Categories > Guides and Tips
Everything You Need to Know about Withington in Manchester
- Where is Withington?
- What is the main street in Withington?
- How to Get to Withington
- What to Do and See in Withington
- Visit the Withington Library
- Explore community spaces at Withington Public Hall
- See the Marcus Rashford Mural
- Go for a swim at the Withington Baths and Leisure Centre
- Appreciate St. Paul’s Parish Church up close
- Where to Eat and Drink in Withington
- Café Blah
- Dosa Xpress
- Fuel
- Kyotoya
- Biskits
- Levantino
- Where to Shop in Withington
- Mockingbirds
- Beg, Steal & Borrow
- Lentils and Lather
- Oxfam Shop
A quirky and playful neighbourhood just south of Manchester, Withington is one of those places where you instantly feel at home. At the heart are its many long-time residents, cosy cafes, traditional pubs, and quirky yet charming independent shops.
A spot full of personality, Withington also strikes a balance between affordability and convenience, which is why it appeals to the many students from nearby universities. Hence, don’t be surprised to find pubs hosting trivia nights and restaurants with student deals.
Where is Withington?
Withington sits at about 4 miles (6 km) south of Manchester city centre, with Fallowfield to its north, Rusholme to its south, and Chorlton, across the way to the west.
What is the main street in Withington?
Wilmslow Road is the heart of Withthington. Running right through the neighbourhood, it connects Withington with nearby Fallowfield and Didsbury. Along this busy stretch is where you’ll find most of the action, with loads of traditional pubs, charming cafes, cosy restaurants, and independent shops.
How to Get to Withington
Closest bus stop: Withington the bus stop, not the neighbourhood, on Wilmslow Road is the busiest bus route. Every few minutes, you’ll be able to catch buses 142, 143, 41, and 42 from the Manchester city centre. It’s quick, easy, and drops you right at the heart of the neighbourhood.
What to Do and See in Withington
Visit the Withington Library
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Address: 410 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3BD
Operating Hours:
- Monday and Wednesday: 9am to 8pm
- Tuesday: 1pm to 8pm
- Friday and Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Contact Information: +44 161 227 3720
Price Point: Admission is free
Website
The Withington Library is worth a visit if you’re looking for a budget-friendly retreat, as it doesn’t cost a penny to visit. A cosy and welcoming spot, it’s free to use the Wi-Fi or settle in a quiet corner to do some reading, get work done, or simply recharge before heading out again.
Since it was refurbished in 2018, it has since become a vibrant hub, hosting loads of creative workshops, holiday programs, and community events.
Pro Tip: If you think you’ll be coming back, especially outside their regular operating hours, sign up for their Open+ membership, so that you can use the library when it’s unstaffed.
Explore community spaces at Withington Public Hall
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Address: 2 Burton Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3ED
Operating Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 4pm to 11pm
Contact Information: [email protected]
Price Point: £–££
Website
Affectionately nicknamed the “Withy Public Hall”, this charming building was built in 1861 as a gift to the community from Baron Egerton to be a men-only members club. Today, it’s a bustling community hub and social enterprise.
You can expect a rotating line-up of food vendors selling everything from Filipino BBQ to Italian pizzas. There are all kinds of events and workshops, like quiz nights, art classes, and vintage markets, to enjoy. A welcoming spot, there’s plenty to do for everyone.
Pro Tip: Keep both cash and card on you; a few stalls may only accept one, not the other.
See the Marcus Rashford Mural
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Address: Copson St, Withington, Manchester M20 3HE
Operating Hours:
- Mural – Daily: 24 hours
- Coffee House Cafe: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday: 9am to 3:30pm
Contact Information: +441614345413 (Coffee House Café)
Price Point: Free to visit
More than just art on a brick wall, the Marcus Rashford Mural honours his fight against child food poverty during COVID-19. With schools closed, millions of children lost access to free meals, but Rashford stepped in to raise millions of pounds and lobbied for wider reforms to ensure kids didn’t go hungry.
Feeding over a million children across the UK, Rashford was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) at just 22. The mural, painted by street artist Akse 19 and commissioned by Withington Walls, is a landmark of local pride that you can visit any time at the Coffee House Café.
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning to skip the crowd and pair this with some breakfast and coffee at Coffee House Café.
