When people think of Manchester, it’s often football, factories or music that comes to mind. For those looking to inspire and reward their teams during a conference or trip to Manchester, the city-region offers something far more vibrant: a bright, walkable city with a rich industrial soul, a food scene the rivals any European hotspot, and a people-powered energy that leaves a lasting impression on its visitors.  

Recently, event professionals and MICE planners from across Europe joined Manchester Convention Bureau for a familiarisation trip and reshaped their understanding of this iconic city.  

Manchester combines the infrastructure of a major international city with the accessibility and warmth of a compact urban centre. Delegates often comment on how easy it is to navigate, “like London, but walkable and more grounded.” With two centrally located railway stations, direct flights to over 200 destinations, and world-class venues within walking distance of leading hotels, the city is built for seamless logistics. 

One of Manchester’s unique selling points is its ability to blend heritage with innovation. Former cotton mills, industrial warehouses and cultural institutions have been transformed into distractive meeting and event venues, spaces that spark creativity and collaboration. Planners on recent FAM trips praised ‘extraordinary and flexible locations’ and ‘‘beautiful character-filled spaces, ideal for mid-size incentive groups’’ Whether you’re hosting a strategy session in a Victorian bathhouse or a networking reception in a contemporary art gallery, the city’s spaces offer built-in storytelling and atmosphere. 

Manchester’s food and drink scene has emerged as a key highlight for MICE buyers. Delegates consistently noted the breadth and quality of the city’s culinary offerings, ranging from traditional British fare in historic pubs, to globally inspired tasting menus and innovative cocktail experiences. According to feedback, ‘the food scene is modern, outstanding and a lot of fun’ and restaurants were repeatedly described as ‘top tier’, ‘perfect for groups’ and ‘a key highlight of the programme’. These experiences aren’t one offs; the city’s culinary scene works as a powerful tool for networking and engagement.  

Located on the doorstep of the Peak District, Manchester offers immediate access to green space and outdoor adventure, all of which is ideal for incentive travel and wellness-focused programming. Cycling tours, countryside lunches and visited to local producers prove a refreshing contract to city-based sessions and are high rated for smaller groups seeking immersive experiences.  

Perhaps what truly sets Manchester apart is its people, professional, welcoming and deeply proud of their city. Local hosts, guides, and suppliers leave a lasting impression on visiting groups. Event’s organisers consistently highlighted the city’s hospitality, describing it as ‘authentic, warm and welcoming’. One delegate noted ‘We felt like VIPs throughout the entire programme, the quality of service from guides to hotel staff was exceptional.’  

For MICE planners seeking a destination that offers logistical ease, venue diversity, distractive delegate experiences, and outstanding hospitality, Manchester presents a compelling case. A city steeped in innovation and history, and ready to support your business objective, whether that’s to meet, reward, celebrate and connect.