Essential Things To Do On Your Manchester Stag Weekend
Things to see and do
Updated December 2025
Manchester has risen in popularity to become one of the UK's top stag do destinations. It’s a metropolitan marvel with two Premier League football teams, a legendary music scene, and nightlife that rivals London (at half the price).
But what should you actually do? Beyond the standard paintball and pints, Manchester has some unique gems. From driving tanks to playing darts in a fairground, here are the 10 essential ideas for a legendary Manchester stag weekend.
1. The National Football Museum
The Vibe: The Beautiful Game.
Manchester is football obsessed. The National Football Museum is the world's biggest and best football museum. Packed with memorabilia (including the 1966 World Cup ball) and interactive penalty shootout games, it’s a must-visit for any fan. You can even get a photo with the Premier League Trophy!
2. Visit Bunny Jacksons
The Vibe: Dive Bar Heaven.
If we could only recommend one bar, it would be Bunny Jacksons. It’s loud, it’s American, and it serves chicken wings for 20p. Yes, really. With free pool tables and a house band playing rock and soul, it is the perfect place to start (or end) your night without spending a fortune.
3. Flight Club Darts
The Vibe: Competitive Socialising.
Forget the dusty dartboard in the back of a pub. Flight Club has reinvented darts with digital scoring, instant replays, and table service. It’s fast-paced, competitive, and feels more like a fairground than a sports bar. It’s a brilliant way to get the group bonding over beers and bullseyes.
4. Manchester United / City Stadium Tours
The Vibe: Hallowed Ground.
Whether you are Red or Blue, touring Old Trafford or the Etihad is a pilgrimage. Walk down the tunnel, sit in the dugout, and see the dressing rooms of legends. It’s a great morning activity to clear the head before the drinking starts again.
5. Black Dog Ballroom (Northern Quarter)
The Vibe: Pool, Pizza & late Nights.
The Northern Quarter is the cool, bohemian heart of Manchester. The Black Dog Ballroom is a basement paradise inspired by New York speakeasies. It has pool tables, a diner serving late-night food, and a soundtrack that keeps you there until 4 am.
6. Record Shopping in the NQ
The Vibe: Music History.
Manchester gave the world Oasis, The Smiths, and The Stone Roses. Pay homage by visiting the independent record shops in the Northern Quarter like **Piccadilly Records**. It’s a great way to kill an hour and pick up some vinyl (or just soak up the cool) while nursing a hangover.
7. Tank Driving / Paintball
The Vibe: Heavy Metal.
Just outside the city, you can access some heavy machinery. Manchester has excellent sites for **Tank Driving** and **Paintball**. There is nothing quite like crushing a car with a 15-tonne vehicle to cure a headache.
8. Arley Hall & Gardens (Peaky Blinders)
The Vibe: Shelby Style.
Free Activity: Fans of *Peaky Blinders* will recognize Arley Hall as Tommy Shelby's country estate. It’s a bit of a drive, but walking around the grounds makes you feel like a gangster (without the risk of prison).
9. The Science and Industry Museum
The Vibe: Big Toys.
Free Activity: It sounds educational, but it’s actually full of massive steam engines, planes, and interactive exhibits. It’s free to enter and a great indoor option if the Manchester rain makes an appearance.
10. Stay in a Party Apartment
The Vibe: Private Pad.
Don't split the group up. The best way to do Manchester is by booking a **Party Apartment** in the city centre. Our top pick is 36 Blues, which sleeps large groups and features a hot tub. Having your own space for pre-drinks is a game-changer.
Ready to Plan?
The Stag and Hen Experience has been creating bespoke weekends since 2009. If you want to plan a package in the UK or abroad, get in touch on 01202 566100 or browse our full range of Manchester Stag Packages to get started.