July 2, 2011: Manchester - Library, Art Gallery, Industry, Steak

Today Mark's cousin, Simon, showed us around Manchester. It may not have the glamour of London, but I found the industrial history of Manchester really interesting. And the prevalent red brick construction of the buildings, contrasted with some very dramatic modern architecture, reminded me of Toronto.

We enjoyed the sunny weather, eating outside at a street festival, and having a pint outdoors at an English pub.

After touring the city we went for a delicious steak dinner with the extended family - a lovely way to finish off our European adventure!

 

Old Manchester and new

 

Cousins walking down the stairs: Simon and Mark

 

A detail of the old architecture

 

A very striking new building

 

The Museum of Science and Industry, housed in several old factory buildings

 

We saw a detailed demonstration of the textile machinery that drove the Industrial Revolution in Manchester

 

 We also saw a variety engines (many of which were invented in Manchester) in operation