Discover 48 awesome things to do in Manchester with teenagers

If you’re looking for a city of history and culture perfect for a holiday or vacation, look no further than Manchester, England.

This vibrant city has something for everyone, from museums to attractions to food and fun. Here are some of the top things to do in Manchester with teenagers when you’re on vacation.

Know before you go. Our top Manchester travel tips

Travelling to England with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family, and Manchester is one of the top family destinations in the United Kingdom. Did you know that Manchester was the birthplace of the industrial revolution?

There are so many things to do in Manchester with young adults, and having information on the best place to stay, how to get around, which currency to use, and more is extremely important. Below is some information for planning a hassle-free family vacation in Manchester, England.

Best places to stay in Manchester for families

Great vacations with teens start with some excellent vacation planning. When planning a trip to Great Britain with teens, you’ll never be short of options for your family’s accommodation in Manchester.

In Manchester, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to England.

Luxury:  The hotel includes a health spa, a restaurant and an onsite bar. The Edwardian Manchester features family suites for your stay in Manchester. You can use the indoor pool and the gym and dine at the onsite restaurant and bar.

Mid Range: Located in Salford, Holiday Inn Express Manchester – Salford Quays is near a metro station for easy access. The hotel has free continental breakfast, in-room free WiFi, and LCD TVs with digital channels. It is located close to the city and the Trafford Centre.

Budget: Located in Manchester City Centre is Ibis Manchester Centre 96 Portland Street. This hotel has a restaurant, bar/lounge and a snack bar/deli. In the rooms, you will find flat-screen TVs with cable channels, a coffee maker and free Wi-Fi.

If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Hotels.com and Trip Advisor to find the best prices in Manchester for your family vacation to England.

Manchester apartment alternative for your stay

If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation on your Great Britain trip with teenagers in Manchester, an apartment is the best choice for your family vacation. Manchester has so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options. You can search VRBO for apartments in Manchester.

If you’re looking for something fancier, discover Plum Guide’s exceptional luxury apartments, handpicked for their stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. With meticulous quality checks and a focus on unique experiences, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Experience the extraordinary and create unforgettable memories in these exceptional accommodations.

How to get to Manchester with teens

Manchester is one of the best family destinations in Europe for family travel with teens. Manchester is one of the biggest cities in the United Kingdom and is connected by several highways, long-distance buses, trains, and planes, all bringing people to the city daily.

This makes Manchester one of the most accessible family travel destinations in Great Britain. Manchester is one of the best family destinations in Europe for family travel with teens.

• Manchester Airport is an international airport at Ringway, Manchester, England, 7.5 nautical miles southwest of Manchester city centre. The airport is served by budget carriers such as Easyjet, Vueling and full-fare airlines like British, Qatar and Singapore Airways.
  • Book flights to Manchester with Kiwi Flights.
    • Book a Manchester Airport to Manchester Centre transfer.

• If your flights have a long stopover or you want to relax before your trip, you should consider getting a lounge pass with a Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass.
• Train travel is a great way to get to Manchester. The rail network in Great Britain is extensive, and you can catch a train to Manchester from several cities, including London, York, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Book your train ticket with Omio.

• Manchester can be reached directly from 9 cities and indirectly anywhere across England, Wales and Scotland. Flixbus tickets are available at great prices. Bus travel with teens in England can add so many wonderful experiences for teens on vacation. Book your bus tickets to Manchester with Flixbus.
• If you plan to go on a road trip with teenagers in England, you can hire a car at any international airport and dealership across the U.K.
• Maybe you want to make a trip cross-country? An RV is a great way to travel to Manchester with teens. Search for an RV hire for your trip to England.

Weather in Manchester

Manchester is best described as a cool weather destination, even in summer. July is the hottest month in Manchester, with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). The coldest month is January, with an average of 4°C (39°F), and pack lightweight base layers to keep warm. The wettest month is October, with an average of 90mm of rain. Make sure you pack a travel umbrella and raincoat.

Manchester for international visitors

International travel to the United Kingdom requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance for sure in Manchester.

Medical care is not cheap; if you want good quality care, it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance. The official currency of England is the Great British Pound.

If you use your bank account from home, you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about,

• For International travellers, travel insurance is a must. Get a quote through Insurance Masters, and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.
• Do you need a visa to visit Manchester? The country of England may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa.
• Load a Revolut Travel Money card with British Pounds dollars for your visit and save on transaction fees.
• Make phone calls with an international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone.
• A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem to pick up at the airport or your hotel. Alternatively, buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet, or computer.

