This is Manchester, and as Tony Wilson famously declared, we do things differently here.

This northern English city has had an important role to play in the history of the modern world, and today continues to be a major mover and shaker on the international scene.

Established by the Romans in 79 AD as the fort Mamucium – meaning ‘Breast-Shaped Hill’ after its very hilly terrain – the city later went on to become the beating heart of the 19th Century Industrial Revolution. Some groundbreaking inventions and discoveries came out of Manchester, including one of the world’s first computers, and the very first passenger train!

The city was revitalised after the 1996 IRA bombing, and since then has become a powerhouse of business investment and creativity. Manchester’s fascinating history and spirit are reflected in the mish-mash of gothic and modern architecture, but more than anything in the openness, inquisitiveness, and sometimes irreverent attitude of its inhabitants.

We’d say all of that makes Manchester a pretty exciting place to visit. So without further ado, here’s our Manchester travel guide.

Culture

With such a rich history and being a city diverse in culture, it’s no surprise that Manchester is packed with museums, art galleries, cultural landmarks, and has an ample year-round cultural calendar.

When you visit Manchester, you’ll be able to take your pick from:

The Manchester Museum – exhibitions containing artefacts from all over the world.

John Rylands Library – beautiful, Hogwarts-esque gothic architecture envelops some fascinating collections, including an ancient fragment of St John’s Gospel.

The Museum of Science and Industry – paying homage to Manchester’s industrial past.

Manchester Art Gallery – one of the UK’s finest art collections can be found here, and more treasures are housed at Whitworth Art Gallery, close to the universities.

National Football Museum – Manchester is the UK’s football capital, and it’s only right that there should be a temple to the Beautiful Game here!

People’s History Museum – learn about Manchester’s intriguing history of standing up for workers’ rights, and the radical Labour Movement and working conditions of ordinary Mancunians throughout the centuries. Also worth a visit is the Pankhurst Centre, which celebrates the legendary sisters’ struggle for women’s rights.

Head to the neighbouring city of Salford, and you can enjoy visits to The Lowry and the Imperial War Museum North, located in the creative hub of MediaCity at Salford Quays.

Bonus tip: look out for the bee symbol peppered throughout the city in street art, on official monuments, lamp posts, and bins. The worker bee is the city’s symbol, representing Manchester’s history of industry and the hard work ethic of the people.

Manchester Cathedral

Aside from the art galleries and museums, there are some Manchester landmarks well worthy of a visit.

Our Manchester travel guide wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t mention Manchester Cathedral, an 8th century gem, set right in the heart of the city.

Heavily reconstructed after World War II, the building still manages to maintain some of its medieval splendour, with its gothic architecture and ancient woodwork all bathed in the heavenly light which streams through majestic stained glass windows

Make sure you seek out the Angel Stone, a carving of an angel with a scroll that was uncovered in the wall of the cathedral, believed to date back to the 8th century.

Town Hall

Manchester Town Hall, located in Albert Square, is another impressive edifice in the city centre.

This neo-gothic Victorian building stands out principally for its Big Ben-lookalike clock tower, standing proudly at 285 feet.

The surrounding square is one of the best spots for people-watching in Manchester, and has a real European charm about it. In the centre of the square that bears his name is an authoritative statue of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s beloved Consort, in what is known as the Albert Memorial.

Albert stands witness over many summer festivals and events in the square, and is engulfed in a sea of wooden huts in the famous Manchester Christmas Markets.

At the present time, the town hall is undergoing restoration work until 2024, so it’s not possible to enter, but it should definitely be on your to-visit-in-the-future list.

Castlefield: Urban Heritage

Next up on our Manchester travel guide is Castlefield.

This is where it all began – the Romans set up their fort in this area, and there are even still remains of the original fort in existence today.

Nowadays, the Castlefield neighbourhood is filled with canals and green spaces, but the emphasis is always on preserving its historical legacy, which is why it was designated as the UK’s first urban heritage park. 

The Bridgewater Canal and the connected network of quaint waterways are dotted with bars and restaurants, and the Deansgate Locks area is home to some bustling nightlife.

Take a sightseeing tour!

One of the best ways to discover all that Manchester has to offer is by taking a sightseeing tour.

There are plenty of them about, but not every tour offers the same sights! There’s a hop-on hop-off bus tour which shows you all the essentials while you kick back and relax.

Alternatively, stretch your legs and get exploring on one of Manchester’s free daily guided walking tours (might need a brolly for that one!)

If you’re into street art, Skyliner can show and explain to you the cool creations that have sprung up in the trendy Northern Quarter.

