Manchester Key Attractions
This huge complex is set at the site of the oldest passenger railway buildings in the world, and is a great place to learn more about the city's industrial beginnings and scientific achievements. In addition to the permanent collections, there are frequent special exhibitions. There is a shop, a restaurant and a café at the museum.
Liverpool Road, Castlefield
Tel: (0161) 832 2244.
Website: www.msim.org.uk
People's History Museum
Housed in an old Edwardian hydraulic pumping station, the museum is the national centre for material relating to the history of working people in Britain and provides a fascinating insight into the often harsh working conditions of those employed in the city's cotton industry. Also part of the museum, an Archive and Study Centre is located a short walk away on Princess Street.
The Pump House, Bridge Street
Tel: (0161) 839 6061.
Website: www.phm.org.uk
Manchester Cathedral
The Cathedral is actually the third to have been built on the site since the ninth century and boasts the widest nave of any church in England. A hi-tech visitor centre at the site includes interesting interactive displays covering the history of the Cathedral and mediaeval Manchester. A licensed restaurant in the basement offers historic and comfortable surroundings in which to eat, drink and relax.
Cathedral Yard
Tel: (0161) 833 2220.
Website: http://manchestercathedral.org
Urbis
Close to the Cathedral, Urbis is a striking glass-panelled building that is worth a visit even if only to view the groundbreaking triangular architecture that takes on a different appearance on each side. Epitomising Manchester's pioneering spirit, the unique exhibition inside explores urban culture and the way we relate to cities.
Corporation Street, Cathedral Gardens
Tel: (0161) 605 8200.
Website: www.urbis.org.uk
Castlefield
Heading south to the edge of the city, Castlefield was a largely neglected former industrial area until the 1990s when it was transformed with a thriving bar, restaurant and cafe scene. As well as a mock-up of the original Roman Fort, the area is a fantastic testament to the city's industrial age with labyrinthine canals, viaducts, iron bridges and warehouses. It is surprisingly quiet during the day and a great place to escape the hustle of the city.
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