What to Do in
Manchester weather is famously known to be quite unpredictable. Grey skies and rain in Manchester have almost become a rite of passage for people touring or living here.
However, when the heavens open, it does not mean there is nothing to do. In fact, there are quite a number of indoor activities Manchester has in store for any person who may wish to be kept busy on such a rainy day. This guide will help you find the best things to do in Manchester when the rain falls, mainly focusing on bespoke adult activities—whether you are in town solo, as a couple, or with friends.
Manchester is famously wet, especially in autumn and winter. The rain is at its heaviest from October to January; frequent showers come, as do heavy bursts of rain. The city does catch some sun through June to August, though even the sunniest months may suffer rainfall.
Planning to spend a day outdoors in Manchester? Make sure to check the weather forecast first. Visit the Met Office Website or BBC Weather, for weather forecasting. Whatever the forecast says, you will be all set to make the most of your time in Manchester.
Rainy days really are just a fabulous excuse to make your way into some of the best indoor places and unique indoor activities Manchester has to offer. Here are five top things to do in Manchester on grey-sky days, each offering a different aspect of the city without getting wet.
1. Immersive Gamebox at Manchester Arndale
If you are looking for something more thrilling and entirely different, why not try Immersive Gamebox at Manchester Arndale? This is hi-tech group gaming. Whether with friends or your partner, work together to complete a cast of games all set within an interactive digital environment.
Conveniently situated right in the heart of Manchester Arndale, with easy access from Manchester Piccadilly Station, it is ideal for those who use the train. Whether it is a wet afternoon or a night out, Immersive Gamebox will deal out hours of fun engagement.
2. Indoor Entertainment at Manchester235 Casino
Manchester235 is so much more than just a casino.
Along with it is a complete suite of speciality experiences, making the place ideal for those rainy days in Manchester. The Learn to Play experiences are a great way to go deep into all the basics of the casino games right from blackjack to roulette in a relaxed and fun manner. It is simply the best avenue to try something new.
Afterward, take a well-deserved meal or drink at James Martin Manchester inside the casino. The restaurant offers a delicious menu crafted by celebrity chef James Martin, or if you're in the mood for something lighter, head to Vega Lounge serving a range of drinks that'll make your visit truly enjoyable.
You can also watch live sports or spend some time in the Poker Lounge. The buzzing energy here makes this a good spot to retreat into from the rain while having fun.
Manchester235 is conveniently located close to Deansgate Station, guaranteeing good accessibility without getting wet.
3. Escape Hunt Manchester
Rainy days and locked room escapes go in perfect harmony. One could think of no better things to do in Manchester for entertainment that keeps the mental momentum going than visiting Escape Hunt Manchester. With several rooms available for escape, each with its storyline and a set of puzzles, Escape Hunt Manchester is an excellent indoor activity in Manchester for groups of friends or couples who want to take up an adventure and challenge themselves.
It's well reached by tram from St Peter's Square, offering an immersive way to pass an hour or two, sheltered from the weather.
4. TeamSport Go Karting Trafford Park
If the weather is rainy, it is ideal for those seeking adrenaline to visit TeamSport Go-Karting in Trafford Park. Indoor go-karting also means that you can leave the rain outside, literally: go on and enjoy the thrill of the track. TeamSport offers a range of sessions suitable for everyone to help gain confidence on the track, from beginners through seasoned drivers.
It is only a short bus ride away from Trafford Centre, a very convenient option if you want to couple karting with some indoor shopping or dining. If the weather outside is grey, overcast, and generally dreary, this is ideal for getting the blood pumping.
5. The Cube - Urban Playground
Inspired by the famous television show, Urban Playground offers a variety of physical and mental challenges across several rooms. It is one of the best indoor activities Manchester has for fun with your friends, testing teamwork, and trying to conquer the cube.
It is easily accessible by public means of transport from Manchester Piccadilly or Victoria Station because of its location within Manchester Arndale. One has unique, fun, and competitive ways of enjoying a rainy day indoors at Urban Playground.
6. Manchester United Museum and Manchester City Stadium Tours
Football fans, on the other hand, simply enjoy Manchester's football culture. Both Old Trafford and Etihad Stadium offer tours into the innermost happenings of two of the world's most famous football clubs. Learn about their history, admire their trophies, and get to know the game and its super importance for the city. Since these tours happen all year round, a little rain can't stop your fun. Both stadiums can be easily reached using public transportation, whether by tram or bus.
7. Museum of Science and Industry
The Science and Industry Museum on Liverpool Road offers great indoor experiences, perfect for a rainy day. It takes one through Manchester's industrial heritage or takes them into new scientific discoveries. Not only is it very informative, but also filled with hands-on and interactive exhibitions, making it fun for adults, too.
Not far from Deansgate Station, this is a museum that is pretty free of charge to enter, hence making it an ideal spot for one to spend several hours.
8. Centre of Craft and Design
The Manchester Craft and Design Centre is a lesser-known gem in the Northern Quarter; it's a beautiful indoor space filled with the work of local artists. Pop in, browse the shops, and meet the maker—you never know, you might just find that piece of unique jewellery or single artwork to bring home. This would be a great venue, only a short walk away from Manchester Victoria Station and thus very reachable on a rainy day when you feel a need for some creative and inspiring atmosphere.
9. Palace Theatre Manchester
Why not take in a show at Palace Theatre? With a diverse programme of West End musicals, live music, and comedy, this historic theatre really does have something for all tastes. An evening at the theatre has always been a good tap into escaping the rain and enjoying Manchester's cultural offerings.
The Palace Theatre is well-served by public transport, and it is situated on Oxford Street, just a short walk from Oxford Road Station.
Manchester weather should not mean less fun in the city. From adrenaline-rushing activities at Manchester235 to more culturally deep activities in some of the must-visit indoor locations, there is so much to do when the first droplets of rain start falling. Whether you like adrenaline-filled fun, mental challenges, or simply hanging out in a relaxed atmosphere, Manchester has it all.
So, the next time you find yourself in the rain, take it as an opportunity to discover some of these amazing indoor activities. Rain in Manchester isn't an obstacle; it's an invitation to plunge into the heart of this vibrant city, whatever the weather.
