Unusual things to do in manchester: 10 quirky experiences you’ll love

Manchester is a city pulsating with history, art, and an irrepressible spirit. While the iconic football grounds and famous galleries draw crowds, a different side of the city awaits those willing to look closer. We're venturing beyond the standard tourist trails to uncover the experiences that truly define Manchester's unique character. This isn't just another list; it's a curated guide to the strange, the thrilling, and the wonderfully weird activities that reveal the city’s authentic soul.

This article is designed for anyone bored with the conventional. We've organised our top picks into distinct categories: high-octane thrills, immersive arts and culture, unique food and drink experiences, and insightful tours that peel back the layers of the city. Forget generic suggestions. Here, you'll find actionable details on everything from industrial heritage abseiling to paranormal investigations in supposedly haunted locations. Each entry explains precisely why it's one of the most unusual things to do in Manchester, who it's perfect for, and practical tips for booking.

The city’s identity is deeply rooted in its past and present innovations. For a broader understanding of how these elements converge, exploring Manchester's industrial heritage and vibrant music scene offers deeper context into its less-explored corners. Whether you're a lifelong Mancunian seeking a new adventure or a visitor craving an authentic taste of local life, this guide is your starting point. And for those special occasions, we'll highlight how you can easily gift these incredible memories to a friend or loved one through Guess What I Did, your go-to for extraordinary experiences that go far beyond the ordinary. Prepare to see a side of Manchester you never knew existed.

1. Urbex at Abandoned Cotton Mills

Delve into the skeletal remains of Manchester's industrial past with an urban exploration (urbex) adventure into its forgotten cotton mills. This activity is far more than just visiting a ruin; it’s an immersive, photographic journey into the heart of the Industrial Revolution. Known as the world's first industrial city, Manchester’s landscape is dotted with magnificent, decaying structures that once powered the global textile trade. Urbex offers a unique, unfiltered perspective on this history, allowing you to document the haunting beauty of these architectural giants as nature reclaims them.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

While many tourists visit the restored mills in Ancoats or the Science and Industry Museum, urbex provides a raw, authentic connection to the city's heritage. You’ll see peeling paint, silent looms, and vast, echoing halls where thousands once worked. It’s a chance to capture stunning photographs and feel the true scale of Manchester's industrial might, making it one of the most profoundly unusual things to do in Manchester for history buffs and photographers alike.

Key Insight: Urban exploration is about documenting and preserving memory, not trespassing or vandalism. Responsible exploration respects the history and integrity of the site.

Tips for a Safe and Responsible Exploration

Safety and legality are paramount when considering an urbex trip. Never explore alone and always prioritise caution.

• Go with a Guide: For a safe and insightful experience, book a guided urbex tour. Experienced guides have knowledge of the safest routes and often have arranged access, ensuring you explore responsibly.
• Wear Protective Gear: Sturdy, closed-toe boots are essential. Also, consider gloves to protect against sharp objects and a dust mask for air quality.
• Document, Don't Damage: The urbex motto is "take only pictures, leave only footprints." Never remove artefacts or deface the property.
• Research First: Learn the history of mills like Sackville Street Mill or Murrays' Mills to enrich your visit and understand the context of what you're seeing.

Ready to uncover a hidden side of Manchester's history? This experience is perfect for the adventurous soul who appreciates history, photography, and the beauty in decay. Explore guided urbex opportunities on Guess What I Did and capture a piece of the city's soul.

2. Underground Manchester History Tour

Journey beneath the bustling city streets to uncover a hidden world of subterranean history. An underground tour of Manchester reveals a labyrinthine network of Victorian-era sewers, medieval cellars, forgotten air-raid shelters, and secret passages that tell a story the surface cannot. This activity is more than a simple walking tour; it’s a descent into the layered past of the city, exploring the infrastructure and secret spaces that have been crucial to its development from Roman times to the Second World War. You'll navigate dimly lit tunnels and uncover the secrets buried right under your feet.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

Most visitors experience Manchester from street level, admiring its modern architecture and historical buildings. This tour offers an entirely different, subterranean perspective. You’ll stand in spaces that were once vital during the war or served as the hidden arteries of the industrial city. It's a tangible connection to the past that few get to see, making it one of the most uniquely unusual things to do in Manchester for anyone fascinated by hidden history and urban archaeology.

