Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour

Manchester, GB
66% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (38 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Jake will guide you through an audio guide (no computer-generated voice!)
  • inclusion
    Other
    Audio guide, videos, pictures, recommendations and all the info you need
  • inclusion
    Other
    You will get an email with instructions to activate your tour
  • inclusion
    Other
    Unlimited access to this Self-Guided Tour on the app
  • inclusion
    Other
    Map, directions, GPS route and stops of each tour

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    In-person Guide
  • exclusion
    Other
    Any entrance fee for the attractions mentioned during the tour

Meeting Point

All our tours are self-guided. You will be led by the GPS in the app. Remember to check the "Before You Go" Section of your ticket and give Pandemic Tours App access to your location!

Meeting point

Manchester , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

The tour finishes at Deansgate, near the Roman Fort.

Meeting point

Rice St, Manchester M3 4JR , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

A Monument To Vimto

Here is where the tour starts. This is the first stop of 18! You will get a brief description of the whole tour and particularly at this stop, you will discover the amazing history behind the most famous soft drink the North has ever made, which was originally produced in this location.

Duration 5 minutes
2
Alan Turing Memorial

In this stop, we will tell you who was Alan Turing and why was (and still is) so important for the city. Also, you will learn some practical things about Sackville Gardens and all its monuments. You will start to get some perspective of the Gay Village and all its past in Manchester.

Duration 10 minutes
3

Gay Village

We will guide you around this beautiful and emblematic area of Manchester to teach you all about its history. Strolling around Canal Street you will hear about the dark past of the street and how people helped to turn the odds and worked to build the lovely sidewalk it is today.

Duration 15 minutes
4

Chinatown

Walk around the archway and discover the amazing shops and restaurants of this ethnic enclave. You will learn who's city is Manchester twin in China and why the archway was built here.

Duration 10 minutes
5

St Peter's Square

We will guide you through the famous St Peter Square and you will learn everything you need to know about this place and its emblematic buildings: Manchester Central Library, the oldest free library in the country; The Midland Hotel, one of the first luxury hotels in the north; Manchester Town Hall, one of the most beautiful town hall in the country; and more. You will also hear every exciting story that happened here in the past and understand why it is called St Peter Square.

Duration 15 minutes
6
The Bridgewater Hall

Discover the incredible Bridgewater Hall and all its surrounding area charged with vivid history. We will also tell you two of the north's most horrible stories that happened in the past that haunts citizens until today: The first in 1819 and the second in 1963, both in the premises of Manchester Central Station.

Duration 15 minutes
7

Royal Exchange Theatre

Here you will learn all about the Cotton Industry, how it developed so strongly in Manchester and what were the consequences for the city. You will understand the pivotal role that this building played in the industrial past of Manchester. Here, we will tell you the story of the IRA Bomb as well and how it affected the entire city.

Duration 15 minutes
8

The Shambles

Definitely the most beautiful square around the city centre. Here you will see the oldest pub in town and learn about its history, so you understand why it is typically full (and relatively cheap). Also, you will learn about the boom of the cotton industry and how it made an opportunity to exploit the trade of other markets through the Royal Corn Exchange (another astonishing building in this square).

Duration 10 minutes
9
Manchester Cathedral

We will guide you around the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Manchester, the seat of the Bishop of Manchester and the city's parish church. Manchester Cathedral is one of the many emblems of the city, and it's a must-visit for every passer-by.

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
10
The John Rylands Library

Discover one of the best-kept secrets of Manchester, and probably one of the nicest libraries in the country, the Harry Potterish - John Rylands Library. We will tell you everything you need to know about this extraordinary building, which is grace is on the inside, so if you have time our recommendation is to venture inside.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
11
Castlefield Urban Heritage Park

In our final stop, you will learn about the beggings of the city: its Roman Heritage. Feel like a roman exploring the reconstructed buildings of this amazing park. You will learn why the city is called Manchester. Then, we will let you stroll around the beautiful canals of Deansgate with a list of recommendations for things to do and places to eat around the city.