Go for a swim at the Withington Baths and Leisure Centre
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Address: Withington Works, 30 Burton Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3EB
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6:30am to 9:45pm
- Saturday to Sunday: 9am to 5pm
Contact Information: +44 161 478 1181
Price Point: £
Website
Founded in 1913, the Withington Baths was the first public bath to allow mixed-gender bathing in 1914; way ahead of its time, that’s for sure! Now the last working Edwardian pool in Manchester, it’s both a charming piece of Manchester heritage and a modern facility, complete with a gym and fitness studios.
The highlight? The 23-metre pool is under a stunning vaulted glass roof, giving you stunning views of the sky overhead. The centrepiece of Withington Baths, it still has its original Edwardian tiling and cubicles that make you feel like you’ve travelled back in history.
Pro Tip: You can head to the co-working space, Withington Works, if you need to squeeze in some work or hop on a meeting. For a refuelling post-workout meal, check out their café.
Appreciate St. Paul’s Parish Church up close
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Address: 491 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 4AW
Operating Hours:
- Every Sunday: 11am
- Morning Prayer – 1st Sunday of each month
- Holy Communion – 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Sunday of each month
- First Sunday of each month at 4pm
- Second Sunday of each month at 5pm
- Fourth Sunday of each month at 5pm
Contact Information: +44 0749 849 5344
Price Point: Free to visit
Website
A historical landmark consecrated in 1841, the Neo-Norman style St. Paul’s Parish Church was not only a symbol of devotion to catholicism but also what began as Withington’s transformation from a small village into the bustling hub.
Originally designed by local architects Hayley & Brown, St Paul’s had several extensions added, such as an organ chamber in the 1860s and an apse in 1921. Today, it continues to hold regular services along with traditional Holy Communion and Choral Evensong.
Pro Tip: If you’re simply sightseeing, be mindful of the service times when visiting, so you don’t disrupt worship and community events.
Where to Eat and Drink in Withington
Café Blah
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Address: 445 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 4AN
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Friday: 4pm to 12am
- Saturday to Sunday: 2pm to 12am
Contact Information: [email protected]
Price Point: £–££
Website
Perfect for light snacks and coffee, Café Blah has a thoughtfully curated lineup of toasties, comfort food classics, and even vegetarian and vegan-friendly bites. Their chips & dips are must-try starters, followed by their falafel ciabatta if you’re looking for a more filling plate.
More than just an artsy café, it’s also a bar and gallery by night. When the sun goes down, the vibe completely shifts, turning this unassuming spot into a community-led venue with music, exhibitions, film screenings, game nights, and more.
Pro Tip: If you’re into exploring local exhibitions, keep an eye out for announcements for rotating concerts and creative events.
Dosa Xpress
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Address: 19 Copson St, Withington, Manchester M20 3HE
Operating Hours: Daily: 12pm to 10:30pm
Contact Information: +44 161 434 4494
Price Point: £-££
Website
Want to know what Dosa Xpress is all about? Bringing South Indian flavours to Manchester, they’re all about dosa, dosa, and, er, more dosa! With over 40 types of dosa, it’s all prepared from scratch by chefs trained in Chennai, so you know it’s going to be authentic.
A reliable favourite, their sizable dishes are truly a treat for the eyes and wallet. Whether you get their biryanis or roasts, each plate is filling and flavourful.
Pro Tip: Consult their staff if you’re not used to spice, as dishes like their Chettinad curries, are seriously hot.
Fuel
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Address: 448 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Greater Manchester M20 3BW
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11am to 12am
- Friday to Saturday: 11am to 2am
Contact Information: +44 161 448 9702
Price Point: £-££
Website
Fuel is an independent vegetarian cafe serving comfort food by day and an eclectic bar hosting a lineup of evening entertainment by night. From hearty mezze platters to spoken word, Fuel is fantastic value for money, given the big flavours and fun you’re getting without a big price tag.
Housed over two floors, Fuel is well-known for its mid-1990s chic, with scattered board games and free Wi-Fi, making it a go-to spot to chat over coffee or for late-night studying.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for pay-what-you-can events to join in on the fun without breaking the bank.
Kyotoya
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Address: 28 Copson St, Withington, Manchester M20 3HB
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12pm to 3pm; 5pm to 10pm
- Sunday: 2pm to 10pm
Contact Information: +44 161 445 2555
Price Point: ££
Website
Tucked away on Copson St, Kyotoya is a cosy, family-run Japanese restaurant well-loved by locals and tourists alike for their fresh and generous portions of sushi, sashimi, katsu, donburi bowls, and more.
A little taste of Japan in Withington, this humble spot is packed with flavour and creativity, like their mixed sushi on wooden boats or their standout chicken udon soup. And if you’re lucky, a spot by the chef may be open, allowing you to watch the show—a delicious torture while you wait for your food.
