Best Shopping Malls in North Downs 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."

"Tiny nanobrewery Öl has its own brew kit on-site and makes some fabulous concoctions. But, as a result of the tiny set-up, their own beers usually sell out incredibly fast, so they stock a range of others too. Find them at Hatch on Oxford Road in one of the shipping containers."

"Hatch is a hip and trendy box park located on Oxford Road, close to the University of Manchester. You can head there for drinks or food or shopping. Moreover, you can take some nice photos there."

"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."

"Have you even visited Manchester if you haven’t shared a photograph of the mosaic sign outside Affleck’s?. The iconic sign reading ‘and on the sixth day, God created Manchester’ is surely one of the most popular photos of Manchester city centre on Instagram with many tourists and locals flocking to Short Street to admire the piece of art. Affleck’s, Short Street, Manchester, UK"

"I ended up at the massive building of ‘Afflecks’, which turned out to be “An Emporium of Eclecticism“, meaning it was full of shops selling random shit, basically. Afflecks is an indoor market with dozens of independent stalls, small shops and boutiques, some of them quite strange, but also a lot of them with awesome handmade goods."

"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."

"Cult favourite Rudy’s has seen quite the expansion this year, with new restaurants in both Leeds and Sale in 2020. The latest addition to Greater Manchester – in Sale – opened just last month during the November lockdown, and is serving up their delicious Neapolitan pizzas for click and collect and Deliveroo to South Mancunians now. Rudy’s, 2 Northenden Rd, Sale, M33 3BR."

"The sun has made a welcome return to Manchester, so make the most of the fine weather with our pick of the best places to eat and drink alfresco – because it will probably be throwing it down again next week. And don’t forget to slap on Factor 30. Factor 50 if you’re ginger."

"One hell of a pretty restaurant in Manchester, Gusto brings a sophisticated taste of Milan to Lloyd Street. Indulge in fresh plates of pasta while making eyes at one another over handpicked bottles of vino, all against a a backdrop of romantic 1920s-style decor."