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11 Unforgettable Things Every Couple Must Do in Manchester for the Perfect Date

I’ll admit, planning the perfect date can sometimes feel like a minefield—do you go classic with dinner and drinks, or do you try to spice things up with something a bit more adventurous? 

Luckily, Manchester is bursting with date-worthy spots that go beyond the usual routines. Let’s start with the basics: this city that was once built on the back of industry has reinvented itself into a hub of culture, creativity, and—let’s be honest—some pretty quirky date ideas.

From chocolate-themed indulgences to serenading each other at a Chinatown karaoke bar, Manchester is where romance meets originality. Even its canals, which once powered the industrial age, now serve as perfect hand-in-hand stroll territory.

So, join me as we take a wander through Manchester’s finest date spots, guaranteed to add a little spark to your next couple’s adventure. Trust me, you won’t be bored!

Chocolate-Themed Afternoon Tea at Cocoa Cabana Chocolatier

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Address: 168 Burton Rd

Contact details: +44 161 312 6912

Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-6PM

Website

Nothing says romance quite like chocolate, right? Cocoa Cabana knows how to do it in style with their afternoon tea that’s sure to melt your heart. Unlimited hot chocolate, dainty sandwiches, and a spread of chocolate-covered goodies that’ll make any chocoholic swoon. 

And if you’re feeling extra fancy (or downright bold), why not go for the unlimited prosecco option? It’s perfect for when you want to take your indulgence to the next level.

And here’s a sweet bonus—if you head to their Ancoats location, you can even sign up for a chocolate-making class or a cocktail-making session. Artisan chocolates paired with top-shelf spirits? Now that’s a date!

Pro tip:
Book ahead—it’s a popular spot, and you won’t want to miss out on this chocolatey escape.

Take a stroll by the canal

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Manchester’s got around 10 miles of picturesque canals that weave right through the city, a throwback to its industrial heyday. Fancy a bit of quiet away from the city buzz? 

Castlefield or Ancoats are ideal for a peaceful walk along the towpaths, where you and your partner can wander hand-in-hand, watching the boats drift by. It’s a serene way to take in the city, without feeling like you’re in the middle of it all.

But if a stroll isn’t enough and you’re feeling adventurous, why not hop on a canal cruise? The Manchester Ship Canal, built back in the 1800s, offers leisurely cruises where you can soak up the views, enjoy some food, and even sip on a few drinks.

Pro tip:
End your walk at The Wharf in Castlefield, where the canalside terrace is perfect for a quiet drink.

Eat, drink, and sing in Chinatown

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Address: 130 E Pender St

Contact details: +1 604-428-2626

Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-9PM

Pricing: £

Website

Ready to explore one of the UK’s biggest and most vibrant Chinatowns? You and your partner can kick off your adventure by grabbing a bubble tea from one of the many cosy cafés before snapping a pic under the iconic archway that bursts with vibrant colours. 

Once you’ve got your Instagram-worthy shot, dive into the food scene. Chinatown is packed with authentic Chinese restaurants offering everything from dim sum and Peking duck to sizzling hot pots.

Still got energy? Don’t call it a night just yet. Head over to one of the karaoke bars, where you can belt out your favourite tunes, sip on late-night cocktails, and soak up the lively, electric atmosphere together. It’s a date night you won’t forget!

Pro tip:
Check out K2 Karaoke for private rooms, so you and your partner can sing your hearts out without an audience!

Try some weird and wonderful sundaes at Ginger’s Comfort Emporium

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Address: Affleck’s, Church St

Operating hours: 

  • Mon – Sat 10:30AM-6PM
  • Sun 11AM-5PM

Contact details: +44 7980 628868

Website

If you’re after a date that’s as quirky as it is sweet, Ginger’s Comfort Emporium is the place to be. Tucked away on the top floor of Affleck’s, this retro ice cream parlour is serving up some of the most unusual flavours you’ll ever come across. 

Fancy a sundae made with Marmalade on Toast ice cream? Or maybe you’re intrigued by Olive Oil & Sea Salt? Don’t knock it till you try it—these quirky concoctions are top sellers for a reason!

And Ginger’s isn’t just about the ice cream. With its 1950s-style décor, British Street Food Awards under its belt, and even an ice cream van that pops up at summer festivals, there’s always something new to discover. 

You and your partner will definitely have a few things to chat about over dessert here.

Pro tip:
Make sure to visit during the summer months when their ice cream van makes the rounds at local festivals!

Relax at a spa

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Address: Unit 3c, Wing Yip business centre, Cassidy Cl
Operating Hours:

  • Mon, Thur-Fri 10AM-6:30PM
  • Sat – Sun 10AM-7PM

Contact details: +441613765208
Website

What could be more romantic than a day of pure relaxation with your other half? Manchester has plenty of spas where you can both unwind in style.

For a real treat, check out the Urban Oasis Spa at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate. This swanky spot offers luxurious treatments for couples, perfect for some pampering before you hit the town.

If you’re after something a little more laid-back, The Youth Sanctuary on Oldham Road is known for its top-notch service and great value. 

Pro tip:
Book ahead to snag a deal, many places offer discounts if you reserve in advance!