Pro Tip: Ensure to bring enough cash as Kyotoya is a cash-only restaurant.
Biskits
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Address: 478 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3BG
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 9:30am to 10pm
- Friday to Saturday: 9:30am to 11pm
Contact Information: +44 161 425 0710
Price Point: £
Website
Did anyone say dessert? Biskits is sweet tooth heaven, serving up stacked pancakes, crepes, sundaes, waffles, and indulgent luxury puddings, like Manchester tart and jam roly-poly.
If you’re craving savoury bites to balance things out, try their Philly fries or double smash burgers, especially when paired with their special shakes.
Pro Tip: It can get busy here, especially during dining rush hour, so expect possible waits, as they don’t take reservations.
Levantino
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Address: 29 Copson St, Withington, Manchester M20 3HE
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12pm to 10pm
- Sunday: 12pm to 9pm
Contact Information: +44 161 879 1789
Price Point: ££
Website
Levantino is a brilliant little spot, tucked away on Copson St, serving up a bold mix of Middle Eastern and halal Indian dishes full of flavour and cooked to perfection.
It’s the perfect spot for adventurous foodies! You can have hummus, pizza, and tiramisu all in one meal. Don’t feel shy, the next table’s doing the same thing. And if you have specific dietary needs, Levantino is flexible, offering many vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options.
Pro Tip: Ask the staff about specials that aren’t on the regular menu.
Where to Shop in Withington
Mockingbirds
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Address: 481-483 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 4AN
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10am to 6pm
- Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
Contact Information: +44 161 879 9695
Website
If you love vintage-inspired pieces and playful patterns, then a stop at Mockingbirds should be on your list. This independent women’s clothing boutique along Wilmslow Road offers stylish pieces that won’t break the bank. But be warned: expect to spend quite a bit, as their stuff is irresistible.
Just last week, I came out with the cutest little crochet headpiece, a mug, and trousers. Don’t get me started on the quirky bits and bobs, like their handmade crochet scrunchies, little greeting cards, and colourful scarves, that’ll fill your cart before you know it.
Pro Tip: If you can’t pop in, you can order online and have them delivered to you.
Beg, Steal & Borrow
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Address: Rippingham Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3FU
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:30am to 6pm
- Sunday: 11am to 5pm
Who said giving your wardrobe a makeover needs to break the bank? Clearly, they’ve stepped into Beg, Steal & Borrow. The bold pink facade is hard to miss, but what’s inside will really catch your eye–endless racks full of vintage gems.
Whether you’re looking to add statement pieces or costume accessories, this is the place to be for unique finds. And the best part? Every purchase supports slow fashion, so you’re doing both your wallet and Mother Earth a solid.
Pro Tip: If you’ve got pre-loved clothes that you don’t wear anymore, you can bring them in to trade-in.
Lentils and Lather
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Address: 50 Burton Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 3EB
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 10am to 5pm
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 9am to 6pm
- Thursday: 10am to 6pm
- Friday to Saturday: 10am to 4pm
- Sunday: 11am to 4pm
Contact Information: +44 739 963 6708
Website
Don’t let their name fool you, Lentils and Lather offers more than just legumes and soap. This eco-friendly, zero-waste refill store has almost everything: pasta, organic produce, free-range eggs, and household liquids.
The highlight? Instead of buying things per pack, you can just buy what you need. Their “bring your own container” system is, well, just that; so you can use whatever jar or bottle you have at home to fill up, then pay only for the contents.
It’s the perfect spot to do your household shopping if you’re looking to support independent producers and reduce waste.
Pro Tip: Bring a range of containers for both dry goods and liquids, from jars to cloth bags. Don’t forget to weigh them before shopping to save yourself from the trouble at checkout.
Oxfam Shop
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Address: 65 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Manchester M20 4AN
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:30am to 5:30pm
Contact Information: +44 161 448 8809
Website
If you’re a sucker for a bargain like I am, then start walking to the Oxfam Shop. Filled with unexpected finds and unique second-hand pieces, this charity shop on Wilmslow Road is where you’ll find anything and everything under the sun.
Rare books? They’ve got it. Limited-edition vinyl? On the rack. Retro handbags? In my cart. One of Withington’s best-kept secrets, Oxfam always refreshes the shelves, so each visit feels extra exciting, as you don’t know what you’ll find.
Pro Tip: Take your time looking through the rails and racks, you never know what you’ll find.
