When it’s cold and raining in Manchester, pretty much 90% of the time, every street feels never-ending. We’ve all felt as though we’ve walked miles up Market Street or Rochdale Road, but which actually is the longest street? Perhaps no surprise to most Mancs, Deansgate is the longest street in Manchester.
At a stunning one mile long, yes, it’s official, Deansgate is the longest singular street from end to end in Manchester city centre. It’s also one of the city’s oldest streets as it existed in Roman times. So, essentially, we’re justified in having a bit of a meltdown when we realise we need to get from one end to the other – but lucky for us, this street is packed full of gems to stop off at.
Where does Deansgate stretch from/to?
Deansgate officially begins at the meeting of Victoria Street, at Manchester Cathedral, Cateaton Street and Victoria Bridge Street, which stretches over the River Irwell from around Greengate Square. It then spans a straight line from the north to the south west of the city centre, ending at Deansgate train station, where it becomes A56/Bridgewater Viaduct as it straddles the Bridgewater Canal.
What is there to see and do on the longest street in Manchester?
The journey along Deansgate spans everything that Manchester is about, from the skyscrapers of the business district and historical gems that have been here for centuries, to spots for football fans and places celebrating Manchester’s music heritage. Not to mention the endless bars, restaurants and clubs that kick into action later in the day including one of the largest pubs in the UK, The Moon Under Water. And can’t forget the huge department stores like House of Fraser, previously Kendals, standing proud for years.
Some of our absolute favourite spots are along this wonderful expanse, including John Rylands Library, boasting the incredible history of Manchester in addition to celebrating the ongoing culture we maintain (also being home to world renowned film sets), the Classic Football Shirts shop, a wonderland for any fan of the game, and Atlas bar at the very end of the mile-long street, where you can grab a well-deserved drink.
These are just a few of the spots that’re worth mentioning, because the full list would take an age, and what’s more there’s so much that can be found if you wander off the beaten track. As you saunter along Deansgate you’ll find the likes of Spinningfields, with all it’s stylish bars and restaurants, King Street, boasting the best of boutiques and high end eateries, and Peter Street, a favourite when it comes to nights out and activities at Great Northern.
Which events have taken place on the longest street in Manchester?
Of course, Deansgate is also home to many Manchester celebrations, with the Pride Parade, Premiere League Winners Parades (including Manchester City’s Treble Winners parade this year) and International Women’s Day Parade all taking over at least part of the street as a central spot for community gatherings. Sports events such as marathons and other races also often take advantage of the straight mile Deansgate provides.
All in all, we think Deansgate is a pretty great street to have, and we’re lucky to have this mile as the longest street in Manchester.