16 Photos That Will Change The Way You See Manchester

From a luxury hotel to the coolest neighbourhood about, these images prove that it's not all grey and grim up north.

1. The John Rylands Library

Flickr: eskimo_jo / Creative Commons

You may be put off from visiting Manchester due to its lack of world-renowned monuments, but for the John Rylands Library – a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture – you should definitely make an exception. Thanks to its fan-vaulted ceilings and bronze metalwork, this picturesque interior is one of the best Insta-opps in the UK.

2. Takk coffee

@takkmcr / Via Instagram: @takkmcr

Part of Manchester’s allure is the fact that it plays host to a plethora of charming boutique cafés. So if you have a hankering for 'nduja and eggs or a piping hot French press, you won’t have to look far. For one of the finest spots in town, Takk – an Icelandic-inspired coffee shop – is the place to go.

3. Fletcher Moss, Didsbury

Flickr: edwardjohnprichard / Creative Commons

With its undulating pathways and well-manicured rock and heather gardens, the 21-acre oasis of tranquility that is Fletcher Moss Park makes for an idyllic Saturday afternoon stroll.

4. Whitworth Art Gallery

Flickr: yellowbookltd / Creative Commons

Following its £15 million redevelopment two years ago, the Whitworth Art Gallery has elevated its status to become one of the country’s finest cultural establishments, winning the Art Fund Museum of the Year award in 2015 along the way. Inside you’ll find works by Manet, J.M.W. Turner, and other modern masters.

5. Manchester Pride

Flickr: manchesterfire / Creative Commons

Few sights are more beautiful than the annual Manchester Pride celebration. Held over a weekend in summer, the festival honours the city’s LGBT community and injects a shot of colour, vivacity, and love throughout the Mancunian population.

6. The French

@thefrenchmcr / Via instagram.com

Even though the city doesn't have a Michelin star, its eateries are among the best in Europe. Make sure to check out The French, a sleek fine-dining restaurant that serves up some gastronomic delights at reasonable prices.

7. The Alan Turing statue

Flickr: sherrlock / Creative Commons

Mancs will attest that history is made in their home city – and this statue of Alan Turing is a testament to that belief. During his time at the University of Manchester, Turing revolutionised the way we live now, conducting groundbreaking research in order to design the modern-day computer. Today, his statue sits in Sackville Park as a reminder of his contribution to society.

8. The University of Manchester

Flickr: pohjoshua / Creative Commons

While we're on the topic of intellect, the University of Manchester is currently positioned 34th in the QS World Rankings. Moreover, with over 1,000 courses on offer and a booming nightlife just down the road, you'll be incredibly attempted to apply there.

9. Sinclair's Oyster Bar

Mike Peel / commons.wikimedia.org

This Tudor-style pub is a popular destination for both locals and travellers afar. Why? Because its cheap pints, vibrant atmosphere, and cosy nooks and crannies make it the perfect location to hide away from the harsh northern weather.

10. The Northern Quarter

Josh Lee

Whether you’re on the hunt for a few records or simply want to indulge in some artisanal baked goods, the Northern Quarter is the place to be. Famous for its independent shops, street art, cultural attractions, and buzzy nightlife, this neighbourhood is where the true hipster was born.

11. Hotel Gotham

@hotelgotham / Via instagram.com

As edgy and independent as Manchester is, it also has a more grandiose side. One of the beacons of its luxury hotel scene, Gotham is the north’s go-to escape for those seeking a weekend of hedonism.

12. The pies

Flickr: sue_langford / Creative Commons

Hands down, you won't find a better pie anywhere else but Manchester. Whether it's paneer and spinach or a classic meat-and-potato, we've got them.

13. Oi Polloi

@joshualeeme / Via Instagram: @joshualeeme

At upmarket menswear mecca Oi Polloi, shoppers will find a range of wardrobe essentials such as Sunspel T-shirts, APC jumpers, and orSlow denim. Better still, as it’s all housed inside a bijou-size store it’ll feel as though you’re browsing an exclusive hand-selected collection of goods.

14. Old Trafford

Richard Heathcote / Getty Images

Regardless of which team you support, not many experiences will better a night at the Theatre of Dreams. Here you’ll see Paul Pogba and co. strut their stuff in front of a passionate crowd of 75,000.

15. Manchester Christmas markets

Flickr: manchester-city-council / Creative Commons

If you’re ever in need of an onslaught of Yuletide joy, make sure to visit any one of Manchester’s Bavarian-themed markets during the festive season. The gargantuan Santa Claus that sits atop the town hall is enough reason for you to go.

16. The cityscape

Getty Images

If this vista doesn’t scream "must-visit metropolis", then I don’t know what does…