What to do in Manchester with a 10-year old

[WhenInDoubtSmileandPout]

Hi, I'm going to be in central Manchester this weekend with my 10-year-old daughter. This is a bit of a treat to reward her good behaviour. What can we do that will feel special? Recommendations for nice places to eat/have coffees as well as things to do will be very gratefully received.

Thanks!

Does DD like sport or museums or shopping? What food do you both like?

Without knowing anything, I'd suggest the Museum of Science and Industry, or possibly John Rylands. Maybe a trip to Junkyard golf, go bowling, or do some axe throwing!
For food, Rudy's or Noi Quattro do great pizza, and Gooey is amazing for ridiculous doughnuts and cookies.

We might be going into tier three ,so there might not be much open?

We liked the People's History Museum, and that cafe was nice enough (mine are always happy with hot chocolate ). Also we got the tram out to media city and had a good look around up there, that was a nice walk.

John Rylands was interesting. Art gallery was good.

There's a skyscraper hotel with a cafe on a high up level we meant to visit but didn't get round to it.

But yes, now is not a good time for visiting Manchester is it

Seems Manchester is heading for 3 tier lockdown by the weekend. Even the Telegraph is suggesting this. So maybe nowhere will be open. I think I'd put my plans on hold.

I wouldn't bank on being able to go OP unfortunately. Maybe see if you can change your destination?

I've heard Manchester is not going to Tier 3 for the time being - I don't think it will take long for it to be reclassified but I think you might be ok this weekend, OP.

The Science Museum is great, by the way.

The Beetham Tower is close to the science museum. The cafe is expensive but you can order a soft drink for £3 which is really the price you pay to sit there and enjoy the view. I treat my children in the holidays sometimes and the staff are lovely. Your ears pop in the lift on the way up! The Ryland’s is great too and nearby

Hi everyone, thanks for the ideas! Keep them coming

Just FYI, OP, the 'cafe' in the Hilton/Beetham tower is actually a hotel bar. It's mostly OK for children, and is probably quiet at the moment, but it is definitely a bar.

Thanks, Gobby. I was planning to take her there, but if it's a bar maybe not.

I would take a 10 year old to the Alchemist (one in Spinningfields and one behind Piccadilly Gardens; Spinningfields in a better location IMO) for a non-alcoholic but magical cocktail e.g. one that bubbles up. That would make her feel very grown up and rewarded. The Corn Exchange has a variety of restaurants in a lovely old building.