Since the ancient Indian philosophical system was introduced to the West in the 20th century it has soared in popularity – so much so that ‘yoga’ was one of the most-searched-for words on Google in recent years. Studios are popping up everywhere offering a huge variety of different styles to try your hand at, from meditative Yin Yoga to the traditionally more physically demanding Ashtanga style.

Manchester is no exception. As our focus on health and well-being has increased, the city has seen a surge in yoga centres catering to people looking for a holistic approach to mental and physical health. Even for a seasoned yogi, the choice can be overwhelming – in a good way! There are loads of great yoga teachers in the region, but to keep things simple we’ve narrowed the list down to our top 5 places to do yoga in Manchester city centre – and all of them are within walking distance of our Manchester Apartments.

The Life Centre

Originally founded in London, the Life Centre opened a northern branch in 2016, and it’s quickly become one of the best places to try out yoga in Manchester city centre. That’s thanks to the huge range of classes they offer, including most of the popular yoga styles as well as Yoga for Sport, Pregnancy Yoga and various workshops.

The Life Centre, Office A1, 253 Deansgate Mews, Manchester M3 4EN. £12 drop-in

Yoga Express Manchester

Offering ‘compact classes for people on the go’, Yoga Express is perfect for those with a busy schedule that would struggle to commit to a 90-minute yoga class. They offer regular 45-minute slots open to all levels, with no need to book. Why not pop in for a stretch next time you’re in the Northern Quarter.

Yoga Express Manchester, 25 Church St, Manchester City Centre, Manchester M4 1PE - £7 drop-in

Ashtanga Yoga Manchester

Ashtanga yoga involves performing a set sequence of poses in order. It is more rigid than Vinyasa yoga and is often thought to be more physically demanding. A great place to try it is Ashtanga Yoga Manchester, which offers courses for beginners as well as regular drop-in classes.

Methodist Central Buildings, Central Hall, Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JQ - £10 drop-in

Optimised Personal Wellness

Run by a team of medical professionals, Optimised offer something a little different. Promising ‘no incense or chanting’, they are committed to making yoga an accessible part of a healthy lifestyle. They even have an app, making it even easier to book yourself onto classes.

Optimised Personal Wellness, Lower Ground Floor, 64 Bridge Street, M3 3BN - £10 taster class

Bodywise

An article on the best spots for yoga in Manchester city centre would not be complete without a nod to Bodywise. Located in a beautiful old cotton warehouse in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, it’s a lovely place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the city., Their focus is on holistic health and they offer an extensive range of drop-in yoga classes to cater to a wide crowd, including Baby Yoga and Yoga for Chronic Fatigue, Exhaustion & Insomnia. They’re also perfectly located to grab a bite to eat after class in the Earth Café, a vegetarian café and juice bar.

The Life Centre, Office A1, 253 Deansgate Mews, Manchester M3 4EN. £12 drop-in