Manchester Old Town and Jewish Sites Private Walking Tour

Manchester , United Kingdom

Manchester Old Town and Jewish Sites Private Walking Tour

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the history of Manchester Jewry, following several generations of European Jewish communities that have made this city their home. Explore the city’s highlights and hidden gems with personalized stories and expert insights.

Available in English language.

HIGHLIGHTS:
- Discover Manchester’s Jewish history with a 5-Star History Expert Guide
- Explore hidden gems and learn stories of resilience, culture, and community
- Uncover Manchester’s vibrant past on a private tour tailored to your group’s needs
- Experience the Old Town, top landmarks and historical sites in an exclusive way
- Book now for an unforgettable journey through Manchester’s unique Jewish heritage

Uncover hidden stories, marvel at architectural gems, and experience the city’s vibrant past. Hear tales of resilience and triumph on a personalized, intimate journey tailored to your interests.

Available options

Manchester Old Town and Jewish Sites Private Walking Tour

What's included

5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language

Interesting facts about the Jewish history of Manchester’s

Private Walking Tour of Manchester’s Jewish History

Recommendations on the best things to do in Manchester

Fascinating facts about Manchester’s Jewish culture and heritage

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide In front of Gio Ristorante, 5-7 Lower Mosley St, Manchester M2 3WS, United Kingdom. Please do not enter the restaurant, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.

A private tour of Manchester and journey through the heart of the city, starting at the iconic Midland Hotel, where pivotal meetings between Jewish leaders and British officials, including Chaim Weizmann and Winston Churchill, shaped the future of Jewish history. Wander through Albert Square, a bustling hub of Victorian grandeur, and feel the pulse of the city as you learn about its Jewish history. Stop by The Shul in the City, where echoes of community life resonate, and discover the historic role of Manchester’s Jewish community. As you stroll, our Expert Guide will share tales of resilience, survival, and triumph that shaped the Jewish experience in Manchester.

Stop 3

Next, admire the awe-inspiring John Rylands Library from the outside, a Gothic Revival masterpiece. Though not directly linked to Jewish history, its grand architecture and rich legacy reflect Manchester’s commitment to knowledge and cultural preservation—a fitting backdrop for our tour’s narrative as your guide shares its story. Continue on to Saint Ann’s Church, where the layers of Manchester’s history are palpable, blending stories of faith and community.

We then visit Shambles Square, a picturesque corner that survived the city’s redevelopment and bombing raids of World War II. The square stands as a testament to the city’s resilience, much like the Jewish community that flourished here against all odds. Your journey concludes at the majestic Manchester Cathedral, a symbol of hope and renewal, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape and the River Irwell.

Throughout the tour, your Private Guide will illuminate Manchester’s Jewish heritage, drawing connections between landmarks and poignant historical moments, such as the impact of World War II and stories of those who found refuge in the city. The guide’s expert insights reveal not just the visible monuments, but the untold stories of courage, community, and the indomitable spirit of Manchester’s Jewish people.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Tickets to attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Check your email the day before the tour for important information.

Please note that entry tickets to the attractions, food and drinks are NOT INCLUDED in this tour.

It is a walking tour, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. We're not afraid of the sun and rain, so the tour will take place as planned, regardless of weather, so please check the forecast and dress appropriately.

For the best experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly. We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.

Meeting point

Important notes

Know before you go:
- Check your email the day before the tour for important information.
- Please note that entry tickets to the attractions, food and drinks are NOT INCLUDED in this tour.
- It is a walking tour, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. We're not afraid of the sun and rain, so the tour will take place as planned, regardless of weather, so please check the forecast and dress appropriately.
- For the best experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly. We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.

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