Things to do in Manchester in August

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Overview

August is a good time to visit Manchester. The weather is usually mildly cool and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 51—66°F (11—19°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Manchester during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Manchester Museum, explore the Manchester Art Gallery, take a canal boat tour of the Bridgewater Canal, and more!

Manchester has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your August trip to Manchester. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to August. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Manchester in August. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout August, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Manchester in August

Top experiences in August
Visit the Manchester Museum
This world-class institution offers a diverse range of exhibits and collections that explore natural history, archaeology, and anthropology. In August, the museum features special programs and activities for visitors of all ages, including interactive workshops, guided tours, and hands-on experiences that engage with different aspects of the museum's vast and fascinating holdings. Whether you're interested in ancient civilizations, wildlife conservation, or cultural diversity, the Manchester Museum provides an enriching and educational experience for curious minds.
Explore the Manchester Art Gallery
This renowned cultural institution houses an extensive collection of fine art, decorative arts, and design from the 17th century to the present day. In August, the gallery features special exhibitions and events that highlight different aspects of its collection, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with diverse artistic perspectives and historical narratives. Whether you're interested in traditional paintings, contemporary installations, or decorative arts, the Manchester Art Gallery provides a rich and immersive experience for art enthusiasts.
Take a canal boat tour of the Bridgewater Canal
This historic waterway, which was the first true canal in Britain, offers scenic boat tours that provide a leisurely and immersive way to explore Manchester's industrial heritage and natural landscapes. In August, the canal is particularly picturesque, with lush greenery, blooming flowers, and tranquil waters creating a serene and idyllic setting for a relaxing boat ride. It's a peaceful and charming way to experience the city from a different perspective and appreciate its historical and environmental significance.
Attend the Manchester Caribbean Carnival
This annual event takes place in August and celebrates the vibrant culture and traditions of the Caribbean community in Manchester. The carnival features a colorful parade, live music, dance performances, and authentic Caribbean cuisine, offering a lively and festive atmosphere that showcases the diversity and creativity of Caribbean culture. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Caribbean right in the heart of Manchester.
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Explore the Northern Quarter
This vibrant and eclectic neighborhood is known for its independent shops, art galleries, vintage stores, and street art. In August, the Northern Quarter comes alive with outdoor markets, live performances, and cultural events that celebrate the area's creative and bohemian spirit. Whether you're looking for unique fashion, contemporary art, or trendy cafes and bars, the Northern Quarter offers a dynamic and alternative shopping and entertainment experience.
Visit the Heaton Park
This expansive public park offers a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions, including a boating lake, ornamental gardens, woodlands, and historic buildings. In August, the park hosts various events and festivals, such as outdoor concerts, food fairs, and family-friendly activities. It's a great place to enjoy nature, relax in a beautiful setting, and participate in community events that showcase the park's natural and cultural heritage.
Take a guided tour of the Manchester Town Hall
This iconic Victorian building offers guided tours that provide insight into its rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore the grand ceremonial spaces, including the Great Hall and the Sculpture Hall, and learn about the town hall's role in the city's governance and civic life. The tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Manchester's past and its enduring legacy as a center of culture and politics.
Attend the Manchester Pride Festival
This annual event takes place in August and is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. The festival features a colorful parade, live music, dance performances, and a variety of food and drink vendors. It's a great opportunity to show support for the LGBTQ+ community and enjoy a fun-filled day of entertainment and festivities.
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Holidays in Manchester in August
August

There are no holidays in Manchester in August

Other notable holidays
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Weather in Manchester in August

Temperatures on an average day in Manchester in August

The average temperature in Manchester in August for a typical day ranges from a high of 66°F (19°C) to a low of 51°F (11°C). Some would describe it as mildly cool and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Manchester, July, has days with highs of 67°F (19°C) and lows of 52°F (11°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 43°F (6°C) and lows of 34°F (1°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Manchester in August based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in August
66°F
highs
51°F
lows

General weather summary

Mildly cool and breezy
Feels like
35%
Chance of rain
0.132 in
Amount
15.5 mph
Wind speed
83%
Humidity
14.8 hrs
Daylight length
5:47 AM
Sunrise
8:36 PM
Sunset
45%
Cloud cover
Sweater
What to wear
What to wear in August
With an average high of 66°F (19°C) and a low of 51°F (11°C), it generally feels mildly cool and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something moderately warm like a sweater
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Best attractions for Manchester in August

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Manchester has to offer for travelers in August, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Manchester that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Manchester for August.
Science And Industry
1. Science And Industry
4.5
(177)
Bar
Museums
Stylish, hidden-away bar with a speakeasy vibe known for a variety of imaginative cocktails.
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
2. John Rylands Research Institute and Library
4.8
(1049)
Library
Art gallery
Neo-gothic library (part of University of Manchester) with rare books & manuscripts, a cafe & shop.
Etihad Stadium
3. Etihad Stadium
4.6
(26090)
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Huge, modern sports venue, hosting football matches & stadium tours with behind-the-scenes access.
National Football Museum
4. National Football Museum
4.3
(6262)
National museum
Museums
More than 140,000 football-related items, plus a kids' discovery zone & skills-testing simulators.
AO Arena
5. AO Arena
4.4
(20860)
Arena
Sights & Landmarks
Massive indoor arena hosting big-name music and sporting events for a 21,000-capacity crowd.
Manchester Museum
6. Manchester Museum
4.6
(7341)
Archaeological museum
Museums
Free, wide-ranging global collections including mummies and dinosaurs, plus a busy events programme.
Manchester Art Gallery
7. Manchester Art Gallery
4.6
(9090)
Art gallery
Museums
Artworks spanning 6 centuries plus changing historic and contemporary exhibitions and family events.
Palace Theatre Manchester
8. Palace Theatre Manchester
4.4
(7677)
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Leading provincial space for performances including theatre, opera, ballet, musicals and concerts.
Manchester Cathedral
9. Manchester Cathedral
4.6
(5657)
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
CofE building with 13th-century origins, chapel of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment & guided tours.
Gay Village
10. Gay Village
Neighborhoods
The Gay Village is centred on buzzing Canal Street, a pedestrianised road beside the Rochdale Canal, lined with casual cafes, and lively gay bars. Revellers pack the area during the annual Manchester Pride Festival, which involves a parade and live music. Over in Sackville Gardens, the Alan Turing Memorial celebrates the revered gay mathematician and WWII codebreaker. Manchester’s Chinatown neighborhood is nearby.
Royal Exchange, Manchester
11. Royal Exchange, Manchester
Building
Concerts & Shows
Landmark building with Corinthian columns & ornate glass domes, housing a shopping arcade & theater.
Manchester Central Library
12. Manchester Central Library
4.6
(977)
Public library
Library
Monumental 1930s central library of Manchester, with a domed reading room, free Wi-Fi & a cafe.
People's History Museum
13. People's History Museum
4.5
(3034)
Museum
History Museums
Former Edwardian pumping station housing displays on local & national working-class life.
Opera House Manchester
14. Opera House Manchester
4.5
(5685)
Opera house
Concerts & Shows
Theatre named for its short-lived role as an opera house, now the setting for popular entertainment.
Market Street
15. Market Street
4.1
(40)
Tram stop
Transportation
Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
16. Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
4.3
(38521)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Large, glass-fronted mall with high street fashion, electronics and homeware shops, plus food court.

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Manchester?

Get inspired for your trip to Manchester with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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