Fun Things to do in Manchester

Family Fun Bus Tour

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a great way to explore all that Manchester has to offer. From the main neighbourhoods to famous landmarks. The bus tour offers live commentary to give you some knowledge and background on what makes this city so special. 

The bus stops at various places and you can get on and off around the city, making it a great way to navigate with the kids. 

There are family passes which make this option cheaper than using other methods of public transport to see the city. 

The Peoples History Museum 

Any young and inspiring politicians or diplomats will love learning about the history of democracy in people's lives in Great Britain. This museum was initially designed to inspire people of all ages to learn about important causes such as social justice, equality and cooperation. This may sound like a lot to take in for the little ones but the museum does a great job of making learning fun and engaging. 

The museum has a hands-on activity and plenty of interactive games. They also host lots of family-fun events and workshops for the little ones to get involved in. All kids get a free spy activity sheet to fill in whilst they complete the treasure hunt around the museum. 

The National Football Museum 

Kiddies that love football shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the largest museum in the world dedicated to football. Parents can get involved and reminisce over the collection of football memorabilia and the football hall of Fame! Kids can get hands-on with all of the museum’s games and interactive exhibits. 

Any inspiring footballers can challenge the virtual goalkeeper in a penalty shootout or practise their passes! Don’t forget to take your camera to get some special pictures of the family holding the premier league trophy. 

Science and Industry Museum 

The Science and Industry Museum is one of the best family-friendly museums to visit in Manchester. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and interactive games for kids of all ages. You can learn all about Manchester’s fantastic achievements in technology and science. From leading the way in the industry revolution and the cities' influence on modern computing. 

The little ones can get hands-on and learn all about science through the experiment gallery with lots of interactive games designed for the little scientists. 

Manchester has some of the UK’s best parks, whether you enjoy hiking trails, biking or an urban park, you can have plenty of family fun in the heart of the city. The parks listed below offer kiddies play areas, cafes and summer festivals!

Listed below are some of the very best parks Manchester has to offer where you and the little ones can enjoy bird watching and spot local wildlife. If you’re a family that enjoys the water then head out of one of the many lakes with a rented kayak or play some football, cricket or other games with the kids. 

Heaton Park 

Over 600 acres, Heaton Park is the largest municipal parks in the UK. South of the city centre, this park is a brilliant place to visit on a sunny day. 

There are many amenities to enjoy with the little ones. Everything from an adventure playground, boating on the lake or visiting the outstanding 18th-century Heaton Hall, designed by the infamous James Wyatt. 

Heaton Park has its very own animal park, home to donkeys, various birdlife and alpacas. Due to its size, Heaton Park hosts some of the top events in Manchester such as Park Life and many more famous musical events. 

Cathedral Park 

This landscaped park is home to the 15th-century Manchester Cathedral. If you’re a family that enjoys history then Cathedral Park is a must-see! Take a walk around the beautiful gardens and enjoy the water fountains and large grassy areas to relax with the little ones. If you’re visiting during winter time you can enjoy the Christmas Markets hosted in Cathedral Park. 

Whitworth Park 

This scenic park sits off the busy Oxford Road and is one of Manchester’s best parks for a picnic. Sharing the same name with the famous Whitworth Art Gallery which is located within the grounds of the park. Whitworth is the perfect place to visit with the little ones to get some fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery. 

Whitworth Park is the most beautiful to visit during Spring when it comes into its own, the trees are in full bloom. On the warmer days, many locals flock to the park to relax under one of the many oak trees. If you’re a family that enjoys exploring and walking then a visit to Whitworth Park is a must.

This wonderful city is full of vibrancy and has something to offer for everyone. From a mix of history, culture, arts, nature and wonderful cuisines for the foodie fanatics. Manchester is a great city to visit with the kids. There are plenty of family-friendly hotels to stay in the very heart of the city. 

Families that love trying new foods will enjoy the food scene. There are plenty of restaurants and buzzing cafes to visit. Some of the most family-friendly favourites are Pen and Pencil, Home Sweet Home and Almost Famous. 

If you’re looking for family-friendly hotel options in Manchester then the city centre is a great place to stay. Located in the very heart of the city is the Manchester Holiday Inn Express which has a range of family-friendly amenities. There is also the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel which is also a great choice, especially if you’re looking for a hotel with a swimming pool. 

Another fantastic hotel option for families is the Manchester Doubletree Hilton located in the shopping area of Manchester. The accommodation is adjacent to the public park; Piccadilly Gardens.  Featuring all the amenities for the little ones such as kiddies’ menus, an indoor swimming pool and plenty of family-friendly rooms for kids of all ages. 

Selina Nq1 Manchester is a very popular hotel for families. This 3-star hotel offers everything for a family trip on a budget. Centrally located in the vicinity of Manchester’s city centre, a stone's throw from all the local city centre attractions such as the Manchester Art Gallery. 

Manchester is packed with many wonderful towns to visit. The North West is jam-packed with many picturesque spots well worth a visit with the kids. Listed below are some of Manchester’s best towns to visit with the kids.

Salford

Salford is gleaming with architecture and plenty of waterside dining. This cultural town is home to the Lowry Arts Centre and the Imperial War Museum. Families that enjoy history, arts and culture will enjoy a day out in Salford.

Bury

This market town is located on the river Irwell, Greater Manchester, this historic town emerged in the industrial revolution. 

Marple Bridge

Located in Greater Manchester, this pretty little town is great for family walks, water activities and days out exploring. This quaint town has lots of mini beauty spots such as the Roman Lakes, River Goyt and Marple Bridge. 

Manchester is a great destination city to visit for families that enjoy trying new foods. There’s a great mixture of different cultures and many new independent places popping up selling street food and bringing new food experiences to the Manchester food scene. From hidden gems, cool restaurants, high street chains and pop-up fusion hot spots! The city is flourishing with a foodie and multicultural approach to dining. 

There is something to suit palates of all ages. Families wanting to experience the very best in food in Manchester will need to check out some of the best family recommendations below.

Home Sweet Home

This independent café is located in the Northern Quarter. Popular over weekends and serves up the most amazing cakes, cheeseburgers and afternoon teas! Their simple approach to food attracts locals from all over Manchester! Get there early as you might need to wait for a table. The kiddies will love their take on a chippy barm (chip sandwich) The food is comfort food at its best and reasonably priced. This ultimate place will go down a treat with the little ones. 

Crazy Pedro’s

One of the very best pizza places in Manchester. Serving lots of delicious toppings to their pizzas, here you will be served an eclectic range of amazing pizzas. The little ones can try everything from chicken and waffle pizza to their famous hot dog pizza. This spot also stocks a fully-fledged pop-up bar where the parents can enjoy their favourite tipple!

The Wharf

This lovely family-run pub servers the very best in British cuisine. Situated by the canal this is a real hidden gem in Manchester. The pub has a huge outdoor terrace with its very own BBQ pit and table and chairs. Indoor they have cosy fireplaces to snuggle up to during the colder months. Try their Sunday Roast (you won’t be disappointed) the kids can enjoy bangers and chips followed by a toffee sundae.