Cheap Flights to Manchester (MAN) from UK Airports

Manchester offers everything the southern cities do, for less.

Manchester is a top-class destination at any time, but when you can find all kinds of fun for free, why not schedule a holiday break?

Stop in at the John Rylands Library on Deansgate. This over-the-top Gothic building was commissioned by the widow of Manchester’s first multi-millionaire in memory of her recently departed husband. The architecture alone is stunning, but also spend some time in the massive reading room or the cathedral-like arched entranceway. Check out the illuminated Middle Ages manuscripts, or the oldest known piece of the New Testament, the St. John Fragment. After all that reading, opt for some music at the Royal Northern College of Music. Students perform at numerous free concerts; check the college schedule for dates, times and places. Whether you prefer classical offerings or avant-garde grunge music, you will find it at the Royal Northern College.

Outside, Heaton Park sits atop a hill and overlooks the city. Plenty of picnic space surrounds children’s play areas, cycle paths, waterways, beehives, and even the grounds of the Commonwealth Bowling Club. Finally, stop at the Whitworth Art Gallery at Manchester University. Art shows that rival London’s best are regularly held here, and often include lectures or interactive demonstrations for curious viewers. Every discipline is showcased, often pushing people to think beyond their old boundaries. Music is also regularly performed here, sometimes by individual students or groups, sometimes by visiting artists. The schedule of performances is available at http://www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk/.