Native Places

Native Aparthotels & Apartments In London

Blog

London After Dark: The Best Places To Visit In The City After The Sun Sets.

As the sun dips below the London skyline, the city transforms into a realm of endless possibilities. Here’s your passport to a different side of the city’s nightlife. 

 

The Comedy Store: The Comedy Store on Oxendon Street is the holy grail for comedy enthusiasts. This centrally located venue hosts world-class stand-up acts that’ll have you in stitches. The atmosphere is electric, and the laughter is infectious.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – 1a Oxendon Street, London, SW1Y 4EE 

 

Leake Street Arches: If you’re staying at Native Bankside, take a short walk to Leake Street Arches. These are eight former railway arches that adjoin London’s longest legal graffiti wall and have been brought back to life with a collection of restaurants, bars and entertainment spaces focused on celebrating urban culture.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – Leake St, London SE1 8SW 

 

Mercato Metropolitano: Near Native Mayfair, Mercato Metropolitano is a converted church that is home to a collection of sustainable, authentic food, offering two floors of worldwide cuisine. Mercato Metropolitano brings diverse food practices and ingredients from different countries and cultures into urban spaces. The building hosts a rooftop terrace, wine cellar, German craft brewery and community hub, and its historic architecture makes it a one-of-a-kind attraction to visit.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – St Mark’s, North Audley Street, London, W1K 6ZA   

 

Leadenhall Market: A stone’s throw away from Native King’s Wardrobe, Leadenhall Market is a vibrant and charming marketplace with a distinctive blend of boutiques, shops, restaurants, and bars. Dating back to the 14th century, its stunning architecture and unique selection of establishments make it a hidden gem for those seeking a unique experience in a historical setting.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 1LT 

 

The Cheese Bar: Near Native Hyde Park, The Cheese Bar is a cosy restaurant on a canal boat offering rooftop seating and an entirely cheese-based menu. All dishes are freshly made and accompanied by a range of natural wines, local craft beer, spirits and cocktails.

Interested? – Find Out More.

Stomp To – Paddington Basin, Sheldon Square, London, W2 6DL

 

There are many things to get up to in London after sunset. Whether you’re giggling at a comedy club, strolling around a market or dining on a canal boat, the city of London has an abundance of things to get up to.  

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Manchester After Dark: The Best Places To Visit In The City After The Sun Sets.

When the sun sets in Manchester, the city awakens in a different light, and the options for a memorable night out extend far beyond the nightclub scene of Canal Street or boujee bars in Deansgate. If you’re a visitor eager to dive into Manchester’s unique after-dark experiences, we’ve got you covered.

 

Ducie Street Warehouse

Set in the very heart of the city, Ducie Street Warehouse is Manchester’s social hub. Whether you’re unwinding with a coffee in the lounge, dining in the restaurant, expressing your artistic side at a workshop or losing yourself in a film at Mini Cini, Ducie Street Warehouse has something for everyone. 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://duciestreet.com/) 

Stomp To – Ducie Street, Manchester, M1 2TP

 

The Frog and Bucket

The Frog and Bucket in the Northern Quarter offers a fantastic lineup of both established and a diverse collective of up-and-coming comedians. Prepare for a night of hearty laughter, hilarious stories and memorable one-liners 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://frogandbucket.com) 

Stomp To – 102 Oldham St, Manchester, M4 1LJ 

 

The Lowry

For creative souls, The Lowry in Salford Quays is a haven for culture and creativity. Beyond its world-class exhibitions, The Lowry often hosts late-night art events and workshops, allowing you to explore your artistic side long after the sun has set. 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://thelowry.com/whats-on) 

Stomp To – Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ 

 

Matt & Phreds

If you’re a fan of jazz and live music, Matt & Phreds is a jazz club that can’t be missed. The intimate setting and soulful tunes create an inviting atmosphere that’s our go to for a relaxing evening. 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://mattandphreds.com/) 

Stomp To – 64 Tib St, Manchester M4 1LW 

 

Contact Theatre

Step into the heart of Manchester’s vibrant cultural scene at Contact Theatre, where traditional theatre meets contemporary arts. Enjoy a dynamic and diverse range of artistic experiences, including theatre productions, dance performances, live music, film screenings, and workshops.  

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://contactmcr.com/) 

Stomp To – Oxford Rd, Manchester M15 6JA 

 

Manchester’s after-dark scene is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So, as the night falls, explore these extraordinary venues where there’s no shortage of unique experiences to savour.  

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Experience the Best of the Manchester Christmas Markets 2023 from your aparthotel

Manchester’s bustling and vibrant Christmas markets have been a beloved festive tradition since 1999. As one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe with over 300 stalls spanning 10 different city centre locations, it promises festive fun, seasonal delights, and Christmas magic for visitors and locals alike.

Overview of the Manchester Christmas Markets

Dating back to the Middle Ages, outdoor Christmas markets bring light and excitement to dark winter months across Germany, Austria, and other European countries and Manchester imports this festive tradition every November and December.

The 2023 Manchester Christmas markets will run from November 10 to December 22 this year. And its six week run is set to see foot traffic of over 350,000 people browsing the myriad of market stalls.