Key Insight: These underground spaces are authentic historical environments, not reconstructions. The cool air, damp brickwork, and echoing silence offer a genuinely atmospheric step back in time.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Tour

To make the most of this subterranean adventure, a little preparation is key. The environment is unlike any other in the city.

• Book in Advance: These specialised tours have limited spots and are extremely popular, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking ahead is essential.
• Wear Sensible Footwear: The ground can be uneven, damp, and slippery. Sturdy, waterproof, closed-toe shoes are a must for safety and comfort.
• Dress Warmly: The tunnels maintain a constant cool temperature, regardless of the weather outside. A jumper or light jacket is recommended.
• Follow Photography Rules: Some sections may have restrictions on flash photography to preserve the historical integrity of the site. Always listen to your guide's instructions.

Ready to explore the Manchester that lies beneath? This experience is perfect for curious explorers and history enthusiasts eager to see a side of the city hidden from plain sight. Find out more about unique underground Manchester history tour experiences available on Guess What I Did and unearth the city's deepest secrets.

3. Immersive Theater Experiences at Royal Exchange Theatre

Step beyond the traditional stage and into the heart of the story with an immersive theatre experience. In Manchester, venues like the iconic Royal Exchange Theatre are pushing the boundaries of performance, creating productions that dissolve the line between the audience and the actors. This isn't about passively watching a play; it's about becoming part of the narrative, where the environment, and sometimes even your own actions, influence the unfolding drama. These innovative shows transform the theatre into a living, breathing world for you to explore.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

While Manchester is famous for its world-class theatre, immersive productions offer a completely different level of engagement. Instead of sitting in a fixed seat, you might be guided through different rooms, interact with characters, or solve puzzles that affect the plot. This makes for a deeply personal and unpredictable evening, turning a night at the theatre into a genuine adventure. For those seeking a cultural activity that is both thought-provoking and thrilling, this is one of the most uniquely unusual things to do in Manchester.

Key Insight: Immersive theatre prioritises feeling and presence over passive observation. Your experience is unique to you, shaped by where you choose to look and who you choose to follow.

Tips for an Unforgettable Performance

To get the most out of an interactive show, a little preparation goes a long way. Embrace the unexpected and allow yourself to be drawn into the world.

• Arrive Early: Get to the venue ahead of time to absorb the atmosphere and understand the layout. Some experiences begin the moment you walk through the door.
• Wear Comfortable Clothes: You may be standing, walking, or moving around for the duration of the performance, so comfortable footwear and clothing are essential.
• Follow Audience Instructions: Pay close attention to any guidelines provided by the cast or crew. This ensures a safe and seamless experience for everyone involved.
• Read Content Warnings: These productions can be intense. Check for any content warnings beforehand to ensure the show is a good fit for you.

Ready to become part of the performance? Perfect for culture lovers and adventurous spirits, this is a chance to see theatre in a completely new light. Discover unique theatrical gift experiences on Guess What I Did and book your ticket to another world.

4. Street Art Walking Tour with Local Artists

Discover Manchester's open-air art gallery by navigating its vibrant street art scene on a tour led by the very people who create it. These guided walks take you through the colourful backstreets and hidden corners of areas like the Northern Quarter and Ancoats, offering an insider's perspective on the dynamic world of graffiti and muralism. You’ll learn the stories behind the art, understand the different techniques, and hear firsthand accounts from active local artists.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

Many visitors wander the Northern Quarter admiring the murals, but few get the authentic stories behind them. A tour with a local artist transforms a simple walk into a deep dive into the city’s subculture. You're not just looking at art; you're engaging with the community that brings Manchester's walls to life. This direct connection makes it one of the most culturally immersive and unusual things to do in Manchester for anyone interested in contemporary art and urban creativity.

