Layovers as a flight attendant are typically 24 hours and usually consist of a whirlwind of sightseeing, eating, and drinking. This layover was different because it was the longest layover I’ve ever had. As the trip was over Thanksgiving, other crew members brought their loved ones so naturally I brought my husband, Daniel. When most people think of Manchester their first thought is probably the famous football team Manchester United, but there is so much more the city has to offer. Manchester is modern with a beautiful town hall, museums, cathedral, murals, and tons of shopping. This was my third-time visiting Manchester and I couldn’t wait to dive deeper into the city. In the height of the industrial revolution Manchester was a hive of activity and the workers inside the textile mills were compared to bees. While walking around the city you will notice a common theme of bees around the city, as it is the symbol of Manchester.
What we did:
John Ryland Library: If you’re a bookworm like me be sure to visit the John Ryland Library. It has a collection of historically significant books including a Gutenberg Bible. The library is linked to Manchester University and the interior looks like it’s straight out of Hogwarts. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet from the city, this is the perfect place to relax.
Christmas Market: The Christmas market is located all over the city, but the largest installment is beside Manchester Town Hall in Albert square. You can eat your way through the market like we did sampling delicacies from across Europe and of course sip mulled wine.
Northern Quarter: Walk the Northern Quarter and gaze at the street art and pop into quirky shops that sell old records, vintage clothes, jewelry, and coffee. The Northern Quarter is most famous for its street art which displays local history, social and political issues.
Day Trip to York: I’ve always wanted to go to York, so we hopped on a train and headed over to the cute and quaint city on Thanksgiving Day. With influences from the Romans, Vikings, Tudors, and Victorians, there’s a whole snapshot of British history in one city. It’s quaint cobbled streets, medieval architecture, tea rooms, and cozy pubs make York a must see. Make sure to see York Cathedral, the city walls, Cliffords Tower, and the Shambles. Also, there are so many cute chocolate shops so make sure to pop in and taste a few delicious handmade chocolates!
Manchester Art Gallery: Travelling isn’t always about hunting down the most instagrammable spots, it’s also your chance to get cultured! While I didn’t visit the art gallery on this trip, I’ve visited in the past and it is a must see. Make sure to check out the gift shop for cute souvenirs!
Oklahoma: One glance in these colorful shop windows and my husband new immediately we would be here awhile. It’s filled with 2000 unusual products from both independent and established producers. Oklahoma holds the crown for the largest shop in Manchester. I’m a sucker for cards with cute illustrations and trinkets to fiddle with so a purchase was inevitable.
What we ate:
Mackie Mayor: Once a meat market from 1858 it reopened in October as a European food hall after being abandoned for over a decade. Grab a pint or a glass of wine and choose from food stalls including fish, pizza, chinese the choices are endless. There are long communal tables to eat from so it’s a nice social eating experience.
The Alchemist: If you’re looking for a unique cocktail, this is the place to go! We went with our crew on our last night in Manchester and everyone ordered different drinks and it was fun to taste and admire their rareness. The modern décor, atmosphere, and comfort in the cool leather chairs made for a fun experience.
Sugar Junction: I ordered afternoon tea which came with a bountiful tiered platter of sandwiches, cakes, jams, clotted cream, and of course tea. It was so fun to sit drink tea and marvel at the vintage décor. Pick from their selection of 18 different teas and coffees or sip on a retro cocktail.
BonBon Chocolate Boutique: After being worn out from walking around the Norther Quarter all day we needed an afternoon treat, so we headed into a tiny black shop with a wooden sign that said “Chocolate.” We were blown away by the delicious hot cocoa and the variety! If your adventurous, go for the chili hot chocolate.
Fig and Sparrow: You all know that I live for a cute coffee shop and Fig and Sparrow is no exception. This coffee shop is even better because they have trendy knick knacks and paper goods to snoop through while enjoying your coffee.
Layover Tips:
- It’s customary to tip 10% in restaurants though it’s not always necessary. Being an American I’m used to always tipping so I tipped 10%
- Make sure you look up Manchester United and Manchester City playing schedule before booking your trip because the city is packed on game days
- Compact and easy to navigate, Manchester is best explored by foot, but don’t forget your raincoat
- Taxi’s from the airport can be pricey but trains are available that take you right into the city center for a fraction of the price