Where can I take my teenager if they are sick?

if you are on holiday with teenagers and they require medical attention that cannot be provided at a walk-in or urgent care centre, I would advise you to take them to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Several hospitals in Manchester have emergency departments, including Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester Children’s Hospital, and Wythenshawe Hospital. The hospital you choose will depend on the nature and severity of your teenagers’ illness, as well as their age and any pre-existing medical conditions.

Things to do in Manchester with teenagers

Now that we have covered all of the essential Manchester travel tips for families, here are the best things to do in Manchester with teenagers.

Manchester Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tour

Family days out in Manchester on the Hop-On-Hop_off bus allows you to see the city’s sights without walking everywhere.

Starting in Chinatown, you can hop on and off at any of the 15 stops on a route that has been carefully planned to include essential Manchester attractions sights such as Salford Quays, the National Football Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry and Manchester United Football Club. Book your seats today.

Play Laser tag in Manchester.

Laser tag is a popular indoor game enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a fun and challenging activity that can be enjoyed in a competitive setting.

In Laser tag, players can represent teams or themselves and try to outsmart their opponents by tagging them with lasers. Laser Tag is a gentler, no-contact version of paintball. Laser Quest is at the Trafford Center in Manchester.

Laser Quest is a mind-blowing multi-level arena with full-on audiovisual effects to make the experience realistic for teenagers in Manchester.

Manchester on a budget travel tip: Have you considered staying in a hostel with your teens when you travel? Read why we love staying in hostels with our teens.

Sealife Manchester with tweens

Manchester Sea Life is part of the ever-popular chain of aquariums that span the world. The Sealife Aquarium in Manchester has some great exhibits, including the Shark Shipwreck and the Lair of the Giant Crab.

Manchester Sealife has a memorable experience you pay extra for, such as diving with sharks. During the day, creature feeds and talks are free. Sealife is one of the fun things to do in Manchester with kids. Book your tickets today.

Legoland Discover Center

Visiting a LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Manchester with tweens and teens promises a memorable experience of creativity and fun.

These interactive attractions offer LEGO-themed activities, from building challenges to 4D cinema experiences. It is located at Trafford Palazzo and has various attractions like LEGO Ninjago City Adventure and Kingdom Quest.

Perfect for engaging young minds, LEGOLAND Discovery Centres provide a memorable and entertaining family vacation experience for tweens and LEGO enthusiasts. Book your tickets today for these Manchester attractions for families.

Book a combined entry ticket to SeaLife Manchester and Lego Discovery Centre and save up to 38% off standard entry prices.

Activities for teenagers in Manchester – Junk Yard Golf

There’s a new mini golf attraction in Manchester, perfect for anyone looking for a fun day out. Junk Yard Golf is in central Manchester and offers three different crazy golf courses, each with its own unique theme.

The course is perfect for families, groups of friends and teenagers, with something to appeal to everyone.

The indoor crazy golf is great for money, with tickets starting at just £8.50 per person. So, if you’re looking for a fun day out in Manchester with teenagers, check out Junk Yard Golf! Under 18 are only permitted on Sunday to Thursday before 6 pm, & must have an over 18 present with them.

The Chill Factor

The Chill Factor Manchester, England, is great for teens to ski and snowboard. They offer skiing and snowboarding lessons, as well as equipment rentals. Suppose you’re looking for a place for family adventure and winter fun.

If your kids are novices, they can take ski and snowboard lessons right in the heart of Greater Manchester. The Chill Factor is the perfect spot to have so much fun and one of the best indoor activities in town.

Related Post: 27 best things to do in Liverpool with teens

Things to do in Manchester with kids – Scavenger hunt

These activities are sometimes called scavenger, treasure, and mystery hunts. They are games played with an app on your phone where you will discover famous and lesser-known sights of the city as you solve clues and tackle challenges to complete the adventure

They are a non-traditional sightseeing tour with a purpose: to keep things interesting. Scavenger hunts provide outdoor adventures for teenagers in Manchester. Some of the best hunts in Manchester are the Manchester Mission Scavenger Hunt, Operation City Quest and The Granite State’s Rock Scavenger Hunt.

See more of England: 40 extraordinary things to do in London with teenagers.

