In early July I had the opportunity to head to England on a whirlwind trip with Visit Manchester. I was thrilled to be able to experience Virgin Atlantic’s nonstop SFO to Manchester flight in their Upper Class cabin (Virgin Atlantic’s First Class)! It’s a rare opportunity to fly in such style, and it was such a treat. From the moment you arrive in the Clubhouse (Virgin Atlantic’s Lounge) to the in-flight service, it is a true VIP experience. I loved the hospitality onboard and the fully reclining chairs (lay flat beds). International flights can be tough, but when you can actually get some rest it makes flying a completely different experience!
With the convenient direct flight behind us, Manchester was a great place to start my adventures in Northern England. I had 48 hours in the city. Here is how I spent my time.
Where to Stay
The Lowry Hotel | 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf // 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf // Located just on the banks of the River Irwell and a short, easy walk to the city center and the Northern Quarter of Manchester(my favorite neighborhood)! The rooms were so large, clean, and modern – and apparently Taylor Swift has even stayed here before, for you Tay Tay fans! I loved waking up with the view of the river and the city.
Other hotels to consider…King Street Townhouse and Principle Manchester.
Where to Eat
Albert Scholls | 27 Peter Street // 27 Peter Street // A beautifully designed German-style restaurant. The exterior is hard to miss with a large scale floral display from Frog. Their interior has a few different rooms that each have a cozy feel. The food and drinks were delicious – share their sausage fest, a plentiful serving of 3 haus wurst that’s served Cologne style.
The Refuge | Oxford Street // One of my favorite meals in Manchester was at the Refuge, another well-designed restaurant/bar divided into three, thoughtfully-designed spaces. Go here with friends as their dinner menu is served tapas style. The more friends, the more food!
Mackie Mayor | 1 Eagle St // A former meat market turned food hall. This is a hipster food spot with a huge range of options to choose from, and I wish I had time to try something from all of them!
Fig and Sparrow | 20 Oldham Street // An adorable coffee shop with a small selection of food. They have unique lattes like the Beet Latte, which I thought wasn’t too bad!
Foundation Coffee House | Sevendale House, Lever St // A coffee house with light meals and a nice workspace. They also carry a wide selection of tea and smoothies too. Be sure to note the opening times of all the coffee shops before you visit, as some of them open a little later than what we are used to in the States!
While I didn’t get the opportunity to dine at Hawksmoor – I loved the decor and wish I had made time for a meal.
What to See
John Rylands Library | 150 Deansgate // A iconic neo-Gothic building in Manchester – free to visit!
Ordsall Hall | 322 Ordsall Lane // One of Manchester’s first and oldest examples of a Tudor home. It’s so stunning outside and filled with history inside.
Northern Quarter // Walk around the vibrant and hip neighborhood of the Northern Quarter. Check out all the unique street art and cute boutiques.
City Centre // Take a walk around Manchester City Centre to explore the architecture and culture. Lots of museums and walking tour options!
All thoughts and opinions are always my own. Thank you for supporting partners of See & Savour!
