Manchester group travel guide for tour operators
Manchester is the obvious base in the north of England: excellent rail and air links, two of the world's best-known football clubs and a city centre that is easy to explore on foot. Here is how we plan Manchester for groups.
Football: Old Trafford and the Etihad
Stadium tours at Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium are among the most requested experiences for youth, school and sports groups. Tours are not available on match days and some days around fixtures, so we check the calendar before confirming dates.
Free museums and heritage
The Science and Industry Museum tells the story of the world's first industrial city. The John Rylands Library, a neo-Gothic masterpiece, and the Manchester Museum are also free. Together they make a strong, low-cost day for school groups.
Group dining in Manchester
The city centre, Spinningfields and the Northern Quarter offer a wide range of restaurants able to host groups, from classic British menus to international cuisine. Manchester generally offers better value than London for group dining. We agree set menus and timings in advance and cover all dietary requirements.
Evenings out
Manchester's music heritage and lively Northern Quarter make it a good city for adult and corporate group evenings, with private venues available for receptions and dinners.
Pairing Manchester with Liverpool and beyond
Liverpool is around 45 minutes away, making a combined football and music programme simple. York, the Peak District and the Lake District are also within reach for day trips.
Manchester for groups: common questions
Can you book stadium tours for large groups?
Yes, for groups of up to 50, subject to availability around match days.
Is Manchester good for school groups?
Yes. Several major museums are free, the centre is walkable and accommodation is good value.
How far is Manchester from Liverpool?
About 45 minutes by coach or train.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons, used under a free licence.
Planning a group trip to Manchester?
Tell us what you have in mind. We'll take care of the details on the ground.