Manchester fun places for teenagers -Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving is a new trend that is catching up with teenagers. It is a safe way to experience the thrill of skydiving without having to go through all the hassle of getting on an aeroplane and going to a place without public transport.

The indoor skydiving facility in Manchester has been attracting many teens looking for exciting and fun activities with a point of difference. Learn more about indoor skydiving in Manchester.

Things to do outdoors in Manchester – disc golf

Disc golf is a great way to get outside and enjoy fresh air while on holiday with family or friends in Manchester. Disc golf is played with a Frisbee, and the game’s object is to throw the Frisbee into a basket.

The disc golf course is set out like a golf course with a certain amount of holes to play in and is usually located in parks or other open areas. You can find a golf course in Manchester at Longford Park Disc Golf Course in Greater Manchester.

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Things to do in Manchester for teenagers – Amusement Arcades

Looking for indoor activities on a rainy day in Greater Manchester? Amusement arcades offer various entertainment options for teenagers as a great way to spend a few hours having fun. They can play the newest video games or indulge in some classic pinball machines of the past.

Some of the more modern arcades will have Laser Tag, bumper cars and indoor mini golf as options. Arcades are popular because they offer things to do that are fun and affordable. Most arcades have food and beverage options for you.

There is a real treat in Manchester, where the Arcade Club is Europe’s largest Video Game arcade. You will find three floors of classic and modern games, something to suit everyone, with a single admission fee to play for as long as you want.

Indoor Rock Climbing in Manchester

Indoor rock climbing offers a great alternative for those who want to enjoy the sport but don’t have easy access to outdoor climbing areas or want something safer. Indoor rock climbing can be found in most major cities, and many offer classes to teach beginners the basics of wall climbing or free climbing for more advanced.

Once you have learned the basics, you can start exploring different routes on the wall. Indoor rock climbing is a great way to get fit and have fun while doing Manchester teenage activities. You can go indoor rock climbing in Manchester at Rock Over Climbing or Depot Climbing Manchester.

Read more: 10 of the best cities in Europe for the best vacations for families with teenagers.

Silent Disco in Manchester

If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Manchester, look no further than a silent disco tour to help you discover Manchester. You, your family and your friends can explore the city while listening and dancing to your great tunes on a hi-tech headset.

Silent discos are becoming increasingly popular with teenagers in Manchester. They provide a safe and enjoyable environment for young people to enjoy themselves as their inhibitions evaporate, and you have fun on the best all-dancing, all-singing walking tour in town.

You’re guaranteed a great time on enjoyable and unique outdoor activities in Manchester. Book your silent disco experience today.

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The Cube

The Cube is an exciting and engaging attraction that offers something for everyone. From adventurous kids to curious adults, there’s plenty to enjoy at this family-friendly destination.

The Cube is based on the popular TV series of the same name and lets you play seven original games from the TV series. You must enter the Cube as a team of two, where you will randomly challenge another team to see who gets the highest amount of points. 

Like the TV show, you will have hosts who guide you through challenges such as the Loop and Synchronicity. If you are a family looking for an afternoon out, The Cube provides social, interactive, high-quality entertainment.

The John Rylands Library

The John Rylands Library is a must-see attraction in Manchester. The library was founded in 1899 by Enriqueta Rylands and her husband, John. It’s now part of the John Rylands Museum, including a gallery and a museum shop.

The library is home to some of the world’s most important books and manuscripts, including the rare Manchester Fragment of the Gospel of St. Luke.

If you’re looking for things to do in Manchester with your teen, the John Rylands Library is a great option. It’s perfect for history buffs, book lovers, and anyone who wants to explore a fantastic piece of architecture. The library is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and admission is free.

Ghost tours

Ghost story tours are a popular activity with teens in cities worldwide. They are usually conducted by a guide who tells stories about the ghosts and legends of the area.

The tour guides often dress in period costumes to add to the atmosphere. To make the experience more authentic, the tours usually take place at night, when it is dark and spooky. In Manchester, some popular tours include the Uppermill Ghost Walk and the Haunted Outdoor Escape Game.

Stand-up paddle boarding in Manchester

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the water on your Manchester holiday, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) might be the thing.

SUP is a relatively new sport that involves standing on a large, surfboard-like paddleboard and using a long paddle to move through the water.

It can be done in lakes, rivers, and oceans and is suitable for all ages and abilities. In Manchester, you can go paddleboarding at the Salford Watersports Centre., where you can take a lesson or hire a board.

