finding the manchester hygge: cosy spaces to escape a busy city life

[hygge - Danish/Norweign word denoting a feeling of cosiness and contentment evoked by a space of comfort and conviviality]

I’ve lived in Manchester for about 7 years now and despite the exciting rush of being part of a culturally rich and multilayered city, with countless things to do and see (and eat), there are times when I feel a little claustrophobic and need things to slow down around me. I’ve found myself seeking out calmer spaces in the city over the past few years, places I can bury myself in a book, lose myself in self-reflection, or simply ‘breathe’ and take the pace of life down a little.

I thought I’d document these places - so if this resonates with you, you’ve got the beginnings of a list that I wish to keep building, spaces that feel like an oasis of calm that are of easy reach from the city centre.

Chapter One Books - I credit this with inspiring this collection - the OG ‘calm space’ in the Northern Quarter I started seeking out to curl up with my book over a coffee and slice of homemade cake. It boasts a range of seating - from comfy armchairs nestled in the corner to light, spacious desks and tables for those looking for a calm place to get some work done.

Asap Coffee - a relative newcomer to the list, this coffee shop moved into one of the spots in Oxford Road’s Hatch and is the perfect art deco space to while away an afternoon of calm. I spent a wonderful Sunday afternoon here and enjoyed a honeyed playlist of soft tunes as I poured over my book. The upstairs space I love in particular, with big windows and a light, modern space that exudes calm.

Ancoats Coffee Co - tucked away inside one of Ancoats’ iconic mill buildings, this coffee shop is delightfully warm and cosy, with plenty of softly lit nooks to enjoy some quiet time. There’s even a book swap station to find your next read.

Art of Tea - Further afield in Didsbury [and a tram or bus ride away from the centre] you’ll find this piece of booklovers’ paradise. Exuding the spirit of dark academia, it’s brimming with character and charm, with the Didsbury bookstore hidden away like a secret treasure at the back. You can have a browse of the bookshelves or soak in the community spirit over a warming hot drink.

Fort - last but certainly not least, I’ve loved indulging in the comfortingly calm environment that is Fort Coffee on Deansgate, sipping a deliciously creamy cappuccino in this light, refreshing space infused with soft beats and a friendly atmosphere.

I wholeheartedly recommend you head over to these calming spaces - all personally cherished as places to slow down a little and find the Manchester hygge. In the midst of the city’s all-encompassing rhythm and verve, it’s a comfort to have these unique, comforting places to take a break - and feel refreshed because of it.