Manchester’s gaming scene continues to get bigger and bigger every year and now one of the UK’s biggest VR arcades is coming to the city centre too.
Starting out in 2017 as London’s first and largest virtual reality arena, DNA VR are now making their way to Manchester with their latest location and it promises to be next-level (gaming puns are unavoidable with this stuff, leave us alone).
Promising some of the best and most immersive ‘alternative’ activities you’ll find anywhere in 0161, DNA VR’s arcade is packed out with an impressive library of games, over 100 virtual arcade challenges and even virtual escape rooms.
From surviving a zombie apocalypse to visiting the Great Pyramids, exploring the depths of the ocean, fighting off dragons or defending the Earth from an intergalactic disaster, there’s a wide range of genres on offer at DNA VR Manchester. We sincerely want to bring our arachnophobic friends along for this:
With the capacity to host up to 16 various virtual sessions (19 people) all at one time, each offering true escapism and unparalleled immersion, this place is sure to become a go-to for works dos, birthday parties, family days out and more.
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It doesn’t have to be a group event either, visitors can experience this place either solo or as part of a team, with virtual reality modes on offer across 70 different games, each providing hours of gameplay in a truly unique entertainment experience.
But it doesn’t stop there: you can even enjoy a free-roam arcade, offering explorative experiences, more escape rooms and horror game modes for up to four players, such as Hospital Of Horror, Space Station Tiberia and Depths Of Osiris.
Credit: DNA VR
Now, on the subject of horror, those requiring a little dutch courage can also enjoy a tipple both before and after the game if you need to decompress from fighting off a horde of monsters, as DNA VR Manchester will be fully equipped with a minibar, serving an array of drinks in their futuristic foyer.
You had us at tipple.
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Many famous faces have already come through doors down south — everyone from Idris Elba, KSI and Chris Hemsworth — and this place is sure to fill up from the second launch day hits. Speaking of…
DNA VR Manchester’s grand opening is taking place on Wednesday next week (22 March) and the best part is, even for those looking to try it from out of town, the new venue is right in the city centre and just a 15-minute walk away from Piccadilly Station.
With two Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards to their name in just a few years of being open and regular crowds piling into their Camden, Hammersmith and Battersea sites, it’s clear these lot know what they’re doing and we can’t wait for DNA’s VR Masters to repeat their winning formula up north.
Situated in the Core building on Brown St, M2 1DH, you can book your first-ever DNA VR experience HERE. Vouchers for Christmas bookings are already available and you can even use the discount code MANCHESTER10 for 10% off your first visit. Say no more.
The best things to do in Greater Manchester this week | 18 – 24 May 2026
Emily Sergeant
May will soon be drawing to a close… but not before another bank holiday weekend first, of course.
That’s right – we’ve got yet another bank holiday coming up this weekend, and half term starts too, so that means there’s obviously loads of events and activities to be getting up to across Greater Manchester – with everything from flower festivals, to vintage fairs, and loads more on the lineup.
Finding it a bit tricky to pick what to do though? No worries. We’ve chosen a few of the highlights for another edition of our ‘what’s on‘ guide.
Both free things and those that’ll set you back a few pennies are featured.
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National Trust Blossom and Bloomtown 2026
Greater Manchester
Monday 18 – Sunday 31 May
Blossom and Bloomtown 2026 / Credit: The Manc Group
The blossoms are blooming everywhere you look, and the National Trust’s popular Bloomtown programme full of trails and events is back once again so you can appreciate them in all their glory.
From ornamental magnolias in gardens to hawthorn scattered across the countryside, each spring, the most beautiful blossom covers the UK in swathes of pink and white, and you really don’t have to go far to experience the beauty of this season either, as there’s plenty of blossom to discover right on our doorstep in Greater Manchester.
Whether you’re walking through the city centre on your way to work, enjoying a spot of lunch in the park, or going on a little local adventure with your family, Bloomtown has something for everyone.
Find out more about all the events happening here.
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Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos
Science and Industry Museum
Monday 18 May – onwards
Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos / Credit: Science Museum Group | BBC
Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos has made its world premiere at the Science and Industry Museum, and is inviting visitors to explore our wondrous Solar System.
Fresh off-the-back of the new BBC Children’s and Education TV show, Horrible Science, the ‘thrilling’ new exhibition encouraging visitors to ‘do science the horrible way’, and join both scientists and supervillains to unveil the secrets of space.
The new exhibition propels families up into space where mystery, intrigue, and rocket-loads of silly and surprising science await. You’ll get to venture through a series of cosmic zones, walk in the shoes of astronauts, explore the life-giving energy of the sun, marvel at mysterious moons, and discover far-off weird worlds.
Did you see that the spectacular 360° immersive experience that’s currently lighting up Manchester Cathedral has extended its run in our city?