If you prefer life on the water, book a place on the Manchester Ship Canal Cruise, taking in spectacular scenery and learning about how the ship canal shaped the city of Manchester, and the world!

Shopping

The city centre of Manchester is a shopper’s paradise! There are so many shopping options we couldn’t possibly fit them all into this Manchester travel guide, but here are some basics to get you started.

Market Street – this is the high street in Manchester, and where you’ll find all of the main retail outlets. Between Piccadilly Gardens and Deansgate, there are always plenty of people about, as well as street performers and street food vendors. This is an amazing place to people-watch and soak up Manchester’s vibrancy! Market Street runs alongside the Arndale Centre  – a shopping centre rammed with all sorts of retail outlets.

For something a little more upmarket, head to the designer boutiques and department stores of King Street, Exchange Square and New Cathedral Street. Think Selfridges and Harvey Nichols.

Independent vintage shops and record stores are the order of the day in the cool, creative Northern Quarter – and there are lots of indie cafes and eateries to put your feet up in after an afternoon of browsing for bargains!

A little further afield of the centre there are more shopping havens, including the Trafford Centre, one of the largest shopping malls in Europe, and Quayside Shopping Centre, just a short tram journey away to Salford Quays.

Music Scene

Apart from football, if there’s one thing Manchester is super famous for, it’s the incredibly rich music scene it has cultivated over the years!

A long list of music legends has emerged from Manchester, including (to name but a few), Oasis, The Smiths, The Bee Gees, Joy Division, and the Happy Mondays.

While classic nightclubs like the Hacienda have long since closed down, there’s still a thriving nightlife scene, and some of the best nights out you can have here are at independent small music venues. 

If you like discovering the next big thing before they’re famous it’s worth checking out the Deaf Institute, Band on the Wall, Night and Day Cafe, New Century, and landmark Jazz club, Matt and Phred’s.

Eat

The foodies among you are in for a treat, as Manchester boasts a rich and diverse population, which has in turn impacted positively on the culinary dishes on offer here!

Manchester has one of the largest Chinatowns in the UK, with an impressive range of restaurants, and if you like a bit of spice then the famous Curry Mile in Rusholme will be your second home. 

Throughout the city, there are food festivals with street vendors popping up with mouth-watering flavours for every palette.

The newly opened Mackie Mayor, set in an 19th century Grade II listed market building in the Northern Quarter is your go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner – check out the impressive glass roof!

Mackie Mayor isn’t the only eaterie in the Northern Quarter – there are lots to choose from. Yard and Coop serves up flavoursome fried chicken, The Bay Horse is the one for traditional hearty pub grub, and Federal’s where you’ll grab a caffeine fix!

At the weekends, GRUB is where you can satisfy your cravings for street food, craft ales, wines and spirits, while bopping along to resident DJs.

Nightlife

When the sun goes down in Manchester, life goes on. Manchester has a thriving nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and ambiences spread throughout different areas of the city.

Fans of local ales in a cosy venue with live music should head to The Oast House. In the summer, you can sit outside in their terrace area and soak up the chilled vibes.

For something a little glitzier, check out Alberts Schloss, with its rose-gold Prosecco bar and ‘push for Prosecco’ buttons on every table. There’s a photo booth with props, and you can dance on the tables when the ‘kabaret’ live music kicks in! 

Deansgate Locks is home to swanky clubs and sports bars set within the railway arches, and nearby Oxford Road has an edgier feel, in cool venues like The Deaf Institute and Gorilla, where you can catch live music from up-and-coming artists in an intimate setting. 

For secret underground parties, hip industrial venues, and a decidedly cool vibe, there are lots of nooks and crannies in the Northern Quarter – head to The Castle for live music in a creaky 18th century pub, that’s still heaving with life!

Cocktail aficionados will love The Alchemist in fancy Spinningfields, and grab your friends for a cheeky game of Botanist Bingo in The Botanist, close to Manchester Art Gallery!

Last but certainly not least, to truly let your hair down, a visit to the Gay Village on the world-famous Canal Street is a must! Think cheesy music, light-up dancefloors, cheap drinks offers, drag queens and lots of glitzy FUN – leave your ego at home.

Sports

In case you weren’t already aware, Manchester is internationally renowned for being a sports mecca, particularly when it comes to football.

There are two main Premier League football teams here, Manchester United and Manchester City, each of which has its own huge stadium. 

Old Trafford is home to Man Utd, while the Etihad Stadium in east Manchester is the HQ for Man City. If you have time, it’s worth catching a game, if only to experience the electric atmosphere and witness the legends doing what they do best!

Or if you don’t fancy big crowds, book yourself onto a stadium tour, to see how things work behind the scenes, and sit in the manager’s pitch-side chair!

