Waterstone's on Deansgate is the largest bookshop in the North West. Spread out over several massive floors, you can find just about every book you could ever want here. They are known for their regular launch events and book signings and there is a free in-store magazine available to keep you informed about what is going on. Classical music or mellow jazz fills the store which is tastefully decorated in dark wood throughout. There is another small branch on St Ann's Square.
This store was established in 1857 and is very proud of its long heritage. The shoes, however, are thoroughly modern - some gorgeous, strappy wedge heels can be found here as well as traditional brogues and smart office lace-ups. The store's style is relaxed with warm, subdued lighting and a big, comfy sofa in the center where you can sit and try on the shoes of your dreams. In addition, at the back of the shop they offer a small choice of Church's hand-made footwear. There is also a branch at the Trafford Centre that stocks a similar range. For more information call +44 845 602 8168 or visit their website.
The Arndale is a massive, sprawling shopping center on Market Street. While the exterior is fairly anonymous, within you will find a clutch of well-known retailing names such as Benetton, Miss Selfridge, Ravel, Mothercare and Dixons. The Warner Bros. Studio Store is the undoubted focal point of the centre's foyer and provides occasional light shows and family entertainment. Other attractions include a large indoor market situated on the lower ground level and stalls range from bargain electronics, shoes and clothes, to one of the best fresh fish markets in Manchester.
Trafford Center is a vast shopping and entertainment complex. It houses over 280 different retailers and is filled with every chain-store imaginable including Mango, Muji, H & M and one of the only Selfridges outside London. Alternatively, you can stroll through the gargantuan 1600-seat food court, that is the Orient, which has its own streets and restaurants evoking New Orleans, New York, Italian and Chinese themes. There is also a 20-screen Odeon cinema and even accommodation at the on-site Orangery.
Vivienne Westwood is known as one of Britain's most flamboyant designers and this small but uniquely presented shop is a perfect example of her style. The shop-front is all varnished black wood and gleaming glass with a teak and polished brass sign hanging above. Walk through the narrow entrance and up some small steps to the second level, where racks of extravagant clothes fight for your attention with some outrageously over-the-top crystal chandeliers - adding to what is an impressively bizarre shopping experience.
This is probably the biggest and best of the famous Shudehill bookshops. The large floorspace is filled to the ceiling with books of all kinds with music playing loud enough to be heard on the street outside. Heavily into science fiction—most specifically satisfying the needs of Star Trek fans—other shelf listings include everything from Shakespeare to sociology. The Exchange is open seven days a week and they also pay cash for any books, CDs, videos or LPs you might wish to sell.
Base Camp is a major walking, camping and backpacking specialist that has been established in the area for over 25 years. It stocks a range of outdoor clothing and boots from famous names such as Hi-Tec and Timberland as well as tents and everything else you might need for a major expedition. For those interested in more action-packed pastimes, ski clothing and equipment can be hired. In addition, a ski servicing facility is also available on request.
This beautiful mock Tudor shop known as the Church Street Antiques, specializes in period furniture and genuine fine arts and paintings. Professionals in buying and selling, they invite you to bring along your potential Rembrandt or Picasso to see if it's worth anything. They also deal in a variety of beautiful antique furniture including tables, chairs, cabinets, dressers and bookcases. In addition there is an excellent website that is updated monthly with all new items to the store, so you can check things before you visit.
One of central Manchester's premier tailoring companies, Leslie Powell is famous for its intricately and impeccably tailored suits and jackets for both men and women. Patrons are free to visit their work rooms and showroom to see the craftsmen in action and view the wide range of styles and designs available. Three generations of the Powell family have been involved in creating hand crafted suits and jackets which can be produced in a choice of over 3000 fabric designs and they also insist that prices can be surprisingly affordable too. Although closed on weekends, special appointments can be made if required.
Colette Hazelwood is a master craftswoman when it comes to fine jewelery. Visit her shop in the Manchester Craft and Design Centre where you can view many of her fine pieces. An even larger selection is available from her online store. All pieces are hand-crafted and can be altered upon request. Truly a great souvenir, gift, or indulgence!
Dorothy Perkins, Burton, Miss Selfridge, Topshop, Topman, Playboy and many more brands all under one roof is what you should expect from this store located at Manchester Fort Shopping Park. A multi-brand and easy-to-shop store, Outfit offers a very unique and stylish collection, clothes, footwear, lingerie and accessories are all available here. Started in 1995, it has 33 stores spread across US and is still expanding. The prices are affordable and there is something for everyone at Outfit.