Stag party in Manchester: tips for planning, activities & co.

Are you planning an unforgettable stag party in Manchester? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, you’ll find out everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable stag party in this vibrant city. From the best activities and sights to culinary highlights, accommodation and travel tips, we’ve got you covered.

So get ready to discover Manchester in a very special way!

What makes Manchester special?

Manchester, the vibrant metropolis in the north-west of England, is a city bursting with energy and creativity. Known for its rich industrial history, passionate soccer culture and vibrant music scene, Manchester offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

The city is home to two of the biggest soccer clubs in the world, Manchester United and Manchester City, and has produced some of the most famous bands, including Oasis and The Smiths. With an impressive selection of bars, clubs and restaurants, numerous art galleries and museums, as well as a variety of activities and events, Manchester is the perfect place for an unforgettable stag party.

Program and activities

Ready for action and fun in Manchester? This city in the heart of the North West of England is a real powerhouse when it comes to unforgettable experiences.

Special activities in the city

• Soccer tour: Manchester is home to two of the biggest soccer clubs in the world, Manchester United and Manchester City. A tour of Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium is a must for any soccer fan. You can take a look behind the scenes, visit the changing rooms and even take a seat on the coach’s bench. Ideal for sports enthusiasts and those who want to become one. Costs vary depending on the tour, the providers are the respective soccer clubs.
• Manchester Music Tour: Manchester’s music scene has produced some of the most famous bands, including Oasis and The Smiths. On a music tour, you can visit the city’s most important music venues and learn more about its musical history. Perfect for music lovers. Costs around £10 per person.
• Visit Manchester Museum: Manchester Museum is the largest university museum in the UK and houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits. A visit is a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture. Suitable for those interested in culture, entry is free.
• Manchester Craft Beer Tour: Manchester has a vibrant craft beer scene. On a craft beer tour, you can visit some of the city’s best breweries, enjoy beer tastings and learn more about the brewing process. Ideal for beer lovers, the cost is around £30 per person.
• Street art tour: Manchester is known for its impressive street art. On a guided tour you can discover the best graffiti and murals in the city and learn more about the artists. Perfect for art lovers, the cost is around £10 per person.
• Manchester River Cruises: A river cruise on the Manchester Ship Canal offers a unique perspective of the city. You can admire the impressive architecture from the water and learn more about the city’s industrial history. Suitable for anyone looking for a relaxing activity, costing around £20 per person.
• Visit the Science and Industry Museum: The Science and Industry Museum is a must for any technology and science enthusiast. Here you can learn more about the industrial revolution and Manchester’s role in it. Suitable for those interested in technology and science, admission is free.
• Manchester Ghost Walk: Discover the spookiest places in the city on a Ghost Walk and learn more about the ghosts and legends of Manchester. Perfect for the adventurous, the cost is around £10 per person.
• Visit the John Rylands Library: The John Rylands Library is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. A visit is a great way to learn more about the city’s literary history. Suitable for those interested in literature, admission is free.
• Manchester Gin Experience: At the Manchester Gin Experience, you can make your own gin and learn more about the history of gin. Ideal for gin lovers, costs around £45 per person.
• Visit to the Manchester Art Gallery: Manchester Art Gallery is home to an impressive collection of artwork, including works by Turner and Constable. A visit is a great way to learn more about the city’s art scene. Suitable for art lovers, entry is free.
• Manchester Food Walks: Take a food walk tour to discover the city’s culinary highlights and learn more about the local cuisine. Perfect for foodies, costs around £40 per person.
• Visit the National Football Museum: The National Football Museum is a must for every soccer fan. Here you can learn more about the history of soccer and see some of the most important soccer relics. Suitable for sports enthusiasts, admission is free.
• Manchester Bike Tour: Explore the city on two wheels and learn more about its history and culture on a bike tour. Ideal for active people, costs around £25 per person.
• Visit to the People’s History Museum: The People’s History Museum is the national museum for democracy and tells the story of the labor movement in Great Britain. Suitable for history buffs, entry is free.
• Manchester Duck Race: The Manchester Duck Race is an annual event where thousands of rubber ducks swim down the River Irwell. Fun for all, entry is free.
• Visit the Imperial War Museum North: The Imperial War Museum North is an impressive museum that shows the effects of war and conflict on people. Suitable for history buffs, entry is free.
• Manchester Pride: Manchester Pride is one of the biggest LGBT events in the UK. It’s a great way to celebrate the diversity and openness of the city. Suitable for anyone who loves a good party, ticket prices vary.
• Visit Manchester Cathedral: Manchester Cathedral is one of the oldest and most impressive buildings in the city. A visit is a great way to learn more about the religious history of the city. Suitable for those interested in culture, entry is free.
• Manchester Christmas Markets: Manchester’s Christmas markets are some of the best in the UK. They are a great way to soak up the festive atmosphere and do some Christmas shopping. Suitable for anyone who loves Christmas, entry is free.

Classics

• Pub crawl: A pub crawl is a great way to explore the local beer scene and meet new people. It’s suitable for anyone who wants to enjoy the nightlife and discover new places. The cost varies depending on the pub, but you can expect to pay around £20 for drinks. There are many pubs in the city, so just pick one and start your tour.
• Beauty Day: A beauty day is a relaxing and rejuvenating activity. It is ideal for those who want to be pampered. The cost varies depending on the treatment, but you can expect to pay around £50 for a massage or facial. There are many beauty salons in the city, so just pick one and book your treatments.
• Paintball: Paintball is an exciting and action-packed activity. It’s ideal for those who love a bit of competition and adrenaline. The cost is around £20 per person, including equipment and paintballs. There are several paintball locations in the city, so just pick one and book your session.
• Photo shoot: A photo shoot is a fun and creative activity. It is ideal for those who enjoy being in front of the camera and want to capture beautiful memories. The cost varies depending on the photographer, but you can expect to pay around £100 for an hour. There are many photo studios in the city, so just choose one and book your session.
• City rally: A city rally is a fun and interactive way to explore the city. It’s ideal for those who enjoy solving puzzles and discovering new places. The cost varies depending on the provider, but you can expect to pay around £20 per person. There are several city rally providers in the city, so just choose one and book your rally.
• Guided tours of the city: A guided tour of the city is an informative and interesting way to explore the city. It is ideal for those who want to learn more about the history and culture of the city. The cost varies depending on the tour, but you can expect to pay around £10 per person. There are many different tours in the city, so just pick one and book your tour.
• Party bus: A party bus is an exciting and unique way to explore the city. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy the nightlife and keep moving. The cost varies depending on the provider, but you can expect to pay around £30 per person. There are several party bus providers in the city, so just pick one and book your bus.
• Murder mystery dinner: A murder mystery dinner is a fun and interactive way to spend an evening. It’s ideal for those who enjoy solving mysteries and good food. The cost varies depending on the event, but you can expect to pay around £50 per person. There are several places in the city that offer murder mystery dinners, so just pick one and book your dinner.
• Jewelry Workshop: A jewelry workshop is a creative and relaxing activity. It is ideal for those who enjoy crafts and want to learn something new. The cost varies depending on the workshop, but you can expect to pay around £30 per person. There are several places in the city that offer jewelry workshops, so just pick one and book your workshop.
• Cooking class: A cooking class is an educational and delicious activity. It is ideal for those who love to cook and want to learn new recipes. The cost varies depending on the course, but you can expect to pay around £50 per person. There are several cooking schools in the city, so just pick one and book your course.
• Wine tasting: Wine tasting is an elegant and enjoyable activity. It is ideal for those who enjoy drinking wine and want to learn more about different varieties. The cost varies depending on the event, but you can expect to pay around £20 per person. There are several places in the city that offer wine tastings, so just pick one and book your tasting.
• Escape Room: An escape room is an exciting and challenging activity. It is ideal for those who enjoy solving puzzles and working under pressure. The cost varies depending on the room, but you can expect to pay around £20 per person. There are several escape rooms in the city, so just choose one and book your room.
• Yoga class: A yoga class is a relaxing and healthy activity. It is ideal for those who like to exercise and relax. The cost varies depending on the class, but you can expect to pay around £10 per person. There are several yoga studios in the city, so just choose one and book your class.
• Comedy show: A comedy show is a fun and entertaining activity. It is ideal for those who like to laugh and have a good time. The cost varies depending on the show, but you can expect to pay around £20 per person. There are several comedy clubs in the city, so just pick one and book your tickets.
• Live music: Live music is an exciting and entertaining activity. It is ideal for those who love music and want to have a good time. The cost varies depending on the concert, but you can expect to pay around £20 per person. There are many venues in the city that offer live music, so just pick one and enjoy the show.
• Spa day: A spa day is a relaxing and rejuvenating activity. It is ideal for those who want to be pampered. The cost varies depending on the spa, but you can expect to pay around £50 for a massage or facial. There are many spas in the city, so just pick one and book your treatments.
• Art workshop: An art workshop is a creative and relaxing activity. It is ideal for those who like to paint or draw and want to learn something new. The cost varies depending on the workshop, but you can expect to pay around £30 per person. There are several places in the city that offer art workshops, so just pick one and book your workshop.
• Segway tour: A Segway tour is a unique and exciting way to explore the city. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being outdoors and want to try something new. The cost varies depending on the tour, but you can expect to pay around £30 per person. There are several Segway tour providers in the city, so just pick one and book your tour.
• Dance class: A dance class is a fun and active activity. It is ideal for those who love to dance and want to learn new steps. The cost varies depending on the class, but you can expect to pay around £10 per person. There are many dance studios in the city, so just choose one and book your class.
• Climbing gym: A climbing gym is an exciting and challenging activity. It is ideal for those who enjoy climbing and want to test their limits. The cost varies depending on the gym, but you can expect to pay around £15 per person. There are several climbing gyms in the city, so just choose one and book your session.

