"If it’s ice cream that’s tickling your taste-buds, climb the staircase in Afflecks to the first floor to discover the most eclectic selection of flavours imaginable. Chances are that you’ve seen Ginger’s ice cream van at one of the city’s many events, festivals or markets, but for an ice-cream hit whenever you fancy, their base in Afflecks is a dessert lover’s heaven. With flavours including baked apple sorbet, black treacle and parkin, and the iconic Chorlton crack, you’re not going to find bland vanilla here."
"Usually found in an ice cream van during Town Hall’s festival season, Ginger’s now own a diner on the first floor in Affleck’s Palace. Known for their extremely popular ‘Chorlton Crack’, a lush salted caramel and peanut butter combo, Ginger’s wild and wonderful flavours can be obtained at the diner in a toasted brioche, affogato style or in a milkshake. Affleck’s, First Floor, 52 Church St, M4 1PW"
"Ginger’s Comfort Emporium – A great place to sit and enjoy a coffee and some great ice cream. Heroes Café – Homemade burgers, pies, soup, lasagne, chilli, curries and many more delicious dishes. They are also expanding selection of their Vegan dishes."
"Oasis is a Chorlton ice cream institution which also offers a variety of sorbets, frozen yoghurt and slushes. Open until 11pm, it’s good at attracting a local late night crowd: just the ticket when you have a craving to satisfy without having to settle for a tub of Ben & Jerry’s. Manchester Rd, Chorlton, M21 9GA"
"Manchester Opera House is the Palace Theatre’s little sister. It’s located on Quay Street, near Spinningfields. It is smaller than the Palace theatre however, there are still some amazing productions to see here."
"If highstreet brands aren’t really your thing and you would rather something a little more unique, the Bluecoat is the place for you. Based in the heart of the city’s shopping district, the Bluecoat offers an eclectic mix of unique and beautifully handcrafted products. With the best range of contemporary fashion, homeware and crafts around, it’s definitely one to visit."
"The perfect excuse to visit the oldest building in the city centre The Bluecoat!. Discover hidden gems in the form of gorgeous indies including Dressology Evening and Bridal boutique, R&J Porter Silversmiths, Lalligrass Himalayan goods, Roots Houseplants & Mary Mary Florals and Probe Records. Visit Bluecoat retailers here"
"Built in the early 1700s as a charity school, the Blue Coat School moved in 1906 and was rented by Sandon Studios. Bluecoat now plays host to numerous cultural and art exhibitions as well as performances. This landmark building always has something happening so make sure you check out the events during your city break."
"Another one that you'll have to exercise patience for is the RNCM (Royal Northern College of Music), which is - understandably - prioritising the return of students and tutors. You can see the latest updates at www.rncm.ac.uk."
"The Royal Northern College of Music is an internationally acclaimed conservatoire, as well as an eclectic performance venue delivering a diverse programme of music and opera performances."
"An opulently decorated ‘oasis’ of beauty, House of Evelyn offers a wide range of treatments ranging from nail treatments, facials (so needed from all this face mask wearing!), hair and make-up, waxing and brow shaping, and even massages. It’s a haven for anyone in need of the full works after a few months of neglect, and you’re sure to leave feeling like a whole new person. House of Evelyn, 40 Spring Gardens, M2 1EN."
"Whatever the time of day, we have a dish to suit your mood; from steak frites and boeuf bourguignon to a selection of croques, baguettes and vegan options too – all on our menu of classic French food with a contemporary twist.” They offer breakfast and brunch dishes such as the Grande Breakfast (two free-range eggs, two Cumberland sausages, sweet cure bacon, beans, mushroom, tomato, black pudding, sautéed potatoes and sourdough toast), Pancakes (three warm pancakes topped with your choice of sweet cure bacon, banana and maple syrup, or fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and pineapple with fruit compot, and French Toast (two slices of sweet brioche bread topped with your choice of sweet cure bacon, banana and maple syrup, chocolate sauce, banana and hazelnuts or fresh seasonal fruit, honey and vanilla crème fraîche)."
"La Maison restaurant in the heart of leafy Sale Moor Village to the southwest of Manchester is a classic French fine dining restaurant with a reputation ..."