Green Spaces

No Manchester travel guide would be complete without a nod to some of the fantastic green spaces that the city has to offer. Although Manchester is very much an urban space, much attention and care is paid to maintaining public parks for residents to enjoy.

By far the biggest is Heaton Park in north Manchester. You can still see the manor house where the aristocratic Egerton family once lived, located in the heart of a vast open space full of things to see and do. Heaton Parkpark has   a reservoir, orangery, golf course, old-school tramway, and boating lake. In the summer, the park hosts music and cultural festivals – definitely worth the short tram ride to get there!

Whitworth Park, closer to the universities, is another wide open space that hosts cultural events throughout the year, and is where you’ll find the Whitworth Art Gallery.

Angel Meadow, now set in among modern, new build apartments close to the Northern Quarter, Shudehill, Red Bank, and Ancoats, is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and take a breather. Despite its somewhat murky past, thanks to regeneration projects, Angel Meadow is now a truer reflection of its pleasant name and a delight to spend time in!

Travel

Getting around Manchester is easier than ever, as it has an integrated travel network of buses, trams, and trains.

The main train stations are Piccadilly, Victoria, and Oxford Road stations.

Chorlton Street Bus Station provides cross-country and international bus services, while Shudehill and Picadilly bus stations provide inner-city services.

There’s a free bus service called the Metroshuttle which loops around the city centre on three different routes, although it’s easy to get around most places in the city centre on foot. Most major attractions are well within walking distance from each other, and there are bikes for hire at bike stations dotted throughout the metropolis.

For travel further afield, Manchester International Airport is the global gateway to the north of England, with over 60 airlines connecting Manchester to over 200 international destinations. Though with so many attractions on offer, you’re more likely to want to stay in Manchester!

If your travels to Manchester tempts you to consider living here, you’re not alone! More and more people are choosing Manchester as their dream home destination – and opting for stylish, modern living in our New Cross Central apartments. 

Get in touch today to find out more about living in Manchester!

When you’re starting out in your career, where you decide to live and work can have a big impact on the direction your career takes, as well as your general quality of life.

With a large student population and commercial investment attracting young creative and business talent, Manchester is widely recognised as one of the cities with the highest population of young people in the UK. 

In fact, the Office for National Statistics found that the number of young people living in Manchester had increased by 26% from 2002 to 2017, and there are no signs of that trend slowing down.

There are many factors that contribute to this phenomenon – lower pollution levels, access to parks, top restaurants, job opportunities, lower cost of living – you name it, Manchester has got it.

So why is living in Manchester as a young professional such an attractive prospect? Let’s take a closer look.

Endless job opportunities

One of the top priorities for anyone coming to Manchester as a young professional is, of course, finding a job and building a thriving career. 

The good news is that Manchester is one of the best, if not the best city in the UK to find job opportunities. At any one time, it has around 12,000 live job listings available, many of which are flexible or hybrid working options.

There’s a multitude of flexible and co-working spaces in the city which has attracted the interest of new businesses and independent start-ups that are looking to gain a foothold in new locations.

What’s more, regeneration projects and business investment in the city and neighbouring Salford in recent decades have led to big brand names such as the BBC, Kelloggs and ITV setting up camp in the region.

Starting a career has never been easier, and there’s a real vibrant, exciting atmosphere as you never know which life-changing contact you’re going to meet at any given moment.

A buzzing hive of activity

It’s not for nothing that the symbol of Manchester is the worker bee. The bee came to represent the city’s pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution of the nineteenth century, but in recent years it’s also come to symbolise the buzz of the city.

In Manchester, you’ll never tire of things to see and do. The city has a legendary music and nightlife scene, and there are multiple shopping and leisure hubs to enjoy.

Not only that, there are theatres, cinemas, endless options for restaurants and bars, as well as cultural attractions and events.

Living in Manchester as a young professional shouldn’t be all work and no play. Those moments of disconnect after a long day behind the desk are crucial to maintaining a healthy work-life balance and making the most of your time in this Northern Powerhouse city.

More affordable than London

One of the main reasons why living in Manchester as a young professional is so attractive to many is that while Manchester offers many of the benefits of London life, the cost of living is so much lower in the north.

Manchester offers similar business prospects, cultural and leisure attractions, but the price of rent is much lower in Manchester.

In recent years, many young people have chosen to leave London and move to Manchester precisely because life is more affordable in the north.

According to Numbeo.com, the average London gym membership costs around £42.24, compared to £26.35 in Manchester. A monthly travel pass in London costs around £150 compared to £69.78 in Manchester. 

In Manchester, the average monthly rent in the city centre costs around £786.67, while in London you could expect to pay double the price at £1,756. 

