Manchester

Head up to Manchester this summer for a weekend break. Whether you’re into footie, food or fashion, there’ll be something suitable in store for you. Or pop into a club and listen to a local band that may be The Next Big Thing – after all, the city has produced more than its fair share of world famous musicians.

Stay
Arora International - This four-star hotel is ideally located in heart of Manchester, providing visitors with a convenient starting point for exploring the city. Besides the usual room sizes, the hotel also offers five Sir Cliff Richard suites (yes! That Cliff Richard!) that are reportedly ‘inspired by his illustrious career’ and decked out with memorabilia from his personal collection. So whether you’re a fan of the crooner or just a fan of kitsch movie posters, you’re sure to have a memorable night in a Cliff Richard-inspired suite. Prices start from arounf £70 for a standard room.

Shop
Affleck's Palace - Sure, you’re could head over to the huge Trafford Centre for swanky labels and high street shops, but where’s the fun in dressing like everyone else? Head towards the Northern Quarter for Affleck’s Palace, an alternative department store of sorts, where you can walk in looking for beads and come out with a new haircut and a tattoo. You’ll also be able to buy original artworks or try on Japanese Lolita costumes, before getting a massage or a piercing (or why not both?).

Eat 
Chaophraya - Consistently voted one of the best Thai restaurants in the city, the Chaophraya offers a genuine taste of Thailand within a relaxed Mancunian location. The restaurant is so dedicated to providing an authentic Thai atmosphere that they even have their own tuk-tuk to shuttle guests to and from the restaurant. Prices are surprisingly affordable, with lunch starting at £6.50 for a plate of Pad Thai Gung – noodles with prawns, eggs, peanuts and vegetables.