Manchester is the second largest city in England, with a population of 2.6 million people. Manchester lies at the heart of northwest England, and is the principal city in the area, regarded by many as the capital of the North.

Manchester has a reputation for being rainy - we have to admit that it is wise to bring an umbrella. In September, the temperature falls between 10 - 20°C (2004 average: 13°C).

Manchester is the world's first industrial city, source of the Industrial Revolution which has transformed the way of life throughout the world. Manchester started nearly 2000 years ago as a Roman settlement, and during the Middle Ages was a small market town. The city's rapid development occurred during the 18th and 19th centuries, when it became the centre of the textile manufacturing industry, leading to its nickname Cottonopolis. Manchester's manufacturing heyday ended in the mid 20th century and today the heavy industry has gone. The city now has mixed economy with a balance between commerce, manufacturing and service industries.

Manchester was renowned for its advances in engineering, linked to the cotton industry. The success of the railway link between Manchester and Liverpool, begun in 1830, led to the development of railways around the world. The city is also linked to a number of scientific achievements. John Dalton's work on Atomic theory in 1803 was the precursor to modern chemistry. It was in the University of Manchester that Ernest Rutherford split the atom in 1919. The world's first electronic computer, nicknamed the Baby was developed in Manchester in 1948.

Manchester's architecture reflects the city's industrial heritage. Municipal buildings are typically grand, Victorian Gothic. Many former warehouse buildings have been converted into attractive apartment blocks, whilst retaining the original Victorian façades. The Victorian Central station e.g. is now an Exhibition Centre, but still retains its character as a grand station. Not all buildings are 19th century. A few medieval buildings remained. There is also a wealth of modern, architecturally interesting buildings, such as the Bridgewater Hall, the home of the Hallé orchestra. Suggestions for sightseeing can be found here. If you want to explore Manchester, many places of interest are within easy walking distance  -  here are some tips.

A brief guide to Manchester's cultural and historical attractions can be found here.

A list of our favourite restaurants, pubs and bars in Manchester city centre is in preparation and can be accessed here.