• Plan your Manchester Staycation

    The iconic Midland Hotel in the heart of Manchester is the perfect base to explore all that Manchester and the surrounding has to offer. You can unwind in our spacious and comfortable rooms when taking a break from exploring the city. Start planning your staycation today... Manchester CityWith four main stations: Deansgate, Manchester Oxford Road, Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, surrounding the city centre, there are plenty of transport links to discover Manchester and beyond.The Midland does not have its own car park; however parking is available at: NCP Manchester Central (0.1 miles). SatNav: M2 3GXManchester is bursting with something for everyone. Explore more city attractions at: https://www.themidlandhotel.co.uk/things-to-do Liverpool CityThe home of the legendary Beatles and famous Liverpool FC, Liverpool is a beautiful city, bursting with life, excitement, and music. With three main stations, Liverpool Lime Street, Liverpool Central, Liverpool James Street, this great city is easy to get to!Catch a show at the famous cavern club, ride the Wheel of Liverpool, explore the Tate Liverpool, enjoy a drink at the magnificent former church Alma de Cuba, or shop at the impressive Liverpool One - this city is without a doubt a UK 'must-see' and perfect for the staycationer.Chester Cathedral & TownChester Cathedral has a rich and fascinating heritage. Welcoming thousands of visitors from all over the world, the cathedral offers exhibitions, outstanding church music, tower tours providing panoramic views of Chester, stunning architecture, services, and more. Chester Town is overflowing with 2,000 years of history from the city walls to the Roman amphitheatre, as well as offering a myriad of unique attractions. Plan a visit at:http://www.visitchester.com/ and learn more about Chester Cathedral at: http://www.chestercathedral.com/Liverpool CathedralThe largest in the UK and the fifth largest in the world, Liverpool Cathedral is both fascinating and quite unique. Taking 74 years to construct, the unfolding story of this great cathedral shows how it managed to survive 2 World Wars and periods of recession and great hardship, becoming a tribute to the dedication of a great many people and their skills. Share the amazing journey and discover this Cathedral's importance to the heart and life of Liverpool. Learn more and plan a visit at: http://www.liverpoolcathedral.org.uk/Albert DockThe vibrant heart of Liverpool's historic waterfront, the Albert Dock's the place to play, to see, to eat, drink and stay. Blending old and new, it's contemporary yet cultured; fun, and friendly. Read more at: http://www.albertdock.com/Liverpool Metropolitan CathedralLiverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is a dramatic icon of faith, architecture, and human endeavour. An awe-inspiring landmark on the Liverpool skyline that's not to be missed. Plan a trip at: http://www.liverpoolmetrocathedral.org.uk/ Manchester CathedralExplore the ancient and beautiful architecture, attend a service, listen to the choir, or peruse an exhibition - a visit to Manchester Cathedral offers a peek into this historical structure (dating back to 1215). Plan a visit at: http://www.manchestercathedral.org/ Lyme ParkNestling on the edge of the Peak District, Lyme Park was once home to the Legh family and in its heyday a great sporting estate. Step back in time to the Edwardian era and enjoy lavish interiors, explore the library, or take the children to dress up on the stage. Famous for its appearance as Pemberley in the BBC's Pride and Prejudice, Lyme Park is a 'must see'. Read more at: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park/ The Blackpool TowerBuilt in 1894, The Blackpool Tower is one of Britain's best loved landmarks. Today it hosts 5 of Blackpool's premier attractions: The Blackpool Tower Eye, The Blackpool Tower Circus, The Blackpool Tower Ballroom, The Blackpool Tower Dungeon, and Jungle Jim's. Read more and plan a trip at: https://www.theblackpooltower.com/ Blackpool Pleasure BeachAn iconic UK attraction, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a staycation must. The amusement park offers outstanding thrills and spills, with a blend of unique rides and family friendly activities. Learn more at: https://www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com/ Turton TowerDating as far back as the 15th century Turton Tower is a beautiful manor house with an interesting history. A grade I listed building, this distinctive English country house offers a historical and unique day out. Plan a visit at: http://www.turtontower.co.uk/SnowdoniaThe Snowdonia National Park boasts vast areas of natural beauty and unique scenery. It is known as Eryri by Welsh a name that can be translated as "the place of the eagles". The park which covers 838 square