The Manchester Directory

The Manchester Directory Guide:

Manchester is one of the UK’s largest metropolitan areas, the county of Greater Manchester has an estimated population of 2.6million, whilst the City of Manchester is currently home to around 498,800 people. The first mentions of this north western city in the history books begin, like many of England’s rising urban areas, with the Romans. The Roman fort of Mamucium is thought to be an early version of what we call Manchester today, and was established in 79AD. Throughout the Middle Ages, the fort grew into a manorial township, but Manchester’s real boom years were to begin in upon the arrival of the 19th century, when the Industrial Revolution brought prosperity to many of the UK’s villages and towns. Manchester expanded at an incredible rate, and due to its many links with the flourishing textile trade, became the worlds first industrialised city. Although it was becoming a major player in economic growth, Manchester was not granted the status of ‘city’ until 1853, when it became obvious that the area was largely urbanised and the population was increasing even further.

Manchester is currently home to a varying display of architectural styles that chart it’s history and growth. From Victorian designs to modern, innovative structures that make the skyline unique and recognisable. Many of the city’s historic buildings date back to when the cotton trade was in full swing, and lots of flats and apartments have been redeveloped in the former cotton mills outside the city centre. The Manchester Town Hall is a great example of the Gothic revival style, and has found fame as one of several Victorian buildings of historical importance in the country.

The City of Manchester boasts lots of famous associations, it opened the first railway station in the world and scientists developed the first programmable computer there. In addition, the city hosted the 2002 Commonwealth Games and has a strong sporting background, including two Premier League football teams, Manchester City and Manchester United. Education is another priority for Manchester’s residents, and the largest single-site university in the UK calls the city home. Because of its extensive urban economy, Manchester is ranked as a Gamma-class world city, which means it’s considered to be a point of global economic significance. Behind London and Edinburgh, the city is the most visited location by foreign visitors in the UK.