Fact Sheets & Video - Manchester

Modern Manchester

If London was to relinquish its role as the capital of England, Manchester could very well be a strong contender to step up to the task. This readymade cultural substitute, which likes to regard itself as the capital of the north, is a truly modern metropolis that embraces change seamlessly. Interweaving its industrial mementos of the past with dramatically modern 21st century-style and technology, Manchester thrives to the beat of its futuristic urban soul and music. This is the city that gave birth to capitalism and the Industrial Revolution, and is where the well-known band Oasis hail from.

One of the best ways to appreciate the city is from above with a ride on the 365 tonne, fully self-supporting and 60-metre high Wheel of Manchester. Whether reserving the glass-bottomed VIP capsule with champagne on ice, or one of the standard capsules, the wheel provides a stupendous 360 degree perspective of the city.

An informative walk with a local blue badge guide at ground level highlights the architecture of this former industrial city. Notable buildings include Beetham Tower and Urbis.

Meanwhile for genuine snow culture, visitors can check out the Chill Factore. This is the UKs longest and widest indoor Alpine ski slope with the main slope at 180 metres long and a total of 100 metres wide at the bottom. An unexpected venue in Manchester, Chill Factore is ideal for those in need of some ski practice in the lead up to the outdoor alpine snow season in Europe. Chill Factore offers indoor snow activities year round. Here patrons can wander along the traditional Alpine street with stylish shops, trendy bars and cool cafes plus try their hand at some thrill-seeking snow play such as skiing on the downhill run, tobogganing, tubing and not forgetting the fast and furious luge.

For those more musically inclined there is an endless range of local bands performing in Manchester, with over one hundred bands (signed and unsigned) playing gigs in the city every week. Popular musicians include The Ting Tings, The Whip, Courteeners, Cherry Ghosts, Ian Brown, Elbow, Doves, Steve Fretwell, Pure Essence and The Verve.

Further Information:

Manchester, ENGLAND

British Airways fly return to London from

$2405 ex Sydney

www.britishairways.com

Prices correct at 22/05/08. Prices include surcharges, fees & taxes. Conditions apply.

Chill Factore

45-minute luge rides (8 years and over) start from around $25 per adult

45-minute tubing sessions (4 years and over) start from around $25 per adult

Individual lift passes (ski and snowboard) start from around $47 per adult.

www.chillfactore.com

Wheel of Manchester

VIP Capsule rides start from AUD$105 and last for around 20 to 25 minutes (6 revolutions)

www.worldtouristattractions.co.uk

To check out the local music scene or gig guides in Manchester, visit Metro

www.metro.co.uk

Manchester Evening News

www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Visit Manchester

www.visitmanchester.com

Visit Britain

www.visitbritain.com.au