Manchester travel guide

An industrial city with an uncertain past, and a bright future

After Manchester grew to prominence during the Industrial Revolution, industry stalled during the 80's and its fate grew uncertain. But Manchester has managed to regenerate and reinvent itself; these days, the city is known more for music (Oasis, anyone?), clubs, and a great student scene than for cotton mills and textile manufacturing. With abandoned factories and old buildings being gentrification's best friend, one would think that Manchester would have lost its soul by now. But friendly Mancunians keep it real, and any snobiness you'll ever hear will likely be about football! This 'Capital of the North' and 'Second City' undeservedly plays second fiddle to London, making it a great place to visit without the annoying glut of tourists.