Manchester is the UK's third largest city and has a vibrant and energetic gay and lesbian community.
The community is so well-developed that there is a Gay Village with a stylish range of clubs and bars, making this arguably the largest and most visible UK gay community outside London. The Gay Village has brought a new dynamism to a previously run-down area of the city and the pavement cafes, bars and restaurants have given the area a somewhat cosmopolitan feel.
The Gay Village can be found around Chorlton Street and Canal Street, just a few minutes walk from Piccadilly Gardens.
Culture
Manchester's landmark galleries and museums like Daniel Libeskind's Imperial War Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry and the Manchester Art Gallery offers the visitor the chance to view fantastic permanent and touring exhibitions. In addition, it is possible to take in a show at the Royal Exchange, the Lowry or one of the many other theatrical and concert venues
In addition to the many museums and galleries throughout Manchester, most of which are free to enter, a great way to really experience the city is to take a walking tour. Discover Manchester tours offer an overall taste of Manchester and make it really easy to familiarise yourself with the city. Another tour offered in the city is the 'Out in the Past' tour. This explores the twists and turns of over 200 years of lesbian and gay history and uncovers many of the City's concealed secrets. Check out www.visitmanchester.com for more information.
Equality
As one might expect from such a vibrant and gay-friendly city, gays are welcomed with open arms. Whether you find yourself in the more traditional areas of the town or in the Gay Village, you will find the locals friendly and welcoming.
Travel Information
By plane:
Manchester is serviced by Manchester International Airport, the UK's third largest airport. There are quite a few scheduled as well as low-cost airlines so getting to the city by plane need not be expensive.
Getting from the airport into the city is relatively easy - there are metered taxis available at the terminal, or it is possible to take the train which runs into Manchester Piccadilly Station (centre) in about 20 minutes.
By bus:
National Express buses connect Manchester with more than 50 UK destinations.
By train:
Manchester has three main railway stations: Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria and Manchester Oxford Road. These connect through the city to a vast network of cities in the UK.
Getting around:
Public transportation in Manchester is easy and reliable. Metrolink is Manchester's Tram System and it runs throughout the Greater Manchester area. Tickets must be bought before boarding and are available on the station platforms.
There is also a free Metroshuttle bus that travels throughout the city centre connecting the train stations, bus station, shops and attractions.
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