Time for shopping

When it comes to shopping, Manchester has it all. If you can't find it in Manchester, you'll struggle to find it anywhere. 

1. The Trafford Centre

As much a theme park as it is a shopping centre, the Trafford Centre is a huge shopping centre and leisure complex located in Trafford, Manchester. The Trafford Centre is easily assessible by bus from Manchesters bus station (Shudehill) and other buses running from smaller towns outside of the city. The Trafford centre is famous for having one of the largest food courts in Europe called "The Orient" where you can purchase fast food such as McDonalds, KFC, Sandwiches, Cakes, Coffee etc. As well as shopping The Trafford Centre is also home to an Odeon Cinema, LazerQuest and minature golf. There are some great places to get a coffee but these get very busy during peak times and is very difficult to find a seat. 

2. Manchester Arndale

At the heart the city centre shopping experience, Manchester Arndale continues to be the centre of people's shopping experience in the city, and there's more on offer than ever before.

Almost twice its original size, it is the UK's largest city-centre shopping centre and with over 200 retailers there isn't a well known high street brand that you won't find - the phrase everything under one roof was never more appropriate! Fashion lovers are particularly well catered for with Topshop/Topman, River Island and Nike alongside the world's largest Next store. Gadget lovers can get their technology fix from the ever popular Apple store as well as a range of other electrical shops such as Bose. In addition to jewellery to suit every pricepoint you can find a particularly inspiring branch of bookstore Waterstones, complete with in-store café and the vast Clas Ohlson, a store packed with useful things you never knew you needed.

3. Northern Quarter

Sited between Piccadilly and the Ancoats, the Northern Quarter retains a unique character and charm, one set to continue through its ongoing development and regeneration. Manchester's creative, urban heart is home to countless independent fashion stores, record shops, cafés, bars and restaurants and the world famous Afflecks Palace, providing affordable outlets for independent designers and traders across four floors. Aside from offering an alternative shopping fix, The Northern Quarter is home to many independent restaurants and bars, providing a unique experience after dark. Try Odd Bar for continental beers, The Bay Horse for a pool table, Trof for a relaxed yet quirky atmosphere and Mint Lounge for dancing the night away.