40 Reasons Why Manchester Is Wonderful!
Marks and Sparks - Did you know that the first ever Marks and Spencer's store was in Manchester? It opened on Stretford Road, Hulme, in May 1894. Although we're not sure they'd take any 120 year old hand-me-down refunds now...
Corrie! - That theme tune is deeply embedded in the national psyche for a good reason! We LOVE Corrie, and if you don't know your Platt's from your Webster's then it's time to get on board girls!
Michelle Keegan - Using Coronation Street as a platform, Michelle's boosted herself to national stardom and let's be honest, if you're married to the handsome and cheeky Mark Wright, you're not doing a lot wrong!
Oasis - It's the timeless 'will they, won't they' story when it comes to Manchester's Noel and Liam Gallagher getting back together that sometimes seems bigger than Ross and Rachel.
Recording Studio - If you think that Noel and Liam could learn a thing or two from your bunch of musical ladies then our Manchester hen party recording studio is your chance to prove that you're a real Pop Idol! See more...
Cloud 23 – Forget about "Cloud 9", you'll be on Cloud 23 when you're looking across the city skyline, 23 floors high in Manchester's iconic Beetham Tower. But there's so much more to this luxurious cocktail bar than the amazing views. The cocktails are delicious, theatrical and as unique as the Northern party capital you're watching over. See more.
Caroline Aherne - This woman is honestly the sassy aunt of our dreams. Has there ever been a comedienne as cold and cutting as Caroline? Probably not, and we love her for it.
Nick Grimshaw - Grimmy! Waking up has never been easier thanks to Nick Grimshaw and his fantastic breakfast show. He's even an X Factor judge, does life get any better?
The Accent - Possibly the warmest accent in the UK, the Mancunian brogue is full of heart and exceptionally attractive. Don't believe us? Wait until you chat up the men, phwoar...
Alan Turing - One of Manchester's favourite sons, not only did he crack the code that helped the Allies win the Second World War he's credited as the father of modern day computer science. So you reading this is all down to him.
Joy Division - Love Will Tear us Apart doesn't sound like the kind of song you can get lost on the dance floor to, but in the 80s, Joy Division were filling clubs around the country with music lovers wanting to get down to their melancholy sounds.
Dusk Til Pawn – This cheeky little cocktail bar has cleverly disguised itself as a pawn shop. Unusual? Yes. Brilliant? Definitely. The drinks menu you'll find within is packed with prohibition style cocktails and the chic surroundings you'll get to drink them in are well worth a sly Instagram post #nofilterrequired. Discover Dusk Til Pawn here.
Canal Street - A wander down Canal Street could easily convince you that you've somehow ended up in Amsterdam. LGBT is the rule of the roost here and in our humble opinion it's absolutely fabulous!
Factory - A nightclub celebrating everything from the best indie hits and hip-hop beats to the Britpop movement that provided the soundtrack to a generation - It's absolutely fabulous. Dance the night away to the sounds of the bride's youth in a neon paradise where students and working professionals come to together in the name of good times, great cocktails and amazing music. Discover Factory.
Chocolate Making - On a Manchester hen party there's no better way to enjoy sweet treats than to get hands on and make your own. Surely trying the chocolate as you make it is just 'quality control'? Read more...
intu Trafford Centre - Manchester's shopping Mecca, the Trafford Centre is a retail treasure trove featuring high street names and designer brands under one beautifully designed roof.
Emmeline Pankhurst - The leader of the revolutionary Suffragette movement was born and raised in Manchester, which surely makes it the undisputed capital of girl power!
A chip what? - A 'Chip Barmcake' might sound like something you'd see on The Great British Bake Off, but it is in fact just a bread roll with hot chips stuffed into it. Once you've tried it you'll never look back...
Curry Mile - If the bride-to-be is partial to the odd Chicken Bhuna then she'd be amazed to hear that Manchester actually has its own 'Curry Mile' featuring over 70 different curry houses. Well some like it hot!?!
Odd Bar - Light fixtures that resemble blown-up parasols, pineapples lining the bar and the furniture could've been taken directly from Fat Sam's Grand Slam Speakeasy – There's certainly plenty of odd about this popular bar, but you know what? We love it. It's totally different and we wouldn't have it any other way, especially when the cocktails are this good. Find out more...
Football-mad - It's no secret that Manchester is completely football mad, but in one 1997 divorce case in Leamington Spa, a woman actually cited her husband's obsession with Manchester United as grounds for divorce. That's a red card if we've ever seen one...
Cane & Grain – Burgers and chips, ribs and BBQ sauce, New York and hen parties. Some things just make sense. Taking the best bits of NYC diners and putting a Manc twist on proceedings, Cane & Grain have become one of the best venues in town to kick back, relax and sip on a Long Island Iced Tea while throwing any diets out the window in the name of a Deep South Burger. Find out more...
Car-puccino - In 2010, a car fuelled completely by coffee grounds grinded its way up to Manchester from London. The vehicle, known as the 'Car-puccino', refuelled every 60 miles and used up the equivalent of 11,000 espressos. We think someone's got a caffeine addiction...