miles and includes nine mountain ranges, river gorges, lakes, waterfalls, valleys and lush forests. Learn more at: http://www.snowdoniatourism.co.uk Kinder Scout National ReserveA breath-taking plateau in the heart of the Peak District, Kinder Scout is a staycation must. With multiple routes up the iconic hill, there is plenty of natural attractions to see along the way, as well as bleak moorland and amazing views from every edge of the plateau. Read more at: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kinder-edale-and-the-dark-peak/lists/celebrating-kinder-scoutPenrhyn CastlePenrhyn Castle is a 19th-century neo-Norman castle with spectacular surroundings and bursting with fascinating items. Explore the restored kitchens and the stable block's industrial railway museum and a model railway museum. The 24.3 hectares of grounds include parkland with breath-taking views, an exotic tree and shrub collection, as well as a Victorian walled garden. Plan a visit at:http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/penrhyn-castle/ Conwy CastleBuilt for Edward I, Conwy Castle is amongst the finest surviving medieval fortifications in Britain. From the grandeur of its high towers and curtain walls, to its excellent state of preservation. Two barbicans (fortified gateways), eight massive towers and a great bow-shaped hall all sit within its distinctive elongated shape, due in part to the narrow rocky outcrop on which the castle stands. Learn more and plan a trip at: http://cadw.gov.wales/daysout/conwycastle/?lang=en Dovestones EdgeA fantastic location for climbers, Dovestones Edge is a beautiful natural viewpoint overlooking the Dovestones Reservoir, nestled in the peak district. Walkers can enjoy the breath-taking views, although the route can be quite steep and a good few hours walk, but well worth the effort. The Midland is a great base to explore Manchester and its surroundings. Start preparing your perfect staycation by browsing the below distances and approximate travel times to each attraction from the city centre. We've also included a rough guide on how much time you might expect to spend at each location to make planning your trip that little bit easier! AttractionsTravel Time Approx Distance Approx Attraction Duration (excl travel time)Manchester City0 hrs0 miles1 dayLiverpool City1 hr34 miles1 dayChester Cathedral & Town1 hr39 miles1/2 dayLyme Park0.5 hr16miles2 hoursManchester Cathedral13 min walk1 miles1 hourAlbert Dock1 hr34 miles1 hourLiverpool Metropolitan Cathedral1 hr32 miles1 hourLiverpool Cathedral1 hr33 miles1 hourThe Blackpool Tower1-1.5 hrs52 miles1 hourBlackpool Pleasure Beach1-1.5 hrs52 miles3 hoursTurton Tower0.5 hr19 miles2 hoursSnowdonia2 hrs80 miles1 day

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  • Try your hand at Beef Wellington

    One of the specialities of Mount Street is our Beef Wellington. Why not try your hand at a variation of our signature dish.Ingredients:1oz butter2 tbsp vegetable oil2 shallot, finely diced8 chestnut mushrooms, chopped2 tbsp cream2lb 12oz beef filletsalt and pepper to season3-4 crêpes 8oz puff pastry2 egg yolks, lightly beatenMethod: Heat the butter and 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a frying pan. Fry the chopped shallots for two mins.Reduce the heat, add the mushrooms and cook until they are soft and the liquid has evaporated.Stir in the cream and cook for two mins. Then set the topping aside to cool.Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil until smoking, add the seasoned beef and fry on all sides.Arrange the crepes so that the area is twice as thick as the fillet and longer at both ends. The crepes will be overlapping but only one layer thick.Spread the mushrooms over the crêpes, remove any additional moisture with kitchen paper before adding the beef.Roll the crepes over the beef, starting with the side closest to you. The crepes should cover the mean on all sides, cut off any excess.Place the wrapped fillet onto a sheet of cling film and wrap up tightly into a cylinder. Refrigerate until completely cold, about half an hour.Flour the worktop and roll the pastry to roughly ¼ inch thick rectangle.Brush the pastry with beaten egg yolk. Remove the cling film from the beef fillet and place onto the middle of the pastry.Wrap the beef, lightly stretch one edge so its thinner, then press down firmly to seal.Lightly press the open ends of the pastry together, trim to a triangle shape brush with a little egg and press it up against the end.Place the Wellington seam side down on a baking tray and brush with the remaining egg yolk. Chill in the fridge for 10 mins.Heat the over to 180C/350F/Gas 4Score the top of the Wellington and bake for 25 mins. Remove from the oven and rest for 10 mins for a pink finish to your meat. To cook further leave longer in the oven but rest your meat for 10 mins.

