Manchester is a fantastic city with many interesting things to do in your free time. Whether you’re a resident of the city or you’re visiting for a weekend, you can fill your calendar with amazing entertainment and engaging activities. Are you struggling with ideas for things to do in Manchester bank holiday weekend? Luckily for you, tastecard is here to lend you a hand!
Tom Pressman
01-04-2025
Manchester has a long industrial history and several museums that showcase its heritage. The Manchester Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the People's History Museum are all excellent options. With plenty of interactive, hands-on activities, these spots are perfect for keeping the entire family entertained.
If you’re after things to do in Manchester for May bank holiday or August bank holiday, we’ve got our fingers crossed that the sun will be out celebrating with you. If so, Heaton Park is a great place to take the kids for a picnic or crack open a few cans with friends in the sun. So grab yourself a football or some tennis racquets, and don’t forget to pack that sun cream!
The Northern Quarter is a modern, hip and trendy neighbourhood full of independent shops, cafes, and bars, making it the ideal place to enjoy Manchester bank holiday events. Spend a few hours wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere on a bank holiday weekend, have a bite to eat and pick up some bargains in the shops. If you’re after a tasty bite to eat or a drink or two, visit The Foundry Project, a contemporary spot with an especially tempting cocktail list.
If your ears perked up at our mention of The Foundry Project, listen up. There’s no better way to embrace the bank holiday than by eating delicious food and sipping on some sweet drinks – if that’s your style. Luckily for you, Manchester has plenty of places to keep you happy.
If you’re after a family-friendly spot with something for everyone, you can always rely on an Italian restaurant to keep the table happy. Head over to Manchester’s Zizzi or ASK Italian to enjoy the best Italian cuisine, with pizzas, pasta and more to choose from.
Or, if you’re after a classy little drink or two, we’d recommend visiting Level 3 Lounge & Restaurant at the Mercure Piccadilly Hotel. With a stunning view of the city and an extensive wine list, there’s no better place to treat yourself and that special someone – it is the bank holiday, after all!
Afflecks Palace is an iconic shopping destination with an eclectic marketplace spanning four floors. It’s a haven for alternative and independent fashion, music, art, and culture. With over 70 independent stalls and shops, Afflecks Palace offers a diverse range of unique and offbeat items, including vintage clothing, handmade crafts, alternative fashion, retro memorabilia, vinyl records, and much more. Afflecks is not just a shopping experience; it's a cultural hub that celebrates the spirit of creativity in Manchester.
SEA LIFE Manchester is an enchanting aquarium that offers a captivating underwater experience. It allows visitors to explore a wide array of marine life from around the world. With interactive exhibits and educational displays, SEA LIFE in Manchester provides an opportunity to learn about the ocean's wonders and conservation efforts. Visitors can marvel at the diverse underwater species, from mesmerising seahorses to magnificent sharks. The aquarium also offers immersive experiences like underwater tunnels and touch pools, providing a unique and engaging adventure for visitors of all ages.
Another idea for enjoying Manchester bank holiday events is a trip to the theatre! The Palace Theatre is a beautiful Victorian theatre that hosts a variety of shows, from musicals to drama. Check their schedule to see what's on during the bank holiday.
However you’re opting to keep yourself busy over the bank holiday, you might find yourself needing a coffee to power you through the long weekend. With tastecard, you can enjoy our coffee deals to get 25% off barista-made drinks at spots like Black Sheep Coffee. If you’re after a quick snack or spot of lunch, we’ve got you covered with 25% off your entire bill, so go wild!
At tastecard, we’re big advocates of making the most of your bank holiday. It’s the prime time to make memories with your loved ones – but you don’t have to spend a fortune in the process. So, download the tastecard app today to find out how you can save on things to do in Manchester during the August Bank Holiday or Spring Bank Holidays!
Italian, American, tapas - it’s all available to you at tastecard. Get ready to enjoy the flavours of the world without even having to leave the UK with tastecard!
