Manchester

Mancunians are a proud bunch, and for very good reason. Theirs is a city that is vibrant, cosmopolitan, exciting, forward-thinking - and home to a thriving and world-renowned LGBT scene. And as you'll find out within minutes of being there, it is among the friendliest cities in the UK. Manchester is also a byword for cool - from its legendary and iconic music progeny (from The Smiths to Simply Red, via Oasis, Lisa Stansfield, New Order and The Bee Gees to name but a few!) that makes it arguably the most musically prolific city in the world, to its buzzing arts scene, Manchester is truly an international city. Combining visionary architecture, a colorful history, world-class attractions - and not forgetting the UK's first dedicated 'gay village' - we defy you to leave Manchester without a smile on your face.

Foodie: Where to Go and Meet

You're spoilt for choice in Manchester. Literally. From Lancashire Hotpot in a good ol' English pub to Dim Sum in vibrant Chinatown or even a curry from the famous Curry Mile just south of the city centre, you'll never be short of ideas. Manchester is also rammed with world-class, show-stopping eateries, catering as much to the local glitterati as to the seasoned sophisticated diner. From 'greasy spoon' to Michelin-rated chefs, Manchester really has it all covered.

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Nightowl: Nightlife

Manchester's nightlife is synonymous with its Gay Village, which is testimony to the vibrancy of the city's gay scene. Canal Street and its immediate neighbours form its beating heart, but over recent years the Northern Quarter - just ten minutes walk from Canal Street - has seen an emergence of funky, new bars opening, attracting Manchester's younger, more fashion-forward crowd.

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Event-goer: Events

As the centre of gay life in the north of England, Manchester has plenty to offer in the way of gay events, whether it's the famous Pride festival, which stretches over ten days, cultural happenings taking place in music, dance and theatre or diary dates to appeal to more specific parts of the LGBT community.

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Culturati: Arts, Culture & Music

Manchester's reputation as a cultural hub is immense - and when you witness the sheer number of theatres, museums, one-off art events, festivals, music venues, let alone its unique civil history, it will all make sense. From the renowned Royal Exchange Theatre to the Libeskind-designed Imperial War Museum North; from the visually stunning Lowry arts venue to the Urbis exhibition centre; from the Manchester Art Gallery with its famous collection of 19th Century British paintings to classical concerts at the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester thrills at every turn.

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Chiller: Where to rest your weary head and get some TLC

Manchester offers no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. Choose between luxury five-star hotels or great value options like serviced apartments located in and around the Gay Village.

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Fashionista: Shopping

Whether it's the all-under-one-roof Trafford Centre, the vintage stalls and boutiques of the Northern Quarter, or the high-end designer shops in and around King Street, Manchester ticks all your shopping boxes. There's even a Selfridges and a Harvey Nichols, in case you were wondering…

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