Manchester Group &Travel Trade Guide 2013

Manchester Group & Travel Trade Guide 2013 visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

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Please contact our dedicated ‘manchester connected’ team, who are available 24/7 to deliver a complete travel solution from one to ten thousand passengers.

0161 681 0999 ^3 enquiries@swanstravel.com p3 www.swanstravel.com

Contents

National Football Museum

The Palace Theatre

2

Welcome to Manchester

3

What’s New in Manchester?

4

Manchester - a city of firsts

5

Top 10 Visitor Experiences

6

Itinerary Ideas

8

Cultural Creations

9

Manchester International Festival 2013

10

Happy Shopping

12

Vintage Visions

14

Global Sports City

16

Youth and Education

18

Food for Thought

20

What’s On 2013

22

Festive Manchester

23

Manchester on a shoestring

24

The Quays

26

Greater Manchester’s Hidden Gems

29

Countryside Retreat

30

Gateway to the North West of England

32

Luxurious Manchester

33

Manchester Airport

34

Where to Stay

36

Visit Manchester Travel Trade Support

38

Coach Parking

40

Transport Information

16

Chester Zoo

13

City Centre Cruises

8

Gallery of Costume

Listings

IWM North

18

Hard Rock Cafe Manchester

24

IWM North

15

Manchester City Football Club

22

Manchester Markets

15

Manchester United Football Club

5

MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry)

15

National Football Museum

34

The Palace Hotel

9

The Palace Theatre & Opera House

4

People’s History Museum

12

Tatton Park

10

The Trafford Centre

Visit Manchester makes every effort to ensure that the information contained in this guide is correct at the time of going to print but changes often occur after press. Therefore we cannot accept liability for any loss or damage arising from its use. However, if you do spot any errors or omissions please contact shay.mcginty@visitmanchester.com

Spinningfields

The information within this guide and the design are copyright Visit Manchester and no part of this document may be reproduced in part or wholly by any means, electronic or mechanical, without prior permission of the publishers in writing.

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1

Welcome to Manchester Manchester is one of the UK’s most diverse and cosmopolitan cities, attracting visitors with its fine traditions of sport, culture, music and top class events.

With its welcoming attitude, varied tourist attractions, quality shopping and legendary nightlife, Manchester is, quite rightly so, the third most visited destination in the UK. The city has a rich industrial heritage and is renowned for being a city of firsts: the birthplace of the industrial revolution, the splitting of the atom and most recently, the discovery of Graphene, the world’s thinnest and strongest material.

Cultural venues are in abundance, from the National Football Museum to the dramatic Lowry and inspirational Manchester Art Gallery. The city hosts world-class events such as Manchester International Festival, attracting visitors from all over the globe.

Shopping in Manchester never fails to impress, with luxury department stores Harvey Nichols and Selfridges offering the best in international designer labels, and renowned brands such as Vivienne Westwood and Mulberry both with flagship

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stores in the city. Many of these retailers offer tax free shopping for visitors coming from outside of the EU. Independent fashion retailers also thrive in Manchester, such as Renegade Marmalade and Nina Merabi, as well as many vintage outlets within the bohemian Northern Quarter district.

Its central location and accessibility makes Manchester the perfect base for exploring the beautiful North West region. Vibrant cities like Chester and Liverpool and stunning countryside in national parks like the Peak and Lake Districts are just one hour’s drive away. Manchester’s integrated transport network means visitors can find their way around easily using Piccadilly Station – the primary gateway to explore the rest of the UK – with London just over two hours away and Scotland only three.

Manchester Airport’s growing capacity means that there are over 190 direct connections worldwide, from Europe, the US, Asia and the Middle East. Due to these links the city is

ideally suited to being the first or last destination as part of a UK or European tour.

Manchester’s appeal to groups, whether from national or overseas locations, continues to grow at pace. The city was awarded ‘Best UK Destination for Groups’ runner up in the 2012 Group Travel Awards and welcomes almost 1 million international visitors every year, which is testament to the standards of excellence from across the Greater Manchester tourism industry.

The vast choice of places to stay, from budget hostels and five star hotels, to the increasingly popular apart-hotel accommodation, makes planning packages and coordinating a short break simple.

There is a large network of suppliers based here, from ground handlers to full service destination management companies, waiting to make your itineraries as memorable and Mancunian as possible.

What’s New in Manchester?

From international cultural and sporting events, to new hotels and routes, 2013 promises to be an exciting year.

easyJet launches Moscow service, 28 March The Moscow-Manchester service will run four times a week and is a brand new addition to Manchester’s direct connectivity, and easyJet expects a strong demand and predict flying 60,000 passengers between the two cities in the first year. Lead-in fares will start from £47.49 each way. easyjet.com

Accommodation Update ABode Manchester’s 61 bedrooms have been fully refurbished, whilst Hilton Manchester Deansgate’s Cloud 23 Lounge is now open after a major refurbishment, with their Podium Restaurant undergoing renovation in early 2013. Additionally, Premier Inn’s 193 bedroom Piccadilly hotel and the 150-room Ibis Budget both opened in late 2012.

Simon Rogan at The French, late February The French, situated in The Midland Hotel, has always been one of the city’s finest restaurants, and one of the first establishments in the UK to be awarded a Michelin star in 1974. To be re-launching the restaurant in partnership with the innovative chef Simon Rogan is a great coup. qhotels.co.uk

Sea Life Manchester, opening summer 2013 Sea Life is anticipated to bring a new aquatic dimension to the visitor experience with more than 5,000 creatures and an underwater ocean tunnel. Operated by Merlin, Sea Life joins sister venue LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in the Trafford Centre’s Barton Square. visitsealife.com/manchester

Manchester International Festival, 4 – 21 July

Wicked, The Palace Theatre, 12 September - 16 November

The fourth instalment of the biennial two week festival of world premieres, special events and cultural extravaganzas returns to the city this July. The critically acclaimed festival attracts visitors from across the globe and affirms Manchester’s position on the world cultural stage. mif.co.uk

Brilliantly re-imagining L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the remarkable story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two girls who first meet as sorcery students. As their friendship reaches a crossroads, their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West emerge. atgtickets.com

‘Summer in the City’ at Etihad Stadium A-list acts announced for a series of summer concerts at the home of Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) include Muse on June 1, Bon Jovi on June 8 and Robbie Williams on June 18-22. Tickets and VIP hospitality packages now available. mcfc.co.uk

NBA Series, Manchester Arena, October A firm favourite with the music industry, the venue is now an increasingly popular choice for sports events too. The National Basketball Association (NBA) games will see top flight teams from the US compete, drawing in fans from across the world. men-arena.com

The Ashes, 1 – 4 August The legendary Ashes come to Lancashire County Cricket Club (LCCC) this summer with England and Australia battling it out in the third Test Series. LCCC has invested heavily in its visitor facilities to offer an unforgettable experience. lccc.co.uk

Rugby League World Cup 2013, October & November Greater Manchester is one of the host locations for RLWC 2013, with five international matches being played in Leigh, Rochdale, Salford, Wigan and the World Cup final at Old Trafford. Tickets and international travel packages now available. rlwc2013.com

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Manchester - a city of firsts The birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, vegetarianism and the Suffragettes movement, Manchester’s entrepreneurial and innovative spirit has helped the city lead the world in the fields of engineering, politics, arts, sports and music.

Manchester is a city of firsts, having introduced the computer, professional football league and passenger railway before anyone else. A city of social reformers, liberal thinkers and visionaries, it was here where the great wealth that came with industrial success grew up hand in hand with social responsibility and patronage of the arts, creating the cultural legacy that we all enjoy today.

With such a colourful past, there are a host of free visitor attractions and places of interest that pay homage to the city’s fascinating heritage.

MOSI (Museum of Science and Industry) is home to life-size models and original contraptions that tell the story of Manchester’s contribution to the modern world. Set on the site of the first ever passenger railway, MOSI brings to life science and technology, innovation, computing and transport. A great day out for all ages.

The People’s History Museum is where visitors can discover just how far the UK has come in terms of social and political justice.

With changing exhibitions as well as permanent galleries, PHM tells the story of

social reform through five galleries themed Revolution, Reformers, Workers, Citizens and Voters.

Manchester Town Hall, a Grade I listed, neoclassical, gothic masterpiece is also well worth a visit. With fantastic architecture and numerous sculptures of Manchester’s past ‘great and good’, the Town Hall offers guided tours and traditional Afternoon Tea packages in its grand Sculpture Hall.

For historical significance, Manchester’s buildings have some great stories to tell.

Chetham’s Library, the oldest public library in the English speaking world, is set in a collection of medieval buildings dating back to 1421. It was here where Karl Marx met Friedrich Engels. Visitors can take guided tours throughout the building on Wednesday afternoons.

Nearby, Manchester Cathedral offers a wealth of magnificent architecture to explore. For a unique overnight stay, The Midland Hotel is where Mr. Rolls met Mr. Royce for the very first time in 1904 and from this, one of the most prestigious automobile brands was born. John Rylands Library is one of the city’s historic landmarks. Winner of the Large

Tourist Attraction at the 2012 Manchester Tourism Awards, the neo-gothic library was built in the 1890s and today houses a number of world renowned book collections.

Fantastic evening entertainment can found at the Bridgewater Hall. Home to the Hallé Orchestra, founded by Sir Charles Hallé in 1858, the orchestra continues its concert series to this day in a state-of-the-art auditorium. The Royal Exchange Theatre is housed in a Grade II listed building which was once formerly Manchester’s huge cotton exchange hall during the height of the Industrial Revolution. The city’s only theatrein-the-round, groups can enjoy generous discounts and popular seasons of plays and performances.

A great way to learn more about Manchester’s history and heritage is to book a guided walking tour where a number of friendly, knowledgeable tour guides can offer a range of themed tours in English and other languages. manchesterguidedtours.com

People's History Museum Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER 0161 838 9190 | learning@phm.org.uk | www.phm.org.uk/visit-us/groups Following a multi-million pound redevelopment, the People’s History Museum re-opened in 2010. There have always been ideas worth fighting for - join a march through time following Britain’s struggle for democracy over two centuries. Also visit our changing exhibition gallery and community gallery, browse our shop for unique gifts and make use of the sunniest riverside terrace in our Left Bank cafe bar. Self-guided group visits are welcome. A Teas & Tours package is available (charges apply). Pre-booking essential.

Open: Monday - Sunday 10.00am - 5.00pm (Closed 24, 25 & 26 December and 1 January) Group size: Min 0, Max 200 Average Length of visit: 2-3 hours Admission Prices: Free admission to museum. Teas & Tours package £6.45 per person. ✓ Pre-booking required

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✓ Tea room/café

✓ Education officer on-site

Meet and greet

✓ Picnic area

✓ Teacher/pupil pack

Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

✓ Packed lunches

Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Guided tours

✓ Coach parking nearby

✓ Gift shop

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

Study area ✓ Worksheets n/a Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Top 10 Visitor Experiences 1. MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry)

6. Runway Visitor Park, Concorde

A mammoth collection of real life models, machines and galleries that pay tribute to the city’s industrial heritage, and tell the story of Manchester’s revolutionary contribution to the modern world in which we live today. mosi.org.uk

Custom-built hangar with the Concorde experience, aircraft tours and the best viewing platform to see Manchester Airport’s aviation in action. manchesterairport.co.uk

2. The Lowry

The bohemian Northern Quarter is the city’s creative hub. Bursting with funky boutiques, independent tea rooms, cafes and an eclectic mix of bars, clubs and restaurants. visitmanchester.com

A colossal centre for culture combining theatre and performance, art, food and drink and the largest collection of L.S. Lowry works in the world. thelowry.com

3. Chill Factore The UK’s longest indoor skiing and snowboarding slope, where adrenaline inducing alpine activities like tubing, sledging and snow sphereing offer exhilarating experiences for all ages. chillfactore.com

4. Manchester Art Gallery Exquisite exhibitions of classic and contemporary art across three floors, with a popular café and gift shop. manchestergalleries.org

5. Manchester Museum Home to one of the largest and most important collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the UK - expect mummies, dinosaurs and fascinating cultural exhibits. museum.manchester.ac.uk

7. Northern Quarter

8. The Football Experience Football fanatics can relish in the fantastic stadium and museum tours at either Manchester United or Manchester City Football clubs, topped off with the National Football Museum’s homage to the game. manutd.com / mcfc.co.uk nationalfootballmuseum.com

Large Visitor Attraction of the Year John Rylands Library Small Visitor Attraction of the Year Ordsall Hall Hotel of the Year The Lowry Hotel Serviced Apartments of the Year Premier Apartments Business Tourism Award Manchester Central Large Event of the Year Manchester International Festival Small Event of the Year Ramsbottom Chocolate Festival Tourism Restaurant of the Year Zouk

9. IWM North Stunning architectural gem with fascinating galleries and exhibits exploring the relationship between human life and conflict. iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-north

Independent Retailer of the Year Afflecks

10. Dunham Massey

Tourism Star of the Year Barbara Frost – Manchester Blue Badge Guide

The 17th century hall, gardens and park in Trafford will transport you into Downtown Abbey-esque Edwardian life. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey

Large Tourism Retailer of the Year The Trafford Centre

Best Bar (People’s Choice Awards) Simple

MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester) Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester M3 4FP 0161 606 0177 | j.earith@mosi.org.uk | www.mosi.org.uk Located on the site of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station, MOSI’s five listed buildings, outstanding collections and inspiring programme of events and exhibitions tell the story of where science met industry and the modern world began.

