Manchester is a city that blends history, culture, and modern innovation, making it a fantastic place for a blogger to explore and capture content. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or hidden gems, this vibrant city has something for everyone. If you’re a blogger looking for fresh content ideas, here are some must-visit locations in Manchester.
1. The Manchester Museum
No visit to Manchester is complete without stepping into the iconic Manchester Museum. This is one of my favourite places in the world and it just had to be top of the list. Located on Oxford Road, this museum is a treasure trove of history, science, and culture. From ancient Egyptian artefacts and dinosaur skeletons to stunning collections of fossils and live reptiles, the museum offers endless opportunities for captivating blog content.
Bloggers with an interest in natural history, archaeology, or unique exhibits will find the museum a goldmine of inspiration. The museum’s recent renovation has added more interactive and engaging displays, making it an even better place to visit and write about.
I visit The Manchester Museum with my children frequently, and as you can probably tell, I’m a little obsessed!
2. John Rylands Library
For bloggers who appreciate stunning architecture and literary history, John Rylands Library is a must-visit. This neo-Gothic masterpiece, located on Deansgate, looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel. The grand reading rooms, stained-glass windows, and towering bookshelves create the perfect setting for atmospheric photography and storytelling.
Whether you’re writing about Manchester’s literary heritage, architecture, or the joys of reading, this location will provide you with plenty of inspiration. Be sure to check out the special collections, which house some of the world’s rarest manuscripts and early printed books.
3. Northern Quarter
If your blog focuses on urban culture, street art, or independent businesses, the Northern Quarter is a hotspot you can’t afford to miss. This trendy district is packed with independent coffee shops, record stores, vintage boutiques, and an ever-changing array of street art.
Capture colourful murals from renowned artists, discover quirky bookstores like Chapter One Books, or grab a bite at one of the area’s unique eateries. Whether you’re into photography, food blogging, or lifestyle content, the Northern Quarter offers endless material.
4. Castlefield
For a mix of history and scenic beauty, Castlefield is one of the best spots in Manchester. This area is home to remnants of Roman Manchester, picturesque canals, and converted warehouses that now house bars and restaurants.
It’s an ideal place to write about Manchester’s industrial past while capturing stunning shots of canal boats and historical buildings. Castlefield is also home to the Science and Industry Museum, another excellent location to explore and document Manchester’s rich scientific and technological history. The Science and Industry Museum is another place I’ve been obsessed with since childhood!
5. Whitworth Art Gallery
Art bloggers and culture enthusiasts should make their way to Whitworth Art Gallery. Nestled within Whitworth Park, this contemporary art gallery features an impressive collection of modern and classical art, textiles, and sculptures.
The building itself is a piece of art, with its stunning glass extension that overlooks the park. After exploring the exhibits, you can take a stroll through Whitworth Park or enjoy a coffee at the gallery’s stylish café.
6. Ancoats
Ancoats has quickly become one of Manchester’s most exciting areas, boasting a mix of history, culture, and gastronomy. Once an industrial hub, it’s now a hotspot for foodies and creatives.
From renowned restaurants like Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza to the cozy charm of Pollen Bakery, food bloggers will find plenty to write about. Meanwhile, history buffs can explore Ancoats’ heritage as one of the world’s first industrial suburbs.
7. The Whitworth Park and Platt Fields Park
If your blog focuses on nature, wellness, or photography, Manchester’s green spaces provide plenty of content opportunities. Whitworth Park, located next to the Whitworth Art Gallery, is a peaceful retreat in the city.
For a larger green space, head to Platt Fields Park, where you’ll find a boating lake, botanical gardens, and historical monuments. These parks offer the perfect backdrop for posts about mindfulness, nature walks, or outdoor activities in Manchester.
8. Afflecks
A Manchester blogger guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Afflecks. This iconic indoor market in the Northern Quarter is home to a collection of independent traders selling everything from vintage fashion and handmade jewellery to pop-culture memorabilia. It’s the best place in Manchester to pick up some quirky bargains!
Afflecks is a paradise for bloggers interested in alternative fashion, subcultures, or unique shopping experiences. With its vibrant murals and quirky shops, it’s also a great place for eye-catching photography.
9. Manchester’s Music Scene: Night & Day Café and Band on the Wall
Manchester has a legendary music scene, and bloggers with an interest in live music should check out Night & Day Café and Band on the Wall. These venues have hosted countless up-and-coming artists and remain staples of the city’s music culture.
Writing about live gigs, emerging bands, or Manchester’s rich musical history can make for engaging blog content. Whether you’re covering indie rock, jazz, or electronic music, these venues offer a true taste of the city’s musical spirit.
10. MediaCityUK
For those interested in modern Manchester and media culture, MediaCityUK in Salford Quays is a fascinating place to explore. Home to the BBC, ITV, and various digital and creative businesses, this area is at the heart of the UK’s media industry.
You can take a guided tour of BBC Studios, enjoy waterside dining, or visit The Lowry, an arts and entertainment venue showcasing theatre, exhibitions, and performances. MediaCityUK is perfect for bloggers covering media, entertainment, or the future of digital creativity.
Final Thoughts
Manchester is a city that never runs out of places to explore and stories to tell. Whether you’re a lifestyle blogger, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, the city’s diverse attractions offer endless inspiration. From the historic halls of The Manchester Museum to the trendy streets of the Northern Quarter, each location presents a new opportunity for creative content.
So, if you’re a blogger grab your camera, notebook, or laptop, and start exploring Manchester—your next great blog post is waiting to be written!