Hit the slopes at Chill Factore

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Address: Beyond Shopping Centre, 7 Trafford Way, Trafford Park, Stretford

Contact details: +44 161 749 2222
Operating hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 10AM – 9PM
  • Saturday: 9AM – 9PM
  • Sunday: 9AM – 7PM

Looking for something a bit more thrilling? Head over to Chill Factore, where you can swap the city streets for real snow—right in the heart of Manchester! 

This indoor snow centre boasts the widest slope in the world, giving you and your partner plenty of room to ski or snowboard together, whether you’re beginners or pros. 

Not up for hitting the big slopes? No worries, there are smaller areas for you to test your skills without feeling like you’re in an Olympic trial. 

And when you need a break, grab a snack from one of the nearby cafés or pop into the outdoor shops for some winter gear. 

Pro tip:
If skiing isn’t your thing, there’s also a climbing wall to test your skills!

Cocktails and a view at Cloud 23

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Address: 303 Deansgate

Phone: +44 161 870 1600

Pricing: £££

Website

Looking for a date spot that’s a little more up in the clouds? Cloud 23 is a cocktail bar perched high above Manchester in Beetham Tower, offering sweeping views of the city skyline. 

It’s not just the drinks that’ll have you buzzing—the scenery is stunning, especially at sunset. Grab a signature cocktail like the ‘Up, Up & Away,’ inspired by a classic Manchester moment, and enjoy a tipple with a side of sky-high romance.

The smart move? Time your visit for sunset. Watching the city lights flicker to life while sipping a cocktail is about as magical as it gets.

Pro tip:
Book in advance for a window seat—the view is definitely worth it.

Have a purr-fect coffee date

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Address: 10 Bold St

Contact details: +44 161 222 4960

Operating hours: 

  • Mon, Wed – Sat 10AM-7PM
  • Sun 11AM-6PM

Website

If you and your partner are animal lovers, Manchester Cat Café has the purr-fect date idea. Imagine sipping on a steaming cup of coffee while surrounded by friendly felines—all eager for a bit of attention. 

The café charges by time, not by the drink, so you can spend as long as you like enjoying unlimited hot and cold beverages while the cats work their charm.

They’ve got gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan options to cater to every dietary need, and you can order extra snacks if you fancy a bite to eat. It’s cute, quirky, and full of cuddly cats—what more could you want for a cosy coffee date?

Pro tip:
Weekdays are usually quieter, so it’s the perfect time to snag a more peaceful date with the cats.

Taste the champagne lifestyle at Harvey Nichols

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Address: 21 New Cathedral St

Operating hours: 

  • Mon – Sat 11AM-7PM
  • Sun 11:30AM-5:30PM

Contact details: +44 161 828 8888

Pricing: £££

Website 

If you and your partner are feeling fancy, why not indulge in a little champagne lifestyle at Harvey Nichols? 

Known for its luxury brands, the Manchester branch of this iconic department store may not be as big as its London counterpart, but it’s brimming with designer fashion from the likes of Armani, Zimmermann, and more.

But the real treat? Head to the top floor for brunch at the bar and brasserie. Eggs Benedict paired with a glass of champagne—now that’s brunch with a bite! 

And if champagne’s not your thing, their cocktails are also top-notch. It’s the perfect spot to treat yourselves while soaking up the stylish surroundings.

Pro tip:
Try their champagne brunch for a special date with a touch of luxury.

Try a little friendly competition at Twenty Twenty Two

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Address: The Basement, Little Lever St

Operating hours: 

  • Sun – Mon 3PM-1AM
  • Sat 1PM-3AM

Contact details: +44 161 237 9360

Website

Looking to spice up your date with a bit of friendly competition? Twenty Twenty Two is the place for you. This underground bar has all the makings of a cool night out—grungy vibe, good drinks, and a killer playlist—but what really sets it apart are the ping pong tables. 

Challenge your partner to a game and see who comes out on top (and who buys the next round). It’s reasonably priced, and the half-hour table limit means no one hogs the fun for too long. 

Whether you’re a ping pong pro or just in it for the laughs, it’s a guaranteed good time that’ll have you both smiling.

Pro tip:
Weeknights are usually quieter, so it’s the perfect time to snag a table and play a few rounds.

Experience Manchester’s finest in modern art, theatre, and indie films

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Address: 2 Tony Wilson Place

Operating hours:

  • Mon – Thu 10AM-11PM
  • Fri – Sat 10AM-12AM
  • Sun 11AM-10:30PM

Contact details: +44 161 200 1500

Website

HOME is where it all comes together for the artsy side of Manchester.. It’s not just a regular arts centre—think of it as Manchester’s creative playground, with five cinemas, two theatres, and galleries all under one roof. 

If you’re looking to impress your date with a bit of culture, this is the spot to do it.

You can catch an offbeat film, enjoy an edgy play, or wander through their gallery showcasing the best in contemporary art. 

And when you need a breather from all that culture? There’s a stylish restaurant, a couple of cosy bars, and even a bookshop to browse. With a packed calendar of events year-round, you’ll never run out of things to do, and the ticket prices won’t leave your wallet crying.

Pro tip:
Swing by on a Friday night for a film and stay for a drink—the atmosphere’s just right.
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