Manchester is having a bit of a ‘moment’. The UK’s second city has seen an influx of investment in recent years, and boasts some of the UK’s best shopping, most diverse nightlife and top museums.
This winter, Manchester’s Christmas Markets are set to rival those in Continental Europe, and there are a whole host of seasonal activities taking place across the city, which are sure to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.
If running around the markets and partying all night is already making you feel exhausted, try combining your winter break to Manchester with a little bit of spa luxury so you can see the best of the city while feeling your best.
Sienna Spa is the sort of place you can pop into for a quick manicure, or plan out a full day of pampering. Centrally located in the Radisson Blu on Peter Street, the spa comes fully equipped with a sauna, steam room and even a whirlpool bath, as well as a set of private treatment rooms.
Image: Sienna Spa in Manchester
They’re on to a winner with the unisex Winter Warmer Spa Day package, which includes a salt and oil body exfoliation, a hot stone massage for your back, neck and shoulder area, and lunch in the Opus Restaurant.
The whole thing lasts less than two hours, so if you plan it properly you can be back at the shops just after the lunchtime rush. This is definitely one place not to miss on any spa break in Manchester.
Manchester is famous for its curry houses, with MyLahore a perennial favourite among locals. But the city has a diverse and vibrant restaurant scene with food to suit every taste.
For fine dining, try The French (home to celebrity chef Simon Rogan) or Manchester House, or for traditional Northern grub, visit Pieminister – or just pop into a cozy-looking pub for a good old fashioned pint and a pie.
The nightlife in Manchester rivals London for its variety – from the tiki-style The Liar’s Club, to footballer’s favourite Panacea, to the gay bars of Canal Street.
This November and December, keep your spirits up between bars by grabbing a cup of mulled wine from the festive bars at the Christmas markets!
Manchester has no shortage of shopping centres; there is the vast Arndale Shopping Centre, the iconic Trafford Centre and The Great Northern, to name just a few. But the winter months brings out something special in the city: the Christmas markets.
Image: Flickr
Stalls start popping up across the city from mid-November, selling handmade gifts, organic spa products, gourmet food and drink and, of course, the odd tipple. Perfect for a truly unique Christmas gift that you simply won’t find in the big indoor malls and a great way to top off your city spa break in Manchester.
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