Free Things To Do In Manchester This Summer

If you’re visiting Manchester this summer, you might be visiting on a budget. If you’re looking for a cheap city break away, or just want to save those pennies to splurge on one thing, here are some brilliant free things to do in Manchester this summer…

Manchester Museum Of Science And Industry

From aircraft to steam engines and old computers to industrial innovations, the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry is an incredible place to learn about ideas that have changed the world. The entire museum is free meaning you can see plenty of exhibitions and interactive features without spending a penny. Recently they’ve also had Tim Peakes’ Space Suit on display and you can even discover what it’s like to fly in a Red Arrow jet on the flight simulator!

The Northern Quarter

The Northern Quarter is Manchester’s free outdoor art gallery. With street art on every corner, you can easily spend an afternoon wandering the streets and discovering unique pieces of art that you won’t find anywhere else. There are plenty of coffee shops around the Northern Quarter too so if you do have a few pounds to spend, you can easily pick up a refreshment. If not though, a couple of hours in the Northern Quarter doesn’t have to cost a penny.

Manchester Pride

Manchester Pride happens across 4 days from Friday 24^th August until Monday 28^th August. Several events, including a The Big Weekend Concert and a Candlelit Vigil, happen over the weekend but it’s all centred around the Manchester Pride Parade on Saturday, August 25^th.  Thousands of people take to the streets of Manchester to celebrate the LGBT+ community and also to raise awareness of the inequalities the LGBT+ community face daily.

Caribbean Carnival Of Manchester

On the 11^th and 12^th August, Manchester’s Caribbean Festival descends on Alexandra Park and for a full day of Caribbean music, dance, theatre, and costume. For over 40 years, the Caribbean culture has been celebrated and this year will be no different. If you’re planning to visit, download the guide from the website so you can follow the route and make sure to wear comfortable shoes if you’re dancing along!

The View From 20 Stories

You might have to buy a drink to appreciate this view but entry into 20 Stories is completely free. Visit during the day, or in the evening for a 360° view of Manchester, that’s intended to wow. 20 Stories has recently opened so expect it to be a little busy, especially on a sunny day. Trust us though, a small queue is well worth it to see this view of Manchester, but hope it’s not raining!

The Runway Visitor Park

If you’re an AV geek or have kids that are super interested in aeroplanes, make your way to the Runway Visitor Park at Manchester Airport. Every day from 8am, visitors get a front row seat to watch the aeroplanes come into land. You’re also close enough to the runway to hear the roar of the engines when they take off too! It’s not just viewing platforms though, there are also several planes you can take a tour of including the legendary Concorde and a decommissioned Nimrod aircraft. Refreshments are available from the café on site but there is a picnic area if you do want to bring your own food and drink.

Bee In The City

From July until September, Bee in the City sees over 100 giant bees dotted all over the city of Manchester. This art trail, created by Wild In Art, aims to bring together the communities of Manchester – an incredible display of public art. Each giant bee will have different designs to reflect the city of Manchester and are all sponsored by various businesses from around the city. Keep your eye out on the website for the trail map!

Are you visiting Manchester this summer? Don’t forget, if you are staying at Roomzzz Manchester City or Roomzzz Manchester City Corn Exchange, use #Roomzzz on your social posts for the chance to win a free night at a Roomzzz Aparthotel location of your choice!