Best Shopping Malls, Outlet and Places in Handforth Area

"A whole dining and drinking neighbourhood made up of vibrant shipping containers, Hatch is one-of-a-kind here in Manchester – continually growing over the years to welcome more and more local traders. Hosting both events and live music frequently, guests can kind of create a DIY day or night out at Hatch – with tons of bars and restaurants housing their own indoor spaces and terraces, a vast open-air space with tons of seating, and lots of independent shops to potter around. Expect cuisines from countries such as Vietnam, Portugal, Spain, Italy and even Teesside, as well as cocktail bars, coffee shops and more."

"Everyone’s favourite pop-up is back for all our food, drink and retail needs, everyday from the 12th. With food from all over the world and, more importantly, those dangerous two for £10 cocktails, Hatch is now open for bookings as well as walk-ins, so secure your table ASAP. Six weeks from now… Spring is in the air."

"Anyone who grew up in Manchester probably spent a good proportion of their teenage years wandering around Afflecks (formally known as Affleck’s Palace). Since its opening in 1981, this warren of independent shops is a perfect alternative to high street shopping in the city, offering everything from rubber jumpsuits to rave gear. Yes, there will always be that side of Afflecks (you’ll also find condoms and sex toys), but there really is something for everyone if you take the time to browse its multitude of market stalls."

"Around the corner from the Arndale in Manchester's iconic Northern Quarter you'll find Afflecks, a place we can only describe as Camden Market in a building. From top hats to tattoos, if you're the sort of person who fancy's something different from the norm, Afflecks is the place for you."

"Affleck’s is a perfect spot for a stylish and unusual photo. It’s also a place, where you can buy a lot of unusual things for a photoshoot or just for yourself. There are some amazing dresses, jewellery and other items that I have never seen anywhere else!"

"Obstructions, Castlefield Gallery’s locked-down exhibition, will open for just five days from 19–23 May. Originally due to open on Saturday 21 November 2020, and only able to welcome visitors in the virtual realm since then, the exhibition was conceived during what now feels like the early days of the pandemic. 15 artists from the North West of England were invited to remake an existing piece of their work with one condition: they had to accept a bespoke ‘obstruction’ given to them by another artist in the exhibition."

"Castlefield Gallery established by artists in 1984, nestled in the heart of Manchester’s Knott Mill area. It is Manchester’s first public contemporary visual art gallery dedicated to the advancement of contemporary visual art and artists. They are focused on developing visual artists’ practices and careers whilst creating opportunities for the public to engage with the art of their time."

"One of the city's hidden gems, Castlefield Gallery will be able to show its Obstructions exhibition in real life for the first time - for five days only. Obstructions brought together 15 artists from across Greater Manchester during lockdown. The gallery is open from May 19 and you can see more at castlefieldgallery.co.uk."

"Barton Arcade is a beautiful grade II listed Victorian shopping arcade which is a 5-minute walk from the Arndale Centre. Therefore, the transport links are the same as those to the Arndale Centre. This is one of the best places for shopping in Manchester if you prefer local independent businesses."

"Barton Arcade is a shopping mall in a beautiful Victorian building. There are shops and restaurants on the ground floor and offices on the upper floors. The ceiling is made from cast-iron and glass and gives you the feeling of a botanical garden."

"Whether you’re in the mood for Chinese food, Italian food or a cheeky Nando’s, there’s really something for everyone at the Lowry Outlet, where you can grab a bite and pick up a bargain. Then why not head over to The Lowry Theatre and take advantage of their cheap ticket offers for 16-25 year olds. Whatever you do, you can always finish off the evening with a walk around the stunning Salford Quays."

"Before he founded the Scout Movement, Robert Baden-Powell set up the Salford Lads’ Club in Ordsall in 1903. The idea behind clubs like these was to keep young boys in deprived areas out of trouble, and channel their energy into constructive pursuits and sport. The list of former members here is illustrious and includes the actor Albert Finney, the Busby Babe Eddie Colman and guitarist Graham Nash of the Hollies and Crosby, Stills and Nash."

"You may recognise The Salford Lads’ Club from the famous cover of The Smiths’ hugely popular 1986 album The Queen is Dead, with a bouffant-haired Morrissey and co stood outside its doors. Now you’re in Manchester, you’d be silly not to venture out to this same spot for a Smiths selfie with your fellow travellers. A popular venue for Manc-music fans; head inside to learn more about the band and to buy exclusive merchandise."

"This one is a bit of a trek from the Manchester city center (we went here as part of a private black cab taxi tour of the city), but it is a must-visit spot for music fans. Devotees of The Smiths come from all over the world to recreate their famous photo take in front of the Salford Lads Club for the inside sleeve of their 1986 album, The Queen is Dead. Go have your own Morrissey moment!"

"Seed & Cherry in the trendy Northern Quarter offers a unique artisan coffee experience. Alongside this, you can enjoy breakfast or brunch which includes a variety of healthy and creative recipes served as small plates. Its unique menu means you can try a variety of European and Mediterranean style savoury brunch dishes and still have room for its famous French toast."

"Choose from fresh-baked scones, clotted cream, strawberry jam, savouries, immaculate sandwiches and pastries. All served with exquisite teas or coffees."

"For a lovely day out, head to the Hat Works Museum, the UK’s only museum dedicated to the hatting industry, hats and headwear. Situated on two floors, this fantastic museum tells the wonderful history of this timeless fashion item, with over 400 on display. You can book a group tour led by an expert too so you won’t miss out on anything."

"Italian restaurant, Pasta Factory has always had a great selection of vegan dishes and has even got its own range of homemade vegan cheeses. Plant-based options include Triangoli di Funghi al Tartugo (a mushroom and truffle pasta dish with cashews) and Molle con Crema di Aglio Nero (short pasta with black garlic, shredded red pepper, chillies and almonds). Delivery is available via Uber Eats and Deliveroo."

"Known for delicious homemade pasta, The Pasta Factory has something for everyone. There’s a variety of vegan options, including fresh bucatini pasta dressed in creamy pumpkin sauce and tossed with roasted rosemary porcini and oyster mushrooms). They have their own dairy-free Parmesan, too."

"Lime Bar and Restaurant, located at The Lowry Outlet Mall, features a large outdoor terrace looking out over Salford Quays. The venue offers a drinks menu including cocktails like Lemon Cheesecake - Limoncello, Pinot Frangelico, fresh lemon juice, cinnamon and gingerbread syrup, shaken with cream; Toblerone - Baileys, Frangelico, Kahlua, butterscotch Schnapps with cream; and Mango and Chilli Margarita - chili infused tequila, chili syrup, mango puree and lime. Call 0161 869 0440 or email randal@limeuk.com."

"Located in the hub of Salford Quays, Lime Restaurant and Bar is a brilliant all-day affordable restaurant in Manchester that's sure to satisfy any hunger pangs. Whether you're looking for a light bite, lunchtime dish, dinner feast or pre-theatre plate, you'll find it all at this vibrant spot."