Salfordians will roll their eyes at Islington Mill being slotted into a guide to Manchester - Salford is, after all, a different city. However, as the two are such close neighbours and the mill is an easy walk from Manchester centre, it deserves attention from culture-loving visitors.
Islington Mill is one of the region's many abandoned industrial hubs-turned-creative-spaces, but with its inventive and eye-catching events list it deserves a special mention.
Check the listings when you're in town and you may stumble across anything from art exhibitions and cult film showings to low-key gigs from international and prolific artists such as Peaches, Bo Ningen and Gang of Four.
You may even get to attend a full-blown festival - the mill is the hub of May's much-celebrated day-long music spree, Sounds from the Other City.
Whenever you visit, Islington Mill will throw a curveball to knock you out of your Manchester comfort zone and into a night that will never blend with another.
Find your way with 63 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"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!
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"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...
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"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!
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"Longford Park" in Manchester simply has everything! Playparks, a cafe, sports courts... One of my favourite details is the stone mounting block.
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"The Peterloo Massacre Memorial" in Manchester marks the 200th anniversary of when 18 people were killed & 700 injured protesting for parliamentary reform.
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"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.
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"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!
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"Homeless Jesus" is a recently revealed sculpture in Manchester. It challenges the passerby to reflect on the growing homelessness crisis in the city...
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"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.
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"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.
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The "Blue Bell Inn" in Manchester has been a constant in my life. Wonderful food, cheap drinks, dog-friendly... It offers an authentic pub experience.
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63 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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