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Why Manchester is the perfect summer destination

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Manchester is the UK’s second most-visited city after London, and is recognised as one of the trendiest cities on the planet right now.   Here are just a few reasons to choose Manchester this summer!

Festivals

If celebration, arts and music festivals are your thing, Manchester has them all! Manchester International Festival, Manchester Day and Manchester Jazz Festival are just some of the great events happening in the city from May to September 2025.  

Music festivals include Sounds of the City at Castlefield Bowl (July 2nd – 12th 2025), and Parklife.

Let’s meet and eat outside!

Manchester is one of the world’s coolest cities right now, and this can be seen all over the city centre and its trendy suburbs.   In the summer, Manchester’s outdoor dining scene bursts to life, and Mancunians and visitors alike enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s streets.   Thomas Street in the Northern Quarter, famous Canal Street as well as elegant Spinningfields are just some examples! 

Music

Manchester is famous for its music, of course.   This summer, Heaton Park will host one of Manchester’s most iconic bands – Oasis.  Famous brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher were born and raised in Manchester, and this July, they will play 5 nights to their home crowd.  The city will be filled with music fans from all over the world for their historic reunion gigs.  Not to be missed!

Last year, Manchester opened the Co-op Live, a brand new stadium at the Etihad Campus, next to Manchester City’s football grounds.  This summer, Co-op Live will host some of the world’s biggest pop names, including Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo and Robbie Williams. 

Arts and Culture

Manchester has become a cultural hub in the last few years, with new galleries, theatres and arts-based spaces all over the city.   HOME, situated in the city centre, is a place where cinema, art exhibitions, dining and theatre come together in perfect harmony!  With changing events throughout the year, there is something for everyone! 

Parks and Green Spaces

If you prefer fresh air and nature, you can enjoy the Manchester’s parks all over the city.  With long summer days and daylight until 9pm, you can relax and unwind, even right in the city centre.  Just around the corner from our school is Sackville Gardens, where you can take in some fresh air at lunchtime in the company of the Alan Turing statue!  

Castlefield is also just walking distance from The Essential English Centre.  Walk amongst the Roman ruins of the city, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the canals and green space.  Finish off with a coffee at one of its stylish bars!

Weekend Excursions

The Essential English Centre will organise weekend day-trips all summer long, with our partner team at Smile Adventures.  Our students can visit some of the most famous national parks, towns and cities outside of Manchester, all with a professional tour guide.  Visit the Lake District, York, Chester, London, Wales and much more, every weekend! 

Visit the Lake District, York, Chester, London, Wales and much more, every weekend!