THE MANCHESTER BOMB
 |
In 1996, Manchester city centre was devasted by the largest-ever terrorist bomb
in mainland Britain. Historic buildings were wrecked and foundations damaged.
A red post-box (left), standing just yards away from the blast, remained almost
undamaged and became a symbol of strength... |
|
|
In fact, Manchester emerged from the whole experience looking far better, as it
used the opportunity to rid itself of some ugly 1970's architecture. But, to many
people, this event also seemed to mark the beginning of a new era of confidence
and determination in Manchester. |
|
|
Villages such as Haworth, home of the Bronte sisters, can be found in West
Yorkshire, which is just across the Pennines. Not too far to travel from Manchester.
|
|
 |
 <
back to part 1
The night life in Manchester is tremendous, with a huge range of clubs, pubs,
music venues, theatres, cinemas, shops and restaurants.
Chinatown offers some of the best oriental food in the country. Or, if you prefer
'Indian' food then, just south of the city centre, there is Rusholme and the 'curry
mile'.
THE SURROUNDING AREA
Manchester is surrounded by countryside which is as beautiful as it is varied.
To the south there are the counties of Cheshire and Derbyshire
with the rolling hills of the Peak District. Lancashire, to the north, is a mix
of lush greenery and the rugged and wild Pennine Hills. Cross the Pennines and
you are into West Yorkshire.
There are also many other nearby towns and cities to explore, including Liverpool,
Blackpool (right), Chester and Buxton.
CLAIMS
TO FAME
Across the world, Manchester is probably best-known for Manchester United football
club, the soap Coronation Street, bands such as The BeeGees and Oasis and for
being the location for the TV series Queer As Folk.
Traditionally, Manchester has been a target for comedians who say it's always
raining here. In fact, there is a grain of truth in this, as Lancashire's damp
climate was one of the 'features' that made it ideal for the cotton industry.
|
