The Trafford Centre

The Trafford Centre is a palace-like, ever-expanding shopping and leisure destination, just inside the M60. It’s the reason why traffic slows at this part of the ring road – such is the people-pulling power of its myriad attractions.

Most arrive by car – it’s free to park – though there are regular buses and trams from the city centre and it has its own dedicated bus and tram stations. Once inside, your options are mind-boggling.

If you’re here for shopping, highlights of the 200-plus stores include Sephora, John Lewis, Selfridges and Gymshark.

If it’s the leisure attractions that have tempted you in, you’ve got an equally impressive range of choices, including a 20-screen Odeon cinema, Sea Life Manchester, Laser Quest, Legoland Discovery Centre, King Pins and more.

There’s also plentiful places to eat and drink. Head to the food court for globe-spanning, trend-riding options such as matcha shakes and snowflake gelato. Big chains like Wagamama, Five Guys, and Krispy Kreme sit alongside smaller, local operators including Tampopo, Chit N Chaat, and Blanchflower Bakery.