Suede - Suede. Is. Amazing. The favourite party spot for many a Mancunian and packed to the rafters with the city's beautiful people every weekend, this luxurious nightclub is the perfect place to let those dancing feet loose and celebrate to the sounds of the city's top DJs. Find out more...
Danny Boyle - One of the nations most prolific directors and the creator of one of the most beautiful Olympic opening ceremonies of all time is a born and bred mancunian, although we've no idea how he got the idea for The Beach living here?!?
Splitting hairs - Manchester has seen a few world firsts, but perhaps none so important as this. In 1919, at Manchester University, Ernest Rutherford was the first man to split the atom. Nice one, Ernest!
The Manc Apple... - While the 2004 remake of classic film Alfie was based in New York, a large proportion of the outdoor scenes were actually filmed in Manchester with entire streets changed to look American complete with US cars and yellow taxis. That's movie magic for you.
'You studied what at Uni?!?' - Manchester is the only city in the world where you can get yourself a degree in 'Mummy Studies'. This involves examining ancient Egyptian corpses, not Supernanny, regrettably.
Mamicum - This is Manchester's Roman name from back when it was just a lowly settlement. It directly translates to 'breast-shaped hill', proving that Manchester really is the breast place ever!
La Bandera - Delicious Spanish wines? Si. Smooth talking waiters? Si. More tapas than you can shake your fork at? Si, si, si! This stylish restaurant is a slice of Andalusia near the heart of Manchester's uber-trendy Northern Quarter. Gracias! Get the fiesta started here.
Karl Pilkington - Do you think we could legally adopt Karl Pilkington? He's so cute and really we think he just needs a good hug and a break from the constant ribbing from Steven Merchant and Ricky Gervais...although to be fair, he doesn't help himself!
Chris Addison - His observations on modern living are absolutely hilarious and his bumbling character of Toby Wright in The Thick of It is simply adorable.
Take That - Manchester is also home to the greatest Boy/Man Band ever. And any Manchester hen do could well the Greatest Day.
Madchester - Some of the biggest bands of the 90's came out the Manchester party scene that can still be felt in what is without doubt some of the best nightlife in the UK.
17 Below - Would the bride-to-be admit to being a bit of a #nerd? If the answer to that is a Spock inspired "affirmative" then take her down to 17 Below, a fantastic arcade bar with old school machines to play with the girls as well as an inventive video-game inspired cocktail menu. Go 17 Below here.
South Club – This basement club is cool, modern and intentionally understated - you won't find luxury décor or flamboyant cocktails here but you will discover an amazing atmosphere that's unlike anywhere else in Manchester. Even Vernon Kay is a fan! Find out more...
Rolls-Royce - The first 'Royce' car was built in Manchester and a year after that, Henry Royce met Charles Rolls and the rest was history!
The Guardian - Did you know that the famous newspaper actually began life as the Manchester Guardian?
Makeover Photoshoot - Give the girls and most importantly, the bride-to-be a massive confidence boost with a fabulous makeover before strutting your stuff in front of the cameras for your own sensational photoshoot. Read more...
Tattu - Chinese dining like you've never seen it before. This luxurious restaurant is adorned with tasteful oriental design at every turn with blossom trees providing a stunning centrepiece to admire while you help yourselves to the amazing cuisine that saw Tattu named as one of the Top 100 Restaurants in the UK. Discover more...
Top Tweeters
City Life Manchester - Everything you need to know about the best events in town.
Manchester's Finest - Independent restaurants, bars, music, food and drinks galore!
About Manchester - Be in the know on Manchester's past, present and exciting future.
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Manchester Wire - Get the lowdown on the best things to see and do in Manchester.
- 1. The Millennium Quarter, which houses spectacular shopping temples
- 2. Manchester's revamped canals mean striking, unforgettable canal boat tours
- 3. Armani and Kurt Geiger have uber-modern flagship stores here
- 4. Superb dining, from ornate pubs to great value chains
- 5. Heaton Park has 250 hectares of stunning surroundings
Mad For It
Incredible days, phenomenal nights, number one smash hits, the UK's best shopping and Coronation Street – Manchester is perfect for the bride's last weekend as a single lady. If you're looking for a quiet time on your Manchester hen do then sorry, you've come to the wrong place! This city was made for creating unforgettable memories, and if you think that celebrating in the party capital of the North will cost your entire cocktail budget then think again – Manchester is surprisingly budget-friendly. And when you couple that fact with GoHen's fabulous low rates you'll save even more money to spend in the best bars, nightclubs and designer boutiques that this incredibly chic metropolis has to offer.
In fact, we think our commitment to giving our hens the best value for their money is exactly why 96% of 450,000 former clients would happily book with us again.
Did you know?
When it rains, it doesn't pour!
