Manchester Pub Tour with Andy by Invisible Cities Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking required.
Overview
Join Andy for a lively two-hour walk through Manchester’s historic nightlife and alleyways, discovering stories from the 1980s that shaped the city’s culture today. Supported by a social enterprise, this tour offers more than just history—it’s a community-focused adventure. Read on to find out why this unique experience stands out in Greater Manchester’s outdoor scene.
Marvellous Manchester memories: Andy's history of Pubs
2 Hours • All Ages • Hear Andy's story!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join Andy on a captivating two-hour journey through Manchester, retracing his vibrant 1980s nightlife adventures. This unique tour blends personal anecdotes with the city’s rich history, touching on music, art, and social issues. Experience Manchester’s transformation while enjoying Andy's humor and supporting a social enterprise that empowers those affected by homelessness.
Hear Andy's story and uncover his journey!
Duration
2 Hours
Tour Highlights
In the 1980s, Andy and his pals fell in love with Manchester’s bustling nightlife and rock music scene. Today he guides you across the city taking the very same route of his night’s out in the 1980s, but this time reflecting on how the venues have played a significant role in shaping Manchester’s history
Each stop on the tour intelligently weaves elements of his memories, the story of that specific venue and how it is contextualised in Manchester’s history. He touches on music, the suffragettes, football, Peterloo, Little Ireland and art in Manchester. You will be amazed by the transformation of the city today as you glimpse into the past, perhaps even learn about some buildings that have vanished to make way for Manchester’s new city centre.
If you are looking for a general history tour of Manchester, encompassing all things from specific personal tales to historical facts, then Andy’s tour is for you! An added bonus is that his corny humour will leave you chuckling as you navigate to and from each stop.
The great British pub is a hallmark of British society and culture, serving both positive and negative connotations. Please note, the tour discusses themes of drinking and alcohol but there is no drinking whilst on the tour. We hope that instead, the tour will help spread awareness about the links between alcoholism and homelessness - it is simultaneously ‘caused by’ and ‘a cause’ of homelessness.
About Us
Invisible Cities is a Social Enterprise. This means we are a social business with a social conscience. We don't believe in labels or stereotypes and we want to show that everyone has great potential, a fact reflected in our tour guides.
Tour revenue will be invested in providing support for our tour guides, who have all been affected by homelessness.
We train people affected by homelessness to become walking tour guides of their own city and offer these alternative tours to tourists and locals.
Please call for any questions.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour involves walking through narrow alleyways and historic streets; sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable.
Bring a jacket or umbrella
Manchester weather can be unpredictable; a light raincoat or umbrella is recommended.
Have cash or card ready for tips/support
Supporting the tour guide and social enterprise helps sustain community projects.
Arrive a few minutes early
This ensures you’re ready to start on time and get the most out of the experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons in the city squares
- Urban foxes in alleyways
History
Manchester’s nightlife thrived in the 1980s with legendary clubs, influential art scenes, and social movements centered around its working-class roots.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes local history preservation and supports social projects aimed at urban renewal and community empowerment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Manchester
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating Manchester’s historic alleyways comfortably.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Layered clothing or rain gear to stay comfortable regardless of weather.
spring|fall|winter specific
Small backpack or bag
Helpful for carrying water, personal items, or a jacket.
Notebook or camera
Capture memorable moments or jot down stories and insights.