Castlefield is Manchester's most characteristic and distinctive neighborhood. With its canal-side location, Roman history, and designation as an Urban Heritage Park. You can see why locals come here for a day out when they want to break the monotony of everyday life. Despite being located in Central Manchester, this neighborhood has a laid back vibe that's perfect for lazy days along the canal, wining and dining at a pub by the water, or checking out some of Manchester's most innovative museums. I have been coming here for years and it is such a special place to me but it is often overlooked by tourists who instead head off to the most famous sights. If you're looking for places to stay in Castlefield I recommend you plan your stay in Manchester on Kayak and keep reading this guide full of essential tips on where to eat, what to do, and how to have a blast!
A special place
The Castlefield area is Manchester's answer to a great day out. It is a pretty cosmopolitan place loved by old and young alike. Families also love to come here because of its relaxed atmosphere and as you wander through this Manchester neighbourhood you will soon see why. Castlefield was once the site of a Roman settlement as well as one of the hubs of Manchester’s industrial activity due to its proximity to the Bridgewater canal and the River Irwell. These days the pace in this conservation area is a more tranquil one with its many bars and riverside walks. The cobbled streets and moored canal boats lend a unique charm to the area and have often been the backdrop for film and photo shoots. That alone should convince anyone to visit this delightful place but if not then perhaps all the amazing things to do in Castlefield should.
Eat
In Castlefield, Manchester's vibrant food scene really comes to life. Nowhere can it be better experienced than at Dukes 92 on Castle Street, a restaurant and grill set in a former stable building with a balcony and terrace which are ideal for balmy summer evenings. The menu offers something for every taste without blowing the budget. A selection of sharing boards for up to 10 people comprising of a selection of meats, fish and cheese gives you the opportunity to select all your favourites. For a more unique dining experience head to 8on Liverpool Street where food preparation gets turned into an entertaining art form. Select from meats cooked on the grill, sushi, Yamazaki whisky and sake among the many specialities the menu has to offer while relaxing in the stylish Japanese setting. Most people visiting the Castlefield area, and Manchester, are surprised at the diversity of its food culture but believe me, there are so many global influences making up our cuisine.
Drink
If you are trawling for things to do in Castlefield, Manchester's notorious bar culture is a must. For a great night out or even just a posh afternoon tea look no further than the impressive Cloud 23 bar located on the 23rd floor of Manchester’s iconic Beetham Tower. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, plush interior as well as the great selection of food and drinks as well as the panoramic view of the city. Rub shoulders with the rich and famous or literally feel like you have the world at your feet (well, Manchester anyway) by standing on the circular glass floor in the middle of the bar. For a more al-fresco experience visit The Wharf on Slate Wharf which has cosy rooms, an outdoor terrace overlooking the canal and a petanque court for if you fancy a game of boules. This is an ideal place to recharge your batteries after a busy day of sightseeing or as a starting place before moving on to the nearby Deansgate Locks to experience the vibrant nightlife of Castlefield and Manchester! Party on!
Things to do
Learn about the industrial past of the Castlefield area in Manchester's iconic Museum of Science and Industry, which is just around the corner on Liverpool Street. The museum is a cluster of five listed buildings including Liverpool Road Station – the site of the original terminus of the world’s first inter-city railway. The collection includes part of the world’s first commercially available computer and models used by John Dalton to demonstrate his atomic theory. The museum also offers a number of events and workshops throughout the year providing a more hands on experience to visitors. Alternatively, to experience the creative flair of this Manchester neighbourhood, visit cultural complex HOME at 2 Tony Wilson Place, a centre for international contemporary art, theatre and film and one of the latest jewels in Manchester’s crown. In addition to the wide variety of movies, exhibitions and performances HOME also offers a number of talks and workshops where you can learn anything from digital skills to Ikebana and Voguing.
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