It can be a little bit daunting if you’re visiting the village for the first time, so we wanted to give you a head start and give you some ideas on where to head whether you’re looking for an after-work drink, a weekend of Pride celebrations, or just looking for somewhere to relax and unwind. There are even a few hidden secrets that only those in the know will really know about. Known by both the LGBT+ community and allies, the gay village is full of bars, restaurants, cafés and clubs that are perfect for any gathering.
Thirty years on and Canal Street is one of the most recognisable gay districts in the world thanks to its prominent appearances in shows like Queer As Folk and Coronation Street. While business was quiet at the beginning, with owners loosing money, the bar represented the start of things to come. Read more: Hundreds descend on Wigan town centre for annual Pride festival The area situated around Canal Street organically grew into a place where the LGBT+ community could socialise and feel safe after the opening of bar Manto in 1990. The gay village was 'willed into existence' in the late 1980s in response to amendments to section 28 laws that had previously prohibited the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Manchester's gay village is one of the best places to visit, whether you're planning a night out or just fancy exploring the legendary Canal Street area.
