What is Manchester famous for?
- 23 April 2020
- Blog
The city of Manchester is famous for more things than you would think. As you’ll soon learn from the list we’ve created below, the sporting, political and scientific worlds would not be the same without this wonderful city.
1. Atomic Theory & the Splitting of the Atom
Although not born in Manchester, John Dalton, creator of the Atomic Theory, was an alumnus in the city. Ernest Rutherford also successfully split the atom at Manchester University in 1919, a monumental achievement in the scientific world. Without Rutherford, fission and nuclear energy might never have developed in the way that they have.
2. Railways & Canals
Do you know what was the first ever artificial waterway in Britain? Well, as it turns out, it’s the Bridgewater Canal which runs through the heart of Manchester.
However, artificial waterways are not the only means of transportation to have been pioneered by the city; the world’s first railway line, running from Manchester to Liverpool, was opened in 1830.
3. Emmeline Pankhurst
For those of you who don’t know, Emmeline Pankhurst was the leader of the Suffragettes, a militant group that campaigned tirelessly for women’s right to vote during the early part of the 20th century. Born in Moss-Side in 1858, she is a key figure in UK and World social and political history.
4. Music, The Hacienda & Factory Records
Manchester’s prominent place in the annals of music history is not up for debate. Its local music scene has long been heralded as one of the most vibrant around, especially during the heyday of the Hacienda in the late 80s and early 90s.
The owners of the Hacienda, Factory Records, were also famous for signing numerous experimental Manchester bands, such as A Certain Ratio and The Durutti Column. Some of their more well-known signings include the bleak but brilliant Joy Division, who went on to become New Order, and the Happy Mondays, known for their innovative blend of rock and rave music.
With Manchester also being home to the likes of The Hollies, The Stone Roses, James, The Smiths, Oasis and The Inspiral Carpets, the list of great bands/musicians who hail from the area is virtually endless.
5. Manchester United and Manchester City
As the home of Manchester United, the world’s most famous football club, the city of Manchester is virtually synonymous with football. In more recent times, however, the team once dubbed ‘noisy neighbours’ by legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, United’s city rivals, Manchester City, have enjoyed much more success on the domestic stage.
6. Coronation Street
Whether you are a soap opera fan or not, you would have heard of the longest-running soap opera, coronation street. Set & filmed in Manchester, the first episode aired on 9 December 1960.
7. Textile Industry
The industrial revolution changed everything, and Manchester was at the centre of this change. One of the biggest components of the industrial revolution, cotton and textiles were first put on the map when Manchester became ‘Cottonopolis’ – the centre of the global finished cotton trade.
8. Vimto
Vimto is a popular drink in the UK, but did you know it was invented in Manchester in 1908. John Nicols was looking to produce a healthy drink to help battle alcohol, but instead created a distinctive soft drink made of grapes, raspberries, and blackcurrants. You will see a monument on the spot where it was created, with a giant bottle of Vimto.
Droylsden Glass
Although we might not be as well known in Manchester as some of the things on these lists, we are highly renowned home improvement specialists in the area. Installing everything from high-quality windows to secure doors and lavish glazed extensions, we’ve got everything a homeowner in Manchester needs to enhance their home.
We have currently suspended trading due to the COVID-19 outbreak, however, we’d still be delighted to receive and answer any enquiries. So, if you’d like to get in touch with us, please call 0161 292 1122 or contact us online.
