Eight curious things to do in Manchester

This genuinely unique museum near Manchester is the UK’s only museum dedicated to the hatting industry. Housed in a Grade II listed, restored Victorian mill, in Stockport, where the UK’s fur felt hat-making industry originally concentrated, it’s a weird and wonderful day out that will give you a brand new appreciation of the cultural significance, and long history, of headwear in the UK. 
Open daily

Known as Manchester's "emporium of eclecticism", Affleck’s in the Northern Quarter is a very different kind of shopping mall to what you might be used to, boasting over 60 traders, ranging from British classics like Fred Perry to independent jewellers, barbers, fashion brands and more. Take a look inside – you never know what you might find, after all. 
Open daily

In late May, the world’s biggest festival celebrating women, girls and non-binary people comes to Manchester. Run by the WOW Foundation, this year’s event will see speakers including Australia’s first woman Prime Minister Julia Gillard, actors Maxine Peake and Zawe Ashton, author Chimene Suleyman, and activist Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, for a weekend of thought-provoking conversations.
May 24-26

Get yourself down to Manchester’s AO Arena to see one of the UK’s best-loved comedy legends in his element. This show has been selling out arenas up and down the country for a reason, so if you want to know why, you’d better see it for yourself while you can.
Apr 5- Dec 21

Whether you’re wanting to catch all the sights in an unusual way, or you’re a fan of a tribute act (think Elvis or Dolly Parton), there’s probably a Manchester River Cruise that’s up your street, with tickets starting at £35. These boat trips meander along Manchester Ship Canal, offering a way to see the city from a perspective that you might not have seen before.
Various dates

Celebrate some of Manchester’s most beloved cultural assets at the city’s Festival of Libraries. All 133 of Greater Manchester’s libraries will be taking part, and venues across town will open their doors for live music, library exchanges, dance and theatre, poetry commissions, and a writing trail. It’s all free, too. 
June 13-16

There are few Mancunians more legendary than Liam Gallagher. Experience a bit of city history this summer at these special shows where the Oasis vocalist will perform the band’s classic debut album, Definitely Maybe. Pull on your bucket hat and round up your mates for a huge helping of nostalgia – this will be a special one. 
Jun 15, 16, 27, 28

Seeing Manchester in all its glory while also trying mercilessly to beat your friends in a treasure hunt? Sounds like an excellent afternoon to us. The Great Game Treasure Hunt pits you against the pals in your group as you dash across the city following clues, in order to claim a prize at the end. X marks the spot! 
Various dates

Keen to find more curious goings-on around the UK? Discover the Hendrick's Gin hub here. Or if you are in more of a stay-at-home kind of mood, discover where to buy Hendrick's Gin here.