Inspiring and entertaining, Manchester is home to numerous theatres, cinemas, libraries, museums and galleries, from the grand opulence of the Bridgewater Hall to the quiet elegance of the Royal Exchange theatre. The city's nightlife is renowned worldwide with facilities such as the MEN Arena hosting stars of international renown while smaller venues, pubs and restaurants ensure Manchester is buzzing every night of the week.

With its inherent love of sport, Manchester has become a mecca for athletes and sports fans from all walks of life who are keen to take advantage of the city's acclaimed facilities or see their sporting heroes in action.

As well as the famous Manchester United and Manchester City football clubs, Manchester is home to four rugby league clubs and Lancashire Cricket Club and has also played host to many international sporting events. Meanwhile, for those who want to get active, there are resources such as the Aquatics Centre (swimming), the Velodrome (track cycling) and the Chill Factor, offering winter sports all year round.

Situated centrally in mainland Britain, Manchester has easy access to some of the nation's most breathtaking countryside offering an incomparable mix of city life within just a few miles of rural retreat. Begin the day shopping in one of the city's two major shopping centres and spend the afternoon traversing the wilds of one of the north's three national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty.

A multi-faceted and ever-evolving metropolis, Manchester is proud of its diversity and, while retaining the familiar, accessible atmosphere of a smaller city has all the attractions, facilities and resources of one of Europe's top city destinations.