Your Guide to Office Space in Manchester

A city of industry and innovation, Manchester combines rich heritage with a forward-thinking business culture, making it a thriving hub for ambitious enterprises.

Today, Manchester has transformed into a global city with a diverse and growing economy. With roots in textiles and manufacturing to the city’s growing prominence in finance, technology, and media sectors, Manchester is the largest metropolitan regional economy outside of London.

The city’s economic vitality, in part, comes down to a proactive local government, which has fostered growth with its business-friendly policies and an open desire to be known as a city of both culture and innovation. This has led to various partnerships between the private and public sectors, which has regenerated vast swathes of the city.

And businesses keen for a home in the heart of things are the ones that are benefitting. Manchester now enjoys international renown for its cutting-edge office developments, world-class connectivity, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Getting there As one of the UK’s best-connected cities, Manchester is a natural choice for businesses needing regional, national, and international links.

The city’s main rail stations provide excellent access to the rest of the UK:

● Manchester Piccadilly: The city’s central rail hub, offering direct services to London in just over two hours, as well as links to Leeds, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

● Manchester Victoria: Connecting the northern suburbs and towns, with routes to Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle.

● Manchester Oxford Road: A key station for local services and connections to the university corridor.

For international travel, Manchester Airport is one of the UK’s busiest, with direct flights to over 200 destinations worldwide, including major cities in Europe, the US, and Asia. The Metrolink tram system connects the airport and key business districts, for seamless travel across the city.

The long awaited High Speed 2 (HS2) project, meanwhile, is set to connect Manchester with Cheshire and Crewe in its phase one, with phase two extended the high-speed link to Birmingham.

Meet the Neighbours

Manchester’s business districts reflect its status as a diverse, innovative, and fast-growing city, attracting businesses across industries such as finance, technology, and creative media.

Some of its best-recognised districts carry the same public reputation as some of its London counterparts, especially for those looking to live and play in the city. There are several key business districts in the city, too, which combine residential and commercial dwellings in close proximity. They include:

● Spinningfields: Known as Manchester’s financial district, Spinningfields is home to major banks, law firms, and professional services companies. Its sleek office buildings and premium amenities make it ideal for businesses seeking a prestigious location.

● Northern Quarter: A creative hub filled with independent agencies, digital startups, and co-working spaces. Its industrial-chic vibe appeals to younger, innovative businesses looking for a more dynamic atmosphere.

● MediaCityUK: Situated in Salford Quays, this purpose-built district is a global centre for media and tech industries, housing giants like the BBC and ITV alongside a growing community of startups and SMEs.

● Oxford Road Corridor: Stretching along the city’s academic and innovation centre, this district is popular with life sciences, research institutions, and tech companies.

On your doorstep

Manchester’s food, drink, and retail offerings are second-to-none, providing a rich and varied experience for those who live and work there.

For fine dining, Mana, the city’s first Michelin-starred restaurant in decades, offers haute cuisine of the modern British variety, while Adam Reid at The French offers similar fare, contrary to its name. For dinner with a view, check out 20 Stories and its exquisite cityscapes. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Northern Quarter is brimming with quirky cafes and independent eateries, such as Gooey and Rudy’s Pizza.

Shopping options are equally impressive, from high-street favourites in Manchester Arndale to luxury brands at Selfridges and Harvey Nichols in Exchange Square. Independent boutiques and vintage stores in the Northern Quarter can be discovered for those seeking something a little different.

After-work drinks or client entertainment is well-catered for, with venues like The Ivy Spinningfields, Cloud 23 at the Hilton, and Albert’s Schloss offering stylish, sophisticated settings. Check food hall Mackie Mayor hankering for street food with a buzz.

Places of interest

Manchester’s cityscape is rich with landmarks and green spaces, offering plenty to explore and enjoy.

At the heart of the city lies St. Peter’s Square, a bustling hub surrounded by iconic buildings such as the Central Library and the Midland Hotel. In fact, walk through any sector of Manchester and you’re bound to find architectural marvels that tell the story of its industrial past and innovation-focused future.

For those seeking cultural inspiration, the Whitworth Art Gallery on Oxford Road offers a unique blend of contemporary art and tranquil parkland, perfect for sparking creativity or hosting team-building activities.

Nature lovers will appreciate Heaton Park, one of Europe’s largest municipal parks, which provides an expansive retreat from the energy of the city.