If your idea of Manchester is still that of dark industrial city, you're in for a surprise! World class architecture, hotels, shopping, designer living plus major sporting and arts events are more the order of the day. Manchester has roots in ancient history, yet it's probably the most progressive city in the UK. It is wonderfully cosmopolitan and yet retains its own unique character.

Manchester hosted the 17th Commonwealth Games in 2002, which acted as a catalyst for years of massive regeneration - the product is a city which is now competing confidently on a world-class level, providing visitors with everything from a powerful heritage to cutting edge culture.

Manchester can lay good claim to being the sporting capital of Britain. The success and excitement of the XVII Commonwealth Games has left a legacy of memories and first class facilities. Manchester is home of Britain's largest multi-sports development. Sportcity, as the site is known, includes national centres for squash and tennis, an indoor athletics facility and Manchester Velodrome, one of only two full-size indoor tracks in the UK.

Many visitors to the city struggle to resist the temptations of its shopping culture. With department stores like Harvey Nichols and Selfridges alongside stores for the likes of Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Vivienne Westwood, Armani and DKNY who needs to travel to London for designer labels?

The diversity of the shopping experience doesn't stop there. At the hub of the vibrant Northern Quarter is Afflecks Palace, home of funky fashion and cutting edge music. For high street chic there's the Arndale Centre who are a BT Paralympic World Cup partner for 2010. If that’s not enough, a twenty minute trip outside the city is The Trafford Centre, a shopping and entertainment mecca with its own cinema and complex of restaurants.

Manchester is a walking city. Take in all the sights at a leisurely pace. Encounter the shock of the new in the dramatic glass ski-slope of the ultra-contemporary Urbis, or discover laid-back café culture along the canals at historic Castlefield.

©Jonty WildeHistoric masterpieces, priceless artefacts, international street theatre and city wide festivals are a plenty in and around Manchester. What's more it needn't cost you a penny to get close to some of the more inspirational wonders of the city as quite conveniently, virtually all of Manchester's museums, galleries and festivals are free of charge, allowing you to cram in as many activities as you can muster!

Those spending an extended period in the region can explore the natural beauty of the Lake District, the fun of Blackpool and the stately glory of Tatton Park all within easy reach of the city. 

Meanwhile, Manchester's Metrolink trams have not only enhanced the European feel of the city, but within minutes transport you to the wide open spaces of Heaton Park, the refined town of Altrincham and waterfront destination The Quays, home to Daniel Libeskind's magnificent Imperial War Museum North and the dramatic Lowry arts venue.

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Photos kindly supplied by © Marketing Manchester