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  • Getting a Good Night's Rest

    Everyone sleeps differently and we all have our own preferences. To help you reach the land of nod for a good night's sleep we've put together some helpful suggestions.  Food and DrinkRelaxaiton Magnesium, potassium, and calcium help your muscles relax, and are found in foods such as spinach, fish, bananas, and various seeds. Herbal teas made from valerian root or chamomile can have a soothing and relaxing effect which can also help you drift off.StimulantsHigh levels of fat, refined sugar, or starch can be difficult for your stomach to digest, meaning your body has to work hard while you sleep to process the food - which can cause you to sleep less deeply. Your body also turns Tyramine, found in things like pork, cheese, tomatoes, potatoes, and wine, into the stimulant noradrenaline, which can keep you up for a while.Caffeine is a stimulant that can prevent your brain from shutting down when you need it to, however it affects people differently depending on the individual – if you have difficulties falling asleep, it may be best to avoid caffeine for around six hours before going to bed.Alcohol may make it easier to fall asleep initially, however during the night it causes a drop in blood sugar, reduces the amount of time you are in REM sleep, and also dehydrates you, which can all lead to a less relaxed sleep.Nicotine is also a stimulant that can keep you awake, and it can affect your sleep quality as you may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms that can disrupt your night.ClothingComfortA set of bedclothes or pyjamas should be comfortable and light – tight-fitting clothes can prevent blood from flowing under your skin and stop air from circulating, resulting in you overheating which can disrupt your sleep.MaterialThe clothes should be made from a suitable material, which can be different for everyone. Cotton and satin are useful for staying cool while flannel can be good for keeping warm, and silk is generally fine for all weather but it can be expensive, and some may find it uncomfortable or slippery. Materials that are moisture-wicking prevent sweat from sticking to your body which can also increase your comfort levels.Too hot or too cold?Not everyone prefers a full set of pyjamas for bed – sleeping in little to no clothes can ensure breathability and prevent you from overheating, which in turn boosts production of melatonin and growth hormones that can boost your metabolism. It also leaves you feeling comfortable, which contributes to a deeper, more relaxed sleep. However, being too cold, can also disrupt your sleep, so deciding what level of clothing to sleep can very much depend on your room’s temperature and the time of year.PositionThe position you sleep in can also influence how comfortable you feel and how well you sleep.Sleeping on your BackSleeping on your back can prevent back and neck pain and help prevent acid reflux. However, it can also increase snoring and sleep apnoea, which can be difficult to deal with if you are sleeping with a partner.Sleeping on your SideSleeping on your side can help prevent neck and back pain, acid reflux, snoring, and sleep apnoea, and it can be a good for pregnant women as it improves blood flow. However, it can put pressure on your lungs and other internal organs, and possibly constrict the muscles in your arms and shoulders.Sleeping on your FrontSleeping on your stomach can cause pain in your spine, put pressure on your muscles and joints, and restrict blood flow through your body. However, this position helps snoring and sleep apnoea as it opens the airwaves, making it easier to breath.The RoomThe atmosphere and environment of the room you sleep in affects how easy it can be to fall and stay asleep.TemperatureThe temperature should be set to your preferred level of comfort, taking into account the clothes you wear and the weather outside when you set the temperature.Lighting It should also be as dark as possible when the lights are off, and if you keep a lamp in your room it should be dim and soft rather than a bright light. Light from computer screens can also affect your sleep, as the blue light it produces tricks your brain into thinking it is daytime. If you struggle to sleep from the outside lights or standby LEDs, an eye mask might help block out this light.Scents & Sounds Adding a light scent such as lavender, jasmine, or vanilla can leave you feeling more relaxed and make it easier to fall asleep, while low and soothing sounds, such as white noise or loops of rainfall and waves can help your mind relax.The BedMattress A good mattress should be somewhere between hard and soft, following the Goldilocks rule, to find a balance between supporting your body and reducing the restriction of blood flow. The perfect level will depend on you, but it can help to test a mattress before you invest as they can be expensive and should last you between 7-10 years.PillowYour pillow should provide support for your head, shoulders, and neck. Adding an extra pillow either under your back (if you sleep on your back), between your knees (if you sleep on your side), or under your abdomen (if you sleep on your front), can offer extra support and help keep your spine in alignment. The firmness or softness of the pillow will depend on what you find comfortable.DuvetYour blanket or duvet should be made from a breathable fabric that wicks away moisture to keep you comfortable and dry during the night – choosing the material and thickness should depend on your climate and personal preferences.At The Midland we want to make your stay as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. Our stunning new bedroom combines luxurious décor with exquisite comfort. Guests will enjoy our bespoke bed designed for optimum comfort with crisp white sheets, 40 inch flat screen TV with freeview, complimentary high speed WiFi, ample work space, refreshment dock as well as stylish new bathroom with rain shower and spa toiletries.

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  • A-Z Of Cocktail Bars in Manchester

    Ready to sample some of the best tipples in the north? Here’s our rundown of the best cocktail bars in Manchester. Bottoms up!The Alchemist – SpinningfieldsView this post on InstagramA post shared by TheAlchemistUK (@thealchemistuk) on Feb 11, 2020 at 10:00am PSTWhat to order: The Mad Hatters (vodka, citrus, elderflower, Cointreau, and summer fruits)Let’s start the list with an absolute classic. The Alchemist Spinningfields has been a Manchester institution for a decade, and with its eclectic mix of mouth-watering creations, there’s no need to wonder why. The original Spinningfields bar is all about that sultry, smoky vibe, as is its New York Street and Media City sister sites.Behind Closed DoorsView this post on InstagramA post shared by Behind Closed Doors (@bcdnq) on Feb 18, 2020 at 11:10am PSTWhat to order: 50 Shades of Earl Grey (Portobello Road gin, Earl Grey tea, lemon, honey, and lavender. Served in a teapot!)You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d come to the wrong place as you descend the stairway of this unmarked watering hole, but don’t be fooled by its unremarkable exterior, Behind Closed Doors is one of the best cocktail bars in the city. Once inside, you’ll be treated to a vintage-esque array of tiny old TVs, chandeliers, and vintage telephones to call the bar with your order. Oh, and a tempting menu of classic and contemporary cocktails.Cloud 23View this post on InstagramA post shared by Cloud 23 (@cloud23bar) on Feb 3, 2020 at 10:14am PSTWhat to order: The Stratospheric (Ciroc red berry, Tanqueray 10, hibiscus, raspberry, passionfruit, citrus, and Dom Perignon)No list of cocktail bars in Manchester would be complete without mentioning the iconic Cloud 23. Located on the 23rd floor of Manchester’s first skyscraper, Cloud 23 offers panoramic views of the city centre in a stylish, sophisticated space.But we know a bar is only as good as the tipples they serve, and Cloud 23’s menu does not disappoint. Proud of its Mancunian heritage, Cloud 23 serves drinks inspired by the famous Hacienda club, the Castlefield roman ruins, and a champagne cocktail ode to Beetham Tower.Dusk Til PawnView this post on InstagramA post shared by Dusk Til Pawn (@dusktilpawnnq) on Dec 21, 2019 at 9:47am PSTWhat to order: Brass Balls (Old Fashioned, marmalade, and ginger)Take a stroll down the Northern Quarter’s hip Stevenson Square and there’s every chance you’d just walk straight past Dusk Til Pawn. Hidden in plain sight, this bar is disguised as an old-school pawn shop (complete with flickering neon signs and 1970s TVs) but venture inside and you’ll be able to taste some of Manchester’s finest cocktails.The FitzgeraldView this post on InstagramA post shared by The Fitzgerald Manchester (@thefitznq) on Feb 14, 2020 at 10:13am PSTWhat to order: My Dearest Zelda (bourbon and lavender)Manchester’s NQ has no shortage of places to wet your whistle, but The Fitzgerald is one of our favourites for cocktails. If you’ve ever fancied stepping into one of those prohibition-era drinking dens, this is the place for you.Adorned with 1920s American décor, this stylish speakeasy offers a delicious array of tempting cocktails against a backdrop of velvet chairs, dimly-lit chandeliers, and a soundtrack of jazz and soul.HawksmoorView this post on InstagramA post shared by Hawksmoor Manchester (@hawksmoormanchester) on Feb 7, 2020 at 12:57pm PSTWhat to order: Fuller Fat Old Fashioned (butter-infused bourbon, beurre noisette, sandalwood, and cedar oil)You may have heard of London-based chain Hawksmoor before, it’s a nationally-renowned restaurant. But no visit to this world-class establishment is complete without sampling the delights of its cocktail bar (and nothing washes down a steak better than a bourbon-infused tipple). Into the Gathering DuskView this post on InstagramA post shared by into the gathering dusk (@intothegatheringdusk) on Jan 31, 2020 at 8:54am PSTWhat to order: Wild and Stinging Martini (nettle gin, nettle leaves, rye whiskey, and hawthorn-branded cherries)Cocktail goddess Emma Roberts is the woman behind this unique pop-up. Famously elusive, Into the Gathering Dusk is renowned across Manchester and beyond for its mouth-watering homemade tonics and bitters, with ingredients foraged by Emma herself. Not an alcohol drinker? Don’t let that put you off, this bar is famed alongside its cocktails for its mocktail menu, with an array of XXX cordials to tempt your tastebuds.The Liars ClubView this post on InstagramA post shared by The Liars Club (@theliarsclubmcr) on Jan 28, 2020 at 10:38am PSTWhat to order: Painkiller (two types of rum, coconut cream, orange, and pineapple)Dreaming of jetting off somewhere far-flung? Well, we can’t promise you’ll wind up with a sun tan, but we can guarantee you’ll find a tipple or three you enjoy at The Liars Club. Nestled away from Deansgate’s crowds, this tropical tiki bar is famed for its elaborate serving choices – think volcanos, pineapples and coconut shells – as well as its delicious tipples and relaxed reggae vibe.Fancy a late one? The Liars Club is open until 4am everyday so you can clink those cocktails ‘til the early hours.Lost in TokyoView this post on InstagramA post shared by Lost In Tokyo (@lostintokyonq) on Mar 25, 2019 at 11:44am PDTWhat to order: The Emperor’s New Groove (rose bud-infused Beefeater gin, rose, cucumber, lemon, and ginger ale)Another classic Manchester institution for you now. Inspired by the culinary delights of the far east, Lost in Tokyo has been a feature of NQ’s Stevenson Square since December 2015, and is a great place to chat, dance, and sip some sublime cocktails in the city. Whiskey fans, rejoice! Lost in Tokyo boasts the largest Japanese whiskey selection in Manchester, many of which can be crafted into some damn fine cocktails for your enjoyment.ManahattaView this post on InstagramA post shared by Manahatta (@manahattauk) on Feb 11, 2020 at 12:01pm PSTWhat to order: Empress’s New Clothes: (Empress 1908 gin, citrus, topped with prosecco)True to its name, Manahatta brings a taste of New York City to Deansgate. Serving tasty all-American dishes throughout the day, it’s the sophisticated cocktail menu that takes centre stage at this establishment. The unique thing about Manahatta’s cocktail list is that it’s split into three sections, one for whichever time of day you’re sipping.Curated alongside some of London’s top bartenders and mixologists, the cocktail menu is a flavoursome blend of gin, vodka, whiskey and rum-based drinks, all sprinkled with a bit of Mancunian magic.Peggy’s BarView this post on InstagramA post shared by Peggy's Bar (@peggysbarmcr) on Feb 23, 2018 at 11:43am PSTWhat to order: the menu changes weekly to suit the seasons, but we loved the Pina Colada with turmeric.If you’re prepared to pop over the border into Salford (it’s not far, promise), Peggy’s Bar is a dimly-lit tipple-lover’s haven just waiting to be discovered. Disguised by its backstreet location, this hidden gem serves some of the most mouth-watering, visually-stunning cocktails, with many of their drinks twisting classics to create their own unique blend.Runaway Tap RoomIn case you haven’t heard of Honest Burgers, it’s a rather delectable burger bar that has taken Manchester by storm. But don’t be fooled into thinking that’s all they’re about. Hidden away on the third floor, Honest Burgers has its own tiny tap room, which is curated by Runaway Brewery and sells some of their latest creations. As if that wasn’t enough, you can also enjoy one of their many cocktails on the