Manchester has grown through time, culture, and bucolic stateliness into a marvelous site for a romantic experience. A trip for two to Manchester can span such a range of interests and activities that undoubtedly there is something for everyone, and every couple will find something that will bring them closer.
Heaton Park
A nice way to begin a pleasant day with that special someone in Manchester is to visit Heaton Park. The boat rowing on the lake begins at 10 am and will afford the pair of you lovely prospects of the surrounding park’s open green spaces. Swans and ducks gliding through the water around you add interest and enhance the tranquil experience.
John Rylands Library
You may crave some culture next, and Manchester is more than able to accommodate. The John Rylands Library is an excellent choice with late 19th century gothic architecture to appreciate and fresh, new exhibits rotating through every couple of months. You will be captivated by the juxtaposition of old and new and enthralled by the art and imagination of the works inside. Be sure to stop at the in-house cafe for a bite of tasty, nutritious lunch before beginning your exploration.
Town Hall
After expanding your intellects and imaginations, you and your loved one may fancy a spot of tea. The Sculpture Room at Town Hall provides a charming ambiance amid plaques and sculptures representing the history of Manchester and the building itself, while also offering a lovely array of Fairtrade teas served with either a full savory and sweet array or with a simple piece of cake. Just visiting the Town Hall is a treat, being the gothic architectural centerpiece of the community.
Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
A walk together in the outdoors is just the thing to keep this romantic day rolling. The Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens is an organic dream with a nature trail that winds through gardens and wooded areas. Visitors should investigate the botanical gardens and the old parsonage, which is historic and adds a picturesque quality to the scene. Also remember that this is a wildlife habitat, so remain alert during your visit as lucky guests may come across some of the natural inhabitants.
Sam’s Chop House
Manchester boasts fantastic restaurants to fill whatever dinner desire has arisen through the exertions of the day. Sam’s Chop House is the place to go for comforting local fare. From the building that speaks of historic England to the menu featuring Brown Onion Soup and Glamorgan Sausage, visitors and natives alike will get a taste of the countryside.
King’s Arms
Following dinner, it might be nice to visit a local pub to take in some local flavor… and some local ale. The Kings Arms is an authentic community gathering place, which means that depending on the night visitors could stumble on some intriguing rituals. If it is not the night for the knitting circle to meet on the lower floor, it might be a film night. On many an occasion, there is music playing upstairs.
Experiencing such eclectic moments brings two people together in a way that only shared memories can, and as you leave Manchester, this surprising city will surely stay with you as something special shared.
This is a guest post written by Hannah Smith, a travel writer for thetrainline.com, the UK’s leading independent retailer of cheap train tickets.