That’s right – due to ‘overwhelming demand’ and following a roster of impressive reviews since making its UK debut earlier this year, LUMINISCENCE has now extended its run at Manchester Cathedral until the early summer.
LUMINISCENCE combines 360° video mapping, new orchestral arrangements of iconic songs, and a narrative story celebrating everything that makes Manchester and its residents so special.
Visitors are invited to step into a ‘spellbinding fusion’ of light, sound, and storytelling. Find out more and get tickets here.
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NEW OPENING – Gooey
Oxford Road
NEW OPENING – Gooey / Credit: The Manc Group
Stop the press, there’s a new Gooey cafe in Manchester… and this one does meal deals.
That’s right – this is a local business that just goes from strength to strength, as the city’s legendary bakery and cafe has branched out with a new location on Oxford Road, and it’s their biggest site yet for brunches, bakes, and to-go lunches.
There’s just no stopping that damn purple berry from the Amazon, as another açai bowl spot has opened up in Manchester city centre.
This is Plant Blends – your one-stop-shop for everything superfood that’ll make you feel super good.
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But it’s not just bowls they’re serving. Here you can also grab smoothies, fresh juices, avocado on toast, matcha and coffee. Basically, everything you’re craving after your morning yoga class or after one too many the night before.
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NEW OPENING – Marleo Little Sicily
Northern Quarter
NEW OPENING – Marleo Little Sicily / Credit: The Manc Group
A tiny Italian cafe that started life in a shipping container has opened its very own cafe and deli in the Northern Quarter.
It was already up there with some the most authentic Italian food in Manchester, but now with the new Marleo Little Sicily site, owners Maria and Leo are bringing the tastiest arancini, pizzette, and fresh focaccia sandwiches right to the heart of the city.
Manchester Flower Festival 2026 / Credit: Supplied
Manchester’s annual Flower Festival is returning this bank holiday weekend, filling the city centre with fresh blooms.
Now in its ninth year, and always billed as being one of the most colourful and ‘Instagrammable’ events in the annual calendar, Manchester Flower Festival is a fabulous floral spectacle and it’s expected that it will attract thousands of visitors into Manchester city centre.
This is your chance to celebrate the start of summer, as the city comes alive with stunning floral displays, green installations, and dozens of free events, all alongside outdoor dining and entertainment.
Deansgate Mews Festival and Mews Fest Fringe / Credit: Supplied
Manchester’s much-loved grassroots music festival is back next month, and this year there’s some new fringe events too as part of Mews Fest Fringe.
Set across a handful of popular venues up on Deansgate Mews – including The Lion’s Den, Low Four Studios and The Mews Bar – Deansgate Mews Festival is returning for its sixth year this May bank holiday weekend, and more than 40 music artists will be performing on a mix of outdoor and intimate indoor stages.
The inaugural Mews Fest Fringe will be hosted in a large unit within Great Northern Warehouse, which will be transformed into a ‘vibrant’ hub celebrating music, art and independent culture.
Thrill seekers, this one’s for you, as Zip World Manchester is launching its new Forest Tubing experience this week, and it’s bringing the UK’s longest outdoor tubing slide is coming to Heaton Park.
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The new family‑friendly outdoor adventure gives visitors the chance to soar along two slides, winding through woodland at one of the largest parks in the North West.
Suitable for children aged four and above, visitors can book an hour-long session – with unlimited rides during that time slot – and either ride solo, or share the experience with fellow adventurers.
Wildlife conservationist and TV presenter Steve Backshall is hosting a new stage show at Chester Zoo this half term.
The new show will take visitors on a ‘fascinating’ journey into the lives and ancient origins of sharks, which are by far one of the planet’s most extraordinary and misunderstood predators.
Featuring real shark teeth and jaws, lifelike replicas, and historic footage, during each 30-minute live show, audiences will get the chance to travel back in time and discover the earliest sharks that once swam our shorelines, how they have evolved over millions of years, and what makes them such remarkable animals today.
National Trust x Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trails
North West
Saturday 23 May – onwards
National Trust x Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trails / Credit: James Dobson | Annapurna Mellor
National Trust and Pokémon have teamed up for an exclusive trading card game and immersive trail this half term.
The partnership is set to bring together the places the National Trust cares for and Pokémon’s spirit of play and discovery.
Exclusively designed for the National Trust, the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trails are going to be running throughout May half term at 14 National Trust places nationwide, combining ‘imaginative play’ with ‘gentle physical activity’ inspired by Mega Evolution Pokémon.
Find out where to get involved and book tickets here.
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The Future Is Ours 2026
Manchester City Centre
Sunday 24 May – 19 June
The Future Is Ours 2026 / Credit: Supplied
The annual Future is Ours festival is back at the end of this week, and it’s set to be a celebration of youth creativity centred around the importance of creativity as a transformative tool for supporting mental health and wellbeing.
