Sarah Tierney
Editor
Summary
Sarah Tierney is the editor of Confidential Guides and one of its main writers. She has over 20 years of experience as a journalist and copywriter, covering restaurants, bars, hotels, travel, fitness, culture and things to do in the North of England, particularly Manchester and Liverpool. She has also written two novels which are published by Bloodhound Books.
Experience
Sarah writes across Confidential Guides producing guides, reviews and features. Her work spans independent neighbourhood spots, major city openings, and regional hotel stays, with a focus on clarity, practicality and genuine experience.
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
- Hotel stays and city breaks
- Seasonal and themed activities and days out
- Fitness and wellness
- Independent shops
Review Approach
Sarah’s recommendations are informed by first-hand visits and independent editorial judgement. She assesses venues based on overall experience — including food, service, atmosphere and value — with the aim of giving readers a good sense of what to expect and whether it’s right for them. Her work highlights new openings, established favourites and lesser-known venues, with the aim of helping readers discover places worth visiting.
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
The best restaurants in the Northern Quarter
From seafood to superfoods, brioche to bowls of ramen... here are the best restaurants that Manchester's Northern Quarter has to...
Parklife to Psych Fest: The best Manchester music festivals for summer 2026
Take a look at Manchester's best music festivals for 2026. Get the lowdown, check the line-up and plan your summer.
Sounds of the City
Manchester City CentreSounds of the City is a summer season of outdoor gigs by big name acts at Castlefield Bowl in Manchester.
Manchester Village Pride
Gay VillageManchester Village Pride was set up early in 2026 after Manchester Pride went into voluntary liquidation following the 2025 festival....
Buckle and Boots
MarpleThis annual weekender on the edge of Stockport won the 'Best Festival' award from the British Country Music Association in...
The best vintage shops in Manchester
Slow fashion is growing fast - here's our guide to the best vintage shops in Manchester with options spanning the...
2026’s Michelin star restaurants within 2 hours of Manchester
Check out our list of Michelin star restaurants within two hours' drive of Manchester.
The best restaurants for Mother’s Day in Liverpool
Make sure Mum knows how much you appreciate her. Book a 'Thanks, Mum' dinner at one of our top ten...
The 10 best restaurants in Chinatown, Manchester
Wondering which are the best restaurants in Chinatown, Manchester? Here's our recommended spots for delicious dim sum, roast meats, noodles...
15 healthy places to eat in Manchester city centre
Looking for nutritious, wholesome scran that won't sabotage your healthy eating goals? Here's our recommendations for good-for-you food in Manchester...
The best gyms in Manchester for 2026
Thinking about making some changes this year? Start your research here - it's our guide to the best gyms in...
Kids eat free in Manchester: 6 restaurants parents will like too
Our pick of the kids eat free deals in Manchester for the Easter holidays including Purezza, Yard & Coop and...