See your face amongst world class inventors on the Revolution Manchester Gallery digital chandelier, enjoy daily steam mill engine and textile machine demonstrations, get up close to impressive locomotives and marvel at magnificent flying machines that made aviation history.

Open: Every day 10am-5pm (Closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan) Group size: Min 10, No Max Average Length of visit: 3-4 hours Admission Prices: Free to main museum ✓ Pre-booking required

✓ Tea room/café

✓ Education officer on-site

✓ Picnic area

✓ Teacher/pupil pack

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

✓ Packed lunches

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Study area

✓ Guided tours

✓ Coach parking nearby

✓ Worksheets

✓ Restaurant

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

7:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Meet and greet

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

5

Itinerary Ideas These suggested itineraries will ensure visitors have an unforgettable stay – discovering some of Manchester’s most famous exports – football, music, countryside and a rich cultural heritage.

People’s History Museum

Manchester Art Gallery

The Palace Theatre

Lunch For a real taste of Manchester, dining at one of the Victorian Chop Houses is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into Victorian Manchester with seasonal menus that tantalise taste buds with traditional British dishes. The Albert Square Chop House is the largest of the city’s three chop houses and offers private dining and function suites for hire. Nearby, both Sam’s and Mr Thomas’ Chop Houses are of the same quality but in a more intimate setting.

Dinner Manchester’s Palace Hotel on Oxford Road offers fantastic pre-entertainment food in glorious surroundings of its Grade II listed building. Its Tempus Restaurant hosts pretheatre dinning deals on its seasonal menu, and is superbly located for all of the city’s night time attractions.

24 Hours in Manchester Morning For first time visitors, the best way to experience Manchester is on foot, so a Discover Manchester walking tour is highly recommended, giving visitors an in-depth background on the city’s history, hidden gems and major visitor attractions. The tours can be pre-booked with accredited, expert guides and last around two hours. Themed tours are available covering key themes such as heritage, food & drink, architecture and literature. Tours can also be delivered in a number of European languages.

After a tour, visitors should take a trip to the People’s History Museum, Spinningfields where a ‘Teas and Tours’ package is available, which includes a hot drink and cake in the Left Bank Café, before exploring the extensive galleries charting the UK’s social history and democracy with an experienced guide.

Afternoon City dwellers might want to use their afternoon taking a journey through the different ages of art at Manchester Art Gallery, home to the largest collection of fine and decorative art in Greater Manchester. Free 20 minute orientation tours are available to groups of 10 or more and include an overview of current and permanent galleries.

Additional free time in Manchester can be used to explore city centre shopping districts including the Northern Quarter, Market Street, Exchange Square, King Street, Deansgate and Spinningfields, before freshening up for the evening.

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Evening After an early dinner, visitors may wish to enjoy a performance at one of the city’s renowned theatres such as The Palace Theatre or Manchester Opera House.

Most evening shows begin at 7:30pm and offer advance booking discounts.

Alternatively, there’s always live music at a variety of venues.

Late There is a huge range of evening and latenight venues for visitors who want to continue enjoying their 24 hours in the city.

Bars and clubs can be found throughout Spinningfields, Deansgate Locks, Deansgate, the Northern Quarter, the Gay Village and Whitworth Street West, many of which are open late into the night.

John Rylands Library

72 Hours in Manchester Day 1: Sport & Music Morning Visitors can charter a private MUFC Leisure Cruise with City Centre Cruises, departing from Castlefield and meandering up the Manchester Ship Canal taking in the sights of The Quays’ star attractions MediaCityUK, The Lowry and IWM North before arriving at Old Trafford’s Theatre of Dreams. The Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour explores the history of one of world’s best loved football clubs and blends historical exhibits, trophies, state-of-the-art experiences, behind the scenes and on-the-pitch access for an unforgettable experience.

Lunch As the UK’s largest branch of the renowned restaurant, Manchester’s Hard Rock Café, displays priceless pieces of popular music history, from Oasis, The Beatles and Elvis, it is a unique dining experience.

Afternoon Opposite the Hard Rock Café is the National Football Museum, containing three floors of football fable to explore, including the display of legendary exhibits such as the original 1966 World Cup ball. The Museum is free to enter with an additional charge for interactive activities.

Dinner The authentic Bem Brasil Deansgate serves up a feast of never ending barbequed meat, large salad bar and mobile Caipirinha stations.

Evening Manchester is a haven for live music, and is home to both some of the world’s most legendary acts and some of today’s edgiest up-and-coming stars. Visitors can catch the biggest artists on tour at Manchester Arena, and the slightly smaller O2 Apollo and Manchester Academy, whilst more intimate gigs take place at bar and club venues such as Ruby Lounge, Deaf Institute, The Castle Hotel and Night & Day.

Day 2: Further Afield

Day 3: Traditional Manchester

Morning Just 20 minutes north of the city centre, in Bury is East Lancashire Railway’s Rail Ale Trail: a steam ride through the sweeping valleys and beautiful landscapes, where visitors can enjoy brunch aboard their Observer Carriage before stopping off at microbreweries to sample the region’s finest real ale.

Morning A few miles east of the city centre, The Monastery, is a gothic, Grade II listed treasure built by monks dating back to the 18th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the splendid interior which has been lovingly restored.

Lunch For one of the UK’s best-loved dishes, visitors should head to Bolton to dine at Olympus Fish & Chip Restaurant, before exploring the nearby Bolton Market, a bustling, 300 stall market growing in its popularity for its local food and drink.

Afternoon An idyllic spot to spend an afternoon is the Cheshire countryside, where visitors can walk through the delightful deer park and country estate at Tatton Park. Tours of the Mansion are available, after which its beautiful landscaped gardens can be explored. After this, visitors can settle down with a warming feast of seasonal produce sourced from their very own estate at The Stables Restaurant.

Evening On returning to the city centre, one way to round off a fulfilling day is with a classical concert. There are three orchestras in Manchester residing at the Bridgewater Hall, where visitors can enjoy an exceptional show.

Returning to the city centre, visitors may wish to visit the architectural delight of John Rylands Library, a Victorian masterpiece that once belonged to one of Manchester’s most successful industrialists.

Lunch Visitors can relax over a traditional Afternoon Tea of scones, tea and cakes in the sumptuous surroundings of The Midland Hotel - the setting where Mr Rolls and Mr Royce first met one another.

Afternoon A visit to Manchester would not be complete without a stop at Manchester Town Hall, an undoubtedly iconic landmark that sits proudly on Albert Square. Visitors can enjoy regular guided tours which explore its Sculpture Hall and Ford Maddox Brown murals that adorn the walls.

Dinner Guests can relax over a supper of classic, yet modern, British dishes served in the elegant ambience of Room Restaurant in Spring Gardens. This 2AA Rosette restaurant is one of the city’s most loved.

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Cultural Creations Recently referred to as ‘the beating heart of cultural Britain’, Manchester can hold its own when it comes to celebrating diversity, arts and performance.

Performance & Music A myriad of performance venues exist, where everything from afternoon recitals, live theatre productions, plays and stand-up comedy can be enjoyed seven nights a week.

Both Manchester Opera House and Palace Theatre offer high profile productions, classical opera and touring West End shows all year round, perfect for either the novice or seasoned theatre-goer, with exclusive group discounts on advance bookings. On Oxford Road, the Contact Theatre’s castle-like building will enchant visitors with its innovative, community and youth focused approach to the visual arts.

creative talent. For live music in intimate settings, head for the bars of the Northern Quarter, where venues such as Matt and Phred’s entertain with live jazz seven nights a week. Depending on the musical tastes of the visitor, larger groups have the pick of a number of venues such as the 21,000 capacity Manchester Arena, one of the largest concert venues in Europe, which hosts global music superstars, live boxing and NBA basketball.

For something a little different, the Royal Exchange Theatre is a theatre-in-the-round offering a choice for classic and avant-garde plays, poetry and witty comedy. Slightly out of the city centre, The Lowry is a spectacular cultural centre housing three theatres, where live entertainment from ballet and dance, to comedy acts and children’s shows take to the stage. It is also home of the world’s largest collection of works by acclaimed artist, L.S. Lowry. Group organisers can benefit from generous savings for group tickets and preshow dining at both venues.

For a more alternative live music experience, most established acts are found touring at the Manchester Academies in the heart of Manchester’s university district. At the nearby Royal Northern College of Music, groups interested in classical music can attend regular recitals and concerts taking place both during selected afternoons and evenings. The Bridgewater Hall also comes highly recommended. Known as Manchester’s international concert venue, the Bridgewater Hall is home to three resident orchestras – The Halle, Manchester Camerata and the BBC Philharmonic and hosts over 250 performances annually from classical and world music to folk and jazz.

Manchester’s reputation for its contribution to music both of past and present means the city is brimming with budding musicians and

There are approximately 90 museums and galleries across the whole of Greater

Art Galleries

Manchester so groups are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring art as part of a visit. Manchester Art Gallery houses over 25,000 works of outstanding art in stunning Victorian and contemporary surroundings.

The collection spans six centuries and comprises Pre-Raphaelite paintings and a Gallery of Craft and Design showcasing decorative art. Groups booking a guided tour and refreshments package can enjoy a hot drink with scones or biscuits at a special discounted rate. The gallery is also open until 9pm each Thursday.

Nestling alongside the Manchester University campus just outside the city centre, the Whitworth Art Gallery, housed within an Edwardian façade, is home to some of the UK's finest collections of art and design. A visit to the Whitworth guarantees variety.

Modern and historic fine art are displayed alongside prints, textiles and a rare collection of wallpapers. The gallery closes temporarily in September 2013 for a £12million redevelopment.

Just down the road the Gallery of Costume can be found, with its collection spanning over 20,000 fashion items and from June, groups can see an exclusive exhibition, Christian Dior: Designer in Focus.

For more cultural ideas and inspiration, visit creativetourist.com

Gallery of Costume, Platt Hall Platt Hall, Platt Fields Park, Rusholme, Manchester M14 5LL 0161 245 7245 | m.lambert@manchester.gov.uk | www.manchestergalleries.org Bring your group to the Gallery of Costume at Platt Hall. Just two miles south of Manchester city centre, this lovely Georgian house showcases five centuries of British fashion from the city’s extensive costume collection. Exhibits range from exquisite seventeenth century embroidery to contemporary couture, via Victorian opulence and wartime austerity. There are changing exhibitions too and a tea room and shop. The tea room offers cakes, drinks, sandwiches and buffets for groups, provided they pre-order. Contact us for prices.

Open: Mon - Fri: 1 - 5pm, Sat and Sun: 10am - 5pm. Groups can visit on weekday mornings by appointment. (Closed 24 - 26 and 31 December, 1 January and Good Friday) Group size: Max 50 Average Length of visit: 2 hours Admission Prices: Free ✓ Pre-booking required ✓ Meet and greet

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Picnic area

Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

Guided tours

✓ Coach parking nearby

✓ Gift shop

8

✓ Tea room/café

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

Education officer on-site Teacher/pupil pack Packed lunches ✓ Study area

Worksheets 7:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Manchester International Festival 2013 Eighteen extraordinary days of world premieres and special events between 4 - 21 July.

Manchester International Festival (MIF) is the world’s only multi-venue festival that combines original, new work with neverbefore-seen exhibitions, performances and installations.

The biennial festival is now in its fourth edition and promises to be bigger and better than ever. MIF has attracted a total of 230,000 visitors and staged over 213 performances in its short lifetime, and has truly placed Manchester on the map as a key player on the global cultural stage.

Many of the works made for MIF and premiered in Manchester have then gone on to tour internationally.

Previous MIF highlights include Björk's ambitious three week Biophilia residency and director Robert Wilson's startling piece for the stage, The Life and Death of Marina Abramović. Additionally, Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett and Chen Shi-Zheng's Chinese opera Monkey: Journey to the West has also featured, and Zaha Hadid Architects' new space for the music of J.S. Bach was a triumphant success.

