9 affordable things to do in Manchester with the family
These are definitely worth visiting
If you’re wanting to get the kids out of the house but are on a tight budget – fear not! We’ve put together a list of the best affordable things to do in this northern metropolis of Manchester, that will hardly cost you any pennies!
Whether your kids are sporty and you fancy doing some climbing with them, or perhaps a trip to the football museum, there will be something in the area to keep your kids occupied.
And if your kids are more interested in science and industry, how about a trip to the MOSI, or the Runway Visitor Park at Manchester Airport?
How many of these have you already visited?
Get your thinking cap on at the Museum of Science and Industry
This museum is a great day out for the whole family! It is set across five listed buildings, including one that was once home to the oldest surviving passenger railway station, the location alone is pretty impressive. Learn about Manchester's past, present and future and how Manchester played a key role in the industrial revolution. It's packed with impressive galleries and hands on exhibitions so there's plenty to keep the kids entertained!
Explore the gardens at one of Manchester’s many parks
Fletcher and Moss Botanicals is a picturesque and lovingly looked after park and gardens is a fantastic place to visit with the family. The park was given over to the city by its then owner Alderman Fletcher Moss in 1919. Open every day, there's so much for you and the family to see and do. There are some amazingly rare trees dotted around the park and the nature reserve is filled with a variety of different birds. Along with the gardens, there's tennis courts and football pitches for budding sports stars.
Instead you could visit Heaton Park, which covers over 600 acres. Across the park you'll find a golf course, tennis courts, boating lake and adventure playground for the kids to run wild. Why not have a picnic by the lake, explore the woodlands and gardens and let the kids burn off some energy?
Get your boots on at the National Football Museum
This is a must for any football fan! The National Football Museum covers everything about the nation's favourite sport. Set in the impressive Urbis building in the city centre, you'll find a range of displays and attractions covering anything from the history of football right through to the effect the media has on the great game. There's loads of hands on activities and you even get the chance to try your own penalty shoot-out! Are you bringing it home?
Get creative at the Lowry
This impressive building in the Salford Quays is a great art and entertainment venue. Named after the famous northern painter L. S. Lowry, you'll find the largest public collection of his work in the art gallery as well as collections from other great artists. You'll also be able to find out more about his life and work at one of the free daily talks. There's also a theatre which holds a wide range of events and a number of cafes, bars and shops to keep the whole family entertained.
See a lunchtime concert
Chetham's School of Music is set in the heart of the city and is the largest specialist music school in the UK. It is home to some of the country's best budding musicians and they offer a year round programme of free lunchtime concerts and events, taking place in the Carole Nash Hall. They last around 45 minutes and can include everything from solo performances to full orchestral ensembles!
Visit a local play area
Sky High adventure, based at Active Medlock, provides loads of fun and accessible adventure facilities all under the same roof. There's four great activities: Clip n Climb, caving and bouldering, high ropes and the soft play area for the kids to run wild and burn off any energy. The range of courses are designed to test your limits, stimulate and challenge, and bring out the adventurer within. Plus, when you're all tired out, there's a café where you can relax and have a drink.
Visit Afflecks
This quirky indoor market in Manchester's Northern Quarter is perfect for families wanting to have a unique shopping experience. It's great for vintage clothes, vinyl records and unique homewares. There's also a retro sweet store and a cereal café for the kids to enjoy.
Visit Greater Manchester Police Museum
Opened in 1981 and funded by Greater Manchester Police, this museum allows people of all ages to view the extensive archives and learn about the history of the Greater Manchester Police. The museum is open every Tuesday and also offers private tours on other days for larger groups of people, free of charge!
Jet off at the Runway Visitor Park
Located just off the runway of Manchester Airport, this is the perfect place for plane spotting. Manchester Airport is one of the busiest in the UK with around 600 aircraft flying in and out every day. You’ll be able to get up close to a range of aircraft and even board a couple. There’s also a children’s play area, picnic area, shop and restaurant to enjoy!
With a rich industrial heritage, iconic music scene and world class shopping, it’s easy to see why Manchester is one of the most popular UK cities. There’s informative museums, green spaces and loads more suitable for all ages! Where do you like to visit? Let us know on Facebook.
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