Manchester - City Life

Manchester has grown from the first industrial city, the home of splitting of the atom and the first programmable computer, to be the central hub of the “Powerhouse of the North” of England – an influential, modern, knowledge-based city amongst the top European locations for science, healthcare, education, business and leisure.

The city of Manchester is situated centrally in mainland Britain, about two hours north of Birmingham and four hours outside of London. The region of Greater Manchester is home to some 2.5 million people, but as with the City of London, the City of Manchester has far fewer residents at just over 500,000. It is a city that has roots in ancient history but is now a bustling and unique metropolis.

Victorian architecture dominates the city, although the city's medieval roots can be seen around the Shambles as well as the 500 year old Chetham's School and Library buildings. Today, a new reputation is being built by bold and innovative local architects progressing one of the most ambitious regeneration programmes in Britain.

MUSIC, ARTS & CULTURE

From artistic masterpieces to the history of football, Manchester has an impressive range of museums and galleries, most of which are free. The Museum of Science and Industry brings innovation to life in the world’s oldest railway station, while the Imperial War Museum North demonstrates how war shapes people’s lives. Manchester is also home to the National Football Museum and the People’s History Museum all of which are free to enter.

The Whitworth , the gallery in the park, has recently been announced as the Art Fund's Museum of the Year 2015 and is home to an internationally important collection. Inspiring classic and contemporary art is also on show at the Manchester Art Gallery and you can find a plethora of smaller galleries all over the city. If you're interested in theatre you’ll find everything from opera to comedy to experimental at the Royal Exchange Theatre, HOME, Contact Theatre and The Lowry.

Chetham's Library, founded in 1653, is where Marx met Engels, has the oldest public library in the English-speaking world and is just a short walk from the main conference venue. Similarly the extraordinary and priceless John Rylands Library is close by on Deansgate, and hosts one of the finest collections of rare books, manuscripts and archives in the world.

Opportunities to experience live music in Manchester are as varied as they are exciting. The spectacular Bridgewater Hall is home to the Hallé Orchestra and welcomes musical talent from all over the world. Chamber music, folk, jazz, roots and drum & bass all have their place and major international acts perform regularly in the 20,000 seat Manchester Arena.

FOOD & DRINK

In a city as culturally diverse as Manchester, it’s no surprise that the city has a great reputation for food and drink. You’ll find cuisine from practically every nation and to suit any budget, from high­class dining to top­notch takeaways. We have the UK’s second biggest Chinatown, where you’ll find great Asian restaurants, and the neon­lit ‘Curry Mile’ begins just a short walk from the city centre.

Restaurants, bars and clubs can be found in most parts of the city centre, from the bustling Deansgate Locks and The Printworks to the upmarket Spinningfields and the bohemian Northern Quarter.

SHOPPING

From stylish shopping malls and specialist market stalls to quirky boutiques and vintage treasure troves, the city offers a unique and diverse shopping experience. All of the UK's best known department stores, including Selfridges and Harvey Nichols are all within walking distance of the conference venue.

SPORT

There is no doubting Manchester’s global reputation when it comes to sport. The city is home to world famous football teams and exceptional sporting facilities, so whether delegates want to watch or take part in sport, a fantastic visitor experience is guaranteed. Old Trafford, Lancashire County Cricket Club, the National Cycling Centre, home of British cycling, the Regional Tennis Centre and National Centre for Squash, all host international level sport for those who want to experience the electrifying atmosphere as a spectator.

For more information on sport in Manchester visit here.

Find out more about Manchester at www.visitmanchester.com/conference