Key Insight: These tours often reveal ephemeral pieces that might disappear overnight. The artist-guide provides a unique, real-time snapshot of a constantly evolving art scene.

Tips for a Great Art Walk

To get the most out of your tour, a little preparation goes a long way. This is an active, outdoor experience that celebrates grassroots creativity.

• Book an Authentic Tour: For a genuine experience, seek out tours led by practicing artists. These guides offer unparalleled insights into the techniques and unwritten rules of the street art world.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for two to three hours exploring various neighbourhoods, so sturdy and comfortable footwear is a must.
• Bring Your Camera: Manchester's street art is incredibly photogenic. A camera with a good zoom will help you capture the intricate details of large-scale murals.
• Engage with Your Guide: Don't be shy. Ask your artist-guide questions about their work, their inspirations, and the messages behind the pieces you see.

Ready to see Manchester through the eyes of its artists? This experience is perfect for the culturally curious, aspiring photographers, and anyone who wants to understand the city’s creative pulse. Find artist-led walking tours on Guess What I Did and explore the art that defines Manchester’s streets.

5. Vinyl Record Store Deep Dives and Listening Sessions

Step into the groove of Manchester’s world-renowned music scene with a deep dive into its legendary independent record shops. This isn't just about quickly buying a record; it’s an immersive cultural experience. Spend an afternoon crate-digging, attend exclusive in-store listening sessions, and learn the art of music curation from passionate shop owners and local DJs who are the gatekeepers of the city’s auditory identity. From the sprawling collections at Vinyl Exchange to the specialist electronic beats at Eastern Bloc Records, this is your backstage pass to the rhythm of Manchester.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

While thousands flock to Manchester for its live music venues, very few take the time to explore the foundations of its musical heritage. A guided deep dive offers a more personal and intimate connection to the sounds that shaped the city. You’re not just a customer; you're a participant in a living culture, discovering rare pressings and new artists. This hands-on sonic journey is one of the most unusual things to do in Manchester for anyone who believes music is something to be felt, not just heard.

Key Insight: Engaging directly with record store experts transforms shopping into a curated experience, revealing hidden gems and personal stories you won't find on any streaming platform.

Tips for a Rewarding Sonic Journey

To get the most out of your vinyl exploration, approach it with curiosity and an open mind. The real treasure is in the discovery.

• Book a Curated Session: Enhance your visit by booking a guided vinyl discovery session. An expert can navigate the overwhelming collections and introduce you to music perfectly tailored to your tastes.
• Ask for Recommendations: Don't be shy. Staff in shops like Piccadilly Records or Jive Records live and breathe music. Tell them an artist you love and ask what they’d recommend.
• Check for In-Store Events: Many shops host free album listening parties or intimate DJ sets. Check their social media channels before your visit for a chance to catch one.
• Learn to Inspect Vinyl: Ask a staff member to show you how to check a record for scratches and warping before you buy, ensuring you go home with a quality pressing.

Ready to find your next favourite album? Perfect for music lovers and culture vultures, this experience connects you with the authentic pulse of Manchester's music scene. Find curated vinyl experiences on Guess What I Did and start your sonic adventure.

6. Supper Club Dining at Secret Locations

Step away from traditional restaurants and into Manchester’s clandestine culinary scene with a pop-up supper club. These exclusive dining events are held in secret, often unconventional locations revealed to guests just before the event. It’s a completely immersive experience combining experimental cuisine from rising-star chefs with intimate atmospheres, often complemented by underground music or artistic performances, for a night that’s as much about community as it is about food.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

While Manchester is famous for its food scene, supper clubs offer an element of mystery and exclusivity you won't find on the Curry Mile or in Spinningfields. You could find yourself dining in a converted warehouse, a private art gallery, or a hidden city garden. This unpredictable nature transforms a simple meal into a memorable adventure, making it one of the most exciting and unusual things to do in Manchester for adventurous foodies seeking a unique social and gastronomic experience.