MIF13 will host an exciting programme to wow visitors, filled with highlights such as Kenneth Branagh in Macbeth, who returns to Shakespeare after more than a decade.

Additionally, following the release of their

number 1 album Coexist, the highly acclaimed British trio The xx, will play throughout the festival in specially staged, intimate gigs for audiences of under 100, and The Biospheric Project sees a prototype urban farm created in a disused city centre mill on the River Irwell.

Tickets for Macbeth and The xx are on sale now. The full programme is due to be announced in spring 2013.

For more information and to sign up for ticket alerts, go to mif.co.uk

The Palace Theatre & The Opera House Palace Theatre, Oxford Street, Manchester M1 6FT The Opera House, Quay Street, Manchester M3 3HP 0844 871 3038 | manchestergroups@theambassadors.com | www.atgtickets.com/manchester Having played host to the first UK tours of many West End shows, including Mary Poppins, Dirty Dancing and the World Premiere of GHOST the musical, the Palace Theatre & Opera House are the North West's most prestigious theatres. Offering many benefits to our groups organisers, including generous discounts, show launch invitations and a dedicated sales team and booking line, with amazing shows coming to us in 2013, give your group the experience of live theatre at its very best.

Open: Shows all year. Booking line open Monday - Friday; 10am - 6pm (Closed 25th December) Group size: Min 10, Max n/a Average Length of visit: 3 hours Admission Prices: Varies according to the show ✓ Pre-booking required

Meet and greet

Tea room/café

✓ Education officer on-site

Picnic area

✓ Teacher/pupil pack

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

Packed lunches

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled toilets

Study area

✓ Guided tours

✓ Disabled access

✓ Gift shop

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

Worksheets 10:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

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Happy Shopping Manchester is renowned for its shopping, with a dazzling selection of stylish shops encompassing renowned British designers as well as exclusive international brands.

The city centre is a haven for the fashion conscious where the districts of King Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square and The Avenue are home to some of the most iconic fashion houses. The upmarket King Street is lined with decadent designer stores such as Gant, Whistles, Boodles, DKNY and Cath Kidston. In nearby Spinningfelds, The Avenue’s catwalk of luxury stores include Mulberry, Flannels and Armani. New Cathedral Street and Exchange Square are home to two of the UK’s biggest department stores – Selfridges and Harvey Nichols – which sit side by side and offer high-end fashion, beauty and dining across renowned brands.

Market Street is the central shopping artery of the city centre where Manchester Arndale’s 240 stores stock High Street labels galore, including NEXT, River Island, Topshop and Kurt Geiger. At the top of Market Street is a flagship Primark for budget conscious shoppers, and at the bottom you will find a flagship M&S store.

The smart St Ann’s Square and neighbouring Deansgate is where heritage British brands reign supreme, where Manchester’s oldest department store, House of Fraser sits alongside plenty of stylish bars and restaurants, perfect for some post-spree rest.

Independent fashion can be found in the

bohemian Northern Quarter, home to an array of vintage outlets. The area is home to Afflecks, an Aladdin’s cave of traders offering everything from top hats to tattoos, as well as numerous bars and cafés where visitors can unwind either mid-shop or at the end of their retail experience.

Just outside of the city centre, is retail paradise and multi-award winning The Trafford Centre, one of the most visited shopping complexes in the UK. It offers tax free shopping and free parking; additionally, pre-booked groups arriving by coach can benefit from an exclusive personal meet and greet service which includes coach drivers’ meal vouchers and discount booklets for all passengers.

Tax-free Shopping International visitors residing outside the EU are entitled to reclaim the VAT (sales tax) on items purchased while in the UK, making a 20% saving. In order to claim tax back, visitors must request a VAT form when they purchase items in outlets displaying a tax free shopping logo. However, not all outlets display a logo, so it is worth asking upon payment.

If Manchester is the last leg of a journey, visitors need to produce their goods, receipts and passport in order to get the forms stamped by a Customs Officer at Manchester Airport. Once stamped, the form should be deposited in the dedicated refund box. Terms and conditions apply.

The Trafford Centre Manchester M17 8AA 0161 749 1717/18 | marketing@thetraffordcentre.co.uk | traffordcentre.co.uk/groups The Trafford Centre offers an unrivalled experience for group travel. As well as offering a fabulous selection of stores and 60 restaurants and cafes, the Centre also provides special offers for group visits. With high street favourites to exclusive designer brands The Trafford Centre is a shopping experience to rival London’s Oxford Street. With a choice of eateries from around the world and leisure venues such as Laser Quest, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and SEA LIFE opening this summer there’s something to suit everyone.

Open: 10am-10pm weekdays, 10am-8pm Saturday, 12noon-6pm Sunday.

Bank Holidays 10am-8pm. On Sunday smaller stores are open from 11am.

Group size: Unlimited Average Length of visit: Unlimited Admission Prices: Free

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✓ Pre-booking required

✓ Tea room/café

✓ Education officer on-site

✓ Meet and greet

✓ Picnic area

✓ Teacher/pupil pack

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Guided tours

✓ Coach parking on site/nearby

✓ Restaurant

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

Packed lunches ✓ Study area ✓ Worksheets

30:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

There’s no place like it!

One ofof the the most most exciting exciting shopping, shopping, One dining and and leisure leisure destinations destinations inin the the UK UK dining

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre

O Lots of fabulous designer and high street stores O Lots of fabulous designer and high street stores

including Selfridges, John Lewis, Debenhams and M&S including Selfridges, John branches Lewis, Debenhams and roof.

M&S and lots of large flagship all under one and lots of large flagship branches all under one roof.

O 60 restaurants, cafés and bars.

O 60 restaurants, cafés and bars.

O Shopping till 10pm weekdays.

O Shopping till 10pm weekdays.

O Unrivalled selection of leisure destinations including O Unrivalled selection of leisure destinations®including SEA LIFE opening June 2013, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, ® SEA LIFE opening 2013, LEGOLAND 20 screen ODEONJune cinema, Aerial ExtremeDiscovery high ropesCentre, 20 screen ODEON Extreme high games, ropes adventure course,cinema, Namco Aerial Funscape bowling, adventure course, fun and lots more!Namco Funscape bowling, games, fun and lots more!

O Free parking.

O Free parking.

O Only 25 minutes from Manchester city centre O Only 25 minutes from Manchester city centre with the X50 Express bus service. with the X50 Express bus service.

O Tax-Free shopping.

O Tax-Free shopping.

O Find out more at www.traffordcentre.co.uk O Find out more at www.traffordcentre.co.uk

Vintage Visions Greater Manchester’s historic past offers a wealth of experiences paying homage to bygone eras, whether visitors want to explore stately homes and gardens of grandeur, voyage by steam railway through stunning countryside or cruise waterways built when cotton was king.

Stately Homes and Castles Ordsall Hall Winner of the 2012 Manchester Tourism Awards Small Visitor Attraction of the Year, Ordsall Hall is a historic black and white timbered Tudor house and a former stately home in Salford. Legend has evolved that it was here that Guy Fawkes and Robert Catesby plotted to overthrow King James in what was to become the famous Gunpowder Plot. Such is this legend that the street adjacent to the hall has been named ‘Guy Fawkes Street’. In addition, it is believed that the ghost of its former resident and Tudor lady, The White Lady, still remain there. Guided tours and overnight visits can be arranged. salford.gov.uk/ordsallhall

Bramall Hall A magnificent black and white timber-framed Tudor mansion in Stockport, 15 minutes drive south of the city centre, Bramall Hall dates back six centuries and is set in 70 acres of luscious parkland and has onsite Tea Rooms

which make the perfect setting for Afternoon Tea. Groups can arrange private tours of the mansion’s 16 rooms which includes The Great Hall, Banqueting Room and Servants’ Quarters, giving unique insights into the previous families that lived there and the workers that dwelled there. stockport.gov.uk/bramallhall

Peckforton Castle Peckforton Castle is a magnificent medieval Graded I listed castle set in the Cheshire countryside. Originally the home of Lord Tollemache and built in the early 19th Century, the hotel is the only intact medieval style castle in the country. Fine 3AA Rosette dining, beauty spa and onsite Falconry are just some of the leisure facilities available, not to mention the castle’s stunning scenery, which offers outdoor activities such as archery, air rifle shooting and mountain biking. peckfortoncastle.co.uk

Tatton Park Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6QN Sat Nav ref. WA16 6SG 01625 374 416 | tatton@cheshireeast.gov.uk | www.tattonpark.org.uk Tatton Park is a magnificent historic estate just 20 minutes from the city centre. Itineraries include a visit to the Neo-Classical Mansion, 50 acres of award-wining Gardens, lively historic tours of the Tudor Old Hall and the 1930s working Farm. Locally sourced ingredients are featured in The Stables and new Gardener’s Cottage menus and there are several speciality shops. NEW: The Magic of Beatrix Potter features original watercolours and exhibitions (Mar – Sep); annual events include the RHS Flower Show and Christmas.

Open: High Season: Mansion Tue to Sun 1pm - 5pm, Gardens Mon to Sun 10am - 6pm, Farm Tue to Sun 12pm - 5pm. Open Bank Holiday Mondays.

Group size: Min 12, Max 100 Average Length of visit: 3 - 5 hours Admission Prices: £5.00 single attraction. £9.00 Totally Tatton Ticket

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✓ Pre-booking required

✓ Tea room/café/restaurant

✓ Education officer on-site

✓ Meet and greet

✓ Picnic area

✓ Teacher/pupil pack

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Guided tours

✓ Coach parking on site

✓ Worksheets

✓ Gift shop

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

5:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Packed lunches ✓ Study area

Full Steam Ahead East Lancashire Railway Constructed with authentic vintage carriages, the East Lancashire Railway takes visitors on a 12 mile, six stop journey via the golden age of the steam train. Groups can enjoy a relaxing journey through the Irwell Valley and stop off to explore the quaint towns of Bury, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall.

Up to 25 people can dine onboard in the newly refurbished 1920s observation saloon and on selected days the railway is opened up for guided Rail Ale Trails, which stops off at microbreweries, allowing visitors to sample the ale and learn about the heritage of the area. eastlancsrailway.org.uk

and coal during the 18th Century. The maze of waterways are still in working order to this day and provide a unique visitor experience.

City Centre Cruises The best alternative to exploring the city on foot is to board a barge and sail along the waterside on a city centre cruise. Head to Castlefield, a distinct area dating back to Roman times. Groups of 25 – 50 people can charter a private cruise on a vessel and enjoy a freshly prepared, three course Sunday lunch on board while taking in the sights of the River Irwell, Salford Quays, Pomona Lock and the Bridgewater Canal.

Football cruises from the city centre to Old Trafford are also available for private hire on selected match days by pre-arrangement. citycentrecruises.co.uk

Worthy Waterways

Wandering Duck

Across Manchester there are a series of canals that have been here for over 250 years. Both Manchester Ship Canal and the Bridgewater Canal were purpose built for importing and exporting goods such as cotton

For smaller groups wanting an overnight experience on Manchester’s waterways, Wandering Duck are a unique company offering overnight canal boat experiences.

Unlike traditional hire boats, they take

care of the sailing, whilst guests relax and enjoy the scenery. Guests onboard can help out with locks, have a go at steering, or just help themselves to the onboard beer pump and music system. For a minimum of four people and maxium of ten. wanderingduck.co.uk

Treasure Trails Treasure Trails are a great alternative to exploring somewhere new whilst solving a puzzle. There are a number of Treasure Trails offered in Greater Manchester and the wider North West which let visitors go on a journey either through Murder Mystery, Treasure Hunt or Spy Mission themed walks.

Trails available in Manchester include Castlefield Spy Trail, Spinningfields - find the Hidden Gem Treasure Hunt as well as Manchester Medieval Quarter and East Lancashire Railway Murder Mysteries. All trails take in major visitor attractions and also highlight hidden gems that are off the beaten track. treasuretrails.co.uk

City Centre Cruises The Castlefield Arena, Liverpool Road, Manchester M3 4JR 0161 902 0222 | boat@citycentrecruises.co.uk | citycentrecruises.co.uk Our company offers cruises for groups of up to 50 people, sailing on the waterways of Manchester and Salford. Without a doubt it is the most enjoyable way of exploring both cities from the relaxed environment of our two vessels, L S Lowry and Emmeline Pankhurst.

Operating all year round we cruise from Castlefield, a part of Manchester that dates back to the Roman times, sailing on Britains first canal, the Bridgewater, through the lock onto the Manchester Ship Canal to visit the modern Quays and Media City, home to the BBC North.

Open: To fit in with customers itinerary. Vessels not available on home fixtures at Manchester United as we travel to each game.

