Northern Quarter Walking Tour: Street Art & Local Stories
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter on a 1.5-hour small group walking tour that dives into the heart of the city’s creative pulse. Led by a local guide, you’ll wander through iconic streets adorned with striking street art, historic architecture, and discover the stories behind beloved independent shops. Uncover hidden histories and the legacy of music legends, all while enjoying the spirit of this artistic neighborhood.
- 1.5-hour walking tour of Manchester’s Northern Quarter
- Visit iconic street art and learn about local artists
- Discover local independent shops and historic sites
- Small group experience for personalised insights
Available options
Northern Quarter Walking Tour: Street Art & Local Stories
What's included
Local guide fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide outside the iconic Fred Aldous shop in Stevenson Square. Here, learn about the history of the Northern Quarter, and the context of it within wider Manchester. Fred Aldous is an independent shop with a long history, uncover its secrets here.
2
Stop on Tariff Street to uncover your first pieces of iconic Manchester street art. Learn about the context of street art in the city, and see a couple of commissioned murals, as well as some graffiti.
3
Stop on Faraday Street, seeing the Police Museum on the way. The iconic Paste Up Wonderwall is an amazing sight to see, learn all about it at this stop.
4
Stop on Little Lever St and Lever St, seeing some more iconic pieces of Manchester street art. You'll also see some exceptional examples of old 18th century merchant houses here, and the iconic Express Building, designed by Sir Owen Williams.
5
Pass by the iconic Frog and Bucket Comedy Club, and some more political pieces of art. See the Band on the Wall, an iconic comedy venue in the city. Then see the iconic Andy Bourke Mural, along with even more murals!
What's not included
All sites seen from the outside, no entrances required
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please meet your guide outside Fred Aldous. Your guide will be wearing a bright orange jacket.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