Especially popular with women

• Beauty day: A beauty day is a relaxing and pampering activity that is perfect for getting ready for the wedding. Suitable for anyone who likes to be pampered, costs vary depending on the provider and treatments.
• JewelryWorkshop: A jewelry workshop is a creative and fun activity where you can make your own jewelry. Suitable for anyone who likes to be creative, cost is around £30 per person.
• Wine Tasting: A wine tasting is an elegant and sophisticated activity where you can taste different wines and learn more about wine. Suitable for anyone who loves wine, cost is around £20 per person.
• Cooking class: A cooking class is an educational and tasty activity where you can learn new recipes and prepare delicious dishes. Suitable for anyone who enjoys cooking, costing around £50 per person.
• Spa day: A spa day is a relaxing and pampering activity that is perfect to prepare for the wedding. Suitable for anyone who likes to be pampered, costs vary depending on the provider and treatments.

Particularly popular with men

• Soccer tour: Manchester is home to two of the biggest soccer clubs in the world, Manchester United and Manchester City. A tour of Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium is a must for any soccer fan. You can take a look behind the scenes, visit the changing rooms and even take a seat on the coach’s bench. Ideal for sports enthusiasts and those who want to become one. Costs vary depending on the tour, the providers are the respective soccer clubs.
• Paintball: Paintball is an action-packed and exciting activity that is perfect for strengthening team spirit. Suitable for anyone who loves action and adventure, costing around £20 per person.
• Beer tasting: Manchester has a vibrant beer culture. You can sample some of the city’s best beers and learn more about the local beer culture on a beer tasting tour. Ideal for beer lovers, the cost is around £20 per person.
• Casino visit: A casino visit is an exciting and glamorous activity where you can try your luck. Suitable for anyone who likes to gamble, costs vary depending on the provider.
• Segway tour: A Segway tour is a unique and fun way to explore the city. Suitable for those who like to try new things, cost is around £30 per person.

Culinary ideas

Manchester, with its mix of traditional British cuisine and modern, international influences, is a feast for any foodie.

Foodie hotspots in Manchester

• Northern Quarter: This trendy neighborhood is known for its independent cafés and restaurants. Here you’ll find a variety of culinary options, from street food to fine dining. It’s the perfect place to indulge your taste buds while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
• Spinningfields: This modern district is the culinary heart of Manchester. It offers an impressive selection of restaurants and bars that cater for all tastes. From fine dining to casual bistros, you’ll find it all here.
• Corn Exchange: This historic building is home to a variety of restaurants and is a popular spot for foodies. With a selection of cuisines from around the world, it’s the ideal place to start a culinary journey.

