Manchester

October 2012 | Words Hazel Davis

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Eat

Bakerie

Simple and unpretentious, Bakerie makes wonderful bread, but is also a welcoming wine bar and eaterie. The menu runs from soup and sandwiches to wholesome stews, and includes child-friendly, vegan, and gluten- and dairy-free options. There’s also an art video wall where you can appreciate the work of local artists.

Try Frankie’s Fish Bar

Try Frankie’s Fish Bar for clean and crisp fish with a variety of dressings (none of your greasy batter here).

Greens

For a proper sit-down affair head to Greens, a veggie institution in Manchester.

Barbakan

For freshly baked bread, head to Barbakan bakery and deli. You can sit outside and enjoy the freshly baked produce as well as soups and coffee.
Tip

Manchester Food and Drink Festival

The Manchester Food and Drink Festival (events until 8 October) is holding its own version of Munich’s Oktoberfest in nearby Albert Square from 5-7 October. The square is also a street-food hub for the duration of the festival.

Marie Louise Gardens

Not many people know about the Marie Louise Gardens, tucked away behind a busy main road in a densely populated area. Be one of the few tourists to discover its five acres of peaceful seclusion.
Sleep

Crowne Plaza

There’s a fine view of the city in all its glory from the windows of the Crowne Plaza (rooms from €50). Its cleanliness and great service make this place a reliable, if not unique, choice.

The Abbey Lodge Hotel

The Abbey Lodge Hotel (rooms from €63) is a sweet, family-run hotel close to Chorlton’s delis and wholefood shops. It’s a great place to see the city without staying on the main drag, and has large en-suite rooms.
Shop

Junk

Junk takes the jumble ethos and makes it sell. A deliciously kitted out shop crammed full of curios and up-cycled goods, it’s great for a rummage and even better for a bargain.

Didsbury Village Farmshop

Didsbury Village Farmshop stocks fine meats, fresh fruit and veg, ice cream, jams and chutneys. All produce is sourced locally, while the friendly service creates a real village shop feel.

Vintage Vogue

Vintage Vogue is a small but perfectly formed treasure trove of costume jewellery, bric-a-brac and furniture.
Later

Bluu

Bluu is one of the Northern Quarter’s best-loved and best-stocked bars, with an eyewatering cocktail menu and an even more eye-wateringly cool (though laid-back) clientele.

One Lounge

One Lounge is a great indie bar in the heart of West Didsbury, hosting jazz, funk and soul nights as well as offering cut-price weekday cocktails. Good for people watching, it’s a little cheaper and less intense than some of the citycentre establishments.