Manchester's Music Scene with a Local Host, Private + Custom

Manchester , United Kingdom

Manchester's Music Scene with a Local Host, Private + Custom

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(17 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Private and personalized experience with a Local Host. Manchester is renowned for being the vibrant capital of music in the UK - there are more live music shows here than anywhere else in the country - and it has recently been crowned the UK’s ‘best live music city’ too. Manchester is home to legendary bands like The Smiths, Joy Division, the Buzzcocks, and many more. Follow the trail of Manchester’s musical heritage through the city. Explore where homegrown talent started out, and visit the best venues and historic pubs. Discover how proud the locals are of their musical culture. Stop by landmarks like Manchester’s Music Walk of Fame.

Our handpicked hosts are culinary connoisseurs and history buffs, bakers and bankers, students, and seniors. Like the people who travel with us, they have different backgrounds and interests – but they’re all so passionate about the place they call home they choose to spend their free time sharing it with the like-minded travelers matched to them.

Available options

Manchester's Music Scene with a Local Host, Private + Custom

What's included

4 hour walking tour, exploring Manchester's Musical highlights and hidden gems

2 craft beers or ales or soft drinks

Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Private and personalized walking tour with a passionate local

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy stories of the music history of the city at Salford Lads Club and indulge in the eclectic Manchester music culture - get what you want from this experience

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Your experience, your pace - see Albert Hall and other landmarks or walk the streets that bred bands like The Smiths and Joy Division

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Stop by The Day and Night Cafe and pubs that hosted and inspired Manchester music icons, and enjoy a pint (or two)

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Explore the Northern Quarter, flip through vinyl at Piccadilly Records and see the ‘sound bites’

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Get recommendations from your host, (over a pint at Free Trade Hall, perhaps) for some upcoming gigs you could still get tickets for while you’re in town

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

What's not included

Additional food and drinks

Transportation (primarily a walking experience however public transport may be used)

Tickets to any attractions

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.8

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

After booking, you will receive a short questionnaire, so you’ll be able to tell us more about your interests and preferences. Based on your responses you’ll be matched with a like-minded Local Host.

Meeting Point

Your meeting point is flexible, and to be agreed with your Local Host. Meet-up at your hotel or accommodation can be requested, or your Local Host will meet you at a convenient location close to the start of your experience.

Meeting point

After booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

Important notes

We’ll be in touch within 24 hours after booking to find out more about your personality and interests so we can assign a like-minded local who will create a bespoke experience for you

About Manchester

Manchester is a vibrant city in North West England known for its rich industrial heritage, world-class football, and thriving cultural scene. From historic architecture to cutting-edge contemporary art, Manchester offers a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.

Top Attractions

Manchester Cathedral

A stunning example of Gothic architecture, Manchester Cathedral is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful stained glass windows.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Science and Industry Museum

This museum showcases Manchester's rich industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Old Trafford

Home to Manchester United Football Club, Old Trafford is a must-visit for football fans.

Sports 2-4 hours (depending on the tour and match schedule) Varies depending on the tour or match ticket

John Rylands Library

A stunning neo-Gothic building housing a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal, and spices. It's often served as part of a traditional English breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Manchester Tart

A traditional British dessert made with a pastry base, jam, custard, and coconut.

Dessert Contains dairy and is not suitable for vegans.

Pie and Mash

A classic British dish consisting of a savory pie filled with meat and gravy, served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Peak District Cycling along the Bridgewater Canal Spa day at The Lowry Hotel Afternoon tea at The Midland Hotel Visiting museums and galleries Attending a theater performance Boat tours along the Manchester Ship Canal Ice skating at Manchester Cathedral

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. The city is lively with many cultural activities and sports events.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Manchester is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate compared to other major UK cities. However, as with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Manchester Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center

By train

Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria

By bus

Manchester Coach Station, National Express stops around the city

Getting around

Public transport

The Metrolink tram system is efficient and covers most of the city's major attractions. It's a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Northern Quarter Castlefield Spinningfields Ancoats

Day trips

Chester

35 km (22 miles) • Full day

A charming medieval city with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Chester is known for its Roman walls, historic buildings, and shopping streets.

Liverpool

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

A vibrant city with a rich musical heritage, Liverpool is home to the Beatles and a wealth of cultural attractions.

Peak District

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

The UK's first national park, the Peak District offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and charming villages.

Festivals

Manchester Pride • Late August Manchester International Festival • Biennial (every two years, typically in July) Christmas Markets • Late November to mid-December

Pro tips

Use the Metrolink tram system for easy and affordable travel around the city
Visit the city's museums and galleries on free entry days or during special events
Explore the city's street art and graffiti in the Northern Quarter and Ancoats
Take a day trip to the nearby Peak District for hiking and outdoor activities
Try local specialties such as black pudding, Manchester tart, and pie and mash