Typical dishes for Manchester

• Fish and chips: A classic of British cuisine that is particularly popular in Manchester. Fresh fish, deep-fried to a crisp, served with thick chips – a must for every visitor.
• Pie and Mash: Another traditional British dish that is very popular in Manchester. The pie, filled with meat and vegetables, served with creamy mashed potatoes, is a hearty dish that is sure to fill you up.
• Manchester Tart: A traditional Manchester dessert consisting of a shortcrust pastry pie with a filling of raspberry jam, custard and desiccated coconut. A sweet finish to any meal.

Famous restaurants in Manchester

• Tokyo Ramen: This small restaurant is known for its excellent ramen. With a simple menu and a focus on quality, it is a must for any lover of Japanese cuisine.
• The Pilcrow at Sadler’s Yard: A modern pub offering a selection of local dishes and beers. With its cozy atmosphere, it is the perfect place to relax after a long day.
• The Corn Exchange: In this historic building you will find a variety of restaurants offering a selection of cuisines from around the world. From Italian to Mexican cuisine, there is something for everyone here.

Party in Manchester

Manchester is known for its vibrant nightlife and offers a variety of lively neighborhoods that are perfect for a stag party.

• Northern Quarter: This neighborhood is known for its trendy bars, indie clubs and live music venues. It is the heart of Manchester’s alternative scene and attracts a young, hip crowd.
• Deansgate: Here you will find some of the trendiest bars and clubs in the city. It’s a popular place for a stylish night out and attracts a more upmarket crowd.
• Canal Street: This is the center of the LGBTQ scene in Manchester. The street is lined with lively bars and clubs that offer an open and welcoming atmosphere.

Top clubs and bars in Manchester

Manchester has an impressive selection of clubs and bars that offer something for everyone. Here are five of the best places for an unforgettable stag party in Manchester:

• Revolucion De Cuba: this club is known for its Latin American atmosphere. With two floors of great music and delicious cocktails, it’s the perfect place to dance until the early hours of the morning. The club is located in Deansgate and is easy to get to.
• Chinawhite: This exclusive club in Deansgate is known for its celebrity clientele and extravagant performances. With table service and a wide selection of drinks, it’s the perfect place for a luxurious night out.
• The Blues Kitchen: This city center club offers live music and New Orleans-style DJ sets. With delicious food and cheap cocktails, it’s a great place to start the night.
• Dive Bar & Grill: This Northern Quarter spot is a relaxed place to drink and watch sports during the day, but transforms into a lively club at night with DJ sets and live music.
• Lola Lo: This tropical club on Deansgate Locks offers a variety of cocktails and a great atmosphere. With three floors and a view of the canal, it’s a great place to dance.

Places to visit

Manchester, the vibrant city in the North West of England, is a haven for those in search of unique sights. Whether you’re planning a stag party in Manchester or just want to explore the city, there’s plenty to discover here.

• Let’s start with the Manchester Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from around the world. From Egyptian mummies to live animals in the Vivarium, this museum offers a variety of exhibitions that will take you into the fascinating world of natural and cultural history.
• Another highlight is the John Rylands Library, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. With its impressive neo-Gothic architecture and extensive collection of rare books and manuscripts, it is a must for any culture lover.
• For soccer fans, a visit to Old Trafford, the home stadium of Manchester United, is an absolute must. Here you can experience the history of one of the world’s most famous soccer clubs up close and maybe even watch a match live.
• If you’re interested in science and technology, don’t miss the Museum of Science and Industry. Here you can learn all about the industrial revolution in Manchester and visit exciting exhibitions on topics such as energy, transportation and communication.
• For art lovers, the Manchester Art Gallery is an absolute highlight. It houses an impressive collection of artworks, from old masters to contemporary artists.
• And finally, if you’re looking for a place to celebrate your stag party in Manchester, the Northern Quarter is just the place for you. With its trendy bars, restaurants and music venues, it’s the perfect place to turn night into day.

Planning tips

For an unforgettable stag party in Manchester, you should start planning early. Think about what activities you want to do and reserve places if necessary. Costs can vary depending on the activity, so it’s a good idea to set a budget. For a cheap stay, you can stay in hostels, for example, and plan free activities such as city walks.