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The Runway Visitors Park

For teens interested in aviation, just near Manchester Airport is the Runway visitors’ park. The park offers great views of the airport and the runways, where you can see planes taking off and landing.

The park is also home to a variety of retired planes, including the spectacular supersonic airliner, Concorde G-BOAC; and the former RAF military spy plane, Nimrod. There’s also a DC-10, Avro RJX and a retro Trident airliner. The park is open daily and has a café, toilets, a gift shop and a playground.

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Manchester attractions for teenagers – Paintball

Days out with teens can be exciting and adventurous. Paintball is a fast-paced game that involves running around, shooting opponents with paintballs, and trying to avoid being hit.

The paintballs are spherical pellets made of synthetic rubbers or gelatin designed to break when they come into contact with something or you.

Most courses have abandoned huts, vehicles and other obstacles littered across the course. Geronigo in Manchester has seven zones and a 50-acre paintball course for fun and adventure with teens.

The Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester, England, is one of the largest and most popular tourist attractions in the city.

The museum showcases a rich history of amazing objects and revolutionary ideas. Today, the museum features exhibits on science and technology, cotton and textile production, and interactive experiments for visitors. The museum is great for learning about Manchester’s history and culture.

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Tatton Park

Tatton Park is a historic estate located just a few kilometres outside Manchester that offers a variety of activities suitable for teenagers. You can explore the mansion, learn about the estate’s history, walk or bike through the park, and visit the gardens.

At times during the year, you can watch live performances at the outdoor theatre, attend seasonal events such as the Christmas Mansion, and participate in workshops and activities at the farm.

Things to do with a teenager near me in Manchester -Treetop Trek

Looking for an adventure? Try the treetop trek in Manchester! The zip lines and high ropes are perfect for teenagers looking for a thrill. Teenagers in Manchester can take on the full trek, which involves 20 breathtaking obstacles, including balance bars, swinging logs, Indiana bridges, and 14 thrilling zip lines. The course is sure to give you an adrenaline rush. Find out more about Treetop Trek.

Take a hike at Werneth Low. 

Werneth Low is a popular hiking destination in Greater Manchester, England, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The hike to the summit is moderate in difficulty and is suitable for physically fit teenagers.

The walk is approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) round trip, and it takes about 1.5-2 hours at your own pace to complete. The trail is well-maintained, but there are some steep inclines and uneven terrain, so wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a great view of Manchester and the surrounding countryside. Spend days out in Greater Manchester exploring.

Things to do in Manchester with teenage girls – High Tea

High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and tea. For mothers and daughters, it’s often a memorable experience.

If you want something to do with teenage girls in Manchester, you should experience high tea firsthand. You will find High Tea offered at some places in the city. 

You will find the best High Tea and afternoon teas in Manchester at The Richmond Tea Rooms, The Sugar Junction, and Afternoon Tea at The Library, The Edwardian Manchester.

Mum and daughter activities in Manchester – Day Spa

How about a mum-and-daughter bonding day in Manchester with a day spa experience? Enjoy a relaxing day experiencing saunas, steam rooms, massages, beauty treatments and pool areas. There are several choices in Manchester, including Pure Spa and Beauty and Rena Spa at the Midland

Nerf Action Experience – things to do in Manchester for teens

For family days out in Manchester, head to the Nerf Action Experience

. NERF Action Xperience (NERF AX) is a massive 35,000 sq ft indoor arena dedicated to NERF adventures in Manchester. You can play various themed zones and challenging battlegrounds. After playing, Archie’s onsite cafe has food and drinks, where the winner can celebrate.

Rage Rooms

Rage rooms are cool things to do in Manchester with teens. These unique spaces provide a safe and exciting outlet for teenagers to smash stuff like glassware and electronics.

It’s an empowering and unconventional experience in a controlled and safe environment. Add a rage room to any Manchester with teens itinerary.

Spot a Manchester Bee

The Bee is the symbol of Manchester, England. It gained significance during the Industrial Revolution, representing the hardworking Mancunian and the city’s buzzing hive of manufacturing.

Today, the worker bee symbol can be seen all over the city on planer boxes, poles, street mosaics and more. How many Bees can you find in Manchester?

The most Instagrammable shots in Manchester

The best family vacations for teens always incorporate something they love. Social media is essential to travel teens, and Instagram is one of the most popular photo apps for teens on holiday.

