When it comes to matters of the heart and planning the sweetest escape, it is not about where you are or what you do, but it is about who you are with. But how about getting the best of both worlds? Plan a romantic date for you and your partner in Manchester, and we’re here to help you with where to go or what to do. Home to some of the most well-known bands, a melting pot of diverse cultures and mouth-watering cuisines, Manchester is one of the most vibrant cities to visit. A bustling hub of monumental industrial progress with exquisite architecture to boot, you can be sure that Manchester has no lack of attractions and unique experiences to offer to enjoy some romance. During your trip here, get ready to fall in love again with this list of top romantic things to do in Manchester.
1. Unwind with a romantic cruise at Manchester Ship Canal
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you have seen Manchester in movies or pictures, then you might know that the energetic place has some magnificent canals streaming through the heart of the city. One of the most popular would be the one that links Manchester to the Irish sea - the Manchester Ship Canal.
Built in the 1800s, the waterway boasts a rich history and is lined with architectural marvels such as the Latchford High Level Bridge and the Grade II-listed Runcorn Railway Bridge. Learn about how the renowned canal shaped the city while basking in the captivating sights of Liverpool’s waterfront, awe-inspiring coastlines and magnificent industrial heritage.
With a fully licensed bar and an onboard cafe during your cruise, you do not have to worry about missing your meals during this five- to six-hour cruise. You can also add a personal touch to the date by preparing your own packed picnic.
Manchester Ship Canal
Address: Eastham Locks to Salford Quays, United Kingdom
Price: Cruise for 46 GBP (56 USD)
2. Have an icy adventure at Chill Factore
If you are up for some literal chilling fun, escape the city and head over to Chill Factore. Located in Trafford Park, Chill Factore offers adventurous couples the opportunity to challenge themselves with some snowboarding and skiing action. Crowned as the longest indoor slope in the country, the snow center also has several slopes that cater to different skill levels.
You can opt to have lessons, ascend the slopes at your own time, or have some fun with their facilities such as the Downhill Donuts and Sledge ‘n’ Slide. Once famished, indulge in snacks and a good cup of hot chocolate. There is also an array of boutique outlets and big-brand shops if you would like to take a break with some retail therapy.
Chill Factore
Address: Beyond Shopping Centre, 7 Trafford Way, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M41 7JA, United Kingdom
Website: Chill Factore
Opening hours: Mon, Thu - Fri: 10am - 10pm; Tue: 10am - 6pm; Wed: 7:30am - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 10pm
Price: From 25 GBP (30 USD)
3. Get luxurious in Cloud 23
Bring your romance to the next level, the 23rd to be exact. Get captivated by the breathtaking view of the city from the popular Cloud 23 bar. Situated on the 23rd floor of Beetham Tower, once the highest building in Manchester, Cloud 23 Bar prides itself on being one of the world’s most exciting bars.
With the enchanting cityscape from its floor-to-ceiling windows, lavish modern design and classy music, the impressive cocktail menu is simply the cherry on top. With the drink’s names inspired by Manchester’s rich history, couples can complete the enthralling experience by indulging in an exclusive cocktail such as the Ena Sparkles or Bittersweet Symphony.
Note: There is a strict dress code, so take this chance to dress up!
Cloud 23
Address: Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ, United Kingdom
Website: Cloud 23
Opening hours: Mon & Tue: 5pm - 12am; Wed & Thu: 12pm - 12am; Fri & Sat: 12pm - 1am; Sun: 12am - 10pm
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4. Get lost in the passageways of John Rylands Library
A library might not be a typical go-to dating place, but in Manchester, John Rylands Library begs to differ. More than meets the eye, the library offers more than just books. Often touted as one of the most stunning libraries in Europe, this neo-Gothic building is an excellent location for a date, not just for literary-inclined couples but for anyone who can appreciate beauty.
You can enjoy some peace and quiet to admire the vast collection of books, wander through the gorgeous labyrinth of passageways or simply bask in the rustic charm of the place. Founded by Enriqueta Augustina Rylands, John Rylands Library was named in loving memory of her husband. In 1900, the library welcomed its first visitors.
Revel in the Victorian architecture of the library and see for yourself why the place is a frequent venue for marriage proposals.
John Rylands Library
Address: University of Manchester Rylands Research Institute, 150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH, United Kingdom
Website: John Rylands Library
Opening hours: Wed, Fri - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun to Tue & Thu)
5. Make your date sweet (literally) at Cocoa Cabana Chocolatiers
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Want to give some sugar for your sugar? Then you would enjoy Cocoa Cabana Chocolatiers. Located in West Didsbury, this chocolate haven offers a wide range of sweet treats from your normal plain cup of steaming chocolate to award-winning delicious delights. If you are up for something special, you can also opt for a complete chocolate-laden date by having their famed ‘chocolate afternoon teas’. The afternoon tea includes many mouth-watering treats such as assorted sandwiches, handmade scones and lighter desserts such as brownies and macarons, topped off with bottomless coffee, tea or hot chocolate.
You can also find this chocolate heaven over at Ancoats. Situated at the lively Murray Street, this newest opening from Cocoa Cabana additionally serves as a cocktail bar. The bar presents a unique menu combining two of the owner’s favourites - cocktails and chocolates.
The owner, Sarah Gallacher, honed her craft at the renowned Slattery’s Patissier and Chocolatiers and transferred her mastery into her chocolate creations. Carefully sourced from the finest local ingredients, many have attested to the flavourful taste!
