Eating My Way Through Manchester

Let's face it, one of my favorite things about being on vacation is eating whatever I want and not feeling guilty about it. While in Manchester back in December, I was amazed by the food scene. Every place we stumbled into turned out to be an amazing choice! Whether you are looking for a good brunch spot or something fast, Manchester has a variety of choices to fill any appetite. Here are some of my favorites (plus one that just made the American in me super happy).

BREAKFAST | Teacup Kitchen

After the 30 minute tram ride into Manchester from where we were staying, J and I were desperate for a good breakfast. Being a Sunday, most places were closed. We spotted a cafe that had just opened their doors for the day and immediately popped in. I was instantly impressed by the wide variety of tea they offered, however opted for a latte which didn't disappoint. Our food was equally amazing, earning a very bold statement from J: "That was literally the best Eggs Benedict I have ever had". By the time we left, every single table was full of customers enjoying a Sunday brunch.

LUNCH | The Splendid Sausage Co.

For lunch on the second day we opted to stay close to Manchester's City Centre. Having spent the morning walking around the Christmas Market, our appetite was eager for something hardy. The Splendid Sausage Co. turned out to be an excellent pick. Reasonably priced for the amount of food, make sure to come hungry! The cheese fries are particularly amazing!

AFTERNOON SNACK | Taco Bell

Okay, so this isn't exactly a "Manchester" original, but I had been talking up Taco Bell to J for almost a year. Being my favorite fast food place back home, I was thrilled to see one in Manchester! Was it as good as I remember? Not really, but Taco Bell is a perfect filling for the afternoon munchies.

If you plan on visiting Manchester anytime soon, make sure to bring your appetite!

Happy Monday!
xoxo

3 Must See Libraries | Manchester, England

Manchester has a lot to offer. From museums to football to food, the last thing on your mind is probably visiting a library or two. However, Manchester is home to a variety of libraries, all of which are important institutions to the city of Manchester. During my trip to Manchester I visited three libraries, all within walking distance of each other. Although a library isn't exactly your typical tourist attraction, these Manchester libraries offer you a chance to visit a part of Manchester's exciting history.

1 | The John Rylands Library
This beautiful Neo-Gothic Victorian library is an impressive piece of architecture itself. However, the beauty of the building is not the only reason this library is special. Inside the John Rylands Library you can find a Gutenberg Bible, a fragment of a 2,000 year old piece of New Testament text, and the largest collection of William Caxton printed books, better known as the first books printed in England. The library is free and well worth a visit if you have an hour or two to spare.

 2 | Chetham's Library
This 17th century library may not look like much, but it is actually the oldest surviving public library in the English-speakign world. The building itself, built in 1421, is the only complete medieval building that still stands in Manchester. It may seem small, but the library is home to over 100,000 books, most of which predate the mid 19th century. It was even the place where Karl Marx began 'The Communist Manifesto'. To access the library you must wait at the security desk until a librarian comes to collect you. As the library is situated inside Chetham's School, it is understandable that you must be accompanied by a member of staff during school hours. However, this process offers you a chance to feel like you are visiting something exclusive and hidden. Admission is free but a 3 pound donation is suggested as the building itself cost a great deal to maintain.

3 | Manchester Central Library
Although this library is anything but old (by English standards that is), the Central Library is the perfect place to get a general idea of Manchester's history. The main exhibit tells the story of the citizens of Manchester throughout the years, and is home to works such as Shakespeare's Second Folio and a 12th century Roman code of law.

Happy Sunday!
xoxo

Manchester Christmas Markets

German Christmas Markets are still a new and exciting concept for me. This is only my second winter in England and I remember last year wanting to spend every weekend drinking German beer and eating German sausage. It was an expensive winter for me obviously. 

J's attitude towards German Christmas Markets reflects many of my English friend's thoughts: "Once you've seen one market, you've seen them all". I had started to believe that was true. Each German Christmas Market I stumbled upon was starting to lose its appeal. But then I visited Manchester.

Spread out around the city centre, Manchester hosts a total of nine Christmas markets. NINE! I was overwhelmed and excited and eager to see them all. Each market is within walking distance of each other, and if you're feeling particularly festive (as I was) you can follow the Manchester Christmas Market Trail. 

Click here for more details!

Happy Thursday!

xoxo

Manchester in Pictures

A few days ago I packed my bags and headed to Manchester. I spent hours and hours wandering around, falling in love with the city. I even met up with a friend I hadn't seen in TWELVE YEARS! Needless to say, I loved Manchester so expect lots of post coming your way!

Happy Sunday!
xoxo