Group size: No Min, Max 50 with food, 60 without food Average Length of visit: 3 hours Admission Prices: Charter rates start from £450 ✓ Pre-booking required ✓ Meet and greet ✓ Driver/guide concessions

Group discounts ✓ Guided tours ✓ Restaurant

✓ Tea room/café

Picnic area ✓ Toilets

Disabled access ✓ Coach parking nearby

Coach drop-off/pick up point

Education officer on-site Teacher/pupil pack Packed lunches Study area Worksheets 20:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

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Global Sports City Famous for its football and hosting international sporting events, Manchester is a truly global sports city.

In addition to spectator sports, there are a number of venues in Manchester that allow visitors the chance to immerse themselves in a variety of adrenaline-inducing and exciting sports and leisure activities.

Trafford Quays Leisure Village Trafford Quays Leisure Village comprises of active venues visitors will love. PlayGolf Manchester, a 21st century ‘crazy’ golf course provides the ultimate high-quality putting experience. From the fun-seeking family to the avid golfer, a spectacular 9-hole putting course attracts and entertains all age visitors and abilities with great group discounts.

For a sub zero experience with a difference, visitors can try out a range of snow activities like skiing and snowboarding at the UK’s largest indoor real snow slope, Chill Factore a truly unique setting for alpine activity lovers. traffordcentre.co.uk/tqlv Nearby at Aerial Extreme, visitors can navigate the outdoor high wire obstacle course amongst the tree tops. Another outdoor activity provider is Go Ape! in Rivington, Bolton, where visitors can dare to experience a host of forest adventures including tree-top zip wires, swings and forest Segway courses. goape.co.uk

Manchester United Football Club Old Trafford stadium offers group match day hospitality packages as well as Museum, Stadium and Legends tours. Only at the Old Trafford Museum & Tour Centre can visitors see the stadium through the eyes of Manchester United greats. Fans can share 130 years of football in the award-winning museum, dine in the Red Café and pick up a souvenir in the Megastore. manutd.com

SportCity

National Football Museum

East Manchester is home to the largest concentration of sporting venues in Europe.

Here visitors can find the National Cycling Centre, also known as the Velodrome, the official home of the British Cycling Team.

Bicycle hire is available for visitors wanting to race on the professional track and the nearby BMX Centre offers jumps and stunts for the more daredevil visitor or standard tracks for all levels of ability. It is also home to the Regional Tennis Centre and National Centre for Squash. sportcity-manchester.com

Visitors with any interest in football should make a visit to the fascinating National Football Museum; the free-toenter museum consists of the largest collection of football memorabilia and historic exhibits in the world. The museum’s Football Plus experience, a paid for extra, makes the visit more memorable with hands on interactive activities such as penalty shootouts, match commentary and photos with real football trophies. nationalfootballmuseum.com

Manchester City Football Club Legends Tour The Legends’ Tour at Manchester City Football Club won’t disappoint, it is an accessall-areas look behind the scenes at the Etihad Stadium and Carrington training complex.

The tour includes a two-course lunch in an executive box with panoramic views over Etihad Stadium and the same experience as the club’s Stadium and Club tour, all in the presence of a MCFC Legend. mcfc.co.uk

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Manchester City Football Club Stadium & Club Tour Etihad Stadium, Etihad Campus, Manchester M11 3FF 0161 444 1894 option 4, option 2 | tours@mcfc.co.uk | mcfc.co.uk One of our professional tour guides will take you on an unforgettable and all-encompassing tour of our Club and Etihad Stadium, which showcases the pride, the passion and the heritage of this great football club. The action packed tour will visit the inner sanctum of the home team dressing room*, the press conference room, the player’s tunnel, the manager’s seat and dug out, and much, much more. (*Subject to availability).

Open: Mon. - Sat. 9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. Sun. & BH's 10:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

(Bank Holidays are Sunday times. Match day times vary due to kick off time.)

Group size: Min 10, No Max Average Length of visit: 2 hours ✓ Pre-booking required

Tea room/café

✓ Meet and greet

✓ Picnic area

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Guided tours

✓ Coach parking on site

✓ Gift Shop

Coach drop-off/pick up point

✓ Education officer on-site

Teacher/pupil pack Packed lunches ✓ Study area ✓ Worksheets 20:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

National Football Museum Cathedral Gardens, Manchester M4 3BG 0161 8718 145 | groups@nationalfootballmuseum.com | nationalfootballmuseum.com Bring your group to the world's biggest and best football museum. Now open in the heart of the city centre, the National Football Museum is one of Manchester's 'must see' attractions.

Enjoy three floors of amazing objects, incredible stories,'hands on' interactives and regular changing exhibitions showcasing football's links with popular culture. The cafe and restaurant serve fresh seasonal food and there's a shop full of unique gift ideas.

Open: 10am-5pm Monday - Saturday, 11am-5pm Sunday (Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, Easter Sunday) Group size: Min 10, Max 50 Average Length of visit: 2 hours Admission Prices: Free Admission, but charges for the Football Plus+ experiences ✓ Pre-booking required ✓ Meet and greet

✓ Tea room/café

Picnic area

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Guided tours ✓ Restaurant

Coach parking on site/nearby ✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

✓ Education officer on-site ✓ Teacher/pupil pack

Packed lunches ✓ Study area ✓ Worksheets 5:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Manchester United Museum & Tour Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Manchester M16 0RA 0161 868 8000 | toursenquiry@manutd.co.uk | manutd.com/museum Most people have heard something of the triumphs and tragedies both on and off the pitch at Old Trafford, but how much of the Manchester United story do you really know? Blending historical exhibits with state-of-the-art interactive experiences, the Manchester United Museum & Tour Centre brings the remarkable legend to life like never before.

Book your visit today. Call 0161 868 8000 or visit manutd.com/museum and book online.

Open: Museum: 09.00 - 17.00, Tours (every 10 minutes): 09.40 - 16.30 Admission Prices: Group adults £14.50, Group concessions £9.50 Pre-booking required Meet and greet

✓ Restaurant

Picnic area

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Guided tours

✓ Coach parking on site/nearby

✓ Gift shop

Coach drop-off/pick up point

✓ Education officer on-site ✓ Teacher/pupil pack

Packed lunches Study area ✓ Worksheets

Ideal pupil to staff ratio

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Youth and Education Visitors with children, school, youth and sports groups are spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment of an educational or recreational nature.

Activity Highlights Top five for outdoorsy 1. Chester Zoo 2. Aerial Extreme at The Trafford Centre 3. Debdale Outdoor Centre, Hyde Road 4. PlayGolf miniature golf at Trafford Quays Leisure Village 5. Go Ape! Rivington, Bolton

Top five for fun

Manchester’s broad range of museums and art galleries offer varied educational programmes for children of all ages. Many provide a dedicated educational specialist that can tailor a visit to suit curriculum requirements.

For the great outdoors, Greater Manchester’s parks’ such as Dunham, Lyme, Heaton and Wythenshawe, offer botanic beauty. Outdoor adventure courses such as Aerial Extreme, Go Ape!, Debdale Outdoor Centre and Salford Watersports Centre offer hours of active pursuits. In July or August, young ones can

enjoy the outdoor Maize Maze at Red House Farm, a popular farm retail site in the heart of Dunham Massey.

1. Legoland Discovery Centre 2. Chill Factore 3. Day Out with Thomas at East Lancashire Railway 4. The Wild West Maize Maze at Red House Farm 5. Sea Life Manchester

Top five for educational For indoors, Manchester Climbing Centre and Chill Factore provide endless entertainment, whilst many of the regions’ theatres offer matinee productions, pantomimes and plays.

BBC Tours at MediaCityUK have launched a brand new CBBC interactive tour for 6 – 11 year olds, which goes behind the scenes of many popular children’s TV shows that are produced there including Blue Peter and Newsround.

1. Experiment! at MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) 2. Ancient Worlds at Manchester Museum 3. Educational workshops at Manchester Art Gallery and Whitworth Art Gallery 4. National Football Museum 5. Setantii - Tales of Tameside, Ashton under Lyne

Name ofZoo Chester Establishment Upton bytoChester, CH2 1EU Address go here,Chester Manchester M1 2AB 0870 7204567 1507| |info@youremail.com groups@chesterzoo.org | www.chesterzoo.org/groups 0161 123 | yourwebsite.com Share adventure!

Get together as aadipisicing group of 15+ visitors and save with discounted Lorem the ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur elit, paying sed do eiusmod temporincididunt ut labore admission!

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Book online atdolor www.chesterzoo.org get your e-ticket for fast track Duis aute irure in reprehenderit inand voluptate velit esse cillum dolore euadmission! fugiat nulla pariatur.

Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est Registered charity no. 306077. laborum. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse.

Open: Open every day from 10am (Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day) Group size: Min 15, No Max Average Length of visit: 4-6 hours Admission Prices: Seasonal admission prices, book in advance to save!

Pre-booking required required ✓ Pre-booking

room/café ✓ Tea room/café

Education officer officeron-site on-site ✓ Education

Picnicarea Area ✓ Picnic

pack ✓ Teacher/pupil pack

concessions ✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Toilets

Packedlunches lunches ✓ Packed

Groupdiscounts discounts ✓ Group

Disabled access access ✓ Disabled

Study area area ✓ Study

Guided tours tours ✓ Guided

Coachparking parkingon onsite/nearby site/nearby ✓ Coach

Worksheets ✓ Worksheets

✓ Restaurant

Coachdrop-off/pick drop-off/pickup uppoint point ✓ Coach

5:1 Ideal pupil 7:1 pupilto tostaff staffratio ratio

Meet and and greet greet

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NEW!

OPENING SPRING 2013 Pre-book your Earlybird ticket online from just £12 www.visitsealife.com/manchester Barton Square, The Trafford Centre, Manchester

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LEGO and the LEGO logo are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2013 The LEGO Group.

www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCentre.co.uk DiscoveryCentre.co.uk

Food For Thought The cosmopolitan nature of Manchester can be truly seen in the diversity of culinary establishments that serve up a range of cuisines from around the world.

From the inviting aromas of Chinatown and the tantalising tastes of Rusholme’s Curry Mile, to the slick and stylish eateries of Spinningfields, Manchester is sure to tantalise a variety of tastes and budgets.

Whether it’s fine French dining, Greek grills or succulent Spanish tapas, visitors can dine their way around the globe each night of the week. Not forgetting the myriad of restaurants where locally sourced, seasonal British ingredients are always the order of the day.

Daytime deals, cheap eats and special lunch offers are promoted in a number of restaurants so if budgets are low, visitors should look out for ‘early bird’ deals. For a more luxurious dining experience, many of the city’s top hotels have destination restaurants,

with exceptionally talented chefs at the helm, whilst a little out of town there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Local seasonal produce and delicious treats are also available at a number of city centre food markets throughout the year.

Manchester’s annual Food and Drink Festival has been running for the last 15 years and takes place each October, bringing ‘foodies’ together for a week of events, celebrity chef demonstrations and tastings across the city. Bolton Food and Drink Festival is also a key event in the culinary calendar, taking place annually in August. visitmanchester.com/food

Hard Rock Cafe Manchester Exchange Square, Manchester M4 2BS 0161 831 6700 | manchester_sales@hardrock.com | hardrock.com/manchester Located in the heart of the city centre, Hard Rock Cafe Manchester is the largest Hard Rock in the UK, showcasing an awe inspiring collection of rock memorabilia. Priceless pieces from legends The Beatles and Elvis Presley grace the cafe walls, along with more contemporary items including stage costumes from the Arctic Monkeys and Natasha Bedingfield. We accommodate everything from black tie to black leather, so come as you are and we’ll rock your world!

Open: Restaurant: Sun - Fri 12pm - 12am, Sat 11.30am - 12am.

Bar: Sun - Thurs 12pm - 12am, Fri 12pm - 2am, Sat 11.30am - 2am.

(Closed Christmas Day. Please check website for more details.)

Group size: Min 10, Max 200

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✓ Pre-booking required

✓ Tea room/café

Education officer on-site

✓ Meet and greet

✓ Toilets

Teacher/pupil pack

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Disabled toilet

Packed lunches

✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Gift shop

✓ Coach parking nearby

✓ Worksheets

✓ Restaurant

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

4:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Study area

A guide to some of the recommended bars and restaurants in Manchester.

