Your budget-friendly adventure awaits!
Close to competition with Birmingham, Manchester has the informal title of the UK’s ‘second city’. Welcome to Manchester, the land of Victorian architecture, rich history, art hubs and new talent.
Whether you’re a tourist on a no-to-tight budget or trying to keep your kids entertained throughout the summer holidays, you won’t have to spend a penny with our round-up places to visit in Manchester for free. Think: art exhibitions, sand pits, circuses and farm fun.
Castlefield Viaduct
Discover Castlefield Viaduct, a beautiful hidden garden in the sky. The temporary green space elevated and was previously an unused Victorian-era railway viaduct, but today Castlefield Viaduct is a much-needed slice of nature in the city. Nestled in the heart of historic Manchester, explore Manchester’s approach to New York’s famous High Line.
John Rylands Library
One of the best neo-gothic architecture buildings in Europe, John Rylands Library has been featured in many famous films and TV shows like Darkest Hour, The Crown and Peaky Blinders. Feels like Harry Potter at Hogwarts.
A free attraction, you’re more than welcome to stay in the library as long as you keep the noise down…
The Octagon Family Festival
Summer holiday fun! The Octagon Family Festival is the perfect activity for entertaining the little ones this August. From storytelling to circus performances and family discos to arts and crafts, there’s something for every child and big kid… The festival takes place from 25th to 27th August 2023 so make sure you book a free slot online before visiting the festival.
Manchester Art Gallery
With the unpredictable British weather an indoor activity is always a must to add to the itinerary, and who doesn’t love free exhibitions and art galleries? Spend hours getting lost in artwork and the stories behind them at Manchester Art Gallery. An oasis of calm in the heart of the city, showcasing a superb collection of statues, paintings and artwork alongside temporary exhibitions.
The Great Northern Giant Sandpit
Sand and sunshine, there’s endless fun for everyone at The Great Northern Giant Sandpit. In the heart of the city centre, family-friendly free places are hard to come by, but this sandpit is a great place for kids to play and let their imaginations run wild whilst you relax… With 50 tonnes of sand and some buckets and spades to play with, it’s the perfect place to stop off. Open now until 31st August 2023.
Heaton Park Animal Centre
Set in old stables, The Animal Centre is a fun free place to take kids, visit with friends or go on a date. It’s full of farmyard animals, Highland cattle and many exotic species. Think: ducks, rabbits, chickens, goats, donkeys and horses. You may be lucky enough to spot a peacock strutting around the courtyard or hiding up a tree.
Words by Patience Ssebuwufu
