Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour
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Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour

Active
(36 reviews)
2h - 3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Forget about crowds, schedules or lines! With this self-guided experience, your smartphone is your new private guide.

Stroll around Manchester at your own pace, having the opportunity to take astonishing pictures and enter any attraction you fancy.

You will learn about Manchester's history; from when it was founded as a Roman Fort until it became the amazing city it is today. As you walk through these streets, you will learn about its industrial past, encompassed mostly through its innumerable canals and storehouses all over. You will also learn the role this city played (and still plays) in football, culture, music, art, science, architecture, international relationships and even war; where you’ll get to know every important figure in this tale. Plus, you get a unique list of recommendations so you get the most out of your visit.

PS: when booking, you will get an email with instructions and a code for using our app (a different code from your booking reference number!).

Available options

Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour

What's included

You will get an email with instructions to activate your tour (booking reference isn't the code!)
Jake will guide you through an audio guide (no computer-generated voice!)
Audio guide, videos, pictures, recommendations and all the info you need
3 weeks unlimited access to this Self-Guided Tour on the app
Map, directions, GPS route and stops of each tour

Detailed itinerary

1

Here is where the tour starts. This is the first stop of 18! You will get a brief description of the whole tour and particularly at this stop, you will discover the amazing history behind the most famous soft drink the North has ever made, which was originally produced in this location.

2

In this stop, we will tell you who was Alan Turing and why was (and still is) so important for the city. Also, you will learn some practical things about Sackville Gardens and all its monuments. You will start to get some perspective of the Gay Village and all its past in Manchester.

3
Stop 3

We will guide you around this beautiful and emblematic area of Manchester to teach you all about its history. Strolling around Canal Street you will hear about the dark past of the street and how people helped to turn the odds and worked to build the lovely sidewalk it is today.

4

Walk around the archway and discover the amazing shops and restaurants of this ethnic enclave. You will learn who's city is Manchester twin in China and why the archway was built here.

5

We will guide you through the famous St Peter Square and you will learn everything you need to know about this place and its emblematic buildings: Manchester Central Library, the oldest free library in the country; The Midland Hotel, one of the first luxury hotels in the north; Manchester Town Hall, one of the most beautiful town hall in the country; and more. You will also hear every exciting story that happened here in the past and understand why it is called St Peter Square.

6

Discover the incredible Bridgewater Hall and all its surrounding area charged with vivid history. We will also tell you two of the north's most horrible stories that happened in the past that haunts citizens until today: The first in 1819 and the second in 1963, both in the premises of Manchester Central Station.

7
Stop 7

Here you will learn all about the Cotton Industry, how it developed so strongly in Manchester and what were the consequences for the city. You will understand the pivotal role that this building played in the industrial past of Manchester. Here, we will tell you the story of the IRA Bomb as well and how it affected the entire city.

8

Definitely the most beautiful square around the city centre. Here you will see the oldest pub in town and learn about its history, so you understand why it is typically full (and relatively cheap). Also, you will learn about the boom of the cotton industry and how it made an opportunity to exploit the trade of other markets through the Royal Corn Exchange (another astonishing building in this square).

9
Stop 9

We will guide you around the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Manchester, the seat of the Bishop of Manchester and the city's parish church. Manchester Cathedral is one of the many emblems of the city, and it's a must-visit for every passer-by.

10
Stop 10

Discover one of the best-kept secrets of Manchester, and probably one of the nicest libraries in the country, the Harry Potterish - John Rylands Library. We will tell you everything you need to know about this extraordinary building, which is grace is on the inside, so if you have time our recommendation is to venture inside.

11

In our final stop, you will learn about the beggings of the city: its Roman Heritage. Feel like a roman exploring the reconstructed buildings of this amazing park. You will learn why the city is called Manchester. Then, we will let you stroll around the beautiful canals of Deansgate with a list of recommendations for things to do and places to eat around the city.

12

Another interesting landmark of this area is The Guardian Telephone Exchange, called the "Best kept secret in Manchester". We'll help you unveil this secret hiding in plain sight.

13

Discover the magnificent landmark of the city centre, The Midland Hotel, which has been part of life in Manchester for over 118 years, is worldwide renown for its beautiful architecture. We will tell you all about it, plus some incredible stories that have happened here during the years.

14
Stop 14 Pass by

Hop into the legacy of what once was the first public lending and reference library of the UK, provided by Manchester local council after the passing of the Public Libraries Act 1850. Of course, this isn't the original building, but we will tell you everything about its history and how it became the beautiful Greek structure it is today.

15

What now is a convention centre, once was used as Manchester Central Train Station by The Midland Railway. Join us to discover everything that happened in this place, from one of the worst massacres the north has ever seen (before the train even existed) to the mysterious story behind a suitcase left in this same station in 1965.

16

Come to discover what once was one of the most exciting market exchanges around the north, where the commercialization of other goods thrived thanks to the cotton industry in the city. The first Corn Exchange was built on this site in 1837 and we will tell you how it became a Listed Building which now houses a Food Court, a Hotel and more.

17

Discover probably the most famous and oldest pub in the city centre: The Old Wellington and Sinclair's Oyster Bar. Once famous for housing John Shaw's Punch House, during this tour you will understand why so many people visit this Pub on a daily basis.

What's not included

In-person Guide
Any entrance fee for the attractions mentioned during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide
EN ES
Written guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 1.8
5 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
4
Tripadvisor 4.5
31 reviews
5★
23
4★
4
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please check "Before You Go" Section of your e-ticket!

Meeting point

All our tours are self-guided. You will be led by the GPS in the app. Remember to check the "Before You Go" Section of your ticket and give Pandemic Tours App access to your location!

Important notes

Your Exploro Tour is Ready!

Thanks for booking your self-guided tour with Exploro — we’re excited to help you discover the city at your own pace!

Here’s everything you need to get started:

If you don’t have the Exploro app yet:
1. Download the Exploro app from our website (https://exploro.app)
2. Open the app and sign up for a free account.
3. Once you're signed in, come back to this email and click the link below — it will open your tour directly in the app.
4. Insert your order number (your booking reference)

Open My Tour: https://exploro.app/tours/e-iKNF5ZyYYAz591f4EM2V?source=viator

Already have the app installed?
1. Make sure you're signed in to your account in the Exploro app!
2. Click the link below to open your tour in the app.
3. Insert your order number (you can find it under Order Summary)

Open My Tour: https://exploro.app/tours/e-iKNF5ZyYYAz591f4EM2V?source=viator

*note: if the link is not clickable, copy and paste in your Chrome/Safari*

- You have unlimited access to enjoy this tour. It is suggested opening the app a little earlier to familiarize yourself with the interface and to make sure you've given it access to your location. This will ensure you can fully utilize the map function for a seamless experience
- If you encounter any issues or need help, please reach: exploro.official@gmail.com or drop a message via WhatsApp at +39 389 644 9134 (Europe) or +56942572988 (Americas).

Remember, you have the flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. So relax, have fun, and enjoy your self-guided tour!

PS: Don't forget to rate my tour, thanks! =)

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-100
1
Infants
Age 0-10
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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