secret roof terrace (ideal for a summertime tipple).Speak in CodeView this post on InstagramA post shared by Speak in Code (@speak_in_code) on Feb 2, 2020 at 4:12pm PSTWhat to order: Japanese-influenced No. VIII (Suntory Toki malt, pine, thyme, and lemongrass)Located on a quiet street off Deansgate, Speak in Code is a hidden gem that packs a punch when it comes to high-end cocktails. What makes Speak in Code different from other secret bars in Manchester? It’s totally vegan, that’s for food and drinks.The WashhouseView this post on InstagramA post shared by The Wash House (@washhousemcr) on Feb 19, 2020 at 5:56am PSTWhat to order: Up Stream (Three Rivers gin, aquavit, smoked salmon and lemon vapour)We’re not saying we’ve saved the best until last but if we were to choose a favourite cocktail bar in Manchester, The Washhouse would rate pretty high. From the outside, it’s disguised as a humble launderette, complete with coin-operated washing machines and baskets of clothes, but venture through the tumble dryer (yes, really) and you’ll discover a dimly-lit, cosy cocktail cavern. Oh, and some of the best drinks the city has to offer.Remember: the only way to gain access to The Washhouse is to place a booking over the phone, and they’ll give you instructions of what to do when you arrive (it’s all a bit hush-hush!).Why not make a weekend of it? Here at The Midland, we live and breathe Manchester. Located right in the heart of the city, our hotel is the perfect place to catch some ZZZs after an evening sipping delicious cocktails. Plus, our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to advise you about what to see and do in the city.

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  • Top Food and Drink Festivals in Manchester

    In recent decades, the food and drink scene in Manchester has exploded and it’s now widely acknowledged as one of the finest in the UK. Whether you’re a born and bred Mancunian or just visiting, there’s sure to be something happening that tempts your tastebuds.So if you’re a gin fanatic, sausage enthusiast or just want to try something new, check out our guide to the top food and drink festivals the ‘capital of the North’ has to offer. Manchester Gin Festival21-22nd FebruaryHead to Manchester Cathedral and you’ll be spoilt for choice with over 100 gins under one roof. Plus, there’ll be over 15 different rums and prosecco royale if gin isn’t your tipple. Tickets cost £12.50 and with that, you’ll get a voucher for your first G&T, a Copa glass, stainless steel straw, gin festival book, live music and gin talks. If all that isn’t enough, there’s also access to street food stalls, snacks and a gin store. Good to know: if you can’t make the February fest, the event returns on 5-6th June in the same format. Friends & Family & Beer Festival21-22 FebruaryThis not-for-profit beer fest is hosted by world-renowned Manchester brewery Cloudwater Brew Co. and promises to bring together some of the finest craft brewers from around the globe. Alongside the beer, there’ll be talks, tastings, discussions, and live-music plus a fantastic range of high-quality, wholesome food provided by independent producers. If you want to attend all sessions across the weekend it’ll cost you £170 or you can opt for one of your choosing for £60.Good to know: this one might sound steep, but you’ll get a limited edition glass, beer, and access to talks and tastings with your ticket. Sausage & Cider Fest14th MarchExperience an unmissable day packed with cider, beer, gin, prosecco, live music and a mouth-watering array of sausages from around the world. Held in the city’s well-known Victoria Warehouse, all the seller’s present on the day have been carefully handpicked for their expertise and craftsmanship - so don’t expect a bog-standard banger. Tickets start at £11.10 