Delivered by mental health charity, 42nd Street through their dedicated creative space The Horsfall, The Future Is Ours is a unique arts festival amplifying and celebrating young people’s creativity, voice, actions, and ideas.
Putting young artists at the forefront of the work, allowing them to say and create what they want in the way they want.
Did you know there’s an adorable open farm in Bolton where you can meet and hold baby bunnies, lambs, chicks, AND more?
This is Smithills Open Farm, and it’s one of the most wholesome family days out you’ll find this spring.
Here on this picturesque family-run farm nestled within 70-acres of countryside, you can feed the sheep and llamas, ride a tractor to visit the donkeys, or even head into the barn to see the cows, horses, and piglets.
Plus, they host ‘Pets Corner’ sessions throughout the day too, where you can meet and hold many different baby animals (including the softest little goats and chicks we ever did see.)
They even have a farm shop and ice creamery where you can buy local honey and other goods to take home with you.
Find out more about the farm and plan your trip here.
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Or what about that Chester Zoo has been named the UK’s best zoo for the third year in a row?
Chester Zoo has been named the UK’s best zoo for 2026 / Credit: Chester Zoo
That’s right – the UK’s biggest charity zoo has officially been named the best zoo in the country by TripAdvisor reviews, with the zoo having claimed a record 11,666 ‘excellent’ ratings for the first time too, making it even more of a cause for celebration.
Not only has the zoo’s strong focus on conservation and unforgettable visitor experiences made it the best in our country, but this has also earned it a place among Europe’s elite.
Chester Zoo’s CEO, Jamie Christon, says he is ‘over the moon’ with the zoo’s new title.
How about that Printworks is currently hosting a UK-wide art competition for students?
Do you know an aspiring artist? Students aged 16 and over are invited to bring the ocean to life in a brand-new creative arts competition launched by one of the UK’s leading entertainment destinations, Manchester’s Printworks.
The venue has now opened entries for UK students from sixth forms, colleges, universities, and art colleges across the country to take part in an exciting new art competition.
The winning design is set to be showcased on Europe’s largest digital ceiling.
Fancy saving up to 50% off at some of Manchester’s top restaurants?
A bit of a daft question really, we know.
Well thankfully, EatClub – the free app that’s easy to download, and you can start using right away – has now arrived in Manchester, and there are discounts such as up to 35% off Habbibi, Lina Stores, and Salvi’s to take advantage of, plus many more to explore.
Simply download the app, book your walk-in slot, and enjoy. You don’t have to tell the restaurant either – just pay using your EatClub card, and it’ll sort the discount for you.
Just like we do every month, we’ve rounded up some of the best things we got to eat in April, so if you’re on the hunt for somewhere new to eat in May, then we’ve absolutely got you covered as there’s plenty of places across the city region.
It’s been another jam-packed month of insanely delicious eats, and we’ve been lucky to have a bunch of new openings too.
Featured Image – Manchester BID | The Manc Group | Supplied
Things To Do
After All 2026 – the affordable grassroots music festival happening in Northern Quarter
Danny Jones
Grassroots music event After All Festival is returning to Manchester this weekend, with rising local artists and affordable tickets.
Now well over half a decade since it was founded, All All Fest takes place in the heart of the Northern Quarter, and this year they’re proving that their slow and steady approach to backing the best new up-and-coming bands at core intimate venues is more important than ever.
With plenty of previous acts having impressed in recent years, we’re looking forward to seeing how 2026 stacks up in comparison to its predecessors.
Increasingly prolific native group Dirty Laces are set to headline the whole thing, Manilla Times are locked in, and Bolton’s very own James Holt also stands out on the lineup, just to highlight a few.
As the festival continues to grow in size and popularity, they have obviously had to scale things up even further this year.
That being said, beloved live music spot and Manc institution, Band on the Wall, is among the chosen arts spaces for this latest iteration.
BoW will be offering up their 500-capacity main room to the organisers for the very first time, serving as the de facto main stage of After All Fest 2026.
Joining them will be the Rose and Monkey next door, as well as cult favourite pub, Gullivers on Oldham Street, who have a long history of supporting local musicians and the arts in general.
And would you look at that, now you’ve got all the stage splits and set times, too.
Labelled by Dead Records’ Rob Fiddaman as “one of the UK’s most exciting new music festivals”, homegrown DJing legend Dave Sweetmore has also described it as “unique in so many ways”, hailing it as a “brilliant event with a great atmosphere to discover new music.”
Having been ourselves on multiple occasions since its inception in 2019 – both as Audio North off-duty and as punters before then – we can’t recommend it highly enough.
The latest edition takes place at 12 noon onwards this Saturday until 2am on Sunday, 17 May, and while the cheapest early bird tickets (£16.50) are long gone, general admission tickets are still available, with prices starting from just £20. Grab yours HERE before they sell out.
It’s not the only live music event worth being a part of this month…
Danny Jones -
16th March 2023 
