For Some Cultural Capers Head to Manchester

Manchester is a thriving city, bursting with culture and entertainment. From the May Jazz Festival to October''s ''In the City'' Festival, there''s always something to do in the UK''s second biggest city.

Having superbly embraced the 21st century with architectural attitude and cultural style, Manchester has worked hard to earn its place as a leading European city. Boasting a vibrant and eclectic social life, award winning parks and sites of historical interest, it is definitely worth taking time out to explore this inspired place.

Located in the north west of England, the city is comprised of a jumble of dramatic Victorian buildings and modern skyscrapers; the characteristic red brick buildings work to lend it an industrial air. Music plays an important part in Manchester''s heritage, with many world famous bands, like Joy Division, Oasis and The Smiths emerging from the city''s scene throughout the 80s and 90s.

As a result, there are a number of exciting annual events and music venues to take advantage of. The Manchester Evening News Arena, voted International Venue of the Year, is well worth a visit. With a seating capacity exceeding 21,000, it is the largest construction of its type in Europe and is the city''s premier pop music location.

The annual, week-long Manchester Jazz Festival, held in May is another must-see event. Established in 1995, it has grown to become a musical medley of contemporary, orchestral and improvised jazz, making it an exciting and lively event to attend.

Visitors heading to Manchester in October should make sure they check out In the City. Cited as the biggest European music festival held in a metropolitan area, the place comes alive as a host of bands and performers hit the streets. Designed to seek out the freshest talent around, the careers of many bands, like Radiohead and the Foo Fighters, have been launched there.

There are also a host of cultural offerings just waiting to be soaked up. Indeed, both Piccadilly Gardens and Albert Square are home to a host of historical monuments, whilst there are a plethora of exhibitions, theatre performances and museums to visit. A particular highlight is the LS Lowry Gallery, based near The Quays.

In addition to a flourishing street scene, there are more than 135 parks, gardens and open spaces scattered around the city, meaning you can lie back and relax after a hard day''s shopping, or simply wander around taking in the beautiful surroundings. The award winning Heaton Park - one of the largest in Europe ? is situated in the north of Manchester and should definitely be incorporated into any visitor''s schedule. Covering an area of around 600 acres, it is the perfect place to escape from the noise of the city.

Regardless of when you visit, Manchester is bursting with things to do and places to visit. The city also offers up an amazing nightlife and some great gastronomic treats. So, if you fancy grabbing a slice of 21st century culture, there''s a wide range of Manchester flights and hotels to accommodate your needs.

The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.