Where to stay

Manchester offers a variety of accommodation options. Here are three recommended neighborhoods:

• Manchester City Centre: This is the heart of the city and the ideal place to experience the sights and nightlife of Manchester. Here you will find a variety of hotels, from budget to luxury.
• Northern Quarter: This area is known for its trendy bars, restaurants and boutiques. There are many stylish apartments and boutique hotels to choose from.
• Salford Quays & Old Trafford: This area is ideal for soccer fans as it is close to the famous Old Trafford stadium. There are a range of modern apartments and hotels.

Travel/ Mobility

Manchester is easily accessible by plane, train or bus. Locally, you can explore the city on foot, as many sights and activities are centrally located. For longer distances, Manchester offers an excellent public transport network with buses, streetcars and trains. Another option is a bike or e-scooter, which you can hire from many places in the city.

Disguise

The question of whether or not you should dress up for the stag party in Manchester depends entirely on your group and the groom or bride. Some love to stand out in outrageous costumes, while others prefer to party inconspicuously. Here are a few ideas if you decide to dress up:

• T-shirts: a simple and popular option is to wear custom printed t-shirts. These can be printed with the groom or bride’s name, the date of the stag party and a funny saying or picture. It’s a great way to bring the group together while creating a lasting memory of the day.
• Costumes: If you want something a little more unusual, you can opt for a specific costume. Be it superheroes, pirates, 80s retro or even as celebrities – the possibilities are endless. However, bear in mind that not all venues allow costumes, so check this in advance.
• Theme: Another option is to set a specific theme for the day. This could be something related to the groom or bride, such as their favorite movie, band or sports team. Everyone could then dress according to the theme.

Alternatives/ excursions in the region

If you’re celebrating your stag party in Manchester and are looking for some alternatives or days out in the region, there are plenty of interesting places to visit. Here are some suggestions:

1. Liverpool: only 35 minutes by train from Manchester, Liverpool is a perfect day trip. The city is known for its music scene, particularly the Beatles, and has a rich soccer history with two Premier League clubs, Liverpool FC and Everton FC.
2. Delamere Forest: About an hour’s drive from Manchester, Delamere Forest offers an escape into nature. With footpaths winding through almost 1000 acres of woodland, it’s a great place to walk and relax.
3. York: A slightly longer train ride of 2 hours will take you to York, a city that breathes history. Visit the Shambles, a collection of 14th and 15th century houses that still stand, and York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe.
4. Chester: Chester, a city with strong Roman roots, is another great day trip destination. The city walls of Chester are the only ones in Great Britain that are still completely intact. Also visit Chester Zoo, which is home to over 21,000 animals.
5. Lake District: If you need a break from the city, a day trip to the Lake District is a gift of tranquillity. With its vibrant landscapes, it’s a place any photographer would love to immortalize. It’s around 1 hour and 20 minutes from Manchester.

There are also some beautiful nature spots you can visit near Manchester:

1. Peak District: another national park that rivals the Lake District is the Peak District, which offers dramatic landscapes that any photographer would love to immortalize. Pack your walking boots to better explore its diverse valleys and plateaus.
2. Southport: Summer travelers shouldn’t miss out on Southport’s aquatic charms. Put on your sunglasses and flip-flops and enjoy a few hours of beach relaxation.
3. Port Sunlight Village: Imagine wide boulevards, quaint cottages and landscaped parks. You need Port Sunlight Village. What began as a project by William Hesketh Lever to build a village for his soap factory workers is also an architectural wonder.
4. Bradford: Bradford is often overlooked and it’s hard to understand why. While its grim past still resonates in labels such as the ‘most improved city in Britain’, cultural riches abound.
5. Trafford Center, Manchester: The Trafford Center in Manchester is huge and one of the busiest shopping malls in England. It offers not only local brands, but also several international brands.

Whether you’re looking for a city break, a trip into the countryside or a relaxing day at the beach, there are plenty of options for an unforgettable stag do in Manchester and the surrounding area.

Conclusion and FAQ

A stag party in Manchester is an unforgettable experience that offers a variety of activities to suit all tastes and budgets. From exciting outdoor activities and cultural experiences to vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine, Manchester has it all. It’s a city that truly never sleeps and always has something to offer, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or just good company.

Still not sure if you want to celebrate your stag party in Manchester? Then take a look at our other city programs in the UK: