Despite being dangerously close to being spelled 'vomit', Vimto is a much-loved Manchester-born soft drink that has taken on a new life as a flavouring.
As well as buying Vimto cordial, still Vimto and fizzy Vimto in a can, you can now buy Vimto bon bons, Vimto lolly ices and even a cheeky Vimto cocktail (which doesn't actually contain Vimto).
The unique soft drink, made up of blackcurrants, raspberries and grapes, was first concocted by John Noel Nichols on Granby Row in the city centre in 1908. An oak monument, carved by environment artist Kerry Morrison, was commissioned to sit on the site in 1992 to pay homage to the bright purple drink.
Beaten by years of Manchester's wind and rain, the monument was restored in 2011 and is now looking as vibrant as ever.
It’s a convenient way to pass the time between trains, as it’s just a stone's throw from Piccadilly Station.
The monument sits on a lawn in Manchester University’s science campus, among other interesting sculptures. Don’t miss the nearby statue of Archimedes representing his famous theory of displacement eureka moment.
If you don't get to see the Vimto monument, at least make sure you sample this famous purple tipple during your stay in Manchester.
Vimto Park
£
free
Find your way with 63 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
With a modest social media presence and a reputation built on hard work and word-of-mouth, "ManCoCo" has taken the title of Manchester’s best coffee.
by
Reliable and consistent, "The Corner Plaice" has become known as this part of Manchester's best and friendliest chippy dinner fix...
by
"Kim's Kitchen" in Manchester has once again earned a great reputation for its freshly made, creative dishes, lively atmosphere and down-to-Earth crowd.
by
"Hulme Garden Centre" in Manchester is a green haven, a remedy to all the concrete - a community-led project that's designed to promote well-being...
by
Denmark-inspired "Kro Bar" presents one of the best slow breakfasts in Manchester. The only problem is knowing where to start - eggs are always a good bet!
by
"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
"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
"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
"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
"Longford Park" in Manchester simply has everything! Playparks, a cafe, sports courts... One of my favourite details is the stone mounting block.
by
"The Peterloo Massacre Memorial" in Manchester marks the 200th anniversary of when 18 people were killed & 700 injured protesting for parliamentary reform.
by
"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
63 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 63 Insider Tips