Duration 15 minutes
12

Guardian Telephone Exchange

Another interesting landmark of this area is The Guardian Telephone Exchange, called the "Best kept secret in Manchester". We'll help you unveil this secret hiding in plain sight.

13

The Midland

Discover the magnificent landmark of the city centre, The Midland Hotel, which has been part of life in Manchester for over 118 years, is worldwide renown for its beautiful architecture. We will tell you all about it, plus some incredible stories that have happened here during the years.

14
Manchester Central Library

Hop into the legacy of what once was the first public lending and reference library of the UK, provided by Manchester local council after the passing of the Public Libraries Act 1850. Of course, this isn't the original building, but we will tell you everything about its history and how it became the beautiful Greek structure it is today.

15

Manchester Central

What now is a convention centre, once was used as Manchester Central Train Station by The Midland Railway. Join us to discover everything that happened in this place, from one of the worst massacres the north has ever seen (before the train even existed) to the mysterious story behind a suitcase left in this same station in 1965.

Duration 10 minutes
16

The Corn Exchange

Come to discover what once was one of the most exciting market exchanges around the north, where the commercialization of other goods thrived thanks to the cotton industry in the city. The first Corn Exchange was built on this site in 1837 and we will tell you how it became a Listed Building which now houses a Food Court, a Hotel and more.

17

The Old Wellington

Discover probably the most famous and oldest pub in the city centre: The Old Wellington and Sinclair's Oyster Bar. Once famous for housing John Shaw's Punch House, during this tour you will understand why so many people visit this Pub on a daily basis.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Pandemic Tours

What our experts say

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    Start at the Vimto Monument for tips.
  • icon
    Visit Chinatown for great dining options.
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    Don't miss the John Rylands Library.
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    Check out local shops in the Gay Village.
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    Capture photos at Castlefield's canals.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the vibrant city of Manchester like never before with the Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour. Leave behind the crowds, schedules, and lines as you embark on a personalized exploration of this fascinating city. Armed with just your smartphone, you'll have the freedom to wander at your own pace, capturing stunning pictures and immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Manchester.

What to expect?

During this self-guided adventure, you can anticipate a deep dive into Manchester's captivating past and present. From its origins as a Roman Fort to its evolution into the bustling metropolis it is today, you'll uncover the city's industrial heritage, iconic canals, and storehouses. Discover the pivotal role Manchester has played in football, culture, music, art, science, architecture, international relationships, and even war. Every step of the way, you'll be introduced to the key figures who have shaped this remarkable city.

Who is this for?

The Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour is designed for all curious travelers seeking an authentic and flexible exploration experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a football fan, an art lover, or simply someone who enjoys discovering new destinations, this tour caters to a wide range of interests. It's perfect for solo adventurers, couples, and even families who want to discover Manchester at their own pace.

Why book this?

This tour offers a unique and immersive way to experience Manchester. With an audio guide narrated by a real person, you'll feel like you're accompanied by a knowledgeable local friend throughout your journey. The tour includes not only audio but also videos, pictures, and recommendations to ensure you make the most of your visit. You'll receive a code to activate the tour on our app, granting you three weeks of unlimited access to all the captivating content.

Good to know

When booking the Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour, you'll receive an email with instructions and a code to access the tour on our app. This code is different from your booking reference number, so make sure to check your inbox before starting your adventure. The tour concludes near the Roman Fort at Deansgate, but along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore numerous attractions and landmarks. Please note that the tour does not include an in-person guide or entrance fees to any attractions mentioned.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour have praised its flexibility, informative content, and ease of use. They have expressed their satisfaction with the in-depth historical insights, the engaging audio guide, and the comprehensive recommendations provided. Many have appreciated the opportunity to explore Manchester at their own pace and have found the tour to be an excellent way to discover the city's hidden gems. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this self-guided tour is sure to offer a memorable and enriching experience.

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