Ask a local what the weather is like in Manchester, and they’ll probably tell you to always be prepared for rain. While drizzle can be forecast at any time, it’s a common misconception that it’s the rainiest city in the UK. Summers are often sun-soaked, and the winters are bright and crisp.
Weather aside, Manchester is a city with multiple personalities. Which one you’ll experience largely depends on the season. Whether you’re eager to attend a buzzing music festival or prefer crowd-free attractions, discover the best time to visit Manchester below.
High Season: June to August
Best Time for Festivals and Fine Weather
This is peak time in Manchester, when warm – and hopefully dry – weather entices both locals and travelers to the city’s parks, beer gardens, and canalside bars. June, July, and August are also the best months for festivals in Manchester, including Parklife, a magnet for music lovers, and Manchester Pride, one of the largest festivals of its kind in the UK. Consequently, hotel prices are at their highest; booking a few months in advance is advised.
Shoulder Season: September to December
Best Time for Football and Festive Markets
This is a prime time for a trip to Manchester when the streets are adorned with attractive autumn foliage. Temperatures can stay mild until November; however, pack an umbrella as unexpected rain showers aren’t uncommon.
September marks the beginning of football season, attracting fans to watch their teams play at Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium. Hotel prices can rise steeply, so double-check match dates if you’re hoping for an autumn getaway.
Tourism picks up with the arrival of the city’s Christmas Markets, typically opening in mid-November. These markets attract hordes of visitors keen to indulge in tasty street food or shop for last-minute gifts. Want to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere without the crowds? Visit mid-week.
Low Season: January to May
Best Time for Crowd-Free Attractions and Cheap Hotel Deals
Once the Christmas Markets close, Manchester becomes noticeably quieter. This calm period offers visitors the chance to save a few pounds on hotels and reduces time spent standing in queues. However, expect some of the worst weather conditions, including incessant spring rain showers and the occasional snowy day.
January
January is a quiet month and typically the coldest in Manchester. To combat the post-Christmas slump in business, many restaurants across the city offer 50% off deals. If you’re not participating in Dry January, consider attending the Manchester Beer and Cider Festival, which typically takes place towards the end of the month or early February.
February
February historically sees less rain than other winter months; however, snow is not uncommon. Inside attractions tend to be less busy, making it a great time for museum visits. Chinese New Year festivities at the start of the month bring vibrancy to the city, with red lanterns and a lively Dragon Parade in Manchester’s Chinatown.
March
Temperatures begin to rise in March, although it’s often quite rainy. Nevertheless, it’s a cost-effective time to visit due to decreasing hotel rates. Cultural events abound, particularly for movie enthusiasts at the international film festival, along with celebrations of Irish culture at the Manchester Irish Festival.
April
Despite the term “April showers,” Manchester experiences less rain than prior months. Spring is in full bloom with beautiful scenes in the city’s parks. At Easter, families gather in Spiningfields for the annual Duck Race along the River Irwell.
May
The weather can be unpredictable in May, with recent years showing both heavy rain and early heatwaves. However, this month marks the start of the music season with the Manchester Jazz Festival, featuring over 80 performances across the city, many of which are free.
June
With June arriving, the city buzzes with excitement. This month hosts Manchester’s best festivals, including Parklife, which draws over 80,000 attendees to leafy Heaton Park. June also celebrates all things Mancunian during Manchester Day with food, drink, music, and numerous family-friendly activities.
July
In July, temperatures typically soar to their highest, reaching up to 68°F (20°C). On sunny days, locals and visitors spill into the streets from bars or gather at the city’s top alfresco dining spots, embracing the summer vibes.
August
If fortune favors, the fine weather may persist into August. This month features Manchester Pride, highlighted by a massive parade and engaging concerts with globally renowned pop stars.
September
As summer festival excitement winds down, the weather often remains pleasant into September. This month also marks a peak for football fans as the season gains momentum, leading to higher hotel prices. Food enthusiasts can delight in the Manchester Food and Drink Festival.
October
October presents stunning autumn scenes and a variety of seasonal events, making it one of the best months to visit Manchester. The October half-term can cause a surge in accommodation prices as families flock to the city for Halloween festivities.
November
November is often one of the wettest months in Manchester. However, it’s also a fantastic time for seasonal festivals. The sky lights up with fireworks for Bonfire Night on November 5th, and the beloved Christmas Markets kick off in mid-November.
December
The arrival of winter ushers in a drop in temperatures, and as Christmas approaches, the festive markets get busier. This period becomes one of the best times to indulge in shopping, whether visiting markets or exploring the city’s bustling malls.