Cocoa Cabana Chocolatiers
Address: 168 Burton Rd, West Didsbury, Manchester M20 1LH, United Kingdom
Website: Cocoa Cabana
Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)
6. Prepare for some competitive fun at Twenty Twenty Two
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Ain’t no party like a private party. Since it’s all legal and that why not book in your work drinks/birthday bash/excuse...
Posted by Twenty Twenty Two on Wednesday, April 13, 2022
A glimpse into Manchester nightlife with a slight variance, Twenty Twenty Two is great for a fun date with a little competition. Located in the Northern Quarter with its underground atmosphere and modish white tiled walls, Twenty Twenty Two exudes club-like vibes but with a more laid-back atmosphere.
Serving amazing drinks accompanied by nice tunes, this point of interest also lures people with its ping-pong tables. Raved as a late-night weekend party spot, this advocate for arts, culture and music is great if you are keen to add a lively zest of competition to your date.
Twenty Twenty Two
Address: The Basement, Little Lever St, Manchester M1 1EZ, United Kingdom
Website: Twenty Twenty Two
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 4pm - 1am; Fri: 4pm - 4am; Sat: 1pm - 4am
7. Melt your troubles with a relaxing date at Rena Spa at The Midland Hotel
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
No one wants to feel stressed or get distracted by work while on a date. So while you are in Manchester, why not make a spa date at some of the city’s highly-acclaimed spas? A quiet tranquil spa time is an amazing way to pamper yourself yet spend time together with various places providing couples’ treatments.
One of the highly-raved spa centres is the Rena Spa at The Midland Hotel. With up-to-date amenities that include a salt-infused aromatherapy steam bath, a heated pool and sleeping pods that can cater to two people, you need to visit the winner of World Luxury Spa Awards Winner - 2020 Luxury Business Hotel Spa. Located at the city centre, this award-winning sanctuary definitely makes for a great relaxing date!
Who said spas are just for the ladies?
Rena Spa at The Midland Hotel
Address: The Midland, 16 Peter Street, Manchester, M60 2DS
Website: Rena Spa at the Midland Hotel
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 8pm; Sat: 8am - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm
8. Go back to the 1950s at Ginger's Comfort Emporium
Good news to all with a sweet tooth! We listed down a chocolate cafe earlier but now we would also like to feature an ice-cream parlour with a nostalgic charm. Situated on the top floor of Affleck’s, Ginger’s Comfort Emporium is an extraordinary parlour like no other.
Serving many unusual yet delicious flavours, this renowned establishment does not only have a unique name, but also a unique style. Widely recognised for its 1950s furnishing, Ginger’s Comfort Emporium has accumulated numerous British Street Food Awards. They even have a recipe book and its ice cream van is regularly seen at the city’s summer markets and festivals. Try out one of their top sellers - Olive Oil & Sea Salt! We already told you that their concoctions are unusually tasty.
Ginger's Comfort Emporium
Address: Affleck’s, Church St, Manchester M4 1PW, UK
Website: Ginger’s Comfort Emporium
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10.30am - 6pm; Sun 11am - 5pm
9. Have a sporting date at National Football Stadium
Even if this is your first time in Manchester, you would probably know that the city is home to many amazing museums that encompasses its rich history. On top of being a financially-friendly and value-adding date, Manchester’s museums and exhibits are readily available.
One of the most popular would likely be the National Football Museum. With four floors of famed football memorabilia and vestige devoted to the game and situated in a remarkable contemporary building, the National Football Museum debatably has the largest football collection in the world. Permanently home to the Football League collection, the FIFA collection and the FA collection to name a few, the museum prides itself towards the preservation of these memorabilia. Some of these relics include the 1966 World Cup Ball and Maradona’s 1986 ‘Hand of God’ match shirt. The museum also has Football+, a series of interactive participation to put your football skills to test or have a photo taken with a trophy.
National Football Stadium
Address: National Football Museum, Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, M4 3BG
Website: National Football Stadium
Opening hours: Thur - Sun: 10am - 4pm (Last admission 3pm) (closed from Mon - Wed)
Price: £0 - £11 (16 USD)
10. Feast your ears on live music at Albert Hall
Home to world-famous bands like The Smiths and The Stone Roses, the music scene is Manchester is phenomenal. Swap your usual dates with one or two nights of great music when in Manchester. There are many places to admire live music in Manchester and perhaps one of the most renowned would be the Albert Hall. The city is a regular tour stop for big-name bands or artists from around the world so be sure to check the schedule at Albert Hall and the Manchester Arena.
Housed at a rustic Wesleyan chapel may sound less-than-lively, but the venue is a popular UK tour stop for famous artists and bands with highly raved reviews of its unrivalled theater-level experiences. You can get pumped up or grab a bite at its on-site restaurant and pub. The venue is also known for its prime location, situated in the heart of the city centre, within close proximity to many good hotels and other points of interest.
Other popular places to catch live music are also the cafes at Oldham Street in the Northern Quarter.
Albert Hall
Address: 27 Peter St, Manchester, M2 5QR
Website: Albert Hall
Get romantic when in Manchester
From some quiet time to adrenaline-inducing adventures, there are many things to do to spice up your date in Manchester. Among them include catching a show at the Opera House or going for a wine tasting in Salut Wines. So, plan your trip with your partner and get romantic when in Manchester.
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