Manchester/Spinningfields-Albert Square

Spinningfields-Albert Square covers the area in central Manchester north of Castlefield, east of Quay St and Peter St and west of St Peter's Square (inclusive). It covers the locales of central Deansgate, Albert Square, as well as the newly developed business district of Spinningfields, and is focussed upon the heart of the city centre.

Deansgate is the spine of Manchester, a mile-long perfectly-straight road that joins the site of Roman Mancunium in Castlefield to the site of Medieval Manchester at the Cathedral, connecting all the districts of the city centre together. This article deals with the section of the road between Bridge Street and Quay Street. About half way along Deansgate is the beginnings of Manchester's new business district, Spinningfields, which offers new eating places, of which some are by the riverside. There used to be a pleasant grassed area by the law courts which is now occupied by a new building. Albert Square is the municipal and administrative heart of Manchester, housing the city's beautiful neo-Gothic town hall.

By train
Despite its name, the nearest station to this part of Manchester is easily Salford Central, with trains arriving from the west, including Bolton, Preston and Blackpool.

By tram
Manchester's Metrolink tram system largely avoids this area, so the nearest stop is St Peter's Square, behind the Town Hall.

Buy
From late November to Christmas, a large Christmas market sets up in Albert Square and on the streets leading up to it. The market runs from 16 Nov - 20 Dec and is open everyday from 10AM to 8PM. In Albert Square, the market is open until 9PM. Traders come from across Europe to set up their stalls in wooden chalets. For the best experience, go at night and enjoy a nice glass of Glühwein (mulled wine) and some Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and then huddle around and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Eat
On John Dalton Street, on the left, just up from Deansgate, going to Albert Square, is a gem of a cafe, Essy's, (imagine a cross between an American diner and an old style British "café"). It is run by a group of Iranians, for whom nothing is too much trouble. You can be satisfied there for under £5 with clean, welcoming table service. There are a couple of other similar places around town; in the Northern Quarter and one just behind Kendals (House of Fraser), on King Street West.

Drink

 * Distillery: Manchester Gin is at 10-15 Watson St and offers tours.
 * Distillery: Manchester Gin is at 10-15 Watson St and offers tours.
 * Distillery: Manchester Gin is at 10-15 Watson St and offers tours.

Sleep

 * Treehouse on Blackfriars St opens in summer 2024.
 * Treehouse on Blackfriars St opens in summer 2024.