Manchester Old Town Highlights Private Guided Walking Tour

Manchester , United Kingdom

Manchester Old Town Highlights Private Guided Walking Tour

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

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About this experience

Oasis, Football, the Industrial Revolution... these are just a few things that Manchester is known for. Discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems with our Local Guide, and hear captivating stories that reveal the city’s rich history and culture.

Available in English language.

HIGHLIGHTS:
- Uncover Manchester’s best-kept secrets with with a 5-Star Private Guide
- Admire the stunning architecture of Albert Square and its historic surroundings
- See the Hidden Gem Church, St. Ann’s Church and the iconic Manchester Cathedral
- Hear the fascinating history of John Rylands Library and its medieval manuscripts
- Immerse yourself in the city's industrial history, vibrant music scene and urban legends

Explore Manchester’s rich history and vibrant culture on a private walking tour . From its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this intimate experience is tailored to your group’s interests, ensuring a personal and unforgettable journey through one of England’s most dynamic cities.

Available options

Manchester Old Town Highlights Private Guided Walking Tour

What's included

Historical facts, cultural anecdotes and funny legends

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

Recommendations of the best restaurants, cafes and pubs

Private Walking Tour of Manchester's Historic Old Town

Insider tips on the best things to do in Manchester

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide In front of Malmaison Manchester Deansgate, 23 Princess St, Manchester M2 4ER, United Kingdom. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.

a 2-hour private tour of Manchester and uncover the city’s most captivating sights. Starting at the heart of Manchester in Albert Square, your journey will take you to the stunning St. Mary’s Church, also known as "The Hidden Gem" for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

Stop 3

From there, you'll admire the exterior of the John Rylands Library, an architectural marvel, as your guide narrates its history and shares stories about the rare books and manuscripts housed inside.

St. Ann’s Church offers a glimpse of Manchester’s religious history, while the Royal Exchange Theatre gives you a peek into the city’s thriving arts scene. As we stroll through Shambles Square, you’ll encounter timber-framed buildings that survived centuries of change, leading to the grandeur of Manchester Cathedral, a testament to the city’s spiritual heritage.

Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories of Manchester’s evolution—from its role as the world’s first industrial city to its influence on modern culture. Imagine the hum of Victorian cotton mills or the electric energy of the city’s pivotal role in the birth of the computer. Our guides, passionate about Manchester’s history and culture, will also share intriguing local legends and lesser-known facts, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable city.

What's not included

Tickets to attractions

Food and drinks

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