With Instagram and social media playing a significant part in the lives of travelling teenagers, we have some great places for Instagram photos in Manchester.

We recommend visiting John Rylands Library, Manchester Town Hall and The Phone booths on St Peter Square for the best Instagram shots in Manchester.

Alternatively, book yourself an Instagram tour with a guide who will take you to all the hotspots in the city. Check prices on the best Instagram tours in Manchester.

Manchester Tiktok inspiration

If you need some inspiration, look no further than TikTok. This app is full of creative content and talented creators from Manchester.

From fashion to beauty to DIY, there’s something for everyone on TikTok. Here are a few of our favourite Manchester TikTok accounts to help inspire you and plan your vacation.

Street Art in Manchester

Street art is found worldwide but is especially prevalent in major cities. Cities are home to a wealth of street art, from graffiti on building walls to pieces painted on lanes and bridges.

Street art provides a unique aesthetic for these places, with topics including current events, pop culture, portraits and more. Street art is a trendy free thing in Manchester and attracts tourists and teenagers alike.

Street Art in Manchester can be found in the Northern Quarter. This district is a hub for creativity and features abundant street art. Explore Tib Street, Stevenson Square, and the surrounding alleys for colourful murals and graffiti.

Get Event tickets for Manchester attractions and activities

For concerts, theatre, stage shows and sporting events, search Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster is an online marketplace to book live entertainment events such as concerts, sports, and theatre. Search Ticketmaster for a special event when you are visiting Manchester with teenagers.

10 Pin Bowling in Manchester with teenagers

If you’re looking for a fun, friendly family competition in Manchester with teenagers then 10-pin bowling might be just the family activity for you and your teen travellers.

You can go 10-pin bowling in Manchester with kids at several different locations in the city centre, and 10-pin bowling has to be one of the best family-friendly things to do in Manchester with teenagers. 

Most bowling alleys are entertainment centres featuring amusement, food and drink options. You will find some of the best bowling locations in Manchester below.

• Hollywood Bowl Manchester – 26 lanes, American-themed diner, bar and amusements area. Located at Ashton Leisure Park, Fold Way, Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester.
• Tenpin Manchester Printworks – The Printworks, 27 Withy Grove, Manchester M4 2BS, United

Things to do in Manchester with teenagers – Axe Throwing

Axe Throwing is a new phenomenon that is sweeping around the world. Manchester is home to Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing.

No experience is required, as the staff at Whistle Punks will run you through the safety precautions before giving tips and hints on how best to throw an axe.

If you are looking for unique experiences for teenagers in Manchester, then axe throwing could be it. Axe Throwing is one of the awesome things to do in Manchester on your family vacation. For more information and pictures, click here.

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Family holidays in Manchester – Going to the cinema

Great vacations with teens have a mix of everything! Watching a movie is popular with teenagers anywhere in the world. Going to the cinema with teenagers when visiting Manchester is a great evening activity. You will find state-of-the-art screens and sound to watch the latest blockbusters in Manchester cinemas.

In Manchester, multiplex, Imax, 3d and specialty cinemas show art-house and indie films. A cinema is one of the best places to visit in Manchester at night with teens. You can use this Trip Advisor guide to the best cinemas in Manchester.

Escape rooms in Manchester for older teens

For those new to Escape rooms, this is a quick run down. An escape room, also known as an escape game, is a physical adventure game in which players solve puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategies to complete the objectives.

Escape rooms may consist of a large, single room or multiple rooms. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot hidden within the rooms.

If your travelling teen likes this stuff, it is one of the top things to do in Manchester with teenagers. You can find 2 of the best Manchester Escape rooms below.

• Breakout Manchester High Street – 36 High St, Manchester M4 1QB, United Kingdom

• Exit The Room Manchester – 1 Joiner St, Manchester M4 1PH, United Kingdom
• Crystal Maze – St Johns, Lower Byrom St, Manchester M3 4FP, United Kingdom

Going to the gym in Manchester for young adults

Fitness is very important to many teenagers, and being on a family vacation in England is no reason to miss a session. Working out is a big part of a healthy lifestyle. Just because one is travelling does not mean you need to stop working out.

In Manchester, you can go to several gyms that sell passes ranging from a day to a week and a month. You can find a list of gyms that offer day passes in Manchester here.