Having taken all this into consideration, it’s easy to see why Manchester is the smart option for young professionals that want to get ahead financially as well as career-wise.

Great living locations

Manchester and nearby Salford have undergone a period of renovation in the last few decades. This regeneration has led to a surge in demand for city-centre or Salford Quays based property, which in turn has attracted attention from savvy buy-to-let investors. 

There are plenty of options when it comes to living in Manchester as a young professional, but if you want to know about specific areas here’s a rundown of some of the most desirable living locations in Manchester.

• Ancoats

Up there with the most popular options for living in Manchester as a young professional, is Ancoats. It’s located close to the trendy Northern Quarter, and also benefits from slightly lower housing prices than in other similar parts of the city.

Ancoats was once the beating heart of the Industrial Revolution, which is reflected in the architecture – many of the modern apartment buildings are actually renovated factories, mills and warehouses situated close to once-bustling canal routes.

The cobblestone-lined streets are lined with independent restaurants, bars and pop-ups, with alfresco dining being popular in this area, as well as well-known venues like Rudy’s and Elnecot’s on Cutting Room Square.

• Northern Quarter

The Northern Quarter is the creative hub of the centre, frequented by many young creatives who come to take advantage of the nightlife, food, fashion, and music in the area. 

It’s a fantastic place to put down roots if you’re living in Manchester as a young professional. 

Don’t be surprised if you see film crews out and about filming movies in the Northern Quarter – the area often doubles up as New York or Edwardian Britain in TV series and films, thanks to its cool architecture, funky street art and graffiti, and cool ambience.

• Didsbury

This part of Manchester city is well-known among students and young professionals alike.

There are plenty of young people around, and as a result, Didsbury enjoys a vibrant nightlife scene, excellent restaurants, live music, concerts, and plenty of jobs on offer.

There’s a pleasant community feel here, and you can easily access Manchester City Center via bus routes and regular train services.

• Salford

Technically considered to be a city in its own right, Salford is situated on an almost imperceptible border with Manchester.

The biggest draw for young professionals in Salford is MediaCity, which is located on Salford Quays. The area underwent intensive regeneration at the beginning of this century, and is now home to some exciting big British institutions like the BBC, ITV, and Kelloggs.

With such promising career prospects, impressive leisure opportunities, not to mention stunning greenery and affordable housing, is it any wonder that Salford has become a prime location for young professionals in the north of England?

• Rusholme

Rusholme is full of job openings, particularly with software companies, but is also famous for being home to some of the best restaurants in the city, as well as some of the nicest people.

The area is popular with university students, graduates, and young professionals, thanks to its prime location close to the city centre. It’s easy to reach the centre of the action on foot or by catching one of the buses on Europe’s busiest bus route.

Perhaps the most attractive thing about this area is that you can enjoy all the benefits of city life without having to pay a premium – the affordability of the area makes it desirable for young professionals.

• Castlefield

Many young professionals moving to Manchester opt to live in Castlefield.

This historic area enjoys stunning, tranquil canalside views, all close to the city centre. There are traces of Castlefield’s Roman past in the form of ruins close to Castlefield Bowl, where concerts and events are regularly held.

The industrial legacy of Manchester is evident everywhere, in the canals, cobbled streets, and Victorian mills.

Castlefield offers the perfect combination of proximity to the city centre and quieter canalside life. Think lazy sunny afternoons strolling by the canals and chilled pints at the water’s side, and you’ve got the vibe of Castlefield.

As you can see, living in Manchester as a young professional has many upsides. If you feel the pull towards Manchester living, get in touch with us at New Cross Central today.

Playing home to more than 650 restaurants, Manchester offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting the city or calling it home, we’re sharing some of the best takeaways in Manchester that are a foodie’s delight. Whether you’re in search of a delicious Thai or a hearty pasta dish, you’ll be spoiled for choice! So, without further ado, we present you with some of the best takeaways in Manchester. 

 

Rosa’s Thai Café, Deansgate 

When it comes to Thai, Rosa’s Thai Café is one of the best of the bunch. Serving up a delicious all-day menu full of aromatic curries, noodles and starters, you may struggle to narrow down your options. If you’d like a hand making your choice, the chicken satay, drunken noodles and Panang curry come highly recommended! 

Opening hours

Monday – Thursday 12-10.30pm

Friday – Saturday 12-11pm 

Sunday 12-9pm 

 

Peck & Yard, Chorlton & Ancoats 

Self-dubbed as a ‘Pan-Asian Chicken Shack’, we’d argue that Peck & Yard is home to some of the best wings in Manchester. Ideal for when you’re craving an upmarket fast-food type of takeaway, take your pick from spicy chicken & chip combos, bao buns, burgers and more. 