Cuisine

Restaurant / Bar

Phone

Website

American American American / Bar American / Bar British (Traditional) British British British British British British British (Traditional) British British British (Traditional) British / Bar British / Pub British / Pub British / Bar British / Pub British British / Pub British British Cantonese Chinese East Asian French French Indian Indian Italian Italian Italian Italian Italian Italian Italian Japanese Mediterranean Mexican Pan Pacific Rim Seafood Spanish Spanish Spanish Spanish / Pub South American Thai Thai/Malaysian Thai Various / Bar Various Various / Cafe Various / Bar

Hard Rock Cafe Harvester Simple Black Dog Ballroom Albert Square Chop House Aumbry Grill on New York St Grill on the Alley Harvey Nichols 2nd Floor Restaurant Kaleido Linen Manchester 235 Mr Thomas's Chop House Redhouse Farmshop & Tea Rooms Room Restaurant Sam's Chop House Taurus The Bank The Mark Addy The Oast House The Old Wellington The Restaurant Bar & Grill Tib Street Tavern Velvet Zinc Yang Sing Ocean’s Treasure Tampopo 63 Degrees Le Relais De Venise l'Entrecote Zaika Zouk Croma Don Giovanni’s Dough Piccolino Rosso Stock The Olive Press Sapporo Teppanyaki Papa G’s Panama Hatty's Australasia Livebait The Rake La Tasca La Vina The Molly House Bem Brasil Chaophraya Ning Vermilion Cinnabar The Alchemist Bakerie North Star Piccadilly Apotheca

0161 831 6700 0161 839 0605 0161 832 8764 0161 839 0664 0161 834 1866 0161 798 5841 0161 238 9790 0161 833 3465 0161 828 8877 0161 871 8160 0161 828 0300 0161 832 1872 0161 941 3480 0161 839 2005 0161 832 1872 0161 236 4539 0161 2287560 0161 832 4080 0161 829 3830 0161 839 5179 0161 839 1999 0161 834 1600 0161 236 9003 0161 827 4200 0161 236 2200 0161 839 7613 0161 819 1966 0161 832 5438 0161 850 8600 0161 839 5111 0161 2331 090 0161 237 9799 0161 228 2482 0161 834 9411 0161 835 9860 0161 832 1400 0161 839 6644 0161 362 4450 0161 831 9888 0161 834 8668 0161 832 8688 0161 831 0288 0161 817 4110 01706 379689 0161 834 8234 0161 835 3144 0161 237 9329 0161 839 2525 0161 832 8342 0161 238 9088 0161 202 0055 0161 817 2950 0161 236 9014 0161 237 9619 0161 834 9411

hardrock.com harvester.co.uk simplebar.co.uk blackdogballroom.co.uk albertsquarechophouse.com aumbryrestaurant.co.uk blackhouse.uk.com blackhouse.uk.com harveynichols.com kaleidorestaurant.co.uk manchester235.com tomschophouse.com redhousefarm.co.uk roomrestaurants.com samschophouse.com taurus-bar.co.uk nicholsonspubs.co.uk markaddy.co.uk theoasthouse.uk.com nicholsonspubs.co.uk therestaurantbarandgrill.co.uk tibstreettavern.co.uk velvetmanchester.com individualrestaurants.com yang-sing.com oceantreasure235.co.uk tampopo.co.uk 63degrees.co.uk relaisdevenise.com/manchester zaikarestaurants.co.uk zoukteabar.co.uk cromapizza.co.uk dongiovannis.co.uk doughpizzakitchen.co.uk individualrestaurants.com rossorestaurants.com stockrestaurant.co.uk theolivepress.uk.com sapporo.co.uk papags.co.uk panamahatties.co.uk australasia.uk.com livebaitmanchester.com raketapas.co.uk latasca.com/manchester_deansgate lavina.co.uk themollyhouse.com bembrasilrestaurants.com chaophraya.co.uk ningcatering.com vermilioncinnabar.com thealchemist.uk.com bakerie.co.uk northstardeli.com apothecabar.co.uk

There are a number of group-friendly restaurants in the city interested in working with tour operators, offering special deals and a tailored service. Contact Anh Nguyen by email anh.nguyen@marketingmanchester.com for more information.

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

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What’s On 2013

A guide to the key cultural, sporting and event highlights happening across Greater Manchester.

February - April Until 23 April Until 3 March 26 January – 24 March 1 February – 27 August 7 February – 25 May 9 – 23 February 11 – 17 February 11 – 23 February 15 February – 26 May 15 February – 27 May 16 – 24 February 22 February - 9 March 26 February 27 February – 2 March March – September 2 March – 2014 2 March – 16 June 4 – 9 March 7 – 17 March 8 – 24 March 8 – 18 March

The Lion King Palace Theatre Manchester Sigune Hamann: Wave MOSI Rosa Barba: Subject to Constant Change Cornerhouse Strike a Pose: 50 Years of Football and Fashion National Football Museum Knitted Elegance: Evening Wear since the 1950s Gallery of Costume, Platt Hall Priscilla Queen of the Desert Opera House Manchester National Squash Championships National Squash Centre Hairspray the Musical The Lowry Raquib Shaw: La Nuit d’Amour Manchester Art Gallery Karl Fritsch Jewellery Manchester Art Gallery Steam, Sweat and Sewers MOSI Mother Courage and Her Children The Lowry Yamato Drummers Opera House Manchester Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Aladdin The Lowry The Magic of Beatrix Potter Tatton Park British Art Between the Wars Manchester Art Gallery Callum Innes Whitworth Art Gallery The 39 Steps Opera House Manchester Wigan Food and Drink Festival Various, Wigan ¡Viva! Spanish & Latin American Film Festival Cornerhouse Manchester Irish Festival Various

19 – 23 March 20 – 23 March 21 – 24 March 14 March 23 – 24 March 24 March 25 – 30 March 2 – 20 April 9 – 12 April 9 – 13 April 15 – 20 April 19 – 20 April 20 April – 16 June 20 April – 30 June 24 April 25 April 26 April 27 April 28 April 29 April – 4 May 29 April – 4 May

Jersey Nights Opera House Manchester FutureEverything Various Global Village Market Victoria Square, Bolton Premier League Darts Manchester Arena Ramsbottom Chocolate Festival Ramsbottom Jesus Christ Superstar Manchester Arena The Rocky Horror Picture Show Opera House Manchester CATS Opera House Manchester Twelfth Night The Lowry The Taming of the Shrew The Lowry The Full Monty The Lowry BMX Super X World Cup National Cycling Centre Nancy Holt: Land Art Whitworth Art Gallery NOISE: The Art of Protest People’s History Museum Hormonal Housewives Palace Theatre Manchester RENT Opera House Manchester Ellen Kent’s Tosca Opera House Manchester Ellen Kent’s Carmen Opera House Manchester Greater Manchester Marathon Trafford, Manchester Abigail’s Party The Lowry The Rise and Fall of Little Voice Opera House Manchester

Group discounts apply: call 0843 208 6003 for details

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May - July 3 – 5 May 5 May 7 – 11 May 14 – 18 May 17 – 19 May 21 May – 15 June From 24 May – 2014

24 May 24 May

25 – 27 May 25-26 May 26 May June 2 June 7 June – 13 January 2014 16 June 8 – 9 June 11 – 15 June 15 June – October From July From July 4 – 25 July 13 – 14 July 20 July 20 July 22 July 23 July 24 July 25 – 28 July 26 July – 3rd August From 26th July

August - October Eurocultured Various Sounds from the Other City Various, Salford Blues Brothers Approved Opera House Manchester Sweeny Todd The Lowry Foodies Festival Tatton Park Dirty Dancing Palace Theatre Manchester Home, Land and Sea Art in the Netherlands 1600-1800 Manchester Art Gallery Dot to Dot Various Saddleworth and District Whit Friday Brass Band Contest Oldham 1940’s Wartime Weekend East Lancashire Railway, Bury Rugby League Magic Weekend Etihad Stadium Bupa Great Manchester Run & Great City Games City Centre Sea Life Manchester Opens Trafford Manchester Day Parade City Centre Christian Dior: Designer in Focus Gallery of Costume, Platt Hall Horwich Festival of Racing Horwich, Bolton Parklife Festival Venue TBC The Pirates of Penzance Opera House Manchester Alison Erika Forde Manchester Art Gallery Bugs!

Chester Zoo Blake, Turner, Kapoor: Revolutionary Light Whitworth Art Gallery Manchester International Festival Various, Manchester Saddleworth Summer Show Oldham Great Manchester Swim Salford Quays Hallé Picnic and Fireworks Concert Tatton Park Sofia National Ballet: Don Quixote Palace Theatre Manchester Sofia National Ballet: Giselle Palace Theatre Manchester Sofia National Ballet: Swan Lake Palace Theatre Manchester RHS Show Tatton Park Manchester Jazz Festival Various Brains: The Mind as Matter MOSI

1 – 4 August 3 – 18 August 16 – 26 August 23 – 26 August 12 September – 16 November 20 September – September 2014 October (dates TBC) October (dates TBC) 11 October 2013 – 19 January 2014 October – January 2014 October (dates TBC) 7 – 20 October 11 October 12 October 28 October Late October (dates TBC)

The Ashes Cricket Lancashire Country Cricket Club Dig the City: Manchester Flower Festival City Centre Manchester Pride City Centre Bolton Food and Drink Festival Bolton Wicked the Musical Palace Theatre Manchester A Highland Romance Victorian Views of Scottishness Manchester Art Gallery Contemporary Art From IWM’s Collections IWM North Manchester Food and Drink Festival City Centre All That Is Solid Melts Into Air Manchester Art Gallery The Vanity of Small Differences - Grayson Perry Manchester Art Gallery NBA Series Manchester Arena Manchester Literature Festival Manchester Ellen Kent’s Nabucco Opera House Manchester Ellen Kent’s Aida Opera House Manchester Rugby League World Cup: Fiji v Ireland Spotland Stadium Rochdale Manchester Science Festival Various

November - January 2014 5 November 7 November 8th November (TBC) 16 November 20 November – 18 January 2014 15 November – 22 December 29 November – 11th January 2014 30 November 7 December – 5 January 2014

Rugby League World Cup: Tonga v Cook Islands Leigh Sports Village, Leigh Rugby League World Cup: Scotland v USA Salford City Stadium, Salford Xmas Light Switch On Albert Square Rugby League World Cup Quarter Final DW Stadium, Wigan War Horse The Lowry Manchester Christmas Markets City Centre Wanted! Robin Hood The Lowry Rugby League World Cup Final Old Trafford, Manchester Aladdin Opera House Manchester

Key Exhibition

Music

Theatre

Food & Drink

Sport

Cultural

NB: Dates subject to change. Please check visitmanchester.com or the venue website for exact dates and further information before visiting.

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Festive Manchester The scent of bratwurst and Glühwein in the air, lights twinkling across the cityscape as theatre-goers are seated and shoppers fill the streets with festive cheer - winter is a wonderful time to visit Manchester.

Winter is a time to wrap up warm and enjoy the festivities. Flamboyant shop window displays and festive lighting adorns the streets, creating the perfect atmosphere for late night shopping. Groups can enjoy some outdoor ice skating in Spinningfields or a visit to Santa’s grotto at either Manchester Arndale or The Trafford Centre, both malls pulling out all the stops for their Christmas displays.

Manchester’s Christmas Markets are the stalwart in the festive calendar, with over 200 stalls across some of the most beautiful spots in the city centre, creating an unrivalled, continental atmosphere. With pan-European traders setting up shop from 15 November – 22 December, original gifts like handcrafted ornaments to fine cheeses can be found at the eight market sites.

Evening entertainment throughout the winter months is both enjoyable and varied, with pantomime and musical programmes in most theatres from December through to January. The Bridgewater Hall hosts a series of Christmas concerts throughout December with orchestras and classical singers, whilst the many bars, restaurants and clubs host their own entertainment. Groups can take advantage of early evening dining deals and

many hotels offer shopping and spa packages at this time of year.

Christmas carol services can be enjoyed at city centre spots such as Manchester Cathedral, or out of town areas like Tatton Park. ‘Tatton Park at Christmas’ hosts a number of choir and brass band evenings in

their magnificently decorated Mansion, a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.

With the party season in full swing from the last week of November, groups are advised to book meals and entertainment well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Manchester Markets Various locations 0161 234 7357 | manchestermarkets@manchester.gov.uk | manchestermarkets.com Manchester is home to a wonderfully diverse collection of markets all bursting with fresh, innovative, quality produce making them the perfect attraction for groups. Choose from local markets filled with variety and character and specialist markets which take place throughout the year. The award winning Christmas Markets can be found in eight locations across the city, adding bags of festive character to group tours and excursions.

Admission: Free Pre-booking required Meet and greet

Education officer on-site Teacher/pupil pack

✓ Toilets

Packed lunches

Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

Study area

✓ Restaurant

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Picnic area

Driver/guide concessions Guided tours

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✓ Tea room/café

Coach parking on site/nearby ✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

Worksheets Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Manchester on a shoestring Manchester is one of the most affordable cities in the UK, and with free museums, galleries and transport, spending time in the city doesn’t mean visitors have to burn a hole in their budgets.

