The Christmas decorations are down, the weather is down, and our bank balances are down – but that doesn’t mean we have to be! There are so many free and low-cost things to do in Manchester when you’re on a budget. If you’re wanting some ideas, then read on…
Manchester’s Free City Centre Bus
One way to see the city is to jump onto one of Manchester’s free busses! They’re a great way to see the city centre, to keep out of the rain – and they really are completely free! The free busses stop at all the major train stations (and many other stops in-between) simply look out for the yellow ‘free bus stop’ signs, and the yellow free busses! Check out the route HERE.
This and That Curry House
There are lots of great January deals and cheap eats to be found in Manchester, but there’s one for me thast sits above the rest… 1982 marked the opening of the Hacienda, the opening of Affleck’s Palace… and also the beginning of this culinary institution tucked away in Manchester’s Northern Quarter! This and That is the original ‘three curries and rice’ canteen, where you can get fed for just over a fiver. There’s a reason this place is so dearly loved!
Manchester’s Free Museums and Art Galleries
If you’re an international visitor, it may surprise you to know that nearly all Manchester’s museums, libraries and art galleries are free. There are so many to choose from, but new visitors should be sure to check out John Rylands Library, the Museum of Science and Industry and the Whitworth Park Art Gallery.
Northern Quarter Street Art
The streets are free! Manchester’s street art is constantly evolving, particularly in the Northern Quarter. Why not walk down Tib Street: look beneath your feet for a poem by Lemn Sissay, look above for sculptures of animals, and look on the walls for murals and specially designed street signs. If you want a more detailed look at the Northern Quarter, we run tours of the area and its art on a private basis.
Mayfield Park
Due to shock-nature of Manchester’s industrialisation, there is a lack of green spaces in the city centre. However, if you don’t wish to travel out of the centre, you might want to visit Mayfield Park – the first city park in Manchester for 100 years! It incorporates the areas industrial heritage, ancient wildflower and wetland species, as well as modern spaces for play and events that invites everyone to enjoy Mayfield!
XS Malarkey Comedy Night
A comedy night that’s run since 1997, and feels almost like a community, with local hero Toby Hadoke inviting comedy lovers into front room (not literally I should add)… and it’s only £6 for non-members. Sometimes the acts are up-and-coming, other times its well-known acts who are preparing for upcoming shows - either way you are guaranteed to come away from XS Malarkey having laughed a lot.
The Free Walking Tour of Manchester
Okay, yes, I’m sorry - I must include the walking tour in this list! The free tour of Manchester runs Every Day at 11am. Your Manchester tour guide, who will be wearing a blue coat with our compass logo, will meet guests by the Alan Turing Memorial in Sackville Gardens. It’s a fun and informative experience through our must-see attractions and lesser-known quirks in which you’ll be told the story of Manchester. You’ll also get great insider-tips and recommendations from your local Mancunian guide. The best part is, we only ask that you tip what you think the walking tour was worth at the end, relative to your budget!
If you have any more specific questions regarding things to do in Manchester on a budget, feel free to send me an email: josh@fmwt.co.uk