or a trio of flutes, so well worth checking out.
They are playing their final concert of the season this Sunday at 3pm in the hall of The Whitworth. We can’t make it, but I hope you can. It is Chris Cundy with bass clarinet. Find out more here.
There is obviously a lot more things to do in Manchester this weekend, but these are my favourites. Ones that I think you will enjoy too. But whatever you get up to, whether it is getting soaked like up in the great outdoors or staying warm with some music. Have a great one!
What are you up to this weekend? Whether you are out and about in Manchester or somewhere else, let me know in the comments.
You know how much I love new ideas!