Manchester’s name reveals Roman connections and indeed the ruins of its Roman fort are to be found in the Castlefields area of ‘Central’ Manchester. However it then became an insignificant suburb of neighbouring Salford until the industrial revolution. It can make a convincing case for having been the world’s first industrial city. Although, surprisingly to many, Manchester includes some splendid garden and wild areas, it is its industrial archaeology that really shouts to be seen.
The modern canal age started here with the Bridgewater Canal to bring coal from the Duke’s mines. The first commercial train station for passengers ran from Liverpool Road Station, preserved as part of the splendid Museum of Science and Technology in Castlefields.
Manchester is well up on the art side as well. The Halle Orchestra is based in the new Bridgewater Hall, the Royal Exchange Theatre attracts London West End actors and productions and there are several museums and art galleries of note. [edit text][editors]