What’s new for the Manchester Christmas markets 2023? An expanded circus hub at Piccadilly Gardens with street performances and aerialist acts throughout the six week run.

What sets Manchester’s markets apart from other major European cities? Its size, variety and convenient neighbourhood layout across the city centre. Markets in Frankfurt focus on more traditional gifts while Manchester offers more modern and eclectic options, which is what you’d expect from this cultural city.

2023 Christmas Market Dates
November 10 to December 22
Expected 2023 Visitors
Over 950,000

Getting to the 2023 Christmas Markets from your Aparthotel

Staying at an aparthotel in central Manchester allows ultimate convenience for exploring the sprawling Christmas markets on foot.
Use the 2023 Christmas markets map to navigate to the different marked zones from your accommodation:

Walking Routes
Our aparthotel accommodations sit within a 5 minute walk of the nearest Christmas market zone but there are so many, we suggest you bring comfy shoes!

Public Transportation
Manchester’s MetroLink offers a quick tram route to each market area when walking fatigue sets in. Single ride passes are available.

Top Things to See, Eat and Do

Beyond shopping, what awaits you at Manchester’s bustling Christmas markets?

Festive Stalls
Over 300 stalls span 10 neighbourhood market zones offering crafts, gifts, decorations, food, drinks and more. Peak Market hosts an International Christmas Market.

Mulled Wine & Eats
Warm up with hot mulled wine and local Manchester gin while perusing goods. Food stalls offer mince pies, loaded bratwursts, waffles, chocolate strawberries and more.

Special 2023 Events & Activities

In addition to the lively market browsing, special events mark the 2023 calendar at Manchester’s Christmas markets.

Circus Hub at Piccadilly Gardens

  • Nightly circus performers
  • Roving acts and street performers
  • Learn circus skills workshops

Gospel Choir Concerts

  • Nightly gospel choir concerts
  • Festive singalongs

Project Earth Interactive Exhibit

  • 35-metre wide inflatable globe
  • Interactive sustainability exhibits inside
  • STEM workshops for kids

What’s stopping you?

Manchester’s vibrant Christmas markets offer the perfect launchpad for a magical city break this festive season. From the twinkling lights to seasonal sounds, scents and flavours, a cosy aparthotel situated nearby allows you to easily immerse yourself in the festivities by day, then escape the crowds at night.

As you explore interactive exhibits and circus shows new for 2023, savour local food and drinks, hunt for rare artisan gifts, and skate under the stars, creating memories that keep you glowing all winter – long after the markets close up on December 22nd.

Book your room or apartment suite today to experience the very best of one of Europe’s top Christmas destinations from the comforts and charms of your own Manchester home base. The most wonderful time of the year awaits…will you be part of it?

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Shop, Eat, and Celebrate: Manchester Christmas Markets 2023

As I stepped onto the bustling cobbled streets of the Manchester Christmas Markets 2023, the scents of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and sweet waffles flooded my senses. The alleyway was adorned with twinkling string lights as an eclectic mix of locals and tourists alike perused the artisan shops and food stalls. Christmas Market heaven!

What makes Manchester’s Christmas markets so special is the electric energy in the air – a palpable festive spirit brought on by generations of beloved traditions.

After speaking to many vendors and visitors during my trip, I uncovered some fascinating hidden histories, insider tips, and only-in-Manchester experiences at the 2023 winter markets that many don’t know about! I’m going to share all my discoveries with you here.

The Hidden Gems at the Manchester Christmas Markets 2023

While classics like bratwurst and glühwein are must-tries, some of my favourite finds were these under-the-radar items that most tourists walk right by:

  • The Romanian pastry stand on Exchange Street selling cozonac – a sweet bread stuffed with nuts and dried fruit
  • Hot chocolate infused with chilli pepper to warm you from the inside out
  • Locally crafted Manchester bee shaped soaps, candles, and honey products at the Farmer’s Market building

I also got the inside scoop from the artists and craftsmen themselves on the most unique gifts to bring home from the Manchester Xmas markets 2023:

  • Hand carved wooden ornaments depicting Manchester winter market scenes
  • Luxury alpaca wool scarves and hats from a small farm just an hour outside of Manchester
  • Gourmet food hampers featuring award winning goods from local producers. A great gift to bring home!

An Insider’s Guide to Navigating the Manchester Christmas Market 2023 Crowds

The Manchester winter markets attract over 300,000 visitors per year, so the crowds can feel overwhelming. Use this insider guidance to avoid congestion:

  • Weekdays before 1 pm are least busy
  • Head to the smaller Sheriff Street or New Cathedral Street Xmas markets
  • Cut through Exchange Arcade to leapfrog from New Cathedral to Albert Square quicker
  • Link up with a local friend who knows the shortcut side streets!

After uncovering so many local secrets and stories from this year’s Manchester Christmas markets 2023, I can’t wait to come back next year to discover even more of its hidden gems! The sparkling lights and infectious festive cheer create an utterly magical atmosphere that makes Manchester the perfect winter break.

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

A Nostalgic Tapestry Of The Thames: Christmas Installation at Native Bankside

Unveiling our Christmas Installation at Native Bankside.

