Castlefield Basin Manchester
Outdoor spot
A lie on the grass with a picnic and a book in Castlefield is one of my favourite ways to pass a summers' day. In the winter, a walk across its bridges and among the boats is just as tranquil.
Castlefield is a well-loved, gentrified oasis intersected by canals on the more affluent outskirts of Manchester's centre.
It's also a popular setting for festivals, one-off concerts (Bjork, Kylie Minogue, Arcade Fire and Pixies have played here) and TV sets, playing host to Peaky Blinders on more than one occasion.
As well as doing very little and soaking up the peace, visitors can explore the area's pockets of history. A Roman fort that allegedly gave its name to the city sits alongside the terminus of the Bridgewater Canal - a waterway that played a vital part in the city's industrialisation in the 18th century.
The final stop on what was the world's first intercity passenger railway also sits nearby and now forms part of the thriving Museum of Science and Industry.
Luckily, it's less work and more play in 2021 as Castlefield is well-known for its al fresco relaxation.
Its upmarket bars provide good stop-off points for food, drinks and meeting friends. Albert's Shed boasts a popular outdoor space, summer barbecue parties and live music, the Wharf serves stunning Sunday lunches and Barca Bar is always inviting with its chilled outdoor terrace.
However, it's possible to do and spend nothing while wandering the basin and that's always good enough for me.
About this spot
Castlefield Basin
- 24 hours daily
£
free
Find your way with 63 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Manchester
Heaton Park
Grade II listed park
"Heaton Park" in Manchester is a historical park that's much bigger than it seems at first. My favorite part is the animal centre, but there's tons to do!
by
Lauren
Rochford
Islington Mill
Creative arts hub
"Islington Mill" in Salford, close to Manchester, it's one of my favorite industrial hubs-turned-creative spaces. Its events deserve a special mention!
by
Denise
Tench
Vinyl Fiction
A rock n roll nerd's paradise
"Vinyl Fiction" in Manchester has a simple concept: they sell vinyl and books. I love how it's not stuffed to the gills and doesn't feel claustrophobic...
by
Lauren
Rochford
Whitworth Park and Gallery
Art in the park
"Whitworth Park and Gallery" Manchester has art even outside in the park, with regular exhibitions out in the open. It also has a play park with a zipline!
by
Lauren
Rochford
Longford Park
A bit of everything
"Longford Park" in Manchester simply has everything! Playparks, a cafe, sports courts... One of my favourite details is the stone mounting block.
by
Lauren
Rochford
The Peterloo Massacre Memorial
200th anniversary
"The Peterloo Massacre Memorial" in Manchester marks the 200th anniversary of when 18 people were killed & 700 injured protesting for parliamentary reform.
by
Alice
Hunter
Highfield Country Park
A wonderful picnic getaway
"Highfield Country Park" in Manchester is a nature reserve I've been going to for as long as I can remember. It makes me feel like I'm outside the city.
by
Lauren
Rochford
Frog and Bucket Comedy Club
Comedy up North
"Frog and Bucket Comedy Club" in Manchester is great, whether you want to see recognised comedians or new up-and-comers. I love 'Beat the Frog' events!
by
Lauren
Rochford
Homeless Jesus
Homelessness sculpture
"Homeless Jesus" is a recently revealed sculpture in Manchester. It challenges the passerby to reflect on the growing homelessness crisis in the city...
by
Alice
Hunter
Namaste Nepal
Tasty curry in South Manchester
"Namaste Nepal" is my absolute favourite place to go for a curry in Manchester -- very reasonably priced, too! Go for the Aloo Chilli if you like spicy.
by
Alice
Hunter
Lucardo
Room escape with a twist
"Lucardo" Manchester was my first room escape experience and I loved it! It was the most fun afternoon I'd had in a long time. Great staff & room variety!
by
Lauren
Rochford
Lowry Outlet Mall
Bargains! Bargains! Bargains!
"Lowry Outlet Mall" in Manchester is a shopping centre where you'll find many recognisable brands at discounted prices! Bargain hunters, you're in luck.
by
Lauren
Rochford
Heading to Manchester?
63 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 63 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Bars
Our team loves Manchester
Get to know our other Spotters from Manchester
As featured on:
