The best things to do in Manchester

A Metrolink tram outside the Arndale Shopping Centre in Exchange Square, Manchester

Sport Science student Admed Eldars shares his favourite things to do across the city.

There are plenty of things to do in one of the largest cities in England, whether you are seeking culture, nightlife, history, or just good fun when lockdown ends.

Of course, Manchester is famous for football. You should have a tour of the grounds of Manchester United and Manchester City, and you can also discover the social history of the beautiful game at the National Football Museum, which is located in the city centre and it is free for Manchester residents.

There are many opportunities for anyone who fancies a bit of culture, art exhibitions and theatre. Manchester theatres have something for everyone, from high-brow performances of the world’s best opera to ‘singing in the aisle’ musicals hot from the West End.

At The Lowry, you will find three stunning theatres alongside galleries showcasing artists of local, national, and international renown. They offer a huge variety of impressive performance, fabulous entertainment, live bands, famous comedians, plus world-class dance and opera.

The Lowry Galleries also showcase changing exhibitions by one of Britain's best-loved artists, LS Lowry, as well as paintings, sculpture, and photography from around the world. There is always something new and refreshing to see in the galleries. Gallery entry is free.

For students who like travelling, the next best thing after going to China is discovering the second-largest Chinatown in the UK, which is filled with a wide variety of quality restaurants, bakeries, and shops. The entrance is a huge golden gate traditional architectural gateway structure which was built in China and shipped over to Manchester as a gift from Manchester City Council to the Chinese community. It is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year but the Chinese New Year party is a favourite amongst students, with its celebrations stretching across the city.

For everyone who enjoys outdoor activities, it is so easy to find a walk in Manchester to enjoy nature any day of the week. There are beautiful walks such as Hollingworth Lake, Heaton Park, Sale Water Park and Haigh Hall.

If you are looking to test your mental and physical abilities across four adventure time zones to earn crystals, then The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience is the ultimate team experience to find out if your team is good enough to make it onto the leaderboard. It is a brilliant way to run around wildly, shout yourselves hoarse, solve all sorts of problems and challenges and celebrate in some wacky satin bomber jackets with your friends.

If you are into climbing, do not miss the chance to visit Manchester Climbing Centre which is constructed in a beautiful converted Victorian church with metres upon metres of climbing fun.

Manchester is one of the world’s leading gay-friendly cities around Canal Street in the centre of Manchester’s Gay Village where you can find a combination of bars, clubs, restaurants, and green spaces.

The Gay Village has something to suit all tastes. It is also famous for hosting a number of regular annual events and special community activities, the most popular being Manchester Pride. It is an extremely popular event and a great way for everyone in Manchester to celebrate something that their city is proud of.

Finally, Manchester has good connections to many other major cities such as Chester, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, and York, and it is easy to visit the beautiful countryside on a day trip, such as the Lake District and the Peak District.