Key Insight: Supper clubs are curated events that prioritise connection and creativity. The secret location and shared table format are designed to encourage interaction and create a one-of-a-kind communal atmosphere.

Tips for a Seamless Supper Club Evening

To make the most of these exclusive events, a little preparation and etiquette go a long way. Punctuality and an open mind are key.

• Book in Advance: These events are intimate and have limited spots, so they sell out incredibly quickly. Follow local event organisers and chefs on social media to stay in the loop and get notified first.
• Communicate Needs Early: Let the organisers know about any dietary requirements or allergies when you book. Menus are often fixed, so advance notice is essential for the chef to accommodate you.
• Be Punctual: The experience is often timed to start for everyone at once. Arriving on time is respectful to the chef, organisers, and other guests.
• Follow the Rules: Pay attention to any house rules, especially regarding photography or social media, to respect the privacy of the venue and other diners.

Ready for a culinary adventure shrouded in mystery? This is the perfect experience for those who love great food, new people, and the thrill of the unknown. Discover curated pop-up dining experiences on Guess What I Did and secure your seat at Manchester's most exclusive table.

7. Industrial Heritage Climbing and Abseiling

Experience Manchester's industrial landscape from a unique vertical perspective with a guided climbing and abseiling adventure. This activity transforms the city’s heritage architecture into a thrilling vertical playground, allowing you to scale historic bridges and abseil down preserved industrial structures under expert supervision. It's a powerful way to interact with the very buildings that forged Manchester's identity, blending adrenaline with a deep appreciation for its engineering prowess.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

Instead of viewing industrial landmarks from the ground, this experience lets you physically engage with them in an unforgettable way. Climbing the iron latticework of a Castlefield bridge or descending the face of a heritage building offers a perspective few will ever see. This blend of historical tourism and high-octane sport makes it one of the most hands-on and unusual things to do in Manchester for anyone seeking a true urban adventure.

Key Insight: This isn't just a physical challenge; it's a new way to appreciate the scale and ambition of the city's Victorian engineering, connecting you directly to Manchester's industrial soul.

Tips for a Safe and Thrilling Climb

Your safety is the top priority, so always choose professional, certified operators for this unique urban challenge. Proper preparation ensures you can focus on the thrill.

• Book with Certified Operators: Only undertake this activity with licensed and insured climbing companies. They provide all necessary safety gear and expert instruction.
• Check Your Fitness: While you don't need to be a professional climber, a reasonable level of fitness will enhance your enjoyment. Communicate any physical limitations or fears to your instructor beforehand.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, flexible clothing and sturdy, closed-toe footwear like trainers or walking boots. Avoid loose jewellery or accessories.
• Trust Your Instructor: Listen carefully to the safety briefing and follow your guide's instructions at all times. They are trained to keep you safe and help you succeed.

Ready to see Manchester from a new height? If scaling historic structures sounds exciting, you might also enjoy the ultimate urban plunge. Check out the 160ft Bungee Jump at Salford Quays for another heart-pounding Manchester adventure.

8. Paranormal Investigation Tours at Reportedly Haunted Sites

Step beyond the typical historical tour and venture into the shadows of Manchester's most haunted locations. A paranormal investigation is not a passive ghost walk; it's an active, hands-on experience where you become the ghost hunter. Guided by paranormal experts, you'll use professional equipment like EMF meters and spirit boxes to explore historic buildings after dark, from grand Victorian hotels to eerie abandoned hospitals, attempting to communicate with whatever may lie beyond.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

While many know Manchester for its industrial and musical heritage, its ghostly past is often overlooked. Participating in an investigation at locations like the famed Palace Theatre or the atmospheric Ancoats Hospital offers a completely different perspective on the city's history. Instead of just hearing stories, you're actively seeking evidence and experiencing the spine-chilling atmosphere firsthand, making this one of the most uniquely thrilling and unusual things to do in Manchester for believers and sceptics alike.