Attractions Most of Manchester’s galleries and museums are free to enter, including: • Bolton Museum • Castlefield Gallery • Chinese Arts Centre • Hatworks Museum Stockport • IWM North • Manchester Art Gallery • Manchester Museum • MOSI • Rochdale Pioneers Museum • The Cornerhouse • The Fusiliers Museum in Bury • The Gallery of Costume • The Lowry • Touchstones Rochdale • Whitworth Art Gallery

Manchester Visitor Information Centre The MVIC should be the first point of call for any visitor to the city, helpful staff are on hand to give insider tips on what to see and do, the latest events as well as the best restaurants, bars and transport advice.

Visitors can pick up a free map or city guide, the MCR Magazine. visitmanchester.com

Free City Centre Transport

Festivals and Events

Manchester operates a free city centre bus, the Metroshuttle, with fleets of shuttle buses running every 10 – 15 minutes. This network covers three circular routes with designated stops, linking attractions, hotels. key shopping districts with bus and rail stations.

A number of free events and festivals take place across Greater Manchester all year round and include the Manchester Day Parade, Manchester Science Festival, Manchester International Festival Pavilion at Albert Square, Manchester Food and Drink Festival and the Manchester Weekender 48 hours celebrating cutting edge culture.

Enjoy Manchester’s Green Spaces Manchester’s parks provide a great day out, particularly in the summer months, the mix of grassland, fresh air and walking trails are a great way of getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Top parks include Heaton Park in North Manchester, Platt Fields Park in Rusholme, Alexandra Park in Oldham and Fletcher Moss in Didsbury.

Free Afternoon Recitals There are a number of venues that offer free concerts to the public on a regular basis.

The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) is the only UK conservatoire to be a centre for excellence in teaching and learning; visitors can watch its talented students for free. Orchestral performances take place in the late-60s concert hall, while the RNCM's best-kept secret is their Wednesday-lunchtime recitals by soloists and smaller ensembles in the calming and charming setting of St Ann’s Church.

The charming Chetham’s School of Music also offers a free lunchtime concerts series on selected days during term time, lasting up to 40 minutes and cover the instrumental spectrum.

Whilst the building itself is a marvel attracting visitors, the magnificent Manchester Cathedral runs a free choir and concert service on selected dates for the public.

It is advised to check the venues’ websites in advance and pre-book where possible to avoid disappointment.

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The Quays Just a few miles from the city centre, Manchester’s waterfront, also known as The Quays, sits in a special location that brings together the districts of Manchester, Salford and Trafford, bridged by the historic Manchester Ship Canal.

The Quays boasts a unique array of awardwinning, group-friendly attractions that promise to deliver a memorable day out, for all ages. From sporting actions to theatre and television, historical tours to discount shopping alongside a fantastic selection of bars, restaurants and nearby hotels, The Quays is the ideal destination for a day out or short stay.

On the Trafford side, visitors can explore the award-winning IWM (Imperial War Museum) North, an architectural gem where visitors will find a maze of poignant yet thoughtprovoking exhibitions attributed to war and conflict over the last two centuries.

Admission to IWM North, all exhibitions and coach parking is free for pre-booked groups, with a range of themed tours and handling sessions available (charges apply).

Nearby, one of the most famous stadiums in the world, Old Trafford, offers the ultimate experience for fans of all things football.

Manchester United’s Museum and Stadium Tours allow visitors to see behind the scenes of arguably one of the best known football teams on the planet. Visitors can marvel at the club’s unrivalled collection of football silverware, eat and drink at the Red Café

or pick up some souvenirs at the Megastore.

Groups are offered free car or coach parking and a discounted rate on tours (for groups of 15+). Foreign language tours including Japanese ,are also available upon request.

At the heart of The Quays sits The Lowry arts complex, a building as visually stunning in its design as well as offer, which combines an art gallery, theatres, food and drink and gift shop. For evening entertainment or an afternoon matinee, its three theatres are the

perfect setting for many of the UK’s best cultural arts and live theatre including plays, musicals and dance productions.

Pre-theatre meals are highly recommended in the Lowry Restaurant or its Terrace Bar, whilst the Tower Coffee Shop offers a more informal setting and meeting point. Groups are offered ticket discounts on theatre bookings and special catering, as well as regular mailings with programme information and priority booking periods.

IWM North The Quays, Trafford Wharf Road, Manchester M17 1TZ 0161 836 4000 | learningnorth@iwm.org.uk | iwm.org.uk The multi-award winning IWM North, part of Imperial War Museums, is a great free day out for all ages. Designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind to represent a globe shattered by conflict, it reveals how war shapes lives. Free benefits for groups of 10 or more include group leader pre-visit, welcome session, access to Air Shard Viewing Platform and coach parking. Discounts and reserved spaces are available in the cafe. Tours and handling sessions are also offered (charges apply).

Open: All year: 10am - 5pm (Closed 24,25, 26 December) Group size: Min 10, Max 120 Average Length of visit: 1-2 hours Admission Prices: Free ✓ Pre-booking required

✓ Tea room/café

✓ Education officer on-site

✓ Meet and greet

✓ Picnic area

✓ Teacher/pupil pack

✓ Toilets

✓ Packed lunches

Driver/guide concessions

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✓ Group discounts

✓ Disabled access

✓ Guided tours

✓ Coach parking on site

✓ Gift shop

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

Study area ✓ Worksheets 10:1 Ideal pupil to staff ratio

Across the way, visitors can indulge in some retail therapy at Lowry Outlet Mall, Manchester’s only outlet, with six plaza restaurants and over 80 stores offering up to 60% off high street recommended retail prices all year round. Coach drivers and group organisers each receive a £10 Gift Card, and all the group each receive a discount voucher booklet to spend in a wide range of stores and the mall has an onsite VUE cinema too.

MediaCityUK, a purpose-built media complex, is home to the internationally renowned, BBC, the BBC Tours offer a behind the scenes look at the programmes produced by BBC North,

such as Match of the Day, Dragon’s Den and Blue Peter and the chance for visitors to star in their very own television production in the interactive studio. A special CBBC interactive tour is also available for children aged between 6 and 11 years.

Nearby, Orsdall Hall is Salford’s newly restored, Grade I listed Tudor manor house and winner of the 2012 Manchester Tourism Awards Small Visitor Attraction of the Year.

Groups will be transported back in time with its recreated room settings, beautifully landscaped gardens and hands-on exhibitions that can be explored at leisure, making it a perfect location for educational

visits. Visitors can pre-arrange guided tours and for those brave enough, exclusive ‘ghost sighting’ evenings and overnight hire at the 12th Century House can be arranged.

The Quays would not be The Quays without its stunning waterfront so what better way to explore the views than by ferry, and learn about this historic waterway from knowlegable experts, Mersey Ferries. For those looking for active pursuits, Salford Watersports Centre offers exhilarating experiences from sailing and windsurfing to kayaking and canoeing. thequays.org.uk

From the Manchester United Museum & Tour to theatre performances at The Lowry and tours of IWM North (part of Imperial War Museums), you’re never short of things to do at The Quays.

A fantastic selection of bars and restaurants, spectacular waterfront location and close proximity to Manchester City Centre all add to an unrivalled offer.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise from Liverpool to The Quays with Mersey Ferries, submerge yourself with history at IWM North and Orsdall Hall, or surround yourself in culture and entertainment at The Lowry.

Afterwards, treat yourself to some retail therapy at the Lowry Outlet - Manchester’s only Factory Outlet.

For bookings and to find out more about the benefits on offer for groups please contact the Tourist Information Office on: 0161 848 8601 or email: tic@salford.gov.uk. Visit www.thequays.org.uk

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Greater Manchester’s Hidden Gems Beyond the city centre there are districts that offer a range of unique experiences including canal cruises, events, local food and drink, market shopping and the great outdoors. Here are the top pick of each district:

Bolton

Rochdale

Trafford

Bolton offers the complete package of great attractions, superb shopping and a strong sense of history and heritage. Its varied events programme includes the Bolton Food & Drink Festival, bursting with local produce and celebrity chef demos. visitbolton.com

Rochdale town centre is the world's cooperative capital. Set beneath hills and wild moorland at the edge of the South Pennines, its beautiful landscape offers a great mix of rolling hills, the peace and quiet of the countryside and buzzing towns. visitrochdale.com

Trafford is a borough of contrasts, where the urban, cultural and waterfront offer in the north meets the fashionable suburbs and picturesque countryside in the south bordering Cheshire. visittrafford.info

• Fred Dibnah Heritage Centre • Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive • Bolton Market • Smithhills Hall • Go Ape! Rivington

• Pioneers Museum • Hollingworth Lake • Rochdale Town Hall • Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum • Middleton Golden Cluster

Bury

Tameside

Salford

On the edge of the West Pennine Moors, Bury's hillside streams and valley rivers helped drive the industrial revolution.

Bury was the birthplace of Sir Robert Peel, who was twice Prime Minister and founder of the British Police Force. bury.gov.uk

Tameside stretches eastward from Manchester to the fringes of the Peak District National Park. Its landscape encompasses urban centres, moorland and the spectacular vistas of Werneth Low. tameside.gov.uk

There are acres of beautiful countryside, miles of waterways, and an abundance of culture and history waiting to be discovered in Salford. Heritage is a strong theme with over 250 listed buildings whilst the city is embracing a digital future with MediaCityUK, the new home of the BBC in the north. salford.gov.uk

• Bury Market • The Fusilier Museum • East Lancashire Railway • Bury Art Museum • Bury Transport Museum

• Portland Basin Museum • Museum of the Manchester Regiment • Werneth Low Country Park • Park Bridge Heritage Centre • Ashton Market

• The Quays • Ordsall Hall • The Lowry • MediaCityUK • Salford Museum and Art Gallery

Oldham

Stockport

Wigan

From Saddleworth's glorious countryside to Oldham's Victorian heritage and striking modern features, Oldham retains many features of its proud history, as a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution. In contrast, Saddleworth is a gateway to the Peak District National Park. visitoldham.com

Stockport is an ideal location to explore; there are fascinating treasures hidden in and around the region. From bustling modern shopping areas to quaint, cobbled streets, Stockport lies on the edge of the Cheshire Plain and the Peak District. visit-stockport.com

Half way between Manchester and Liverpool, Wigan is full of variety, offering fascinating heritage, country parks, charming pubs and a diverse events programme throughout the year. wlct.org/tourist-information/touristinformation.htm

• Staircase House and Stockport Story Museum • Hat Works Museum • Stockport Air Raid Shelters • Bramall Hall • The Stockport Plaza Theatre

• Museum of Wigan Life • Haigh Hall & Country Park • Greenheart • The Trencherfield Mill Engine • Wigan and Leigh town centres

• Oldham Coliseum Theatre • Gallery Oldham • Tommyfield Market • Saddleworth Villages • Daisy Nook and Tandle Hill National Parks

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• North Dunham Massey Hall & Gardens • IWM North (Imperial War Museum) • Chill Factore • Trafford Centre and Legoland Discovery Centre • Manchester United Football Club Museum & Stadium Tour

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Bury Bury is a great place for groups with award winning attractions and hidden gems.

Visitors can catch a steam train at the East Lancashire Railway for an atmospheric journey along the stunning Irwell Valley, then stop off at Ramsbottom which is packed with independent retailers and cafes.

In Bury town centre visitors can delve into history at Bury Transport Museum, housed in a vast, listed goods shed which impresses from the start. Just around the corner is the award winning Fusilier Museum, where they can come face to face with the heroes of the past and Bury Art Museum which showcases both the traditional and cutting edge.

No trip to Bury is complete without experiencing the buzz of Bury's Famous Market, a firm favourite with groups and ideal for bargains and local produce. Bury also offers a whole host of places to eat and drink from town centre cafes to award winning pubs, giving groups plenty of choice.

Bury is easy to get to, just 20 minutes from Manchester and with excellent motorway links. The town centre has two free coach parking areas and handy drop off and pick up points close to all main visitor attractions.

Bury Tourist Information Centre provide expert advice and itinerary planning, plus maps and leaflets. They also offer a meet and greet service making sure visits start with a warm welcome.

To find out more about Bury contact touristinformation@bury.gov.uk or 0161 253 5111 visitbury.com

the world’s most “ One ofcheerful railways ” EVERY STOP IS A START...

The Guardian

Where steam

power meets breathtaking scenery

đ Stunning 24-mile round trip through rural countryside đ Steam-hauled dining train with cream tea, lunch & evening services đ Bury Transport Museum with a collection of vintage vehicles & original artefacts đ Ideas for full and half day itineraries đ Guided tours and themed talks đ Award-winning 1940s Weekend đ Group discounts đ Coach drop-off point & parking nearby

Open every weekend all year.

