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Manchester

How we used to live

If, like Itchy, you prefer Greta Garbo to Jodie Marsh, you'll be very happy that Manchester isn't all chavtastic chain stores and Gregg Burg-Donalds' Huts. On the contrary, the city offers plenty of good old-fashioned fun – the perfect place to engage with bygone eras.

If you want to look the part, your first stop should be the Northern Quarter for some fantastic vintage fashion. Itchy recommends Ryan Vintage, Retro Rehab and Oxfam Originals (Oldham Street) for timeless, sassy dresses and bolluck-stifling drainpipes.

After you've had a good rummage, there's a fair chance you'll be feeling peckish. Head for Mod Pop Café : a sixties-style eaterie – also on Oldham Street – offering a satisfying combination of hot Vimto and fine veggie food, consumed to the backdrop of a stomping Northern Soul soundtrack.

cafe pop manchester drink eat oldham street going out

If it's the first Sunday of the month, you'll be able to spend the afternoon at Victoria Baths, a grade-II-listed building not far from the university-end of Rusholme. Built in 1906, the building is a fascinating reminder, both of the architectural elegance, and social divisions of the Victorian era. Currently undergoing a major restoration, the pools are currently empty, so be warned: diving in for a swift paddle will only end in tears.

Alternatively, take in a film at The Plaza in Stockport. This cinema is over 75 years old and still boasts many of its original features, including an organ that's played regularly before shows. Needless to say, The Plaza's programme is as timeless as its décor, so it's more All About Eve than The Accidental Husband – thankfully.

End your day in style at Tiger Lounge (Cooper Street, city centre) – arguably the closest thing Manchester has to a gin palace. You'll be able to bask in the kitsch surroundings and, if you arrive before 8pm, revel in the rather retro happy-hour prices. Pints at £1.50 and bottles of wine at a pre-war £5. Even better, if it's a Saturday night, you'll be able to shimmy and shake to the sounds of the sixties at the venue's legendary self-titled club night.

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