Opening hours

Sunday – Thursday 4-9.30pm

Friday – Saturday 12-10.30pm  

 

The Sparrows, Green Quarter

Proclaimed as a ‘glorious carb-fest’ by Guardian restaurant critic Jay Rayner, The Sparrows serves the ultimate comfort food. Fusing Italian with German and Polish influencers, The Sparrows menu will take you on a journey of flavours. From crab ravioli to goulash and focaccia, you can expect plenty of hearty dishes to indulge in at The Sparrows. 

Opening hours

Tuesday – Friday 5– 11pm

Saturday – 12-11pm

Sunday 12-10pm 

 

Mughli Restaurant & Charcoal Pit, Rusholme 

 There’s no way we can round up the best takeaways in Manchester without mentioning Mughli. If you’ve been along Manchester’s famous Curry Mile, chances are, you’ll have smelt the aromas coming from the much-loved Mughli. Serving up Indian & Pakistani street food, chargrilled and rustic dishes, Mughli is home to Indian soul food at its finest. While we don’t like to have favourites, the tuk-tuk thali, fish pakora and lamb chops come highly recommended. 

Opening hours

Monday – Thursday 5.30pm – 12am

Friday 5.30pm – 12.30am

Saturday 4.30 – 12.30am 

Sunday 2.30 – 10.30pm 

 

Yang Sing, Chinatown

When it comes to the best takeaways in Manchester, we have to take you to Chinatown too. As one of Chinatown’s highest-rated restaurants, Yang Sing is an excellent choice indeed. With an extensive dim sum menu, bespoke banquets and much-loved classics like won ton soup, Beijing-style duck and wok stir-fried dishes, you are truly spoilt for choice at Yang Sing. But don’t just take our word for it; you need to try it for yourself. 

Opening hours

Monday – Thursday 12 – 11.30pm 

Friday – Saturday 12pm – 12am

Sunday 12 – 10.45pm 

 

 

Rudy’s, Peter Street & Cutting Room Square 

When we’re talking pizza joints, you’d be hard pushed to find somewhere as good as Rudy’s. In fact, we’d be surprised if you haven’t already heard of it. As the Neapolitan pizza masters, you’ll soon see why Rudy’s was voted the 10th best pizza in the world back in 2019. From indulgent burrata to portobello and capriccioso pizza and tiramisu, Rudy’s will hit the spot every single time. 

Opening hours

Cutting Room Square

Monday – Saturday 12 – 10pm

Sunday 12 – 9pm 

Peter Street

Sunday – Thursday 12– 10pm

Friday – Saturday 12 – 11pm 

 

The Spinn, Gatley 

Brought to you by Manchester native and former soap star Adam Thomas and his best friend Scott Graham, The Spinn deserves to be mentioned. Serving up signature burgers like the Mac & Cheese and Chicken, fries, wraps and wings, you’re in for a treat if The Spinn tickles your fancy. 

Opening hours

Tuesday – Thursday 10am – 10pm

Friday – Saturday 10am – Late

Sunday – 10am – 8pm 

 

The Allotment Vegan Eatery, Deansgate

Whether you’re a plant-based eater or not, the allotment vegan eatery is undoubtedly one of the best vegan takeaways in Manchester. Offering up a fixed priced menu for lunch & dinner, the allotment uses the freshest, local ingredients from sustainable growers wherever possible. As a result, there’s much to be enjoyed at the allotment, from satay skewers and cauliflower wings to mushroom ramen and jackfruit tacos.  

Opening hours

Monday – Saturday 12 – 9pm

Sunday 12 – 6pm 

 

The Hip Hop Chip Shop, Blossom Street

No one makes a chippy tea quite like the Hip Hop Chip Shop. While we highly recommend going to one of the events, a takeaway is the next best thing. So, whether you opt for a classic fish & chips dubbed ‘The Feastie Boys’, or you opt for halloumi, the bratwurst or the ‘Plant-tast-tic’ vegan fish, you’re in for a treat. In a nutshell, the hip hop chip shop is a chippy on steroids.  

Opening hours

Tuesday 5 – 9pm

Wednesday – Thursday 12 – 2pm, 5 – 9pm

Friday 12 – 2pm, 5 – 10pm

Saturday 12 – 10pm

Sunday 1 – 9pm

Monday – Closed 

 

Dishoom, Bridge Street

 If you don’t know about Dishoom already, you better get to know. There was no way we could showcase the best takeaways in Manchester without an honourable mention to Dishoom. Serving up classic Indian dishes with a modern twist, Dishoom is a delight for the tastebuds. From a delicious breakfast menu featuring Parsi omelette and bacon naan roll to an all-day menu with the likes of paneer tikka, chole puri and house black daal, it’s a must-try. 