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Shopping in Manchester with teens

Shopping with teenagers in Manchester can be an exciting and challenging experience while on vacation.

Teenagers often have unique tastes and preferences regarding fashion and entertainment, making it important to find shopping destinations that cater to their interests. 

On the other hand, shopping can also be an opportunity to bond with teenagers and explore the local culture through fashion and retail. Grabbing a memorable souvenir could be one of the best things in Manchester for young adults to do,

Manchester is known for its Market Street, Trafford Centre and Arndale shopping. Manchester is also home to some of the UK’s most stylish boutique shops. The city has much to offer shoppers, whether looking for high-end fashion or unique homewares. Here are some of the best places to shop in Manchester.

The Arndale Centre is one of Manchester’s biggest shopping centres, and it has a wide range of retailers, including large chain stores and independent boutiques. The Arndale Centre also has a food court with many restaurants, and plenty of parking spaces are available.

Market Street is another popular shopping destination in Manchester. It’s lined with high-end fashion stores, jewellery shops and other luxury brands. You can easily spend days out shopping in Greater Manchester.

Free things to do in Manchester with teens

Manchester offers some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free Manchester activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without spending any money.

There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and shops where you can shop for souvenirs without breaking the bank. Some of our recommendations for free activities in Manchester for families are:

Annual Events in Manchester

Manchester is a city with a rich culture and history. Many annual events occur in the city and can be enjoyed by families and teens when visiting. Some of these events include:

• Manchester Day Parade is a colourful celebration held in June. Manchester Day Parade features vibrant floats, performances, and a festive atmosphere. Families can enjoy the parade, street food, and various activities throughout the day.
• Manchester Day of the Dead Parade is celebrated in November. The Day of the Dead Parade offers a unique and visually stunning experience.
• Manchester Literature Festival, held in October, includes family-friendly events, such as storytelling sessions, workshops, and activities designed to engage young readers and aspiring writers.

These events help to make Manchester a vibrant and exciting city to visit on your next family travel vacation.

Fun things to do in Manchester this weekend with teens

There are numerous things to do in Manchester this weekend, such as shopping, eating street food, attending cultural festivals, and exploring renowned museums.

On any given weekend in Manchester, you will find many events, such as concerts, markets, festivals and sporting activities. Search the Visit Manchester website for things to do in Manchester today.

Day trips from Manchester with teens

While staying in the city with teenagers on your family holiday may be the most straightforward option on your family vacation to Manchester.

There are some fun trips for teenagers from Manchester to make out of the city, too. The best vacations for teenagers usually include at least one day trip from Manchester.

Below are a couple of day trip recommendations for families travelling with teenagers. There are also so many more things to do on your vacation with teenagers when you add a day trip from Manchester.

York day trip from Manchester

The city of York in North Yorkshire, England, is home to one of England’s most historic and impressive cathedrals. The remains of the historic castle and the York Castle Museum are popular for teens in York on day trips.

The National Train Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history of trains and locomotives in England and abroad. The walls and gates of the city are also worth a visit, as is the High Street with its many shops and restaurants.

Finally, visitors should not miss out on visiting the Jorvik Viking Centre and the York Dungeons.

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Liverpool

Liverpool is only a few miles down the road or train track from Manchester. Liverpool is like a new city with many redevelopments in recent years with money from the EU development fund.

Today, you will find a modern city that comes alive along its waterfront to the Mersey River, with museums, attractions, shopping, and food in this area.

Top attractions for teenagers in Liverpool include The Tate Museum, The Beatles Experience and the Merseyside Maritime Museum.

While at the waterfront, you should not miss catching the famous ferry across the Mersey River.  Opposite the Albert Dock, you will find the Liverpool One Shopping Centre and entertainment area.

There are over 170 shops featuring Sketchers, Apple, Victoria’s Secret, Lego, and Disney for families visiting Liverpool and 3000 car parking places. No visit is complete for football fans without a visit to Anfield, the home of Liverpool FC.

The Lake District for day trips from Manchester

Lake District, England, is famed for its stunning beauty, with crystal clear lakes, rugged mountains and rolling green hills.

Visitors can enjoy various activities and experiences in the Lake District, such as visiting Market towns like Kendal, Ambleside and Keswick on scenic Derwentwater. You can go hiking and biking and visit the Lake District’s castles and galleries of local art.

The Peak District

The Peak District is a beautiful national park in central England, just a short drive from Manchester. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the rolling hills and valleys and explore charming villages and historic landmarks.

