Four Go Mad in Manchester!

We arrived by train - it rained, the wind blew, the sun came out, we walked, we gawped, we shopped, we ate cake, we saw Urban Stuff - we had a grand time!

Highlights included a newly kindled love affair with the 'Northern Quarter' - indie, boho, crafty, artisan shops, bars, cafes set amongst semi-derelict, red-bricked buildings. So many, many good things but these two come with the highest recommendations:

Astonishingly fab cakes including the 'Brokeback Battenburg', plus Carrot & Toasted Coconut and White Chocolate & Poppy Seed

Probably the best teashop in the Northern Hemisphere - Teacup on Thomas St - where cakes reign supreme, the tea is heavenly and the service, utterly charming. Cannot recommend this highly enough! Go!! If we lived in Manchester we'd probably live here..

Gorgeous Pistachio & Rosebud Tea flavoured sponge and our slab of amazing White Choc & Poppy Seed cake

 Secondly, the fabulous Junk Shop - vintage clothing shop with a sublime retro style and vibe all of it's own. Browse delicious clothes upcycled from vintage fabrics, vintage and vintage styled jewellery and accessories; you can even enroll in a class to make your own lovely clobber!

Divine dresses, pretty vintage styling everywhere! The Junk Shop - sustainable fashion made in Manchester 

Plus, the amazing Afflecks - couldn't get the kids (or me!) out of this place!

Floors of goth, hippie, biker, Teddy Boy and Girl gear, posters, bespoke jewellery, vintage clothing and footwear - so much fun under one roof, including the best, little hairdressers ever - Miss Effie got her barnet styled beautifully at the Northern Cutter. They don't need my recommendation, they are already legends, but I was impressed at the level of care and attention give to one wee scrap of Argyll Attitude, and her lollipop!

Manchester - we love you, and we'll be back!!

View from the top of the National Football Museum - yes, really!