Opening hours

Monday – Thursday 8am – 11pm

Friday 8am – 12 am 

Saturday 9am – 12am

Sunday 9am – 11pm 

 

So, there you have it. Our top picks of just 10 of the best takeaways in Manchester. No matter what you fancy, you’re sure to find a top-class takeaway to suit your mood and budget in Manchester. Furthermore, when you’re ready to venture out, you’ll have hundreds of restaurants, bars, and clubs at your disposal so you can enjoy the very best of the friendly northern city. Bon Appétit!  

 

If you’re looking for the perfect base from which to explore Manchester’s seemingly infinite restaurants and eateries, New Cross Central could be perfect for you. Check out our selection of 2-bed apartments and 3-bed townhouses and discover an inner-city lifestyle, without the hustle and bustle.

 

Manchester is a city on two wheels. The ever-increasing popularity of cycling is evident all over the city. So much so, that the local government have recently announced plans to update Manchester’s cycling lanes, bringing many more miles of hybrid pedestrian-cycling paths to the city over the next few years. 

The so-called ‘Home of British Cycling’, Manchester is the proud location of HSBC UK’s National Cycle Centre. The Centre was the UK’s first Olympic-standard indoor cycling track, attracting amateur enthusiasts to professional athletes. 

Reaching further afield, Greater Manchester offers a wealth of cycling routes, from canal towpaths to lush country parks. To help you narrow down your perfect choice, we’ve pulled together our seven favourite cycling routes in Manchester. 

 

The Fallowfield Loop 

Despite its proximity to bustling main roads, The Fallowfield Loop offers a traffic-free haven that connects the leafy suburbs of Chorlton-cum-Hardy and Fairfield. It’s a great way to get around for many South Manchester residents. Running along an old Manchester Central Railway line, it’s completely flat and great for beginners or those who are nervous about road cycling routes in Manchester. 

 

The Bridgewater Way

One of the most recently improved Manchester cycling routes, The Bridgewater Way is part of a wider regeneration project that aims to connect the city to suburbs from Trafford to Altrincham. Whilst the aim is to open up all 65km of the Bridgewater Canal towpath to cyclists, the currently completed series of resurfaced trails already allows easy access from Altrincham, Trafford, Sale and Stretford all the way to Castlefield in Manchester city centre. The route offers easy access to some great destinations, including the Trafford Centre and MediaCityUK. 

 

Ashton Canal Cycleway

Following the theme of waterside rides, the Ashton Canal offers riders a scenic route, extending out east of the city centre from Ancoats all the way to Ashton-under-Lyne. Along the way, you’ll see Manchester City’s home ground, the Etihad Stadium. The route offers plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path and explore surrounding areas. One of these options is Clayton Vale, home of Manchester’s Mountain Bike Trails. For those looking to extend their journey, the connecting Huddersfield Narrow Canal opens up the possibilities to explore the Peak District and the Pennine Bridleway. Both parks are home to national cycle routes and offer great views of Manchester. 

 

Medlock Valley Way & Daisy Nook Country Park

Speaking of Clayton Vale, this mountain biker’s haven is just a stone’s throw from the more laid-back Daisy Nook Country Park, connected by the Medlock Valley Way. Sprawling throughout the Valley, it’s perfect for a pleasant pedal through one of the more scenic near-city cycling routes in Manchester. Here you’ll find waterside trails, birdlife and fishing spots. 

 

Route 66 

No, we’re not heading to the US for an epic road trip. The UK’s answer to the iconic highway stretches from Rochdale to Smithy Bridge, following the Rochdale canal towpath. Along this picturesque route, you’ll be able to take a quick detour around the scenic Hollingworth Lake. If you want to extend your adventure, you can continue through Littleborough and onwards into the picturesque market town of Todmorden.

 

Prestwich Forest Park

Near the banks of the River Irwell, this idyllic forest park offers a great selection of forest and waterside cycling routes in Manchester, just south of Bury. With over 200 hectares of woodland park space, Prestwich Forest Park is a great place for cycling for all the family. More than just one park, you can explore all the smaller parks within the area, made up of Philips Park, Drinkwater Park, Waterdale and Prestwich Clough. The River Irwell also conveniently runs back to Manchester city centre, so it’s a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for the day! 

