Manchester Gay Village

Canal Street, now the centre of Manchester's infamous Gay Village, was built in 1804 as part of the Rochdale Canal. After the area became deserted following the decline of the cotton industry, it was reclaimed by gay men and sex workers to form the city's red-light district.

The pedestrianised street, which runs along the west side of the Rochdale Canal, is lined with gay bars and restaurants. At night time, and in daytime in the warmer months, the street is filled with visitors, often including LGBT tourists from all over the world.

“The Village is one of the safest places to come to in Manchester city centre. It is a vibrant community and will continue to be so for all.”

Manchester has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, centred around the world famous Canal Street – home of “The Village”. A beacon of celebration in the city, the Gay Village is a must for any visitor to Manchester.