Jo Milligan
Writer
Summary
Jo Milligan is one of the main writers at Confidential Guides. She has almost fifteen years experience as a writer and copywriter specialising in writing about food, restaurants, bars, events and family days out in the North West of England. Her work includes features, reviews, articles and practical guides designed to help readers make the most of their city and beyond.
Experience
Jo writes a range of pieces for Confidential Guides. She understands the local food scene and as a parent to two young children, has a lot of experience in planning days out and activities for families. Her articles, features and guides are underpinned by knowledge, authority and an informed but conversational style.
Areas of Expertise and Interest
Food, drink, and things to do across Manchester, Liverpool, and the wider North of England including:
- Restaurants and dining
- Bars, cafés and hospitality venues
- Family activities, days out and things to do with children
- Music, gigs and record shops
- Theatre, art and culture
Review Approach
Jo’s writing is grounded in direct experience and on-the-ground research. She focuses on what readers need to know — from atmosphere and setting to practical details — ensuring recommendations are clear and considered. Her writing is designed to entertain readers but also to help them discover new places and activities, or get the most out of well-known attractions.
Editorial Transparency
Confidential Guides (part of Confidentials) is independently written by our editorial team. While premium listings are paid-for, they are not written by or approved by clients, ensuring unbiased and independent coverage.
Author Posts
Engine Social Dining
Sowerby BridgeEngine Social Dining serves up a delightful array of global small plates where Spanish boquerones rub up against masala cod...
Bavette
HorsforthBavette in the Leeds suburbs wouldn't be out of place in the heart of Lyon. Dishes are traditional French and...
Norman’s Neighbourhood Kitchen
KirkburtonQuality wines, stunning small plates made from local, seasonal produce and an atmosphere that's hard to replicate in city centre...
Bib Gourmand restaurants in Manchester and the North West
From new inclusions to long-standing favourites, here are the Bib Gourmand restaurants in Manchester and the North West.
Butter Bird
AncoatsThe food at Butter Bird is excellent – if you like chicken, and things cooked in chicken fat. A pleasant-looking...
Diggle Lock
DiggleDiggle Lock is a cafe located next to the Huddersfield Narrow Canal towpath, so as you'd imagine, both walkers and...
Rock Over Climbing Sharston
SharstonRock Over Climbing Sharston is the newest climbing centre from the respected Rock Over group - and it's one of...
Half-term in Manchester, come rain or shine
Jo Milligan shares her tips and ideas for where to go over the school holidays - including a free festival in Manchester for families.
12 vegan and vegetarian friendly restaurants in Manchester city centre
Plenty of restaurants cater to vegans and vegetarians but many see a plant-based diet as an afterthought. We've chosen these...
Manchester Central
The Hot 20: the most popular Liverpool restaurants
Want a snapshot of which restaurants and bars in Liverpool are 'hot' right now? The Confidential Guides Hot 20 is...
The Hot 50: the most popular Manchester restaurants
Want a snapshot of which restaurants and bars in Manchester are 'hot' right now? The Confidential Guides Hot 50 is...
Manchester restaurants: 2025’s biggest new openings
The only constant is change on the Manchester restaurant scene. Here's the pick of this year's new openings - 15...