Manchester's annual rainfall is actually less than the national average
Stay in Style
From renovated penthouses and warehouses, to luxury houses and spa hotels – Our range of Manchester accommodation is as stylish as the city itself and just as budget-friendly. And unlike other companies we test out all our options ourselves before sending our groups. It's the only way we can make sure that you're in the best possible location to get your special weekend off to a terrific start, and in Manchester's case that's right in the heart of the beautiful Northern Quarter, near all the high-street shopping of the Arndale Centre and close to the vintage boutiques of Affleck's Palace. You'll also be a mere hop, skip and a cocktail from the best nightclubs in town, so you won't need to pay extra for any expensive taxi fares and you'll be able to rest assured that the city's hottest nightlife is only moments from your doorstep.
Because we've been organising Manchester hen parties for 15+ years, we've built up amazing working relationships with all our suppliers. But what does this mean for you? It means that all the special benefits we receive will be passed on to you, so you'll be able to enjoy:
- Lower rates
- Flexibility on numbers
- Complete financial protection
It's a big part of the reason why we've got 1000+ positive GoHen reviews.
Did you know?
It's the home of M & S!
The first Marks & Sparks opened here in 1894
All Day, All Night
"Madchester" has a reputation for amazing nightlife but that doesn't mean that there isn't plenty to enjoy and experience before the sun sets and the city's beautiful people come out to play. Whether your bride-to-be just wants to pamper away the stresses of wedding planning or take out her frustrations, GoHen has a huge range of activities to suit every taste and every weekend! Fancy relaxing? We've got the spa. A little less conversation and a little more action? Here's the paintball gun. Luxury afternoon tea with bottles of bubbly? Now you're talking...
Most popular Manchester activities…
- Cocktail Mixing – Make like Taylor Swift and Shake It Off as you prepare some of the tastiest cocktails known to hen-kind.
- Trampoline Park – With so few opportunities to "flip out" with the girls from now until the wedding, this could be the brides last chance!
- Bubbly Mayhen – Strap yourselves in. Seriously, we don't want you falling out of your giant inflatable bubble!
- School Sports Day – Take a trip back in time and reacquaint yourselves with the playground games of your youth. Egg and spoon race anybody?
Did you know?
Manchester is Barmy!
It's the only place in the UK where you can enjoy a "Pasty Barm"
24HR Party People
Students, working professionals, glitterati and celebrities all have one thing in common – they love Manchester's amazing nightlife. It's rare that you find a city so diverse, welcoming and genuinely up for a good time. The Spice Girls partied here, Pixie Lott let her dancing feet loose here and Robbie Williams learned how to "entertain you" here. For the trendiest clubs and bars you'll head to the Northern Quarter where you'll find plenty of quirky and unusual watering holes to get the night started. Then, once you're suitably warmed up, venture into the city centre to discover even more amazing venues to celebrate the bride's special weekend.
But this is no ordinary night out. Let's face it, you and the girls could come up to Manchester any old weekend. But this is a hen weekend and you deserve the VIP treatment, so that's exactly what we'll give you. Guestlist entry for the most popular clubs? This way to the bar. Your own hunky hen host? How many abs would you like? Limousine rides to the hottest party spots? Here's your ride, m'ladies.
Surprise your bride-to-be...
- The Dreamboys – Who knew that Mancunian men were so gorgeous? Step aside Take That, we've found our new future husbands.
- Bierkeller Entry – Steins of beer, shots of German spirits and free pretzels in Manchester's premier Bierkeller. Das ist gut, jah?
- Karaoke – With so many hits recorded in Manchester over the years, this is the perfect chance to belt out some of the greats in your own private booth.
- VIP Photoshoot Party – Michelle Keegan? Puuur-lease. She's got nothing on you and the girls as you work the camera getting some stylish shots to remember the weekend by.
Did you know?
It's the Best Around!
Manchester was voted as the UK's best city to live in
We Protect Your Money
Booking a weekend break can be stressful, even when it's just your own money you're spending! But when you've been entrusted with everybody else's cash as well, possibly belonging to girls that you don't even know, organising the hen do can suddenly seem like more trouble than it's worth. Here at GoHen, we take the stress out of planning your celebrations by offering 100% financial protection.
When you book with us, you're booking with an ABTA bonded (No. W7797) ATOL protected (No. 11011) travel agency held to the highest standards of professional conduct in our industry. You'll be able to sit back, relax, possibly with a glass of vino in hand (can you tell we're thirsty?) knowing that your money is protected.
Find out more about how ABTA protection works here.
Get the Party Started!
Just send us your enquiry! It really is that simple. Then, while we're putting together your dream package of accommodation, activities and nightlife, you can message all the girls and take the credit for organising such an amazing weekend. It's fast, easy and best of all, totally free with no obligation to follow through until you're 100% sure that we're the ones to give you the hen party of a lifetime.
Or if you prefer a personal touch, give us a call on 01225 474200. We're a talkative bunch and we love talking about all hen parties great and small. So, whether you know exactly how you want your weekend to run or you haven't a clue, pick up the phone and we can start organising your "Madchester" getaway with the girls today.
Looking for information and stats about Manchester? See more info here.
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Manchester is one of the most fashion-conscious cities in the UK which makes it an absolute shopping mecca. Affleck's Palace is a weird and wonderful collection of independent retailers and has some real hidden gems. If you're foodies then it's worth a trip to Chinatown where you can get a fantastic buffet lunch at a really good price.
