Issue 147

Northern Lights

23rd October 2006

In the first of our city break guides Front's Tom Reader takes a look at what Manchester has to offer.

Manchester is a city of great history. As you make your way out of Piccadilly Station, past the proud scallies and into the centre, it's worth remembering Manchester's contribution to the world over the past few centuries: birthplace of the industrial revolution and the modern computer; home to the biggest football club on the planet, and home to some of the most influential bands of recent times.

The city has plenty to offer during the daytime. First port of call for many I suspect will be the Trafford Centre, which can provide for virtually all your retail urges. If God was a woman, the Trafford centre may well resemble the world she would've created.

If you're all spent up, it might be time to visit one of Manchester's free museums or art galleries. The visually impressive Urbis Museum is located in the heart of the city and is worth visiting as a piece of modern architecture in itself. Inside you'll find a number of themed exhibitions: some free, others require a charge. Another good freebie is the City Art Gallery for extensive traditional and modern offerings.

If you hop on a tram at nearby St Peter's Square you'll arrive at Salford Quays within fifteen minutes. Its waterside situation makes for a nice break from the bustle of the city. The Lowry centre and the Imperial War Museum (both impressive architectural works in themselves) can be found there and if you're a fan of the paintings of L.S Lowry then you'll not be dissapointed, although there are plenty of other artists on display there.

If you're into your live music, this is one of the best cities in the world to be in. Manchester students are lucky to have a union that houses no fewer than four quality gigging venues hosting top acts, famous and not-so-famous, from all over, as well as the adjacent main Academy where you'll catch anything from The Stranglers to Hot Chip in consecutive nights. The nearby Big Hands bar is an infectious little place that plays great music til the early hours, and if you're a fan of Manchester music, you might see a familiar face or two in there.

But the classic Manchester 'indie' night has to be 5th Avenue. If you've got your student card, you're getting in, you're getting drunk and you're going to get sweaty! And all for a low low price.......just dont wear your best trainers!

For those who like their trainers whiter than white, Manchester has a vast array of clubs. LOAF on Deansgate Locks hosts a popular student night, as does Tiger Tiger in the centre of town. If something a little more hardcore is desired, you're probably going to have to fork out a tenner to get into Sanky's Soap, but it'll be worth it!

Tom Reader