When you think of things to do in Manchester the obvious options are, well, obvious. A trip to the famous Theatre of Dreams, otherwise known as Manchester United’s stadium Old Trafford, a stroll around the shops inside the Arndale Centre, and a wander through the “gay village” are all attractions that feature on virtually every visitor’s Manchester itinerary.
However, what about when you want to do something a little more out there? Manchester is full of wonderful things to do if you’re looking to step off the beaten track and experience something a little different. While the confines of this page won’t allow us to run through the full gamut of quirky things to do in Manchester, we have picked out three things you should consider doing the next time you visit the UK’s former home of cotton production.
The Vintage Beauty Parlour
Everyone likes a bit of glam in their life and Manchester has the perfect answer in the form of the Vintage Beauty Parlour. Inspired by the glamorous Hollywood greats such as Audrey Hepburn, the salon is located on Kingshill Road in Manchester and is fully equipped to give you the classic look.
Thanks to Bethany Jane Davis, Anna Bailey Heath and Sophie Battersby, you can enjoy a full makeover service that includes hair and make-up all carried out to the highest standards.
In fact, such is the reputation of this backstreet attraction, that it was voted the best vintage shop in Manchester in 2012 and 2013. Moreover, the owner, Davis, is an award winning make-up artist and recently received the National Vintage Award for Best Beauty and Grooming Business.
A Trip to the Theatre
No trip to Manchester would be complete without visiting one of its many theatres. However, in keeping with our theme of doing something different, we suggest you check out the alternative performances at some of the city’s smaller venues.
While the word “alternative” might instantly cause you to think of alternative comedy, we’re thinking more along the lines of an evening of spirituality. Delving into the world of psychics and mediums, Manchester often hosts some of the UK’s top mediums, including the inimitable Derek Acorah (who is set to appear at the Middleton Arena in June, 2016).
Of course, before you buy a ticket for the show you’ll need to familiarise yourself with the world of aura meanings and spirituality. Everyone has an aura and it’s these auras that have various meanings and links to your emotions. By doing some research into your auras ahead of time, you’ll be able to head off to a psychic show fully ready to receive any readings and messages from the likes of Mr. Acorah.
The Secret Sip Club in Stretford
The final highlight on our guide to Manchester’s weird and wonderful side is the (not so) secret bar in the city’s Stretford area. The Secret Sip Club is a living room located above an estate agent shop. However, there’s a twist: it has a licence to serve alcohol.
The reason this bar has become a veritable jewel in the crown of Manchester’s drinking world is that it serves fantastic real ales (and coffee) and it’s still relatively unknown. Not only that but the venue also hosts gin tasting evenings, supper clubs and live music.
Essentially, the Sip Club is a home-from-home according to the Manchester Confidential and it’s this homely atmosphere that makes it well worth a visit. Of course, there are plenty of bars in Manchester, but if you only have time to drink in one place, we suggest you make it the Secret Sip Club.
Writer’s Bio
Gemma Harrison is a Mancunian mum of one with a passion for the North! When she’s not running around after her little girl, she loves writing, trips to the theatre and baking.
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