Manchester, a vibrant and dynamic city, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. From iconic landmarks and cultural attractions to a wide range of dining and entertainment options, there's something for everyone.
Discover the Excitement of Manchester
Welcome to Manchester, a city celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and dynamic atmosphere.
Manchester boasts a range of highlights, including:
World-Class Attractions
Explore iconic sites such as the Museum of Science and Industry, the stunning John Rylands Library, and the thriving Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and creative energy.
Culinary Delights
Enjoy a diverse culinary scene with award-winning restaurants, trendy eateries, and local markets offering everything from gourmet dishes to traditional comfort food.
Cultural Riches
Immerse yourself in Manchester’s cultural heritage with its impressive theatres, galleries, and music venues. The city’s vibrant arts scene is complemented by historic architecture and lively festivals.
Green Spaces
Switch off in the city’s beautiful parks and gardens, including Heaton Park and the tranquil Whitworth Park, providing perfect spots to unwind around your busy Congress and Expo schedule.
Traveling to BSAVA Congress and Expo
Traveling by road, air & rail
Manchester is one of the best-connected and accessible cities in the UK, and because of its central location, it can provide a superb hub for your travels.
By Rail
There are three main inter-city stations in the city centre: Piccadilly, Oxford Road and Victoria. With direct rail services from across the country getting here is easy. Operators include: TransPennine Express , CrossCountry Trains , East Midlands Railway , Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast
By Road
Manchester is well connected to the rest of the UK via excellent motorway links. The M60 ring road connects the city to motorways north, south, east and west. With London and Edinburgh a four hour drive, and under two from the West Midlands.
By Air
Manchester Airport is the third-largest airport in the UK. It is connected to the wider transport network via its own train and Metrolink tram stations as well as excellent road infrastructure. Check for the latest information at manchesterairport.co.uk or on the Manchester Airport app.
Getting around the city
Getting around the city and surrounding area is easy once you're here thanks to the fleet of buses, trains and trams. The compact nature of the city centre also makes walking easy!
Transport for Greater Manchester offers a wealth of information and planning tools, to help you take the stress out of planning your journey.
By Bus
Within the city centre, Free Bus provides a free ‘hop on, hop off’ service linking all of the main rail stations, shopping districts and business areas. There are three Free Bus services which operate on circular routes
By Metrolink or Train
Metrolink is Greater Manchester’s tram network that can be used to travel across the city-region. There are 99 stops on the network and lines connecting north, south, east, and west. Purchase a ticket from the on-stop ticket machines before boarding a tram or tap in using contactless payment on your mobile device.
By Bike
Consider hiring a bike or e-bike to make your way around the city, and from hotel to venue. You-Well have produced a handy guide to the best options to try!
Parking information
Onsite Parking
Due to the City Centre location we highly recommend using public transport to get to the event! However if you are travelling by car, there are various NCP run car parks you can use.
Manchester Central NCP car park is located below the venue; with 643 spaces including 15 disabled bays.
Booking Online & ParkPass App
Pre-book via the NCP website and pay only £14 for 24/hrs parking, with discount code MCEXHIB14
Have the NCP ParkPass App? Whilst you cannot pre-book via the App, you can still benefit from the discounted rates when you register before you travel to the venue! Download the ParkPass User Guide for further details
Stay a Little Longer in Manchester
Why rush home? After the Congress ends, take the opportunity to explore Manchester's vibrant culture, events, and landmarks. From world-class museums to lively entertainment
Live Comedy
Rob Beckett: Giraffe, Opera House Manchester | 19-21 March Read More
Live Music
The Dead South, Manchester O2 Apollo | 21 March Read More
Tom Gamble, Bridgwater Hall | 23 March Read More
Art + Culture
Walking Tours Read More
Pride & Prejudice, The Lowry | 18-22 March Read More
Museum of Illusions - Explore the impossible! Read More
Food + Drink
The Big Manchester Bake Read More
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