Orientation

The city center is a strangely-shaped polygon formed by Victoria Station to the north, Piccadilly Station to the east, the canals to the south, and the River Irwell to the west. Piccadilly Gardens serves as a city center of sorts and is a popular meeting spot; thousands of Mancunians make their way across this plaza during the average workday. The Northern Quarter, home to the indie scene, is located, logically, in the north of the city, a few blocks away from the Gardens. St. Ann’s Square and King Street to the west are homes to much of the city’s shopping, while Market Street borders on Arndale Centre, Manchester’s large inner-city shopping mall. Deansgate runs down the northwest side of the city center, and hosts many bars, pubs, and entertainment. Oxford Rd., running from north to south, is probably the busiest street in town, and it will take you out to the university area.