How to Find a Good Mood in a Nearly Sunless Manchester

They say there are only two types of weather in Manchester: rain and “it’s about to rain.”

At first, it feels romantic: atmospheric streets, tea, mist… But after a few weeks, you begin to suspect that the sun has simply removed you from its life.

Constant grey weather really does affect your mood. You want to lie under a blanket, watch series, and stare dramatically out of the window like the main character in a British film. But there are a few ways not to turn into a sad tea bag.

First, do not stay at home. Yes, it sounds cruel. But even a short walk or run in a local park, which is what I personally love and do most, quickly brings your energy back. In Britain, parks are almost a separate form of therapy: greenery, fresh air, ducks, dogs, and people running marathons in the rain as if it is completely normal.

There are also huge parks and nature reserves like the National Trust. Our family has a membership and I highly recommend it. It costs around £13 per month, while standard entry can be around £20 per person. You can visit ancient castles, forests, and landscapes where you feel like a character from a Harry Potter film. After places like that, even Manchester rain starts to look more “cinematic.”

Second, create cosiness. The British understood this a long time ago: when there is no sun, you need to at least buy a beautiful lamp, light a candle, and pretend it was all part of the plan.

It is also important to socialise. There is always something happening in Manchester: concerts, pubs, markets. If you follow our website, you will stay up to date with the latest events. Because if you stay at home for too long, you might start talking to the kettle.

Over time, you get used to the local weather. The rain no longer annoys you. You simply leave the house automatically wearing your “all seasons” jacket and carry on living.

Maybe this is exactly how England builds character: either you accept the rain, or the rain accepts you.