As much as we all love Lancaster there are some days when we just need to get out of the city and branch to pastures new. Once all your Lancaster’s options have been exhausted then why not have a fun filled day trip to one of the UK’s hot spots; Manchester. This cosmopolitan city is only an hour away on the train and, with a railcard, a day return is just £10.
So what to do when you get there?
For all you shopaholics out there the Arndale centre is crammed full with all your high street favourites from Topshop to River Island and the Apple store to the Disney shop. Department stores are aplenty and a walk around them is worth it even if it is just for a bit of window shopping. Don’t miss out on the food court in Selfridges either which is my personal favourite with a selection of food stations offering cuisine from around the globe. If you fancy going further afield then there is the Trafford Centre which is packed full of shops, restaurants and coffee shops for when you need to rest and put your feet up after all that retail therapy.
For something a bit different head to The Lowry at Salford Keys, which is only a short tram ride away, to add some culture to your day trip. From theatre productions such as Hamlet to art galleries and comedians such as Jason Manford there is a range of options to suit everyone’s tastes. Head to the website to see what other events they have planned in the near future. www.thelowry.com
The Wheel of Manchester is a tourist attraction that will give you stunning views of the city. At 60 metres high you can get breathtaking 360 degree views of Manchester. Student tickets are £5.50, or £4.95 when booked in advanced, and it is really worth a visit.
Missing the snow? Then head to The Chill Factore which is home to the UK’s longest real snow indoor slope. With a variety of activities including skiing, snowboarding, tubing and the luge, there is definitely an action packed day to be had here. For those of you who are first timers, there are also lessons available with the country’s finest instructors. The prices also include student discount with your NUS card so what are you waiting for.
If after your day of shopping and sightseeing you still have some energy then Manchester has a whole host of options to keep you busy at night. There are trendy bars located at the Printworks where you could spend the evening sampling a cocktail or two. 5th Avenue is a firm favourite with students and a great night out if it’s Indie music that you enjoy listening too. If dance music is more your scene then Sankeys is the place for you. Groove Armada and Eric Prydz are just some of the world famous DJs that have played here.
So there you have it. Plenty of options available for a great day out in Manchester and could distraction from that mountain of work in your room too.
Useful Information
http://www.worldtouristattractions.co.uk/wta_wheel_manchester
http://5thavenuemanchester.com/