 

Stalybridge Country Park 

Located just outside of Stalybridge, on the doorstep of the Peak District, this beautiful park offers a whole host of scenery within a short drive from Manchester. This 11-mile cycling track takes you around the parks many reservoirs; Walkerwood, Brushes and Shineshaw. Each offers great views, looking out to the vast moorlands of the Peak District. This route makes a great connection from the Ashton Canal Cycleway through to the Pennine Bridleway. You’ll also have the option to join the Tame Valley Way trail to extend your trip. 

 

If you’re a keen cyclist looking for a base in the city centre to explore Manchester’s cycling routes, our selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and townhouses could be the perfect place for you to call home. Check out our current availability here. 

Fancy living in the city? If you’re used to suburban or rural areas, you may want to learn more about city life in Manchester. From better job opportunities to vibrant communities, there are plenty of advantages of city living.

Manchester offers more affordable real estate than other big cities, such as London or Edinburgh. It also offers plenty of green spaces in and around the city. There’s a high pace of change here, with huge amounts of investment and regeneration. It’s a great place to experience urban life at its finest. 

So, you’re considering living in Manchester, or another major city. To help you make your decision, here’s our round-up of the top advantages of urban living.

 

Career and educational prospects

For professionals and students alike, moving to a city can feel like a must. Manchester is home to some of the world’s largest companies. It’s common for many businesses to base themselves in or around large towns or cities. This gives them access to infrastructure as well as a wide talent pool. Urban job seekers will typically benefit from this, with a wider selection of high-quality roles.

Similarly, city universities offer accessible and exciting educational prospects. There’s plenty of opportunity for those looking to grow and develop amongst the inspiring hustle and bustle of the city. With the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University in the heart of the city, there’s a thriving student community.

 

Better transportation systems

From the renowned London Underground to Manchester’s mighty Metrolink. Urban areas are often blessed with superior transport systems than their rural counterparts. Regular and affordable public transportation options will give you easy access to amenities. 

One of the main advantages of living in the city is being able to cut down on the daily commute. Often, city dwellers give up their cars, preferring to hop on their bike or simply walk to their destination. With most places only a stone’s throw away, it’s a great way to keep your transport expenses down.  

Manchester’s location and smaller city-centre size mean there are green spaces in abundance. A quick train journey can see you hiking in the Peak District or Lake District national parks. This offers a perfect respite from the hectic pace of life that comes with urban living. 

 

Shop ‘til you drop

Cities offer unmatched convenience. You could be shopping for groceries or your next clothing haul. Either way, you’re usually no more than a short walk or ride away from your next dose of retail therapy.

You’ll find shops of all shapes and sizes lining city streets. Many of these have longer opening hours than the national average. This means you can get hold of what you want, when you want. No more getting caught out without milk for your morning brew!

One of the advantages of city living in Manchester is its wide selection of stores, from the vast Trafford Centre to the ultra-hip vintage stores of the Northern Quarter.

 

Diverse communities

Usually broken up into districts or boroughs, big cities cater to the individuality of their residents. In Manchester, for example, the creative and bohemian Northern Quarter rubs shoulders with the distinctively cool, old industrial district, Ancoats. With a social scene for everyone, you’ll never be too far from like-minded individuals. 

Cities are melting pots of different cultures. Manchester offers plenty of opportunities for meeting new people from a diversity of backgrounds and life experiences. Living in the city exposes you to new people, traditions, cultural and authentic culinary experiences. 

 

Countless entertainment and dining options

There’s almost no end to the number of restaurants, bars, clubs and cafés at your doorstep. Whether it’s checking out what’s happening at your local craft brewery or hunting down the best taco in town. City dining options are almost limitless. 

Amongst the typical chain restaurants and coffee shops, you’ll find a variety of independent businesses. These establishments offer exciting and original culinary delights.

In Manchester, there’s something for everyone. You can dine like royalty at Manchester’s first Michelin starred restaurant, Mana. Or, head a few minutes down the road for a spot of cheesy indulgence at Northern Soul Grilled Cheese.

You’ll also find numerous delivery services on hand. These services will deliver food from around the world, the only drawback is deciding what to order! 

In a similar way, you’ll also never get bored with the array of entertainment venues and cultural events. You can soak in the culture at the local theatre. Peruse art galleries. Burn the midnight oil at your favourite nightclub. City life is never a dull life. 

While becoming a homeowner is undoubtedly one of the biggest achievements in life, knowing how to choose a mortgage that’s right for you can be a difficult task.

The type of mortgage deal you choose to go with can make thousands of pounds of difference in the long-term, so it’s a good idea to take your time and choose wisely.

There are lots of different mortgages available on the market, whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor. This makes comparing mortgage deals difficult, but our guide will aim to explain the important things to look out for when searching for the best mortgage deal to suit you.