but prices are expected to rise with demand. The Gin and Rum Festival27-28th MarchDiscover new favourites, widen your knowledge and party the night away with this festival held in the spectacular Manchester Cathedral.There’ll be hand-picked guest distillers offering samples, themed gin and rum bars, live entertainment including an award-winning DJ, and masterclasses. Tickets start at £16.56 and include a free 50ml miniature, Copa glass and bag, knowledgeable guide, and unlimited mixers.Good to know: if you can’t make the March event, the festival returns on 4-5th September in the same format. The Gin to my Tonic Show22-24th MayWhat people thought was a puppy-love interest in gin has turned into a long-term passion for many gin lovers and if you’re one of them, you won’t want to miss this one. It’s one of the largest gin fests in the UK and what sets it apart is it offers enthusiasts the rare opportunity to actually meet the makers of over 60 premium gin and mixer brands. As well as gin there’ll be cocktail bars, masterclasses, taste tests, presentations, tutorials, and performances - it’s a must for die-hard gin fans. Held at Manchester Central, you’ll pay £15 per day for an early bird gin enthusiast ticket and £30 for a gin connoisseur (perks vary). The Wizard Cocktail Festival6th JuneHailed the most magical cocktail festival of the year, this one’s a bit mysterious in that the Manchester venue is still top secret and won’t be revealed (to ticket holders) until nearer the time.Wherever it is, you’re promised plenty of entertainment such as tarot card reading, live music, plus wand and potion-making. Attendees are 100% encouraged to don their capes and wands and perhaps surprisingly given the name, under 18s are welcomed too. Ticket prices are £30 per adult and £15 for U18s. Manchester Food & Drink FestivalSeptember-October TBCThis annual 11-day city take-over takes place in the last week of September and the first week of October, although the 2020 exact days have yet to be announced. Originally developed in 1992 to show the rest of the world that Manchester is more than just meat pies and gravy, the event’s now in its 22nd year and nationally acclaimed. Events will take place across the city as well as within the festival hub where a bespoke food and drink centre is custom-built.World-renowned chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver have participated in previous years, so you can expect a top-class experience. There’ll be live demonstrations, a Dining Dome offering spherical foodie experiences, street-food, live music and loads more. Head to the website for all the latest on the 2020 line-up and tickets. Manchester Whisky Festival24-25th OctoberSample home-grown whiskies from Scotland and all over the world at this two-day whisky extravaganza. This fest typically attracts some of the finest distillers from across the globe including Taiwan, Japan and the USA.You’ll also be able to sign up for masterclasses and sample some rare ‘under the counter’ drams. A full session ticket based on last years prices will cost £40 or opt for a taster session for £20, both include a glass, guide and sample of each whisky. Good to know: the whisky fest splits its days up into ‘sessions’ to avoid overcrowding at certain times. For access to a session of your choice, you’ll need to plump for the full session ticket. Found the perfect fest to tickle your fancy? Whichever you opt for, you’ll need somewhere to get your head down, digest your delicacies and sleep off the liquor, so why not let us take care of you? The Midland Manchester is in the heart of the city, renowned for its hospitality, perfect for a quick trip to any of the festivals, and will offer you a luxurious room, top-class facilities, a friendly welcome and so much more. We hope to welcome you soon! 