Key Insight: A genuine paranormal investigation focuses on historical context and methodical exploration, not just jump scares. It’s an opportunity to engage with a location's hidden stories in a deeply immersive way.

Tips for a Spooky and Safe Investigation

To make the most of your ghostly encounter, preparation is key. This is about respectful investigation, not provoking spirits.

• Book a Reputable Tour: Choose an established operator with positive reviews. Experienced guides ensure a structured, safe, and respectful investigation that combines historical accuracy with paranormal techniques.
• Dress Appropriately: Many historic locations are unheated and can get very cold, especially late at night. Wear warm layers and comfortable, sturdy shoes for standing and walking in the dark.
• Go with a Group: It’s always more comforting and enjoyable to share this kind of intense experience with friends rather than going alone.
• Research the History: Before you go, read up on the history and reported hauntings of the venue. Knowing the stories of the spirits you might encounter adds a fascinating layer to the investigation.

Ready to connect with Manchester's other side? This experience is perfect for thrill-seekers, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the unexplained. Discover guided paranormal investigations on Guess What I Did and see what you uncover in the dark.

9. Craft Brewery and Distillery Blending Workshops

Move beyond a simple tasting and become the master of your own brew or spirit with a hands-on blending workshop at one of Manchester's acclaimed craft breweries or distilleries. This experience invites you to step into the lab coat of a brewer or distiller, learning the art of flavour profiling, blending botanicals, and selecting hops. You’ll get to experiment with different ingredients to create a beverage that is uniquely yours, from a bespoke gin to a custom-blended craft ale, and even take your creation home in a personalised bottle.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

Manchester’s craft drink scene is booming, but while most people are content to just sample the finished product, a blending workshop offers a far more immersive and creative encounter. Instead of just drinking a gin, you'll learn exactly how botanicals like juniper, citrus, and cardamom combine to create its unique profile. It's a fantastic blend of science, creativity, and tasting, making it one of the most engaging and unusual things to do in Manchester for foodies, spirit enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique group activity.

Key Insight: The skill is in understanding how different flavours complement or contrast with each other. This workshop is less about drinking and more about crafting a balanced, personal flavour profile.

Tips for a Successful Blending Session

To get the most out of your workshop, a little preparation goes a long way. This is your chance to experiment, so arrive ready to learn and taste.

• Book for Small Groups: These experiences are often best enjoyed with a small group of 4-8 people, allowing everyone to get hands-on attention and share the creative process.
• Stay Hydrated and Fed: Have a meal beforehand and drink plenty of water. This will help you manage the alcohol consumption and keep your palate fresh.
• Take Notes: Keep a record of the combinations you try and what you liked about them. This will help you perfect your final blend and recreate similar flavours in the future.
• Ask Questions: The experts running the session are a fountain of knowledge. Ask about non-alcoholic alternatives, the science behind distilling, or tips for pairing your creation with food.

Ready to concoct your very own signature drink? This workshop is perfect for curious creators and connoisseurs alike. Find out more about how you can be a brewer for a day and gift an unforgettable creative experience.

10. Music Production Workshop in Professional Studios

Step behind the glass of a professional recording studio and learn how Manchester's iconic sounds were made. This is more than a music lesson; it’s a hands-on experience where you work with professional equipment and expert producers in the very spaces that have shaped musical history. From laying down your own track to mixing a song, you'll gain an insider's view of the creative process that brought bands like The Smiths and Oasis to global stardom. This workshop is your chance to step into the producer's chair and bring your musical ideas to life.

Why It's an Unusual Manchester Experience

Manchester's music scene is legendary, but while most people just visit the famous venues, this experience lets you become part of the city's creative fabric. You get to move beyond being a listener and actively participate in the art of sound engineering. Learning the secrets of production in a real studio offers a unique connection to the city's musical soul, making it one of the most creatively engaging unusual things to do in Manchester for aspiring musicians, tech enthusiasts, and die-hard music fans.

Key Insight: A professional studio environment provides access to acoustics, equipment, and expertise that are impossible to replicate at home, accelerating your learning and creativity.

