Manchester already has a notable list of indoor sports arenas like the Velodrome and the Indoor BMX Arena at Sportcity. But we have noticed a cluster of new ones popping up across town in Trafford, that seem to be unrivalled in size and scale. With a wet climate like ours, it’s not surprising that the popularity of these venues is on the rise, Manchester wants to get extreme! With some venues more pricey than others, here is a brief guide on the best Manchester indoor fun activities and how to get outdoors…. indoors!
DIRT FACTORY - Indoor Bike Park
Dirt Factory is the UK’s first indoor MTB park, with indoor dirt trails, jumps and airbags. Their aim is to make the thrills of mountain biking available in cities and offer 'high-quality riding experience to a highly-populated area'. They offer coaching and opportunities for anyone that's interested whether you're looking as an adult or for indoor activities for kids. It's currently the only indoor bike park in the UK and one of the best indoor extreme sports you can try in Manchester.
Don't forget that Swifty has a fleet of SwiftyAIR extreme scooters at Dirt Factory too! After you've mastered the trails on your bike you can take on a whole new challenge and see if you can conquer them on a kick scooter. It's also a great opportunity for you to get hands-on and try one of our adventure SwiftyAIR scooters in Greater Manchester. There's no easier way to try out a dirt scooter doing what they were designed this close to a city centre.
You can hire a bike or scooter for as little as £5 an hour so why not go and try your hand at some off-road scooting!
Where? Dirt Factory, Bond Street, Manchester M12 6HW
THE DEPOT - Indoor Climbing Wall
A new indoor climbing centre, boasting 1000m2 of climbing surface is the largest indoor bouldering centre in Europe, and it has just opened right on our doorstep. Catering for all ages and levels, the centre has facilities that include several graded circuits, 12 auto-belay lines, and training areas with campus board, 30 degrees and 55-degree training boards. You will find a friendly café, climbing shop and free parking, adult sessions from £10.
Where? Unit N1 And N2, Mosley Road, M17 1PG
http://www.theclimbingdepot.co.uk/manchester
JUMPNATION - Indoor Trampoline Park
As close to ‘extreme-trampolining’ as you can imagine, Jumpnation boasts 139 wall-to-wall trampolines – it’s huge! Also in Trafford Park, this indoor trampolining centre is not just for kids. A great way to practise those flips and splits (!) and it's not just a bit of fun, trampolining is brilliant for fitness and will strengthen core muscles without you even noticing. From £8.95 / hr for adults, it opened in Manchester in 2014 and it’s a novelty that doesn’t seem to be wearing off any time soon. Don’t forget to book in advance.
Where? Textilose Road, M17 1WA
https://www.jumpnation.com/locations/manchester/
CHILL FACTORE - Indoor Ski Slope
The UK's longest indoor ski slope is also located here in Trafford Park, 180m of REAL snow, a trip to the Chill Factore is a real treat for skiers and snowboarders alike at any time of year. A little pricey at £21 a go for a basic session (not including ski hire), but great fun none the less, and if you keep an eye out there are often deals available. Booking in advance recommended.
Where? Trafford Quays Leisure Village, M41 7JA
All have been tried and tested by team Swifty. Top Tip – watch out for match day, when surrounding roads are gridlocked with Manchester United traffic. Enjoy!