If you’re looking for an excuse to plan a day out in Manchester this August, we have some inspo for you. Honda is bringing an exciting pop-up to Exchange Square from August 20–23, celebrating the launch of the all-new electric Honda Super-N. The pop-up is open from 10am–8pm on August 20–22 and 11am–6pm on August 23, and it’s the perfect opportunity to check out the new car while exploring everything the area has to offer this August. From live music and great art exhibitions to delicious food spots – we’ve rounded up the best recs to help you make the most out of your day in the city.
1. Grab a bite at Exhibition Manchester food hall
Not just your average food market, Exhibition brings together three independent food sellers with table service, a dedicated cocktail bar and live DJs. You can take advantage of the rotating food and drinks menu and enjoy multiple food sellers under one roof all with the vibes of a sitdown restaurant.
2. See world class art at at Aviva Studios
If you’re after a dose of culture in the city, make time for internationally renowned artist and activist Ai Weiwei’s Button Up! at Aviva Studios. Bringing together monumental installations and new works created especially for Manchester, the exhibition explores themes of trade, empire and globalisation, with the title acting as a playful nod to the artist’s ongoing battle with censorship.
3. Marvel at the All-New Honda Super-N at an interactive pop-up
If that dose of creative inspiration leaves you wanting more, you won’t have to wander far. In Exchange Square, Honda is keeping the visual excitement going with a free, interactive pop-up celebrating the launch of their brand-new compact EV, the Super-N. Open August 20 – August 23, this immersive installation seamlessly merges a playful, retro ‘toy-box’ for you to step inside and snap the ultimate selfie, featuring a futuristic ceiling made of 500 LED lights that transform the space into a spectacular light show as day turns to night. Explore the vehicle’s small car, big fun interior, packed with exciting features including BOOST Mode, test out the magic seats, and capture a few vibrant photos against the glowing backdrop and have a spin of the Prize Wheel for your chance to win a Super-N goody before heading for a Summer day out.
4. Hear live music at One Eight Six
If you like your live music with a side of history and a touch of secrecy, make your way to One Eight Six. Tucked behind a hidden barbershop entrance beneath the iconic Grade II-listed courthouse at 186 Deansgate, this stylish speakeasy has a different soundtrack every night of the week. Head down on Thursdays for soul, Fridays for R&B, Saturday for party tunes or round off the weekend with Afrobeats and more R&B on Sundays.
5. Challenge your friends at Electric Shuffle
This spot gives shuffleboard a whole new lease on life. Head to Electric Shuffle to go head-to-head with your friends, sliding pucks into scoring zones while interactive technology keeps track of every shot. Better yet, cameras capture all the action, so you’ll have plenty of hilarious replays and memories to look back on. If you’ve got a penchant for a bit of healthy competition, this is the perfect place to let your competitive side shine.
6. See the city from above at 20 Stories
If you’re spending the day exploring Manchester, it’s worth taking a moment to admire the city from above. 20 Stories is Manchester’s tallest restaurant, sitting – you guessed it – 20 storeys high. Order a modern British dish and a delish cocktail and soak up sweeping views across the city skyline while you take a well-earned break from exploring.
7. Sip on some afternoon tea at Cloud 23
If you’d rather take in the skyline over afternoon tea than dinner and cocktails, head to Cloud 23 for its Sky High Afternoon Tea. Served Thursday to Monday, there’s nothing more indulgent than afternoon tea with a view. The menu features savoury treats, freshly baked scones and delicate cakes, of course, paired with your choice of premium teas.
8. Discover upcoming artists at the Manchester Open
Art lovers, if you’re spending a day out in Manchester this August, the Manchester Open should be firmly on your itinerary. Held every two years, the exhibition, taking place at Home Gallery, celebrates the creative talent found across Greater Manchester, showcasing work from first-time artists and emerging creatives to established professionals. This year’s exhibition features 420 artists making it the perfect opportunity to discover your next favourite Mancunian artist.
9. Get a canalside bite at Albert’s Shed
Round off your day with dinner overlooking one of Manchester’s most picturesque spots. Perched right on the canalside in Castlefield, Albert’s Shed pairs waterside views with generous comfort food and a lively atmosphere. Tuck into everything from steaks and hearty pies to a selection of nibbles to share. Planning your day out on a Sunday? Their roast is definitely worth making time for.
10. Dance into the night at Freight Manchester
Few places do a summer evening quite like Freight Manchester. The buzzing spot is home to a rotating programme of DJs alongside an impressive selection of independent food traders, including Nell’s Pizza and Mia’s Arepas meaning you can spend the night hopping between dancing, feasting and sampling some of the city’s best street food.