Tips for a Productive Studio Session

To get the most out of your workshop, a little preparation goes a long way. Arrive ready to create and absorb as much as you can.

• Have a Goal: Come prepared with an idea. Whether it’s a song you’ve written, a cover you want to record, or specific mixing techniques you want to learn, having a focus will make your session more productive.
• Choose the Right Mentor: Look for producer-led workshops where the mentor's style aligns with your musical interests. Don't hesitate to ask for examples of their work.
• Ask Questions: This is your chance to learn from a pro. Be curious about everything from microphone placement to software plugins.
• Take It Home: For those inspired to continue their journey, understanding the fundamentals of a studio is key. This excellent guide to setting up a recording studio provides foundational knowledge for building your own creative space.

Ready to produce your own Manchester anthem? This is the perfect experience for anyone looking to unlock their musical potential or simply understand the magic behind the music. Explore music production workshops on Guess What I Did and make some noise.

Top 10 Unusual Manchester Experiences: Comparison

Gift an Unforgettable Manchester Story with Guess What I Did

Manchester is more than just a city; it’s a living, breathing mosaic of stories, secrets, and surprises. As we’ve journeyed through this curated collection of unusual things to do in Manchester, it has become clear that the city’s true character is found off the beaten path. It’s discovered in the echoes of its industrial past during an underground history tour, felt in the creative pulse of a street art workshop in the Northern Quarter, and tasted in the innovative flavours of a secret supper club.

These experiences represent a departure from the conventional tourist trail. They offer a chance not just to see Manchester, but to actively participate in its culture and forge a genuine connection with its spirit. This article has aimed to peel back the layers of the obvious, revealing a vibrant underbelly of activities that cater to every kind of adventurer.

From Observer to Participant: The Power of Unique Experiences

The most important takeaway is the shift from passive observation to active participation. Instead of simply visiting a historic building, you can abseil down its industrial-era walls. Rather than just listening to Manchester's iconic music, you can step into a professional studio and learn to produce your own track. This hands-on approach is what transforms a simple day out into a core memory, a story that will be retold for years.

The true value of seeking out these unusual activities lies in their ability to create lasting impressions. Consider the difference between buying a souvenir and crafting your own blend of gin at a local distillery. One is a static object; the other is a dynamic memory, complete with sights, smells, and the pride of creation. These moments are the building blocks of a richer, more meaningful life, and they are perfect for sharing with others.

Key Insights from Our Manchester Journey:

• Embrace the Unconventional: The city's best-kept secrets often lie just beyond the mainstream. From exploring abandoned cotton mills to joining a paranormal investigation, stepping outside your comfort zone yields the most rewarding adventures.
• Creativity is Everywhere: Manchester’s creative soul isn't confined to galleries. It’s painted on its walls, brewed in its craft breweries, and performed in its immersive theatres. Engaging with this creativity is the best way to understand the city.
• History is Alive: The past isn't just in museums. It’s in the subterranean canals, the haunted halls of old buildings, and the repurposed industrial architecture, all waiting to be explored in an interactive way.
• The Perfect Gift is a Story: The most thoughtful presents are not material objects but shared experiences. Giving someone the chance to climb, create, discover, or taste something new is a gift of adventure and a future cherished memory.

Ultimately, this guide serves as your launchpad. It’s an invitation to look at Manchester through a different lens, to seek out the niches and nooks that make it so exceptionally unique. Whether you are a lifelong Mancunian looking to rediscover your home or a visitor eager for an authentic experience, the opportunities for adventure are boundless. Don't settle for the standard itinerary. Choose an activity that resonates with your curiosity, challenges your perspective, and leaves you with an unforgettable story to tell. Choose to do something different.

Ready to stop guessing and start gifting unforgettable adventures? Guess What I Did has curated the very best unusual things to do in Manchester, making it simple to find and book the perfect experience gift. Turn inspiration into action and give a story they'll tell forever by visiting Guess What I Did today.