Manchester is a vibrant metropolis, famous for its industrial heritage, historic sites and an exciting arts and culture scene. If you live here or are planning on visiting, one of the first things you will see in Manchester is how there are so many roads that lead you, the tourist, towards different areas and locations within the city. But, of all these roads, there’s one that rises above them all in terms of notoriety – Deansgate.
In this post, we take a look at why Deansgate is the most famous street in Manchester, how it has evolved over the years and the key landmarks and things to do that are found along this iconic road. We’ll also discuss how to get a car on Deansgate, which is a great way to truly embrace the heart of Manchester.
Why is Deansgate the Most Well-Known Street in Manchester?
Deansgate – Most of the city’s oldest and most historically significant buildings were demolished in the 1960s, Deansgate is (however) the longest road in Manchester city centre. It runs right through the centre of the city, and it’s one of the city’s busiest streets – for tourists and locals. Stretching from the southern reaches of Manchester to the northern corner of the area, the road links dozens of neighbourhoods, cultural hubs and business districts. And here’s why Deansgate punches above its weight:
1. Historical Significance
Deansgate isn’t just a new road, you know! It has hundreds of years of history. It has a long history, as a former part of the Roman road, and it anticipated the urban expansion of the city; and now the street is one of the most visited and busiest streets of the city. Historically, Deansgate was the site of numerous major buildings, which included warehouses, mills, and wholesale markets during Manchester’s industrial past. Today, it binds up Manchester’s industrial heritage with its sleek commercial and cultural present.
2. Central Location
The road stretches southwards from the River Irwell near Castlefield in the north and runs close to the southern boundary of the city, making it one of the major routes through the city. As the main access road between many of Manchester’s most famous landmarks, it’s not difficult to see why Deansgate is the city’s most notorious. On foot, by car or public transport, Deansgate is a must-visit route to discover Manchester’s architecture, shopping, eating and nightlife.
3. Connection to Key Landmarks
One of the reasons Deansgate is so well renowned is its proximity to some of Manchester’s leading tourist attractions. So, here are some of the main attractions and the ones that are found on it, or near it:
- Manchester Cathedral: This powerful medieval church is another major historical site where visitors can come and marvel at the extremely rich heritage of Manchester.
- Deansgate Locks The Deansgate Locks are situated close to the Castlefield district and have an array of restaurants and bars, by nightlife venues. It’s one of Manchester’s most popular spots for a night on the town.
- The John Rylands Library: Deansgate is home to this magnificent Gothic library, which will fulfil all of your historical and architectural dreams.
- Beetham Tower (Hilton Tower) – Manchester’s tallest building with amazing views across the city. It sits on Deansgate, which makes it sit pretty in the skyline.
- Science and Industry Museum: This museum, a brief stroll from Deansgate, is great for anyone curious about Manchester’s industrial history.
With all these points of interest along the way, it’s no wonder that little old Deansgate is considered one of the city’s busiest roads.
4. Shopping and Dining Destination
There’s also no shortage of shops, restaurants and bars in Deansgate, perfect for visitors who want to experience Manchester’s extensive shops and dining culture. High-fashion stores can be found alongside chain stores on Deansgate. Notable shops on Deansgate include the following:
- The Arndale Centre: Situated just off Deansgate, this is one of the largest city centre shopping malls in the country.
- Spinningfields: A business district home to plenty of high-end restaurants, bars and luxury shops.
- Whether you want to shop till you drop or indulge in fine dining, Deansgate is the crème de la crème.
- Deansgate: A guide to driving along it and negotiating the street
- Deansgate Driving down Deansgate is your opportunity to feel Manchester, and this can be pretty tough, in your face, stuff just like most city streets, especially during rush hour! Here are some suggestions for driving the legendary road:
Anticipate Traffic at Rush Hour
Deansgate, as one of Manchester’s main cross-city roads, also carries substantial traffic, particularly during rush hours. If you are driving down Deansgate, you probably want to do some planning, especially if you need to be somewhere by a certain time.
1. Pay Attention to Parking Regulations
Deansgate Parking is quite difficult on Deansgate – particularly in the busier areas of the street. You may find one of several pay-and-display parking spots, but these can be hard to come by during peak hours. If you intend to park on Deansgate, always check the local parking restrictions and with a pocket full of change, as you will need to pay for parking.
There are also several car parks within proximity if you want to leave your car for longer, such as in Spinningfields.
2. Be Alert for Bicyclists and Pedestrians
Deansgate is a busy road for both cyclists and pedestrians, especially at the commercial and shopping centre of the city. Note: Cyclists use dedicated bike lanes, and pedestrians cross the street, especially near important intersections and crossings.
3. Explore on Foot When Possible
Deansgate is drivable, but it is better explored on foot, especially if you want to venture through its shops, eateries, and historical attractions. The city centre of Manchester is very walkable, and Deansgate can often be a cumbersome drive.
Conclusion
If there is one road in Manchester that you will recognise, it is Deansgate. Within it lies a paradox of history, culture and current style. ONE of the city’s busiest roads for vehicles is now also one of the most walkable, having been given an added burst of colour and interest. From historical landmarks to recently opened shopping malls, Deansgate links them lot.
Whether you’re looking to learn to drive in Manchester or you’ve already passed and just want to improve your city driving, Learn and Drive UK can assist. Our professional trainers take you on a full-day route to make sure you feel prepared to tackle a route taking you into busy streets such as Deansgate and beyond.
Want to start the engine of your driving in Manchester? Come and visit us at WWW.LearnandDrive.UK and book your lesson today!