Top 4 ways to enjoy the sunshine in Manchester this Summer Solstice

Al-Fresco drinks and dining

In our humble opinion, there’s no better way to soak up some sunshine than to grab some food in one of Manchester’s beautiful outdoor terraces. Whether your locals in Castlefield or Spinningfields, there’s somewhere to get your dose of Vitamin D in the city centre.

The Oast House, Spinningfields

The Oast House describe themselves as the place ‘where summer reigns eternal’. Sounds pretty perfect for Summer Solstice, right?

Everyone is welcome at The Oast House’s huge outdoor terrace (including furry friends), and in the warmer months, we’d say it’s one of the coolest places in Manchester to unwind, get some scran, and even enjoy some live music.

Their menu is right up our street, with highlights including Buffalo Chicken Mac ‘N’ Cheese, Pulled Pork and Apple Pie, and (wait for it) Mint Aero Cookie Dough. Feeling thirsty? They’ve got you covered, with beer, wine, cocktails — and the rest — all on offer.

With Manifest, The Oast House’s very own free Bank Holiday music festival, going ahead on the 24th, there’s a perfect excuse to give this Spinningfields staple a try this June.

Find out more and scope out their menu on their website, or over on Instagram @theoasthousemcr.

Hatch, Oxford Road

A firm favourite of the Manchester Apartments office, Hatch is THE go-to for when you and your pals just can’t decide on the same dish. What’s that? Your mate wants salt ‘n’ pepper wings, but you’re set on a burrito bowl? No worries. You can order your cuisine of choice direct to your table, along with a whole host of cocktails, mocktails, beers, and wines, so everyone in your group stays happy (and full). At Hatch, there really is something for everyone — including a smorgasbord of vegan and veggie options, so everyone’s a winner! And with both covered and open seating, you can either catch some rays while you dig in, or cool off in the shade with your grub.

Top tip: want something to do between courses? Check out the other traders taking up residence at Hatch and do some vintage shopping, update your sneaker collection, or even get your nails done!

You can find out more about Hatch over on their website.

Parks

Nothing quite screams ‘summer’ like a lazy day in the park, does it? If kicking back in the great outdoors is your idea of heaven but you don’t fancy travelling too far from the city, then Manchester’s newest city-centre park just might be perfect for you. Here’s why you should give it a visit.

Mayfield Park

The first new city park in Manchester for over 100 years, Mayfield Park spans a stunning 6.5 acres, with plenty of green spaces for kicking back and catching some sun by the River Medlock. Open from dawn till dusk — seven days a week — the park features play areas, gardens, space for sports, and floodable meadows.

Oh, and did we mention there’s not one, not two, but SIX slides? We don’t know about you, but we’re pretty much sold.

So, why not bring some snacks, some mates, and enjoy the Summer Solstice in Manchester’s very own city-centre oasis?

Events

If you want to really make an occasion of the Summer Solstice, look no further. Here’s our favourite event in Manchester to help you mark the Solstice, appreciate the changing seasons — and give your creativity a boost.

Walk-Write Workshop with The Portico Library

The Portico Library’s Walk-Write Workshop is back again — this time to help Manchester’s creatives usher in the Summer Solstice. Join award-winning author and journalist Anita Sethi on this 90-minute session and complete writing exercises and meet likeminded people, all while you explore the area surrounding Manchester’s iconic Portico Library.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, head over to The Portico Library’s website to book your space and find out more.

How are you planning to celebrate the Summer Solstice in Manchester? Let us know over on our socials at @mapartments_.