Manchester, UK

[XB-70 Valkyrie]

Have been to London twice, but now my travels take me to Manchester for a week (business/pleasure). What is there to see, do, and eat in this city? (yes, I have a guidebook, and yes i can look things up, but am interested in your ideas as well)

Although I will be flying to Manchester on United, I am not a soccer fan and plan to loudly proclaim my disdain for the sport everywhere I go, especially in the pubs.   

I am interested in ideas for half day excursions (York?, Liverpool?, Leeds castle?), restaurants, pubs, local attractions/art museums, etc.

Would also like to find some good record shops, especially those carrying vinyl (classical, jazz, ethnic music)

Thanks for your advice, and God save the queen!
Stiff upper lip!
No central heat and air!

[mc ukrneal]

 

Although I will be flying to Manchester on United, I am not a soccer fan and plan to loudly proclaim my disdain for the sport everywhere I go, especially in the pubs.   

He was a lover of classical music, but turned into Alberich upon entering the city and lost all his gold....

I am interested in ideas for half day excursions (York?, Liverpool?, Leeds castle?)

Can't help with the other stuff, but some places to visit from Manchester (depending on what you want to do, your interests, etc.): York (about 1.5 hours away), Tatton Park and Hall (0.5 hours), Lyme Park and Hall, Chester (hour), Beeston Castle (not far from Chester), Liverpool (hour), or Peak National Park (hour). York would be my first choice if you have the time (but if you want more of a park/country outing, one of the parks/halls may better suit what you are looking for. Leeds Castle is south of London (and not near the city of Leeds).

[The new erato]

I am not a soccer fan and plan to loudly proclaim my disdain for the sport everywhere I go, especially in the pubs.   

Don't; you will be the worse for wear.