Didsbury is a vibrant suburb of Manchester full of plenty to do and an equally thriving restaurant and bar scene. We’ve put together a short guide for spending the day in this gem of a place.
Parking and Transport
There are fantastic public transportation links into Didsbury such as regular bus services and trains into East Didsbury station. However, if you are travelling by car then there is free parking in East Didsbury located near the train station and Parrs Wood Retail Park. There are also pay and display car parks on Warburton Street and Wilmslow Road, close to many of Didsbury’s shops and restaurants.
Shopping
If you are after a unique retail experience then head to West Didsbury as there is a range of eclectic shops.
Lose yourself in the Didsbury Village Bookshop as they stock a huge range of second hand books piled up to the ceiling. The Didsbury High Street is also full of a range of independent retailers as well as some familiar brands, selling everything from fresh fish to flowers.
Eating
Didsbury is bursting with an array of eateries including neighbourhood restaurants, upmarket delis and quirky cafes. One of Didsbury’s newest and tastiest residents is HISPI, a bistro from talented chef Gary Usher who is also the man behind Sticky Walnut and Burnt Truffle. For somewhere with an urban eating vibe then take a visit to SoLita, or if you fancy something a bit more traditional then dine at Albert’s Restaurant & Bar serving up some British classics. Vegetarians have been flocking to Simon Rimmer’s Greens Restaurant in West Disbury for years and it remains as popular as ever. The Art of Tea is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon as you can sip on some of their speciality loose leaf teas and browse the adjoining Didsbury Village Bookshop. The Rose Garden on Burton Road is a family-run restaurant that is also well worth a visit.
Drinking
Didsbury is jam packed full of places to go and grab something a little bit stronger than a cup of tea and it’s wide range of bars and pubs cater for everyone. Folk has a reputation as being one of the friendliest places in West Didsbury as well as having a stellar cocktail menu or you can make a visit to Didsbury’s cosiest pub, The Railway. The award winning bistro and bar, Volta, is a cosy but hipster setting to spend your evening. Chalk Bar and Grill on Wilmslow Road is the newest addition to the bar scene in Didsbury.
Things to do
If you want to get away from the Northern hustle and bustle then take a trip to Fletcher Moss Park and Parsonage Gardens and enjoy the stunning botanical surroundings and wildlife. If you really want to relax and unwind then Exhale is the perfect calming environment that combines health and beauty. You can book appointments with one of Exhale’s holistic wellness experts or opt for a pampering beauty treatment. The Makers Markets are held in West Didsbury on the last Sunday of every month, located on Burton Road. These markets are home to some of the quirkiest and most talented stall holders Manchester has to offer as they showcase tasty treats, stunning artwork and much more. The markets even host some live entertainment with performances from local artists and dj’s.