A great way to spend a day in the Peak District is to take a scenic drive through the park, stopping at some top attractions. Some of the must-see sights include Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, and the village of Castleton. One of the best Santa stream trains runs from Matlock Station for families who love Christmas time.

With its breathtaking scenery and rich history, the Peak District is a perfect day trip destination from Manchester.

Things to do in Manchester for young adults

In Manchester, there is no shortage of exciting activities for young adults. With its vibrant arts and culture scene, rich history, and energetic nightlife, the city offers a diverse range of things to do.

For those seeking a dose of creativity, the Manchester Art Gallery showcases various works spanning various periods and genres. Additionally, the iconic Manchester Museum provides an opportunity to explore natural history, archaeology, and anthropology all under one roof.

Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at the famous Old Trafford stadium, home to the legendary Manchester United football club. Young adults looking for a thrilling night out can venture into the city’s lively Northern Quarter, known for its trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues. For clubbing, head to Lola Lo and Satans Hollow.

Exploring the vibrant street art scene in the city is a must, with numerous murals and graffiti adorning the walls of Manchester’s streets.

Whether it’s immersing oneself in the city’s cultural offerings, cheering on a favourite sports team, or simply enjoying a dynamic nightlife, there is an abundance of things to do in Manchester for young adults.

Fun restaurants in Manchester for teens

Whether you want to try the local cuisine at a quaint eatery or enjoy a burger at an international chain, gathering for dinner as a family during vacation is a must at the end of the day. It’s a great time when everyone can unwind and share their experiences and memories of the days spent in Manchester.

Hard Rock Cafe in Manchester 

Dine at the Hard Rock Café in Manchester and be surrounded by Rock music memorabilia while dining down on ribs, burgers, seafood and more. Catch the latest sports and live music in this centrally located restaurant in Manchester.

Hard Rock is always a fun experience for teens in Manchester, with something always happening, from live music nights to live sports on the big screens. Book your Hard Rock experience with priority seating and a meal.

Albert’s Schloss German restaurant beer hall

Albert’s Schloss is a German restaurant in Manchester, England. The restaurant has its own distinct atmosphere inspired by a modern Bavarian feel.

The restaurant has an extensive menu, from traditional German fare to pizzas and burgers. Albert’s Schloss Manchester is known for its excellent beer selection and wide range of food items, including sausages, schnitzels, strudels and more German classics. Albert Schloss is open all day, serving breakfast to dinner and drinks late into the evening.

Street food in Manchester

Street food is popular in many parts of the world. It’s a quick and easy way to get delicious food without going to a full restaurant. Street food can be found in many different styles and options.

Some of the most well-known street foods include tacos in Mexico, Zapiakanka in Poland, dan dan noodles in China, and shawarma in Middle Eastern countries.

Street food in Manchester often originates in the culture of people who have immigrated to England. Some of the most popular Manchester street foods include chips with cheese and gravy, pork pie, and fish and chips.

Read More: 35 breathtaking things to do in Paris with teenagers

Frequently asked questions about Manchester

Many frequently asked questions about Manchester, especially from families travelling with teenagers. 

Manchester is one of Europe’s best family city breaks and a place to vacation with teenagers. There are many things to consider when planning your family vacation to Manchester. Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Manchester to help you make your family vacation to England easy and hassle-free.

Where are the best places to stay in Manchester for teenagers

At the top of the article, we suggest some accommodation choices for your holiday in Manchester with the kids. If you are looking for a wider variety of choices for your family stay in Manchester with teenagers. Below is an interactive map from Booking.com to find your perfect stay for your Manchester vacation.

Booking.com

Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more for your vacation with young adults? Are you just not sure what travel companies you can trust to book your family travel online? We have a family travel resource page that is full of companies that we personally use, trust and book through for all our family vacation trips from a weekend away to long-term travel with older children around the world. Click here to search our travel resources page.

We hope our article here at Wyld Family Travel inspires you to visit Manchester with teenagers. There are so many things to do in Manchester, North East England, with teenagers that will entertain you for your family’s whole stay there.

Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations, working out a budget, deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials, and more can be time-consuming. Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful, and finding the best travel tips is essential. 

Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

For more amazing ideas on where to holiday in England, click through to our England Destination Guide page for more brilliant inspiration.

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More travel inspiration for your trip to England

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