Manchester city centre has so much to do and see. This route takes you to some highlights. Feel free to stop along the way to see anything that catches your eye, as this route is short.
Grab your walking shoes, sunscreen, water bottle, and sense of adventure, ready to explore the city centre!
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Route overview
Afflecks is the place to support local and independent. This “eclectic” space has provided a platform for creatives to share their creations with the world. With over 60 stores to get lost in, you will surely find something that tickles your fancy. The passion and thought that goes into creating products is easy to see in the pride of each trader as they reveal their creative process to you in conversation. By supporting these entrepreneurs, you will also support and allow the Afflecks market to bring in new talent to share their products with the city. See their opening times here.
Afflecks. Credit: The Manchester Shop
Leaving Afflecks, turn down Oldham Street towards Back Piccadilly and Piccadilly Gardens. Turn left onto Mosley Street.
Part 1 of the Manchester City Centre Walk
Piccadilly Gardens were constructed after WWI, where the Manchester Royal Infirmary once was. Originally, they were to be ornamental, sunken gardens. After WWII, it was planned to be an entertainment square for the people, including cinemas, an ice rink, a boxing stadium, and restaurants. Sadly, this plan fell through, and until the 1990s, this area was unloved and fell into disrepair. The Manchester City Council didn’t want this space to go to waste, so they held an international competition to redesign it. Winners were chosen, and reconstruction took place. In 2021, another redesign competition was held, and winners were selected in 2023. The new design includes new lighting along the concrete wall and removal of the roof to open the space up to natural light.
Piccadilly Gardens. Credit: Manchester’s Finest
Continuing straight along Mosley Street, you will pass St. Peter’s Square. Continue along Lower Mosley Street, passing the curve-roofed building on your right. Turn right onto Great Bridgewater Street, to find Cloud23 on your left after 220 metres.
Part 2 of the Manchester City Centre Walk
St. Peter’s Square is at the heart of Manchester and is known for its historical and architectural significance. There are a number of iconic buildings, including Manchester Central Library and the Midland Hotel. The Cenotaph war memorial, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, stands tall amongst the other monuments and statues of Adrift by John Cassidy, St Peter’s Cross, and Rise up, Women, a statue of Emmeline Pankhurst. Over the years, the square has undergone some redesigning and redevelopment, leading to it being a favourite meeting point and entertainment spot, frequently hosting events such as Remembrance Day.
Emmeline Parkhurst Statue in St Peter’s Square
Cloud23 is a prime spot for a spectacular view of the city. And a great place for a dressed-up cocktail hour and yummy bar snacks. See their website here for operating hours and contact details to make a reservation.
Cloud 23. Credit: Bubbles and Baths
Leaving Cloud 23, turn left to continue onto Liverpool Road, then right onto Barton Street, and left onto Tonman Street. Turn right onto Porchfield Square, left onto Camp Street, and immediately right onto Byron Street to find St. John’s Gardens
Part 3 of the Manchester City Centre Walk
St. John’s Gardens, as the name suggests, was once the site of St. John’s Church and its graveyard. In 1932, a formal garden and a central memorial were instead placed here to commemorate the church and (roughly 22 000 people) buried here as all the tombstones except that of John Owens, who founded Owen’s College, were covered. In 2012, the garden was awarded Green Flag status
St John’s Gardens. Credit: UK Aerial Photography, Jonathan C.K. Webb
Leaving the garden, turn up Byrom Street, following the curve onto Hardman Street. Turn left onto Deansgate, right onto Brazennose Street, left toward Mulberry Street, then right towards St. Mary’s Church.
Part 4 of the Manchester City Centre Walk
St. Mary’s Church first stood here in 1794; however, after the roof collapsed in 1835, the church had to be rebuilt. After that, the city was basically built around it. In the early 1990s, the whole church was restored, rewired, decorated, and repaired. Inside, the church displays meticulously carved statues and embellishments. The church was nicknamed a “hidden gem” by Bishop Herbert Vaughan and still follows it today.
St. Mary’s Church. Credit: Hidden Gem
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Resources:
If you enjoyed this route, see our Bees of Manchester Walk
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Information gathered from various sources, including Wikipedia.