The Soho House guide to 24 hours in Manchester

Whether it’s your first trip or you count yourself a regular visitor, there’s never a shortage of things to see and do in Manchester. Very soon, we’re set to call this vibrant cultural hub our home with the opening of our first House in the city. Located in the St John’s area in the former Granada Studios building, the new space is inherently designed to accommodate members’ 24/7 lifestyle. With an extensive gym, rooftop pool, co-working areas, late-night bars, restaurants and live music spaces, it’s the ideal base to discover all that the North of England has to offer.

As for the very best cultural highlights, who better to ask than our local members? Together, they form the heart of the area’s creative community and shape what makes the city so unique. So, whether you’re joining us for breakfast before heading out for some retail therapy to nearby member favourites, UNITOM™ bookshop or Suzy Loves Milo, or sampling the nightlife before staying in one of our 22 bedrooms, here’s our definitive guide to the not-to-be-missed hotspots, all just a short stroll from the new Soho House Manchester.

Where to explore

‘Aviva Studios: an obvious choice, but it’s impossible to miss, and this new UK landmark is just a stone’s throw from the House. This striking new theatre and exhibition space has opened the doors to dozens of fresh cultural events each year, transforming the city’s creative scene. Its performance spaces are unlike anything else in the UK: one week you might catch Danny Boyle’s Matrix-inspired dance production, and the next, lose yourself among Yayoi Kusama’s world-famous and quirky balloon installations.’
Gregory Saunders, TV production manager

‘John Rylands Library has one of the world’s great collections of literature, including the oldest known fragment of the New Testament, and hosts surprisingly bold exhibitions. It’s also housed in the most glorious neo-Gothic building, which brings serious Hogwarts vibes.’
Thom Hetherington, founder of Landing Light creative consultancy

‘If you’re looking for some greenery, head to Mayfield Park. It’s super peaceful and nice to get some space in the city. The Royal Exchange is the best theatre; I have seen so many productions there, and the interior of the building is incredible.’
Sinead Flood, founder of July Child Jewellery

‘HOME always has great exhibitions, talks, and events. The cinema spaces are small and cosy, with an area to relax and enjoy the excellent cocktails and food afterwards. The Saul Hay Gallery has exhibitions that span multiple disciplines, from paintings to ceramics; it’s the perfect place to spend a slow afternoon. Castlefield Gallery has a genuine community feel and a foothold in the rich history of Manchester. It’s also on the smaller side, which lends itself to letting the works on display shine.’
Roisin Molly, artist

Where to shop
‘I love The Norah Store for curated indie womenswear brands, Deadstock General Store for homeware, and Permanent Orbit for cool vintage finds.’
Sinead Flood
 
‘Private White V.C. has been designing and manufacturing coats in the same building since 1853 – once you’ve discovered it you’ll feel part of a secret and exclusive club. Gone Fishing Vintage takes vintage clothes to boutique level, handpicking fine examples from elite brands – sometimes crossing continents for them – and presenting them in a stripped-back gallery-style space. Insitu offers a treasure trove of architectural salvage and assorted curios spread across four floors of a historic pub building, while Bound & Infinity is a beautiful hidden space housing a small but exceptional stock of second-hand books, as well as hosting events and art shows.’
Thom Hetherington

Where to eat
‘Just a 10-minute walk across the River Irwell to the up-and-coming Chapel Street in Salford, Porta Tapas Bar serves some of the finest Spanish tapas in Manchester. Housed in a converted early-20th century bank, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy authentic dishes in a rustic, relaxed setting – ideal for date night or a catch-up with friends.’
Gregory Saunders
 
‘For comfort food with all the frills, it has to be Louis – plus, the live entertainment really elevates the experience. Winsome has also perfected that brilliant mix of fine dining while still maintaining a comfy and laid-back feel. It’s just one of those restaurants which is what you make of it, and you can really shape your own experience.’
Roisin Molly
 
‘My top three favourite places to eat are Another hand (a small bistro focusing on seasonal sharing plates using zero waste and local produce), Stow (a winning combo of cocktails and cooking over open fire), and Hawksmoor (for its legendary Sunday roast).’
Ross Parlane, owner of RPB barbershop

‘I’m a chatty girl, so I’m always on the hunt for a bar that has good music and good wine. Schofield’s is one of the best bars in Manchester. The service, the music and the ambience are just unparalleled. It’s the ideal date-night spot. For music, New Century Hall always shows amazing artists, but if you’re looking for something more low key, the Castle Hotel pub is fun for unsigned musicians.’
Sinead Flood
 
‘Set in a former mill in the Kampus development, just across from Canal Street, Red Light is bursting with personality and is the jewel in the crown of the city’s queer bars. The staff are as attentive as they are talented, their cocktails are unrivalled and they know how to throw a party, especially during Pride.’
Gregory Saunders
 
 
Explore Soho House Manchester and apply for membership