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  • Manchester Conference Guide

    In recent years, Manchester has risen through the ranks to become the UK’s second city and the capital of the Northern Powerhouse. An ambitious metropolis with more than its fair share of innovation, it’s no wonder that some of the country’s most notable conferences are held in the Rainy City. Here, we’ve listed some of the most exciting conferences in Manchester during 2020, so you can plan the year ahead. Looking for meeting rooms in Manchester? The Midland has 14 flexible meeting rooms, which can hold up to 700 delegates. It’s central location is close to Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Oxford Road train stations, so it’s ideal for attendees travelling from outside of the city.Business, Marketing and RecruitmentManchester HR Summit – FebruaryIf you work in the HR industry, you won’t want to miss the Manchester HR Summit. This exciting conference brings together HR professionals from around the UK, giving attendees a unique opportunity to network and learn. There will be a range of suppliers and buyers there, and everyone will have the opportunity to speak with key personnel and decision makers.The Manchester HR Summit is the leading HR conference in the 2020 calendar, giving attendees a brilliant opportunity to form lasting business relationships.The Firm’s Manchester Spring Conference 2020 - MarchThe leading Manchester conference for in-house recruiters, The Firm Manchester Spring Conference is led by recruiters, for recruiters. The aim of the conference is to support and inspire those in the recruitment profession, as well as provide an invaluable opportunity to network with others in the industry.Founded as a LinkedIn group back in December 2007, The Firm now has over 8,800 members across the globe and has grown into a collaborative community of like-minded professionals. CIPD Annual Conference and Exhibition - NovemberCIPD is the professional body for HR and people development, so it will come as no surprise that their annual conference and exhibition sells out every year. This year’s topics include wellbeing and inclusion, flexible working, tech and analytics, professionalism, people management, and talent management, to name a few!There are speakers from a variety of big-name brands, all experts in their field. And afterwards, head down to the iconic Bridgewater Hall for a networking reception, followed by drinks at Dirty Martini.Technology and DigitalDigitech - November Put on in partnership with Crown Commercial Service and supported by a plethora of other bodies, including NHS Digital and The Government Digital Service, Digitech is an event not to be missed. The conference features a range of presentations from some of the most renowned experts in the digital landscape, as well as a superb opportunity to network with others in the industry.Held at the iconic Manchester Central exhibition centre, there are over 80 stands, with the event promising to attract over 700 technology and procurement specialists from a range of different industries.Digital Growth Conference - JanuaryIt’s no secret that digital marketing is the future, and with the Digital Growth Conference, you can learn how to conduct a disruptive digital growth strategy to get your brand noticed. No matter the size of your company or what exactly you do, the Digital Growth Conference can help you understand the powers of digital marketing and gives you the tools to become more digitally-savvy.There is a wealth of industry expert presentations at the event, covering topics such as Google ad campaigns, SEO, social media advertising, Magneto eCommerce, and WordPress.Digital City Festival - March The digital landscape is forever changing, and the Digital City Festival looks to the future to innovate and inspire. Dubbed as more of a festival than a conference, this event spans over a full week, with a programme of expert speakers and exhibitions – the perfect place for digital enthusiasts to come together, network, and learn from each other.The main event is held at the Manchester Central complex, but there are loads of fringe events to discover across the city. These events are hosted by partners of the Digital City Festival, all providing attendees the opportunity to learn and collaborate.FinanceThe Aon Pension Conference - FebruaryDesigned for HR and finance professionals, the Aon Pension Conference gives attendees the opportunity to hear presentations from experts in the field. Here you can listen to ideas and predictions about the future of pensions, as well as how to manage defined benefit and defined contribution pension schemes.The Aon Pension Conference is also a brilliant opportunity to network with peers from the industry, and for a full day attendance attendees can receive 4.5 CPD points.Accountex Summit NorthWith a wealth of expert speakers, the Accountex Summit North is a place to get up to speed with practical advice on a plethora of different finance-related topics. This is the place to network with some of the most renowned brands in the industry, meet like-minded peers, and learn new skills and techniques.Attendees also get the opportunity to demo new tools from leading accountancy suppliers, as well attend over 20 free CPD seminars, talking about the future of finance. The event is supported by some of the biggest names in the industry, including The Institute of Financial Accountants, XU, CIMA, and The CPD Standards Office.MedicalProfessional Dentistry NorthIf you’re a dentistry professional, Professional Dentistry North is the event for you. No matter what point you are in your career, this conference features content-led presentations and experiences relevant to the whole dental team. There’s also plenty of cutting-edge exhibitions, as well as the opportunity to try out new technology from leading dentistry suppliers.Each year, over 6000 dentistry professionals attend, providing a platform to network and learn from each other. The conference also fulfils the GDC requirements for ECPD.Manchester Interstitial Lung Diseases Meeting - MarchComprised of lectures and multi-disciplinary discussions of real-life cases, the Manchester Interstitial Lung Diseases Meeting is designed to give medical professionals updates and reviews on these types of lung diseases. Aimed at physicians and trainees in respiratory medicine, pathology, radiology, and rheumatology, this not-for-profit meeting has been approved by the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom for 12 category 1 (external) CPD credits.

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