For a moment there, it seemed like we’d never leave winter. But finally, here we are – enjoying some milder temperatures and a newfound excitement for the months to come. Whether it’s a breath of fresh air you fancy after months of hibernation, or a night out at one of the city’s most unique experiences – we’ve rounded up the very best things to do in Manchester this April.
1. Enter a sweet world of photo-opps at The Chocolate Factory
April marks the last opportunity to check out Fever’s wondrous Chocolate Factory experience, where families can potter through a candy-themed world full of immersive touches and plenty of sweet treats. Stroll through Chocolate Town, get lost in the Cupcake Room or dive right into the ball pit. You’ll get some fantastic photos, that’s for sure! Get tickets here.
2. Head to the beach
From the beautiful yet super busy Formby, to underrated wonders such as Crosby Beach – there are plenty of lovely beaches just a short drive from Manchester to explore this spring. Check out our full guide here.
3. Pay homage to Taylor Swift at this cute candlelight concert
Love the Bridgerton soundtrack? Then you’ll love Fever’s upcoming Taylor Swift-themed candlelight concert, too. Reimagining the singer’s many hits in a regency-like manner, guests will be able to enjoy tracks such as Shake It Off, Wildest Dreams, and We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together as performed by a talented string quartet – all within the beautiful Manchester Cathedral. Get tickets here.
4. Visit Kampus’ new waterside beer garden
Kampus has officially announced its first pop-up of the year, starting with Cloudwater Brew Co who will be bringing some seriously tasty, fresh beers to Manchester for the spring months. Each week will take on a new theme, taking inspiration from some of the summeriest destinations in the world – such as Spain, Portugal and California. If that wasn’t all, there’ll also be delicious Spanish tapas and brunches to enjoy, too, kicking off the season in style. Find out more here.
5. Scran bottomless wings with free-flowing booze and games at The Shack every Thursday
Need a new after-work activity? The Shack is hosting a delicious bottomless event every single Thursday from 5pm – where guests can dig into two whole hours of bottomless chicken wings (in a variety of flavours), alongside free-flowing beer and free access to games such as ping pong, pool and darts. Booking is recommended.
6. Party under a plane with Crazy P
Fever’s epic ‘party under a plane’ is back – this time, with Crazy P providing the good vibes. Dance the night away under the wings of one of the world’s last remaining Concorde planes, all in a very unique location. It’s a UK first and it’s only around for one more date, so you’ll want to snap up tickets quick. Get yours here.
7. Dine al-fresco
With the arrival of spring comes the return of al fresco dining – and we couldn’t be happier. Brunch in the sun? You got it. Tapas on a bright terrace? Manchester has it all. Check out our guide to the best places to eat outdoors here.
8. Experience all the feels at this Adele-themed candlelight concert
In need of a good old sob? You can always count on Adele. Bringing to life classics such as Easy On Me, Rolling in The Deep, Someone Like You and more, guests will be able to kick back and enjoy a stunning performance by an electric-acoustic string ensemble, while enjoying the unique, candlelight ambience of Halle St Peter’s. Get tickets here.
9. Check out Stockport’s floating pizzeria
Next time you fancy a glorious spring walk, follow The Waltzing Matilda up the Macclesfield Canal, where you’ll find an idyllic canal boat serving some of the best Neapolitan pizza around. If that wasn’t all, there are plenty of tasty sweet treats, too – making for the perfect stop-off after a casual walk.
10. Gorge on sushi at the Manchester Sushi Festival
Fans of Japanese cuisine will be in their element this April, as the Manchester Sushi Festival rolls into town for the first time ever. Taking place at the huge Audacious venue, guests will be able to indulge in some of the city’s best hand-crafted sushi, accompanied by some of Manchester’s best live DJs, a Japanese taiko drumming ensemble, and even interactive sushi rolling workshops. Get tickets here.
11. Climb aboard Manchester’s fun cocktail cruise
The perfect drinking experience for spring, Cocktails Ahoy regularly sails the Castlefield canals, bringing tasty cocktails and epic DJ sets to the exclusive boat. Each month expect a new theme, from the prohibition glam of Peaky Blinders, to all-out 90s – accompanied by an ever-changing menu of delicious drinks.
12. Get your cheese fix on the Manchester Cheese Crawl
Cheese fans rejoice, because there’s an entire tour dedicated to the good stuff – right here in Manchester. Eat your way around the city, stopping at some of the best cheese sellers in the city, from continental classics, to the very best the North West has to offer. Get tickets here.
13. See the brand new Beauty and the Beast stage show
Beauty and the Beast is currently being reimagined on stage right here in Manchester, boasting an exceptional cast of West End actors. See the tale as old as time in a whole new way, with all the original music, fantastic costumes and a state-of-the-art set to enjoy. The production is showing at the Palace Theatre, and you can find out more here.
14. Celebrate all things Britney at this epic bottomless brunch
The fun Britney Bottomless Brunch is returning to Manchester, bringing pure noughties vibes to Impossible. Boasting four whole hours of fun, guests will be get to enjoy a brunch dish of their choice alongside 1.5 hours of bottomless drinks, while dancing along to some of Britney’s most iconic tracks – as well as a live show from top Britney impersonator, Absolute Britney. Get tickets here.
15. Get the squad together for the Boy Toy brunch
The Boy Toy brunch is back – and it’s perfect for get-togethers with mates. Taking place at Impossible, the fun event will be hosted by drag queen Honey The Foxx alongside the Boy Toy butlers – with plenty of games, dancing and performances to enjoy throughout the four-hour event. Guests will get to choose their own brunch dish, and enjoy 1.5 hours of bottomless booze. Get tickets here.
16. See Drag Race icon Nicole Paige Brooks live in Manchester
Drag Race superstar Nicole Paige Brooks is coming to Manchester for a very special event, which is set to feature Benidorm-themed bingo, live cabaret, and a live set with Nicole herself. Expect cheesy tunes, plenty of prizes and lots of laughs along the way. Get tickets here.
17. Fill up on Easter chocolate
The time has finally come for the annual flood of Easter-themed treats – and we’re so ready. We’re talking creme egg stuffed cookies at Disco Biscuit, chocolate-stuffed ‘scotch eggs’ at Black Milk and fluffy Easter cupcakes at Hey Little Cupcake. Or, just head to your local shop and devour all the Easter Eggs.
Also published on Medium.