Wednesday–Friday, April–September.

www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Bolton Street, Bury BL9 0EY | 0161 764 7790

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- @BuryMarket

Countryside Retreat There’s more to Manchester than the vibrant city – Greater Manchester’s countryside is one of the North West’s best kept secrets.

Only a short journey from the city centre is an undiscovered outdoor playground just waiting to be explored.

More than 500 square miles of picturesque landscapes filled with rolling hills, lakes, and waterways, can be explored by foot, bike, boat or in the saddle. With vast beautiful parks, quirky events, outdoor activities and attractions of all types on land or on water, Manchester’s countryside has it all.

There are a wide range of walks and trails covering everything from quaint villages to historical houses, canals to country parks. For the more adventurous, there are breathtaking cycle routes climbing, riding, water sports and golf to choose from.

Highlights include Bolton’s Smithills Hall, one of the oldest and best preserved manor houses in the North West, set in over 2,000 acres of grounds and gardens and the East Lancashire Railway, running from Bury along the picturesque Irwell Valley. Dove Stone Reservoir in Oldham provides stunning views across the reservoir to the South Pennine Hills whilst nearby, visitors can enjoy a walk along the Rochdale Canal. The Canal starts in Manchester city centre and runs the twelve mile length of Rochdale from Middleton to Littleborough.

visitors can find Chadkirk Chapel, a beautifully restored 14th century chapel set in the heart of Chadkirk Country Estate or Lyme Park, one of the most famous country houses in England – the backdrop to where Mr. Darcy meets Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice.

To find out more, or to download all walks, trails and cycle routes visit manchesterscountryside.com

South of the city centre, Dunham Massey’s hall, gardens and deer park offer a range of activities from guided walks in the park to exploring the Georgian House. Further south

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Gateway to the North West of England The beautiful neighbouring counties of Cheshire, Cumbria, Lancashire and Merseyside are all within easy reach of Manchester.

Cheshire Cheshire is a delightful county bursting with heritage, endless canals and beautiful gardens that are complemented by stunning restaurants, stately homes and spa hotels. Visitors can enjoy a whole host of experiences from afternoon tea on a canal cruise, exploring the ancient Chester as well as events such as the RHS Flower Show and Chester Races. visitchester.co.uk

•Top Culture: Chester Mystery Plays will be performed for the first time inside Chester Cathedral

•Top Event: Rugby League World Cup 2013 games, Warrington, 27 October and 17 November

•Top Food & Drink: The Chester Fields Restaurant, rustic yet refined, offers a home from home welcome, distinguished by great service, food and wine

•Top Heritage: Anson Engine Museum

•Top Culture: The Dukes Outdoor Theatre Walkabout presents Robin Hood, 5 July – 10 August, Williamson Park, Lancaster

•Top Heritage: Lancashire Witch Trails start from a small village in Pendle to the great courtrooms and impressive surroundings of Lancaster Castle infused with stories and folklore

•Top Photo Opportunity: Tatton Park

Lancashire Lancashire is home to award winning cheese-makers, the stunning Forest of Bowland, an area of outstanding natural beauty, great value mill shops and diverse events. Visitors can delve into history at Lancashire’s stately homes and museums and discover the intriguing heritage. It is also home to Blackpool, Britain’s favourite seaside resort. visitlancashire.co.uk

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•Top Food & Drink: Nigel Haworth’s Fantastic Food Show, Blackburn, 19 May •Top Event: Blackpool Illuminations, 30 August – 3 November, Blackpool’s world famous annual light spectacular

•Top Photo Opportunity: Forest of Bowland

Liverpool Liverpool has been named the Best UK City for the second consecutive year (2011 and 2012) at the Group Leisure Awards 2012, and Coach Friendly Town/City Of The Year 2012 at the Coach Tourism Awards - and with such a strong and diverse offer, it’s easy to see why. liverpooltraveltrade.com

•Top Culture: Tate Liverpool, Glam!, 8 February–12 May, a major exhibition exploring the extravagant pop style in Britain during the early 1970s •Top Food & Drink: Panoramic 34 is Britain’s tallest restaurant, located on the 34th floor of Liverpool’s West Tower, reaching 100m above sea level

•Top Event: ‘Liverpool Celebrates 50 Years of the Beatles’, celebrates the world’s most famous band •Top Heritage: Albert Dock, the UK’s largest group of Grade I listed buildings, celebrates 25 years since its resurgence in 2013 •Top Photo Opportunity: Antony Gormley’s Another Place at Crosby Beach

Cumbria The Lake District, Cumbria, is a region of incredible beauty famous for its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife and rich cultural heritage. The area is made up of ancient woodlands and forest, river valleys, lakes, mountains and the most stunning coastlines found in the north west of England. golakes.co.uk

•Top Culture: Kendal Mountain Festival, 14 – 17 November, a celebration of mountain film, literature, art, athletes and legends

•Top Event: Kendal Calling, 26 – 28 July, an independent festival showcasing pioneering contemporary music, art and traditional rural entertainment

•Top Food & Drink: Taste Cumbria Food Festival, Cockermouth, September, is two days packed full of foodie fun, demonstrations, master classes and entertainment

•Top Heritage: The World of Beatrix Potter is a magical indoor attraction that brings to life all 23 Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit tales •Top Photo Opportunity: Lake Windermere

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Luxurious Manchester For visitors wishing to indulge during their visit, whether it’s personal shopping experiences, cocktails or spa treatments - Manchester’s got it covered.

Personal Shopping

VIP Experiences

Afternoon Tea

Department stores such as Harvey Nichols, Selfridges and House of Fraser all offer personal shopping services in-store; visitors can relax whilst being inspired in the realms of fashion, health and beauty products with the help of a free personal shopping assistant.

Combining a visit with an event such as a football game or live music concert can be upgraded by taking a hospitality package available at a number of venues; these usually include dinner, drinks and souvenir deals. Music fans can take advantage of the range of packages from the Manchester Arena – whilst football fans are spoiled for choice. Both Manchester City (MCFC) and Manchester United (MUFC) offer match day hospitality packages – as well as Legends’ Tours, where visitors can enjoy an ‘access all areas’ tour with a club legend.

A much loved tradition is seeing a revival, where visitors can enjoy champagne, English tea and a delicious selection of sandwiches, cakes and petit fours in a variety of settings.

The Midland Hotel’s Octagon Lounge, Radisson Blu Edwardian’s Opus One, and The Lowry Hotel’s River Restaurant all offer afternoon tea package.

Spas Visitors seeking solace and serenity should take advantage of the wide choice of independent or hotel spas in the city, which provide a splendid selection of health and beauty treatments. Spa Satori, Bali Health Lounge and the Skin Health Spa are all based in the city centre.

Alternatively, Radisson Blu Edwardian’s Sienna Spa, MacDonald Manchester’s Harmony and Serenity Spa, The Lowry Hotel’s Health Spa and The Mere Golf Resort and Spa all come highly recommended.

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Dining For a taste of all things luxurious – Manchester’s restaurant scene has something for everyone. For Italian, seek out either Rio Ferdinand’s restaurant Rosso or celebrity hot-spot San Carlo. Spinningfields’ Australasia is arguably Manchester’s most exclusive eatery whilst, outside of the city centre, Aumbry is renowned for being one of Greater Manchester’s best restaurants offering fine dining in a very intimate setting.

Other great options include celebrity restaurants Jamie’s Italian and Michael Caines’ Restaurant, The French and family-run 63 Degrees or Chinese restaurant, Yang Sing.

There are also a number of independent outlets specialising in this classic custom including Macaroon in Rochdale, Teacup in the Northern Quarter, Hey Little Cupcake in Spinningfields and Red House Farm at Dunham Massey.

Cocktails Visitors can sit high above the city’s magnificient skyline and sip champagne cocktails in the recently refurbished Hilton Manchester Deansgate’s Cloud 23 Bar - a chic, contemporary space giving floor-to-ceiling views of Manchester from the 23rd floor. The Alchemist, Room, Apotheca, Neighbourhood and Smoak are also good alternatives with talented mixologists ready to shake and stir.

Manchester Airport Manchester Airport is the largest airport outside London and has received numerous “Best Airport” awards.

With three terminals handling over 19 million passengers each year, Manchester Airport is the global gateway to the North of England. 65 airlines ensure Manchester is directly connected to over 190 destinations and no more than one-stop away from anywhere in the world.

With over 19,000 members of staff, the airport has also achieved prestigious industry recognition for customer service.

Whether travelling for business or pleasure, Manchester Airport offers a host of facilities and services to help ensure hassle-free travel:

Airport shopping and dining Savvy shoppers already taking advantage of exclusive tax and duty free savings on renowned brands and make the most of the wide selection of food and drink options available across all three terminals.

Disabled access A pioneering new access guide has been designed, which provides disabled customers with all the information they need to plan their journey from door to door.

Free Wi-Fi Stay connected to the outside world, with free Wi-Fi for up to 30 minutes, across all three terminals.

The Manchester Airport App For the perfect travel companion download the Manchester Airport app, it’s your one-stop guide for flight and airport information. Even better it’s completely free to download on your smartphone.

Gateway to the UK ‘The Station’ is Manchester Airport’s onsite, integrated transport interchange which provides quick and frequent transport links. Manchester city centre is only twenty minutes away by rail, whilst over 100 destinations across the North of England and the rest of the UK can be reached via 24 hour coach, rail and bus services.

For the latest information and a full list of the Airport’s direct connections visit manchesterairport.co.uk or follow @manairport on Twitter.

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Where to Stay Manchester’s ample choice of accommodation offers something for every budget and need.

The city is home to many of the established national and international chains as well as independents interested in tour operator business.

High End Hotels For luxury, staying at a five star hotel such as The Lowry or Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotels is recommended. There are also a number of fantastic four star hotels including The Palace, The Midland, ABode, Hilton Manchester Deansgate and Crowne Plaza City Centre to name just a few.

Serviced Apartments Visitors can enjoy spacious loft style living in convenient locations. ‘Aparthotels’ to choose from include Atrium by Bridgestreet, MAX Serviced Apartments, The Light Boutique Apart-Hotel, SACO, Roomzzz, The Place, Blue Rainbow, Stay Deansgate and Premier Apartments, all offering one, two and three bedroom self catering apartments.

Spa, Alderley Edge Hotel, De Vere Mottram Hall, Marriot Worsley Park & Country Club, Mercure Last Drop Village Hotel & Spa and Peckforton Castle are all exquisite countryside hotels.

Budget Beds Manchester has a broad budget offer with central hostels like Hatters and Hilton Chambers as well as well known chains.

Countryside Retreats A number of quality hotels let visitors combine a stay with luscious landscapes away from the city. The Mere Golf Resort and

To search and book for a wide choice of accommodation go to visitmanchester.com or telephone +44 (0)871 222 8223.

ibis Budget M Manchester anchester Ce Centre ntre 2 Pollard Street,, off o ff Great Great A Ancoats n co a t s S Street, treet , M Manchester an chester M M4 47 7DB DB Tel: +44 (0)161 1 272 272 2 2020 02 0 F Fax: ax: + +44 4 4 ((0)161 0)161 27 272 22 2026 02 6 E Email: mail: H H6943-GM@accor.com 69 43- GM @ a cco r.co m ibis Budget Manchester h ester P Pollard ollard Street St re et is is iideally d e ally located lo cate d a stone‘s sto n e‘s throw t hrow away away ffrom ro m the the 0m inute walk walk ffrom ro m P ica dilly Station, Statio n , tthe he ‘‘Sportcity’ Sp o rtcit y ’ complex co m plex and a n d the t he Eithad Eit h a d city centre; a 10 minute Picadilly a n ch ester C it y F.C. F.C .

Stadium, home off M Manchester City 150 150 en-suite e n - sui te rrooms ooms w which hi ch ccan an a accommodate cco m m o d a te u up p tto o3p people eople Free Fre e WIFI WIFI access a ccess throughout t hro u g ho u t the t he hotel ho tel Snacks S n a ck s & Drinks D r i n k s available a va il a b le 24 24 hours hour s parking available Coach Co a ch p ar ki n g a va il able

ibis Budget M Manchester a n c h este r S Salford alford Quays Quay s 19 Trafford Road,, S Salford, al fo r d , Manchester M a n ch e ste r M5 M5 3AW 3A W Tel: +44 (0)161 848 48 0 0898 898 F Fax: ax: + +44 4 4 ((0)161 0)161 8 848 48 0 0935 935 E Email: mail: H H6003-GM@accor.com 6 0 03- GM @ a cco r.co m ibis Budget Manchester h ester S Salford alfo rd Quays Q uays is is perfectly p erfe ctly located lo cate d iin n the t h e newly n ewly regenerated re g en era te d Salford S alfo rd Quays district; only 10 walk Stadium, easy ly a 1 0 minute minute w alk tto o Old O ld Trafford Tra ffo rd S ta dium , with wit h e asy access a ccess tto o Trafford Tra ffo rd Shopping Centre City’, BBC’s e and and ‘‘Media M edia C it y ’, home ho m e to to B B C ’s headquarters. hea d quarter s .

