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27 July 17 - by Chris Peddy
Things to do in Manchester during the AJ Bell PSA World Championships
Manchester will soon play host to the world’s grandest squash tournament and the sport’s finest players. Fans from around the world will travel to the vibrant UK city to support their stars. But there is plenty to see in the city besides the squash to make your experience memorable.
Christmas celebrations will be in full swing at the December event, with decorations and markets to see and explore.
The championships run from Saturday 9th to Sunday 17th and here we have suggested some of the city’s highlights to check out while you’re here.
Manchester Christmas Markets
The world-famous markets feature nearly 350 stalls spanning 10 distinctive market sites, transforming the city centre in to a festive wonderland. Soak up the atmosphere and follow the market trail as it winds through the city centre, tempting you with gifts, crafts, jewellery, clothes and toys. European and local producers offer everything from fine amber jewellery, handcrafted leather bags and top-quality bonsai trees, to handmade Belgian kitchenware, framed photo prints and French soaps.
Walking tours
Take an entertaining tour around the city centre with a friendly and knowledgeable guide, and get a taste of the history, architecture and culture in Manchester. See the major sights including Manchester Town Hall, Manchester Cathedral and the Royal Exchange. Tours run every day, year round, including bank holidays. No booking is required, just turn up and pay the guide direct on the day.
Pelé exhibit at the National Football Museum
Pelé: Art, Life, Football looks at the stages of the Brazilian icon's life; from Santos to New York via four World Cups, through the eyes of artists and photographers around the world.
In addition to a superb collection of art inspired by the man, the National Football Museum has brought together iconic items from its own collection and those owned by private collectors to illustrate the life and career of the first man to truly transcend the global game.
Hit the Slopes
Home to the UK’s longest indoor ski slope, Chill Factore offers visitors the chance to get a taste for skiing or snowboarding with fun taster sessions where seasoned professionals can hit the slopes with a number of lift passes to choose from. If you’re already feeling the cold a little too much, test your strength on the 12-metre climbing wall, or simply relax in one of the après-ski bars.
Architecture
The John Rylands Library is an incredible piece of architecture in one of Manchester’s most impressive buildings. Nestled between the busy Spinningfields district and Deansgate, this masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture looks more like a castle or cathedral than a library.
Discover incredible exhibitions, take a seat in the impressive reading room or just appreciate the sheer beauty of the place. Central Library sits in the heart of the city near to the Town Hall and there are fascinating hotels scattered all around Manchester.
Meet Stan the T-Rex
Explore the world and more at Manchester Museum, with collections ranging from a fossilised Tyrannosaurus Rex named Stan to anthropology collections from South America. With permanent exhibits and regular special exhibitions, there’s always a good reason to visit.
Intu Trafford Centre
Restaurants, bars, a cinema and shops, shops, shops – there’s something for everyone at Manchester's premier shopping destination.
Sport
One city, two teams – 15 Premier League titles. Whether you’re red, blue or completely neutral, the city is steeped in history with two amazing football grounds. Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium sits south west of the city near to the Trafford Centre and Emirates Old Trafford – home to Lancashire County Cricket Club. Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium is part of the 2002 Commonwealth Games legacy at Etihad Campus, formerly known as Sportcity, just a stone’s throw away from the National Squash Centre.
Food and Drink
The city has a wealth of pubs, bars and restaurants to keep you busy throughout the week. Enjoy a glass of wine at the classy Castlefield/Deansgate Locks area, a cocktail in the creative bars of Spinningfields or a craft beer in the hipster Northern Quarter.
