About Manchester

Built on the back of the cloth trade and centre for the blossoming Industrial Revolution of the 18th century, Manchester has long been an integral cog in the history of the country. Originally brought to the area by Flemish settlers, cloth-making became the catalyst that brought about exponential growth to the region, with steam powered machinery making Manchester's cotton mills the most productive in the world.

As both canal and railway systems were expanded in the area transportation of goods became easier and Manchester was placed firmly at the centre of the industrial world, being seen as the benchmark for a modern city. By the turn of the 20th century Manchester was home to a number of household names such as Rolls Royce and Kelloggs, even the fledgling Ford Motor Company built Model T's at Trafford Park.

In recent years Manchester has been massively regenerated, partly due to the IRA bomb that exploded in the city centre in 1996, and now the city is the most influential business hub in the region. Probably the most recognisable symbol of the city of Manchester worldwide is its - and indeed the country's - most successful football club, Manchester United. Based at the massive Old Trafford stadium (capacity 70,000), Man U are not only hugely accomplished on the pitch, but are a giant global brand in their own right with their status as the world's richest club.

During the late 80's and early 90's Manchester was at the centre of a cultural explosion with bands like the Happy Mondays and the Stone Roses heading up a new wave of musicians, many of whom were performing at that time at the legendary Hacienda Club. Many of these bands' members - Shaun Rider, for instance - led a very rock 'n' roll lifestyle and so the term 'Madchester' was coined. These days Oasis lead singer Liam Gallagher is keeping the term alive singlehandedly!

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