How much are you allowed to borrow?

Before you start looking for your dream home, it is important to find out how much a mortgage lender will allow you to borrow. 

Most lenders will typically allow between four to five times your individual income, or three to four times your joint income if you’re applying for a mortgage with somebody else.

Borrowing amounts will vary between lenders, and each will have different criteria for setting how much you are allowed to borrow. For example, if you already have a lot of loans or credit cards in place, your maximum borrowing amount may be lower.

It’s important to think about how much you want to pay each month for your new mortgage. It’s not advisable to make your mortgage payments more than 30% of your income, as you may struggle to save or have disposable income for holidays and home improvements.

What about a deposit?

Saving for a deposit will mean you have the freedom to borrow less, and your Loan-to-value ratio will be lower and you’ll qualify for lower mortgage rates.

The loan-to-value ratio is the proportion of the amount you borrow in comparison to the property price. For example, a £30,000 deposit on a £300,000 home is 10% so the ratio is 10%.

Comparing mortgage deals by interest rates

When looking at how to choose a mortgage, the interest rate is one of the most important factors. It can make a huge difference to your monthly and annual payments, and be a deciding factor in the type of property you can afford to buy.

A lower interest rate will naturally save you money, but choosing the right type of deal for your circumstances is most important.

Mortgages can be categorised according to the way their interest rates work, and there are four types for you to be aware of:

Fixed-rate mortgages

With a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate on the deal remains the same for a set amount of time, usually between two and five years.

These are the most common types of mortgage on the market, and give you the freedom to choose a good rate.

Be aware you’ll need to remember to remortgage at the end of your fixed term agreement, or you could be transferred to your lender’s standard variable rate, which is generally more expensive.

 

Tracker Mortgages

This type of mortgage is set at a certain percentage above the Bank of England base rate.

For example, if the base rate is 1.5% and your mortgage rate is ‘base rate plus 2%’ you’ll pay a mortgage rate of 3.5%

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, Tracker mortgages are a much less popular option, which is due to the base rate dropping to an all-time low of 0.1%.

 

Discount mortgages

Discount mortgages have a reduced interest rate, which is set at a fixed amount below the mortgage lender’s standard variable rate (SVR) for a set amount of time, usually two years.

For example, if the lender has an SVR of 6% and the mortgage is set at 1.5% below that rate, you’ll pay 4.5%. If the lender’s rate fluctuates, so will your rate.

 

Standard-variable rate mortgages 

When your fixed, tracker or discount timeframe ends, you’ll be moved to your lender’s standard variable rate (SVR).

The SVR is usually more expensive and can fluctuate on a monthly basis, so it’s important to steer clear and switch to a new deal, remortgaging, before the end of the deal period. 

Top tips for how to choose a mortgage deal that suits you

Understand what you can afford

Using the different mortgage options available, you can calculate how much your monthly repayments will be. From here, you can calculate the best mortgage deal for you.

Do your research

There are thousands of mortgage options available, and hundreds of lenders, all with varying fees and rates. It’s important not to settle for the first one you find. Shop around and be patient, you’ll find the one that’s best for you.

Keep an eye on extra interest

If you’re strapped for cash, instead of paying your mortgage fees upfront, you can add them to your loan. This may seem like a good option in the short term but will result in you paying interest on the fees in the long term.

Choose the fixed term that suits you

Many fixed-rate mortgages come with early repayment charges, which will incur if you exceed the fee-free limit for the overpayment. This is usually 10% per year, or if you leave the mortgage during an introductory period.

If you’re likely to want to move house in the next few years, consider a shorter-term fixed mortgage. 

Get help from a mortgage specialist

Choosing a mortgage can be a bit of a minefield, so it can be useful to get an expert on your side. 

A mortgage advisor or broker can help advise you on the best deal for your circumstances. 

However, be mindful that some mortgage deals are only available to people applying directly (with no broker involved) while other deals are exclusive to brokers.

To disrupt matters further, some mortgage brokers only work with a select panel of lenders, meaning they can’t share deals from other lenders which may work out cheaper.

To ensure you have access to the best deal, it’s a good idea to use a ‘whole market’ broker who can assess every deal available to you and recommend the right option.

Finding your perfect home

Once you’ve secured the right mortgage deal for you, you can start to dream of your ideal home.

Manchester is a great place to settle down, as it’s full of vibrant neighbourhoods, an abundance of character and buildings stacked with originality.

New Cross Central is a vision for a new vibrant quarter of the city, and with homes ready to move into in 2022, you can own your own part of the city centre.

With a mix of spacious apartments and family-focused townhouses,  there’s something to suit everyone. Enquire today about your home in New Cross Central.