Hello, everyone. <BR>I'm off to Manchester for two weeks next week, which I'm quite excited about. I do have a few questions, however: <BR> <BR>-Is there some sort of bus pass/tram pass I can get for a week at a time? <BR>-What are the best street markets in the area for CDs records? <BR>-Any recommendations for day trips would be great. I have tenatively planned Chester, Preston, York/Leeds and have considered a few others. <BR> <BR>Thanks to everyone for the invaluable advice. It's been very helpful! <BR> <BR>Tim <BR>

1. There is a bewildering array of passes available. Some for bus only, others combinations of bus, tram and train. Look at http://www.gmpte.com/contactu/buyingti.htm <BR>2. There are some good secondhand record shops in Oldham St area just north of Piccadilly Plaza. Try Clampdown Records at 10 Newton St, Earwaves at 9 Paton St and Vinyl Exchange (perhapst best of all) at 10 Oldham St (www.vinylexchange.co.uk) <BR>3. Chester is an easy one hour train ride away from Manchester Piccadilly, with town wall, cathedral and Roman remains. York about 1.5 hour from Piccadilly, with trains stopping at Leeds en route. Leeds is basically a Victorian industrial city, but has reinvented itself in th 90's with some smart eating and shopping. I've been to Preston, but unless you have a friend there or something isn't anything to write home about (sorry, Prestonians!). While the weather isn't very good at the moment, very showery and windy, if you do get a fine day, a trip to Peak District will be worthwhile, visiting Chatsworth House and spa town of Buxton. The Lake District is about 2 hours away, as is Snowdonia in North Wales. There are tours available from Manchester (check at tourist info in St Peter's Square). Liverpool has of course Beatles connection (museum in redeveloped Albert Dock is very good, plus minibus trip to Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields etc.) Within Manchester, don't miss the Lowry Centre on Salford Quays, Science and Industry museum and maybe tours of Old Trafford or Maine Road football grounds. Check in www.manchesteronline.co.uk

Ttt

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