210 e en-suite n - su i te rrooms ooms w which hi ch ccan an a accommodate cco m m o d a te u up p tto o3p people eople WIFI WIFI access a ccess Snacks S n a ck s & Drinks D r i n k s available a va il a b le 24 24 hours hour s Coach Co a ch p ar ki n g a va il able parking available

The Palace Hotel Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA 0844 854 2910 (Bedrooms), 0844 854 2911 (Conferences) | palacemanchester.reception@principal-hayley.com | principal-hayley.com/ph-hotels/the-palace-hotel.aspx The Palace is a striking four star hotel, based right in the heart of Manchester. It is located just across the road from Oxford Street train station and close to a world of attractions in this vibrant, bustling city. There are numerous hotels in Manchester, but none seem able to match the allure of this Lancastrian landmark. The hotel's central location makes it a popular choice for everything from conferences and meetings to shopping trips and relaxing city breaks.

B&B group rates (Per person, per night based on two people sharing): £85 Sun-Thu: From £85 Single supplement: £30 Fri-Sat: From £85 Group size: Min 10, Max 220 ✓ Pre-booking required

✓ Toilets

✓ Driver/guide concessions

✓ Disabled access

✓ Group discounts

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

5

Single

33 Twin

✓ Restaurant

✓ Conference rooms available

150 Double

✓ Private dining available

✓ Coach parking nearby

80 Family

Picnic Area

34

Leisure facilities

275 Total number of rooms

✓ Coach drop-off/pick up point

7

Suite

Britannia Hotels

M A R V E L

I N

M A N C H E S T E R

Britannia Manchester

Britannia Manchester

Manchester today is unrecognisable from the post-industrial city of 20 years ago. Home to grand relics of the industrial revolution, the modern city is also studded with independent boutiques, top-flight shops, cool bars, music venues, great sporting stadiums and snug pubs... There is something for everyone.

Come and see what you’re missing!

8 Hotels | Over 1500 Bedrooms | Great Value Contact our Group Travel Team on:

0871 222 5502 Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras.

Visit Manchester Travel Trade Support Whether you are planning individual or group travel programmes, ensure that Visit Manchester is your first point of contact for free, professional and practical advice. We have a dedicated team who can provide information and assistance on: • Itinerary planning • Destination information and collateral • Images • Familiarisation visits • Conference and incentive product Visit Manchester is the tourist board for Greater Manchester and is the agency charged with promoting the region on a national and international stage.

With over 400 members in partnership we can connect you with hotels, restaurants, attractions, ground handlers and transport providers, to help develop your products and the support you need to ensure success.

Ground Handlers Below are some of the largest and established wholesale tour operators specialising in bringing visitors to the UK. As well as offering full travel packages, they can provide assistance with ground arrangements such as accommodation booking and transfers along with other destination management services.

36

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

Inbound Operator

Telephone

Website

Discover Travel & Tours

+44 (0)870 290 1010

discovertravelandtours.com

Europe Incoming

+44 (0)208 994 5001

europeincoming.com

Evan Evans Tours

+44 (0)207 950 1777

evanevanstours.co.uk

Great Days (Manchester based)

+44 (0)161 928 9966

greatdays.co.uk

GTA (Gullivers Travel Associates)

+44 (0) 207 716 2400

gta-travel.com

JAC Travel

+44 (0)20 8563 7878

jaconline.com

Kuoni Destination Management

+44 (0) 20 7734 7061

kuoni-dmc.com

MIKI Travel

+44 (0)207 507 5000

miki.co.uk

Saltours

+44 (0)207 724 7711

saltours.com

Select Travel

+44 (0) 1480 455 850

selecttravel.com

Sovereign Tourism

+44 (0)20 7491 2323

sovereigntourism.com

Travco

+44 (0)207 739 3333

travco.co.uk

Wiseguides (Manchester based)

+44 (0)161 773 0692

wiseguides.co.uk

Meet the Team You can meet the Visit Manchester team at a number of events throughout 2013 including: UK •Great Days Out 9 February, EventCity Manchester •Best of Britain & Ireland (BOBI) 13 – 14 March, NEC Birmingham •March Marketplace MAMA 18 – 19 March, Wembley •World Travel Market 4 – 7 November, Excel International •VB UAE Sales Mission 19 – 21 February, Dubai & Abu Dhabi •Destination Britain & Ireland APMEA 16 – 19 May, Bangkok •Destination Britain North America October, New York & Chicago •VB China Sales Mission November, China •USTOA December, USA

Contact Us Feel free to contact our travel trade team.

UK & Groups Shay McGinty shay.mcginty@marketingmanchester.com +44 (0)161 238 4517 International: Anh Nguyen anh.nguyen@marketingmanchester.com +44 (0)161 238 4516

Travel Trade E-newsletter For new developments, news and upto-date information, sign up for our quarterly Manchester travel trade e-newsletter by sending your details to: traveltrade@marketingmanchester.com For more information go to visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) Manchester has a proven track record of hosting world-class events and is firmly established on the worldwide convention and events stage as a leading destination.

Visit Manchester provides a variety of complimentary services to assist you in event planning including: • Venue location service • Accommodation booking service • Production of bid documentation and support • Organisation of site visits • Social and partner programme planning • Advice on civic funding

• Conference marketing support • Local expertise and industry knowledge • Team members with European language skills • A dedicated professional to assist you from conception to completion

Call the conference team on +44 (0)161 238 4597 or check out visitmanchester.com/conference or follow us on Twitter: @mcr_conf to find out how the team can make your event a success.

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

37

Coach Parking Manchester provides on-street short stay parking for coaches wanting to drop off or pick up visitors close to a number of city centre attractions and venues. There are also some medium coach stands where coaches can park for longer periods, as well as designated coach parks that offer longer, overnight and weekend coach parking to visitors who pre-book in advance of their arrival.

Short stay drop-off bays (20 mins) 1 Chorlton Street 2 Cross Street

(July 2012)

- FREE

Manchester City Centre

Map Ref.

2 bays

D4

3 bays*

C3

3 Liverpool Road 4 Lower Mosley Street

2 bays

A5

2 bays

C5

5 Oxford Street

2 bays

D5

6 Princess Street

1 bays*

D4

7 Miller Street

9 bays

D2

8 The Lowry, Salford Quays

6 bays

Quays Map

NOMA A newly developed 20 acre site combining offices, shops, hotels and homes.

Welcome! Manchester’s compact city centre contains lots to do in a small space. To help, we’ve colour coded the city.

Explore and enjoy!

Central Retail District Featuring the biggest names in fashion, including high street favourites.

Northern Quarter Manchester’s creative, urban heart with independent fashion stores, record shops and cafés.

The Gay Village Unique atmosphere with restaurants, bars and clubs around vibrant Canal Street.

Petersfield Manchester Central Convention Complex, The Bridgewater Hall and Great Northern.

Piccadilly The main gateway into Manchester, with Piccadilly train station and Piccadilly Gardens.

Spinningfields A newly developed quarter combining retail, leisure, business and public spaces.

Chinatown Made up of oriental businesses including Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Korean restaurants.

Castlefield The place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life with waterside pubs and bars.

Oxford Road Home to the city’s two universities and a host of cultural attractions.

14

Job Centre Plus

2

Medium stay coach stands (max 4 hours) 9 Charles Street 10 Great Bridgewater Street

2 bays*

D6

1 bays

C5

11 Store Street

4 bays

F4

12 Water Street

2 bays

A5

13 Cheetham Hill Road

9 bays

D1

14 Great Ducie Street

**

3 bays

C1

Long Stay & Overnight (Pre-booking essential) 15 Tarriff Street (Town Centre Car Parks) Pre-book by calling 07920 230621 (£15 per 24 hours / £25 weekend)

F3

16 Ducie Street (Town Centre Car Parks) Pre-book by calling 07920 230621 (£15 per 24 hours / £25 weekend)

F4

17 Great Jackson Street (Euro Car Park) (£10 per 24 hours)

B6

18 Etihad Stadium (Sportcity) Pre-book by calling 0161 227 3151 (£40 per 24 hours)

Sportcity Map

12

3

4

19 IWM North (The Quays) Quays ANPR System in place Map Enquiries – please call 0161 836 4000 (£10 per 8-10 hours / £15 per 24 hours) *

**

Duel Use coach bays may be used by buses and goods delivery vehicles Only between 7pm & midnight

17

38

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

13

Etihad Campus

15 Etihad Stadium

7

18

8 19 15 Urban Exchange

16

11 6

1

CUBE Gallery

This list was correct at the time of going to print and can be subject to change. Please contact Manchester Visitor Information Centre by calling 0871 222 8223 (calls charged at 10p per minute) for advice on coach parking.

10 5

9

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

39

Transport Information Manchester is one of the most accessible cities in the UK thanks to its location and excellent transport infrastructure.

Connectivity to the rest of the UK makes Manchester an ideal gateway. Once visitors arrive in the city, getting around couldn’t be easier thanks to a fleet of buses, trains and trams.

Bus & Coach

Trams The city’s Metrolink (metrolink.co.uk) network is one of the most successful light rail systems in the UK, carrying nearly 20 million passengers every year. With services roughly every five to ten minutes, it is a great mode of transport. Tickets are purchased on the platform before boarding.

Trains

Within the city centre, Metroshuttle provides a free ‘hop on, hop off’ service that links all of the main rail stations, shopping districts and business areas. It runs every ten minutes from 7am - 7pm, Monday to Saturday and 10am - 6pm on Sundays.

There are four main stations in the city centre: Piccadilly, Oxford Road, Victoria and Deansgate. Piccadilly is the main arrival point for those flying into Manchester Airport or travelling up from London.

Across Greater Manchester, Arriva (arrivabus.co.uk), First (firstgroup.com) and Stagecoach (stagecoachbus.com) operate a comprehensive network.

The city has direct rail services south to Birmingham, Chester, Reading, Bristol and Plymouth as well as north to the Lake District, Leeds, York, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Further afield, National Express provides services from all over the country into Chorlton Street Coach Station in the heart of the city (nationalexpress.co.uk).

Operators include: •CrossCountry Trains crosscountrytrains.co.uk

There are also official coach parking bays and drop off/pick up points across the city centre, see pages 38 and 39 for a full map.

•First Great Western firstgreatwestern.co.uk •Northern Rail northernrail.org •TransPennineExpress tpexpress.co.uk

Road Manchester is well connected to the rest of the UK via excellent motorway links. The M60 ring road connects the city to motorways north, south, east and west.

In the city, NCP (ncp.co.uk) has over 13,000 car parking spaces across 43 sites, including a number of exclusive parent and child bays and green bays for vehicles with low emissions. Parking with NCP in the city centre starts from just £1.60 an hour.

40

visitmanchester.com/traveltrade

Journey Planning Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is the official public transport body for the city.

Its website has a wealth of information including details of Park & Ride services, accessible transport, bus service maps and a journey planner. For service information, call +44 (0)871 200 22 33 (10p per minute from landlines). tfgm.com

System One A System One Travelcard (systemonetravelcards.co.uk) allows visitors to travel by bus, train and tram. It covers a wide-reaching area from Bolton and Bury in the north to Stockport and Altrincham in the south, Oldham and Rochdale in the east to Standish and Wigan in the west. It can make travel planning much simpler and save money too.

we’ll make it happen...

For more than 75 years and over three genera!ons, Bullocks Coaches has developed the experience and professionalism that now drives our travel and transport services.

The care of a family-run company, the exper!se and efficiency of a well-organised business, and the broad range of services we provide form the basis of our success is providing solu!ons to your travel needs.

With Bullocks Coaches, you enjoy quality and service delivered by the smart, friendly, informed drivers of our fleet of modern, comfortable, luxury coaches.

Whether it’s the school run, a day trip, a corporate event, or an all-inclusive con!nental holiday, you can be sure that travelling with Bullocks will always be a pleasure.

Bullocks Coaches Commercial Garage, Stockport Road, Cheadle, Stockport, SK8 2AG

Tel: 0161 428 5265 or 0161 428 2423 Fax: 0161 428 9074 Email: coachinfo@bullockscoaches.com Web: bullockscoaches.com

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