Places to visit with Older Adults in South Manchester

There are many wonderful things to do in the vibrant and busy city of Manchester, from visiting the theatre to large green spaces. Here's our favourites!

It is important that as we get older we ensure that we keep active both physically and mentally. That’s why a morning, afternoon or full day out is so good for the soul. There are many wonderful things to do in the vibrant and busy city of Manchester, from visiting the theatre to beautiful art galleries and huge green parks, every twist and turn of the city has something different to offer. With direct transport links from South Manchester including Fallowfield, Cholrton-cum-Hardy, Didsbury, Urmston & Burnage into the city centre, the world’s your oyster when it comes to exploring Manchester! 

Here’s a selection of the top places to visit with Older Adults in and around South Manchester – we hope you enjoy visiting them.

The Bridgewater Hall

Arguably one of Manchester’s most iconic cultural landmarks! The Bridgewater Hall is home to a magnificent auditorium of 2400 seats which sees audiences visit for over 280 performances a year. The Bridgewater Hall is also where the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra are based, with several dedicated performances throughout the year. Fancy seeing behind the scenes? Every month The Bridgewater Hall opens its doors for building tours, so you can see what goes on behind the stage.

The Bridgewater Hall has a dedicated metro station, as well as convenient parking nearby. With an on-site cafe and restaurant, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a spot of lunch before an afternoon matinee performance. The Bridgewater Hall is also accessible to those in wheelchairs, as well as being Guide Dog friendly. For those who require, a Hearing Aid Loop system is in place throughout the building. 

The Lowry Theatre

Much like The Bridgewater Hall, The Lowry Theatre is an eclectic mix of musical theatre, comedy, music and festivals. Set in the heart of Salford, easily accessible from South Manchester towns and villages, The Lowry Theatre is an impressive modern building, a real architectural feat!  

The Lowry Theatre has a packed schedule, with performances almost daily, giving you plenty to choose from. The Lowry Theatre has a range of accessible features, meaning that those in wheelchairs or with the requirement of a hearing aid are catered for to ensure they can enjoy performances as much as everyone else. You will also find there are several signed performances throughout the year. 

The Trafford Centre

A short hop from Urmston you’ll find The Trafford Centre. Shops, restaurants, cafes, a cinema – The Trafford Centre is much more than just a shopping centre! 

With an abundance of parking, including a multitude of disabled bays undercover, The Trafford Centre makes the start and end of your visit straightforward. Not driving yourself there? There’s a bus from many nearby towns and villages, directly to the door. 

Browse department stores and small boutiques or enjoy a coffee and slice of cake at one of the many coffee shops throughout the centre. 

Making a day of it? There is a whole food court to choose from! With popular favourites such as Gourmet Burger Kitchen and independent establishments such as delicious sourdough pizzas from Franco Manca. 

Why not round off your day with a trip to the cinema, where the option for several signed or hearing aid loop enabled movies can be found – the perfect end to a day out in South Manchester. 

Chorlton Art Market

Established in 2014, Chorlton Art Market is an independent business based in the heart of Chorlton, supporting over 50 local artists and craftspeople. Chorlton Art Market rents space to independent artists to ensure their work is available to view and purchase. 

Take a browse through beautiful handmade wares, from textiles to speciality Chorlton fudge! It’s the perfect place to look for a gift, or simply treat yourself.  

With nearby cafes and restaurants, it makes for a lovely day trip out in Chorlton. 

Fletcher Moss Park

Fletcher Moss Park & Parsonage Gardens are based within touching distance of Didsbury, in South Manchester. Fletcher Moss Park and Parsonage Gardens is a beautiful place to spend a couple of hours, taking in the great outdoors. Have a furry four-legged friend? They’re welcome to (some areas are restricted). 

Fletcher Moss Park includes not only Parsonage Gardens, but also Botanical Gardens and a nature reserve – meaning there is plenty to explore. 

The gardens also include a cafe, full of refreshments to enjoy after a leisurely walk.  

For those who are looking for a guided walk of the Park, the volunteers of Fletcher Moss Park run a couple of ‘Health Walks’ per month, encouraging locals to get out, exercise and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the park. 

As you can see, Manchester really has it all! Whether you want to stay close to home in South Manchester enjoying the beautiful Fletcher Moss Park, or you’re feeling adventurous to hop in to the city – we’re really lucky to have such wonderful attractions around us. 

If you’re looking to get out and see more of Manchester, but feel you need a little help in doing so, why not get in touch with us to discuss the companionship of a Care Pro? We’d love to chat to you. 

A park with a forked pathway, autumn leaves scattered on the ground, and trees in various stages of changing color. - Home Instead