12 of the Best Hidden Gems in Manchester
Manchester is one of the greatest cities on Earth, home to Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium, the Co-op Live Arena, The Lowry Art Gallery, fantastic shopping and spectacular nightlife. But where are the hidden gems in Manchester – those places outside of the ‘best bars and restaurants’ lists? From secret cocktail bars to independent book and jewellery shops to street food markets and fascinating museums, here’s our pick of the best hidden gems Manchester has to offer.
1. Dusk Til Pawn
First on our list of hidden gems in Manchester is a cocktail bar with a hidden front in the city’s vibrant Northern Quarter. Dusk Til Pawn looks like an unassuming, traditional pawnbrokers’ shop from the outside; but inside, you’ll find a bar serving delicious cocktails in quirky surroundings that you’d never know were there from the street.
Address: Dusk Til Pawn, Stevenson Square, Manchester, M1 1DN
2. Sifters Records
Just a short bus or train ride from the city centre, you’ll find Burnage, the area where two brothers by the names of Liam and Noel grew up in the 1980s. As youngsters, the Gallaghers would visit Sifters Records to find new music, and Oasis fans can still visit the store today to sift through new and second-hand vinyl. Sifters is one of top Manchester’s hidden gems for music lovers, and is even name-checked in the Oasis song Shakermaker. If you’re planning a visit, the shop is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays, but otherwise opens from 1pm to 5.30pm each day.
Address: Sifters Records, 177 Fog Lane, Burnage, Manchester, M20 6FJ
3. House of Books & Friends
House of Books & Friends is an independent bookstore and coffee shop, tucked away in a stunning Grade II-listed building in the heart of the city centre. This delightful hidden gem in Manchester first opened in 2022, and aims to provide a community space to combat loneliness and bring people together. Reserve a spot for the in-demand Bookish Afternoon Tea, attend one of the regular author events, or spend an afternoon browsing to find your next read.
Address: House of Books & Friends, Ground Floor, 81 King Street, Manchester, M2 4AH
4. The ‘Smallest Bar in Europe’
Did you know that Manchester lays claim to the smallest bar in the whole of Europe? The Circus Tavern is a snug little bar in the city centre that’s housed in a narrow building dating back to 1790. Squeeze inside for a pint or pile in to watch the football in this most charming of Manchester hidden gems that may be small in size, but is packed with character.
Address: The Circus Tavern, 86 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 4GX
5. The Hidden Gem
No list of hidden gems in Manchester would be complete without the hidden gem itself. St Mary’s Church on Mulberry Street in the city centre is colloquially known as ‘the hidden gem’, as it has a relatively unassuming exterior that you could easily walk past without looking twice. Step inside, and you’ll find a breathtaking interior with beautiful white stone features, unique artwork, and stunning stained glass. It’s well worth a visit next time you’re passing through Manchester city centre.
Address: St Mary’s Church, 17 Mulberry Street, Manchester, M2 6LN
6. Stockport Produce Hall
Looking for hidden food gems? Manchester is home to some great foodie spots, and so is nearby Stockport. Hop on the train at Manchester Piccadilly and you’ll be in Stockport in just 10 minutes, where you’ll find independent shops, cafes and the brilliant Stockport Produce Hall. This Victorian market building is now home to a fantastic selection of street food stalls, serving up loaded waffles, Korean fried chicken, Cambodian cuisine, freshly made pizza, authentic tapas and so much more. You’ll be truly spoilt for choice.
Address: Stockport Produce Hall, 24A Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1EU
7. Science & Industry
Manchester is celebrated for its science and industry connections, but this iteration of Science & Industry is a little bit different; essentially a bar within a bar, Science & Industry (located inside the Northern Quarter’s Cane and Grain) is one of the true hidden gems of Manchester. The cocktail menu here is exquisite, with old-favourites featuring alongside ‘Science Signatures’ like the fruity Adult Movie or Pinot Colada.
Address: Science & Industry, 51 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1NA
8. The Pankhurst Centre
Most people know that Manchester is home to the Museum of Science and Industry, the People’s History Museum and the National Football Museum, but the city also has some lesser-known museums and galleries, including The Pankhurst Museum. Housed in the former home of Emmeline Pankhurst, this is the place where the Suffragette movement was born. Take a step back in time as you browse the exhibits, explore the Pankhursts’ legacy, and visit the tearoom and gift shop at one of the most inspiring Manchester hidden gems.
Address: The Pankhurst Centre, 60-62 Nelson Street, Manchester, M13 9WP
9. Queer Lit
Located on the edge of Ancoats, Queer Lit is Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ bookshop. This beautiful bookstore first opened in nearby Tib Street in 2021, but expanded and moved to its new home in 2023. It’s now housed within Social Refuge, an events space and cafe, with a fantastic selection of fiction and non-fiction titles from Queer Lit. Ancoats itself is one of the hidden gems of Manchester, so combine a visit to the shop with a stroll around the neighbourhood’s coffee shops, bakeries and marina.
Address: Queer Lit, 27 Great Ancoats Street, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 5AJ
10. Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
Outdoor spaces are among some of the best hidden gems Manchester has to offer. In the coveted suburb of Didsbury, South Manchester, you’ll find Fletcher Moss Park and Botanical Gardens, which feels a world away from the bustle of the city centre. The gardens attract a plethora of wildlife, including colourful butterflies and birds, many of which migrate to the park from Africa in the summer months. Enjoy a walk along the park’s winding paths and river banks as you immerse yourself in nature – you’ll soon forget you’re even in Manchester.
Address: Fletcher Moss Park, 18 Stenner Lane, Didsbury, Manchester, M20 2RQ
11. Altrincham Market
A 20-minute Metrolink journey from the city centre, you’ll find the vibrant town of Altrincham, home to Altrincham Market, one of the North West’s best hidden food gems. Manchester foodies flock here at the weekends for delicious pizza, tacos, steak sarnies, mezze and some of the best coffee around. The old market hall has plenty of seating for large parties, and there are outdoor tables for al fresco dining too. With so much tempting choice, you’ll find yourself visiting again and again to sample more of the mouthwatering grub and laidback vibe.
Address: Altrincham Market, Greenwood Street, Altrincham, WA14 1SA
12. Hill & Hill The Jewellers
When you’ve finished filling up at Alty Market, take a stroll around the town. Altrincham is home to some gorgeous independent shops, among the finest Greater Manchester hidden gems. Just around the corner from the market, you’ll find Hill & Hill The Jewellers, where you can browse luxury jewellery brands and carefully curated vintage jewellery finds.
Treat yourself to new piercings, a welded bracelet or even commission a bespoke jewellery design. If you’re looking for something a little bit different that showcases your unique style, our independent jewellers’ is one of the best hidden gems in Manchester and Cheshire for high-quality, on-trend pieces. Pop in to visit us or book a consultation today.
Address: Hill & Hill The Jewellers, 60 George Street, Altrincham, WA14 1RF