 

Nestled in the heart of Southbank, Native Bankside proudly presents “A Nostalgic Tapestry Of The Thames,” a unique Christmas installation in collaboration with visual artist Christopher Mills. 

Native Bankside sits amongst London’s cultural landmarks like Shakespeare’s Globe and The Tate Modern; this festive piece pays homage to Southbank. The piece is a window to old London; this tree draws inspiration from the rich history and charm of Bankside, Borough and the pages of a Dickensian novel. A testament to its enduring significance in London’s art and culture.

A Nostalgic Tapestry Of The Thames - Native Bnakside       

Drawing From History And Contemporary Charm:

Far more than a festive decoration, this installation is a sustainable piece of art curated as a vintage flourish that creates a tapestry of memories, adding to the future nostalgia of the rich heritage of Bankside. Creating a thought-provoking visual journey that resonates with the area’s identity.

A 12ft Tale Of Bankside And Dickensian London:

Topped with a Victorian streetlamp salvaged from Southbank, the structure, crafted from recycled steel, stands at an impressive 12ft. Adorned with antique pieces and heirlooms, each with a tale of Bankside and Dickensian London, the tree unfolds as a captivating narrative—from the Golden Hinde Ship with rope cascading down the piece to reveal a carved Shakespeare figure and other antiquities. 

Discoveries And Treasures:

Every item on this ‘Nostalgic Tapestry of the Thames Tree’ has been carefully chosen for its authenticity and provenance, representing Bankside, the Thames, and 19th and early 20th Century London. The tree tells tales of exploration and maritime history from the Golden Hinde at the tree’s peak to a Victorian anchor at its base. Shakespeare, celebrated with a hand-carved figure, stands proudly alongside a plate commemorating the world-famous Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

Honoring Heritage And Trading Roots:

Antique food cans from the trading community and Borough Market find a place of honour, surviving the test of time. A Tate and Lyle Food Van nod to the origins of the Tate Modern Gallery, while a charming rabbit teddy bear from 1895, with working metal cymbals, adds a touch of sweetness, reminding us of the joy found in simple nostalgia.

Curated Creativity by Christopher Mills:

Curated by visual artist Christopher Mills, founder of immersive events agency The Events Mill, this installation goes beyond the ordinary. Mills’s unconventional creativity and immersive installations transport viewers away from the mundane, bringing forth the joy and togetherness that defines the festive season.

     

More than a Christmas tree, this installation captures the festive warmth of nostalgic British traditions, sparking conversations about history, sustainability, and creativity. It’s a creative piece that resonates with the spirit of Native Places, inviting all to join in the celebration of the season and the rich tapestry of Southbank’s cultural legacy.

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Uncover London’s Rich History and Culture: Exploring Destinations near Kings Wardrobe Aparthotel

London, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a treasure trove of experiences for the curious traveller. If you’re staying at our Kings Wardrobe Aparthotel, you’re perfectly positioned to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of London’s past and present.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Begin your exploration with the awe-inspiring St. Paul’s Cathedral, located a mere 0.3 miles from your doorstep. This iconic cathedral has stood as a symbol of London for centuries and continues to be a marvel of architectural beauty. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city, or step inside to admire the intricate mosaics.

Millennium Bridge

A short walk from St. Paul’s takes you to the Millennium Bridge, a modern steel suspension bridge that connects the historic heart of London with the Tate Modern art gallery.

Tate Modern

Just 0.6 miles from your apartment, the Tate Modern offers a contemporary art experience in a converted power station. Explore thought-provoking exhibitions and installations that challenge conventional boundaries, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy a coffee at the museum’s iconic café that overlooks the River Thames.

Borough Market

Venture 0.7 miles to Borough Market, a food lover’s paradise where history meets gastronomy. This bustling market dates back to the 12th century and offers an array of gourmet treats, street food, and fresh produce. It’s the perfect place to savour flavours from around the world.

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

Immerse yourself in the world of the Bard at the Globe Theatre, a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse. Whether you attend a performance or take a guided tour, you’ll be transported back in time to the era of Shakespeare.

Tate Britain

For lovers of British art, a visit to Tate Britain, located 1.8 miles away, is a must. Explore a vast collection of art dating back to the 16th century, including works by J.M.W. Turner, William Blake, and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood.

Buckingham Palace

A visit to London wouldn’t be complete without a glimpse of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a quintessential London experience.

Westminster Abbey

Just 2.1 miles from your apartment, Westminster Abbey stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sanctuary of British history. Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture and explore the tombs of kings, queens, and historical figures.

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

Stroll along the River Thames, located 2.2 miles away, and marvel at the imposing Houses of Parliament and the iconic Big Ben.

The British Museum

Your journey through London’s history and culture culminates at the British Museum, 2.3 miles away. Explore a vast collection of art, artefacts, and historical treasures from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.

As you can see, Kings Wardrobe Aparthotel offer not only luxurious accommodations but also unparalleled access to London’s historical and cultural gems. From majestic cathedrals to contemporary art galleries, London’s rich tapestry of history and culture is a stone’s throw away. Get ready to step out of your door and into the heart of this vibrant city.

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.