Renowned as the world’s first industrial city, Manchester boasts of a vibrant industrial history that stretches back to the early 16th century. Once a humble cotton industry hub, the city soon grew to accommodate a network of warehouses, towering mills, and busy streets.
Of particular note in Manchester are its industrial revolution sites that once occupied the centrestage of the global wave of industrialisation. Seminal to this development was a canal that connected Manchester with the world, and made it a commodities exchange hub. These brought together tradesmen from across the country. These landmarks of the Industrial Revolution cannot be missed on your trip to the city.
The most comfortable way to explore these historical sites is with a car hire in Manchester. The city is just 4 hours from London, so you can easily plan a road trip and find something to do in Manchester for the day with a rental car.
Here are five Manchester city attractions that shed light on its rich industrial history.
1. Ancoats
This district is located east of the Northern Quarter in Manchester and is speckled with erstwhile factories, which earned it the title of the ‘Workshop of the World.’ During the 19th century, at its peak as an industrial hub, it was home to a network of canals, crowded streets overflowing with workers’ dwellings, and busy steam-belching cotton mills – all standing in stark contrast to the otherwise aristocratic way of life in the country.
Today, Ancoats has grown to become one of the hippest neighbourhoods in Manchester and has even featured in The Times’ list of the UK’s 20 coolest places to live in. Its cotton mills have been re-envisioned as theatres and tourist places, giving visitors plenty of stuff to do at Manchester. Places to go out in this Manchester district include the Cutting Room Square and the Hope Mill Theatre. Also visit The Jane Eyre, a neighbourhood bar named after the famous novel of Charlotte Bronte, popular for its bespoke cocktails and mouth-watering Sunday roast. If you are a coffee connoisseur, Waterside Coffee is your place for a hot cup of coffee.
2. Castlefield
Located at the southwest end of Deansgate, Castlefield is known as the industrial heart of Manchester. Juxtapose this symbol of modernity with the ancient Roman ruins, and you have this amazing paradoxical place. Take a walk along the legendary Bridgewater Canal, known for its role during the Industrial Revolution when it transported more than 3 million tonnes of cargo between hubs. Going back to ancient times, Castlefield was home to the Roman fort of Mamucium, which was established around 200 AD and played a critical role in the Roman defence strategy.
If you are looking for something to do in Manchester, make sure to drive your car to the ruins of this great Roman fort, which is well-preserved and open to visitors. Other Manchester city attractions include old mills and a network of canals. Lastly, some fun things to do in Manchester’s Castlefield district include visiting the Science and Industry Museum, Manchester Opera House, and Palace Theatre.
3. The Royal Exchange
One of the most iconic landmarks of the city, this premium retail destination should certainly make it to your list of fun things to do in Manchester. Located in the bustling retail heart of the city, The Royal Exchange has evolved from its early beginnings. Originally known as ‘The Exchange’, it received its new name after Queen Victoria’s visit in 1851. During the early 1800s, it served as a commodities exchange trading primarily in textiles and cotton with an impressive membership of around 11,000 cotton merchants.
Today the place is home to the illustrious Royal Exchange Theatre, high-street fashion brands, and independent boutique shops. To defeat hunger pangs, head to Michael’s Café or TGI Fridays for a quick bite.
4. People’s History Museum
The next big attraction in Manchester, UK, is the National Museum of Democracy, which houses an extensive collection chronicling the story of Britain’s development as a democracy. The Museum organises exhibitions about the history of democracies in the world, and events like talks and discussions that bolster the idea of people’s rule.
If you enjoy your visit, consider exploring the Museum’s shop that helps support it. Here, you can find souvenirs like keyrings, shirts, and more. Last of the stuff to do in Manchester’s People’s History Museum includes visiting its open kitchen and bar that offers sustainably produced delectable food.
5. Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive
If you’re left with time on your hands in Manchester, what better than visiting a museum, aquarium, art gallery, and library—all rolled into one? The Bolton Museum and Art Gallery house interesting collections ranging from Manchester’s wildlife to Egyptian mummies. Its rich library is a comprehensive source of information on the local industrial history. The Museum also hosts family-friendly events throughout the year. The Bolton complex should definitely be on the list of things to do in Manchester.
Further, you can also visit the Bolton Aquarium for something interesting to do in Manchester. Here, you will find an extensive fish collection and several ongoing conservation projects.
Final Thoughts
The various attractions in Manchester, UK, allow visitors to explore the city’s rich industrial history and its landmarks that narrate a story of human ingenuity and perseverance.
Consider hiring a car from Dollar Car Rental to make your trip hassle-free, smooth, and memorable. Our diverse fleet includes electric as well as fuel models. Further, you can choose from automatic, manual, compact, mini, full-size or intermediate models.
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