Please sign in to post.

Quick Stop in Manchester and then London Ideas

I’m flying into Manchester on May 10. Will be arriving at about 10:00 a.m. I’m then meeting friends in the evening and training to St. Bees to do the first half (6 days/90 Miles) of the Coast to Coast Walk. I’m then training from Kirkby Stephen to London solo (female) for about 4-5 days before flying home.

  1. Looking for any tips on killing time in Manchester for about 5-6 hours. Lockers at train station I assume? Any safety tips as a solo female traveler for that area?

  2. Tips on places/neighborhoods to stay in London. I’ve travelled to Europe solo once before but I wouldn’t say I’m experienced. Tips on the safest neighborhoods appreciated. I’ve been to London before about 10 years ago. I’ll probably hit some of the top sights again but am interested in the less touristy spots this time around too.

Thanks!

Posted by
82 posts

I've never been, but this is where I would go if I had a day in Manchester: Elizabeth Gaskell's House. http://elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk/whats-on/
She is the author of North and South, Cranford, Wives and Daughters, Life of Charlotte Bronte, etc. She was a contemporary of George Eliot, the Bronte sisters, Charles Dickens and very well known in her time and, I like to think, becoming more well known again. I've been on a kick of reading her works so I would love to visit her house. :-)

Posted by
1334 posts

In Manchester, I’d avoid Piccadilly Gardens. It’s not unsafe during the day, but you can expect constant panhandling. I’d pick one of the museums. I like the People’s History Museum if your politics are left of centre or the National Football Museum if you have any interest in football (soccer). The Manchester art Gallery is small but nice. All these museums are free, but it’s nice to leave a donation.