The 'influencer effect' is making Manchester the go-to destination for social media moguls. This northern powerhouse has become the darling of TikTokers worldwide, with its vibrant city centre, eclectic mix of old and new architecture, and 24/7 lifestyle that's as exciting as a Champions League matchday.
Local lasses like Ruwaydah are reaping the rewards of Manchester's compact yet cosmopolitan charm. This young mum moved to the city six years ago and has been documenting her favourite haunts ever since – from trendy cafes to waterside bars, she's got them all covered. And it's not just about the content; her fans love that nothing is too far away in this walkable city, making it easy for her to pop out with her little one in tow.
The transformation of Manchester's city centre, masterminded by visionaries like Sir Howard Bernstein back in the 1990s, has been a game-changer. By investing in old buildings and constructing new ones, the city attracted top talent from finance, law, and creative industries – and with it, came the influx of hip restaurants, bars, and apartments to match.
Today, Manchester's urban landscape is alive with energy, courtesy of its revamped tram network and thriving student population. The 2021 census revealed that 20-24-year-olds are the largest age group in the city – a segment that's grown by a whopping 9.7% since 2011. And with over 70,000 students calling Manchester home, there's no shortage of enthusiastic followers eager for recommendations on everything from where to grab brunch to which neighbourhoods to explore.
For new influencers like Harry, the city provides an ideal launchpad. This young graduate, who works in a solicitors' firm, credits his fellow content creators with helping him overcome initial nerves – and now he's planning a YouTube expansion. The Manchester influencer scene is alive and kicking, and it seems this city is here to stay as the go-to destination for social media savvy types.