Things to do this August

Summer may be in full swing, but there is still plenty to discover across the Oxford Road Corridor before the autumn season begins.

From major exhibitions, theatre and live music to family days out, film, literature and Manchester Pride celebrations, August offers a packed programme of culture across the city’s knowledge quarter.

Whether you’re looking for something new or revisiting a favourite venue, explore what’s on this month.

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More things to do

Michaela Yearwood-Dan

The Whitworth Until 18 October 2026

The Whitworth presents the first institutional show in the UK by Michaela Yearwood-Dan, a rising star in contemporary painting.

Elemental

Manchester Poetry Library Until 31 October 2026

Jean Sprackland’s exhibition at Manchester Poetry Library explores Goyle, Chert, Mire, poetry, landscape, and language in the Blackdown Hills.

To See and Be Seen by Conor Collins

HOME Until 31 October 2026

Inspired by the Queer Up North archive, Conor Collins explores queer identity, visibility and belonging through a powerful new body of work.

Everyday Art School: Still Care

The Whitworth Until 18 November 2027

Still Care is an exhibition developed in partnership with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust working with bereaved parents.

Reflections: Sangat and the Self

The Whitworth Until 31 August 2027

A participatory exhibition inviting reflection on personal and collective wellbeing through art.

Stephen Galbraith In Conversation

Blackwell’s Bookshop 6 August 2026

Stephen Galbraith discusses debut Northern noir The Wythenshawe Dandy at Blackwell’s Manchester with Nicholas Royle.

Queer Badge Making Club

SEESAW 21 August 2026

Create custom badges in this beginner-friendly queer badge-making workshop with Rudy Valley ahead of Pride.

Golomb

The Abbey 26 August 2026

Golomb play a raw, fuzzed-out live set of US indie rock and psych-leaning guitar music this summer at The Abbey.

Where to go

People laughing on University Green one of the many parks and green spaces on Oxford Road

Green Spaces

Oxford Road Corridor has a number of historic parks and contemporary green spaces to enjoy.

A cocktail from Brickhouse Social, one of the many spots to get a Cocktails on Oxford Road

Cocktails on Oxford Road

Oxford Road is packed with a great range of bars where you can get your fill of cocktails, spirits and fizz.

Hello Oriental - Rice Paper Pho

Hello Oriental

Hello Oriental is an exciting food experience based in Circle Square with every possible variation on Asian Fusion cuisine in one place.

A glass of beer at Bundobust Brewery

Bundobust Brewery

Bundobust Brewery in the St James Building on Oxford Street is the latest, and arguably the best addition to the ever-growing Bundobust chain.

North Taproom Circle Square

North Taproom

North Taproom serves up everything from small-batch craft ale to high-end cocktails alongside a well-designed menu of Asian street food.

Where to stay

The lobby of Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester's Oxford Road Corridor

Kimpton Clocktower Hotel

Kimpton Clocktower Hotel offers an unforgettable stay on Oxford Road Corridor in one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings.

Midland Hotel Lobby Manchester Oxford Road Corridor a perfect place if looking for Where to stay around Oxford Road

The Midland Hotel

The Midland Hotel is one of the most famous places to stay in Manchester, and one of Oxford Road Corridor’s most lavishly decorated hotels.

Image of the chandelier at Holiday Inn Express Oxford Road

Holiday Inn Express

The Holiday Inn Express on Oxford Road is a centrally located hotel that offers visitors great value for money.

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