New Islington is a family-friendly urban neighbourhood in Manchester built around a stunning marina. It’s located a few minutes away from the Northern Quarter, one of the most popular areas in the city. This peaceful waterside oasis offers you an escape from the hustle and bustle of city living through its green and open spaces such as Cotton Field Park and the Marina.
Back in the 1990s, it was called one of the worst estates in the nation. Thanks to regeneration efforts, it blossomed into a bustling hub. Despite its growth as a modern neighbourhood, it hasn’t been cut off from nature. You can enjoy the outdoors without giving up the luxuries of city living. That includes a great public transportation system and a vast array of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops.
New Islington in Manchester - one of the highlights of 10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Manchester (Read all about Manchester here)
What are the highlights of New Islington?
The highlights of New Islington are its green spaces and waterside spots for relaxation and recreation. Its Marina is the centre of development in the neighbourhood, with moored boats and beautiful houses overlooking the water. It is a very tranquil spot where you can get some peace and quiet. You can sit on the stone benches along the water to admire the geese, swans and other wildlife.
At the heart of the neighbourhood, you’ll find a park called Cotton Field. People come here to exercise, walk their dogs and unwind. There are tables and benches everywhere so you can set up a picnic with friends or family when the sun is out.
Even the neighbourhood’s tram stop is a green, open space. It has enough room for you to do yoga, drink beers and bask in the sunshine while you wait for a tram.
What is there to eat in New Islington?
One of the most famous bakeries in the area is Pollen. It’s known for its cruffins, sourdough loaves and speciality coffee blends. Their pastries tend to sell out before lunch, though, so you have get there early if you want to get some of their goodies. Just in case you miss out, you can ask for their brunch and lunchtime menus.
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly establishment, you can head to Northern Eudaimonia, which is housed just next to the cult-favourite bakery. You and your dogs can indulge in sweet treats at this dessert spot.
What entertainments are available in New Islington?
A top venue for entertainment in the area is Hope Mill Theatre. It regularly hosts musicals, comedy thrillers and plays. Even without an event, you can go there to grab a bite and drink a pint of your favourite beer.
Since New Islington has a relatively relaxed nightlife scene, expect fun yet laid-back attractions such as Jungle Jazz. It’s a jazz-themed hipster bar with live music, vegan options, cocktails and all kinds of wines and beers.
If you’re going shopping, you’ll find all the retailers at Urban Exchange, including Marks & Spencer, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, to name a few.
Good to know about New Islington
Since New Islington comes with its own stop in Metrolink Zone 1, it’s a very well-connected place to base yourself. The trams have direct routes to Piccadilly, Media City and Deansgate. Thanks to the Metrolink stop, far-reaching cities are accessible to locals and travellers alike as well.
One of its neighbouring communities is Ancoats, where you’ll find Manchester’s eclectic food and drink scene. From Japanese teahouses to Scandinavian eateries, its diverse food culture is worth exploring if you’re in the area. Ancoats, as well as other neighbouring communities, are just minutes away from New Islington.
photo by Rept0n1x (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
New Islington in Manchester
Location: New Islington, Manchester, UK
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