Between constant notifications, endless scrolling and countless group chats, itâs no wonder that more people than ever are looking for ways to properly switch off.
Fortunately, our great city has plenty to offer beyond the screen â whether thatâs getting stuck into something creative, spending time outdoors or simply slowing down for a few hours. From record fairs to stitching circles, these are the best offline things to do in Manchester this summer.
Thereâs something seriously satisfying about rummaging through records, and you can do just that at Very Good Plus Record Fairâs full day celebration of all things analogue. Whether youâre on the hunt for deep cuts or just soaking up the vibe, itâs a must for vinyl heads. Thereâs even an open deck setup, if you fancy stepping up as a selector.
Very Good Plus Record Fair is taking place at Sadlerâs Yard on 13 June 2026.
Sadler’s Yard, Redfern Street, NOMA, Manchester M60 0AB
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When was the last time you actually did nothing? NOMAâs Do Nothing Club is about exactly that. This shared silence session is as simple as it sounds â turn up, switch your phone off and just sit. No distractions, no agenda. It might feel strange at first, but a little boredom goes a long way. Itâs definitely one of the more unique offline activities in Manchester.
Do Nothing Club takes place at Altogether Otherwise every Wednesday from 6pm to 6:45pm.
Altogether Otherwise, 6-10 Hanover Street, NOMA, Manchester M4
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Looking for something a little more hands-on? The Stitching Circle is a relaxed yarn club guided by the moon and seasons. Bring along your current sewing project plus a notebook and settle in for a feel-good, creative session. All abilities welcome, from complete beginners to advanced sewists.
The Stitching Circle takes place at Altogether Otherwise every Thursday from 6pm to 8pm.
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If youâre into DIY publishing, The Zine Club is worth checking out. Hosted by Altogether Otherwise, itâs a laidback space to browse, swap, and create your own zines â whether thatâs writing, illustrating or a bit of both. Bring a project youâre working on, or just turn up and get stuck in with like-minded people.
The Zine Club meets at Altogether Otherwise every other Friday from 12pm to 4pm.
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Looking to spend more time outdoors? NOMAâs community garden is a real neighbourhood hub, and you can get involved every Tuesday evening. Potter around the plot, pick up tasks like weeding and watering, and have a natter with your fellow gardeners as you go. Itâs a simple, wholesome way to make the most of the lighter nights.
The Evening Gardening Club takes place at Altogether Otherwise every Tuesday from 6pm to 8pm.
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If you fancy getting creative without overthinking it, head to Space Studio in Ancoats. This adults-only art space lets you pick a piece of midcentury-inspired pottery and make it your own. You paint it, they glaze and fire it, and youâve got a one-of-a-kind keepsake to take home.
Space Studio, 45 Henry Street, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 5DH.
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For something thatâs low-effort but still engaging, Manchester Art Gallery is an easy win. Itâs free to visit and packed with everything from classic paintings to more modern exhibitions, so you can dip in and out at your own pace. Treat yourself to a coffee and cake afterwards to extend your offline outing.
Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3JL.
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A walk in the park is the ultimate offline activity. Put your phone on silent (or better still, turn it off), and take your time as you wander through peaceful green spaces. Mayfield Park is the perfect place to escape the city â stroll by the river, immerse yourself in nature and touch some grass. Itâs one of the easiest free things to do in Manchester when you need a screen break.
Mayfield Park, Boardman Gate Entrance, 11 Baring Street, Manchester, M1 2PY. Image source
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If you fancy something a bit more educational, the Science and Industry Museum is a solid shout. Set across historic industrial buildings, it covers everything from Manchesterâs textile heritage to working machinery and modern science â making it a great option for offline things to do in Manchester.
Science and Industry Museum, Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4JP.
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