Developments That Will Shape Manchester’s Visitor Economy 2025

Greater Manchester is entering a transformative period. From high-profile cultural institutions and sports venues to new luxury hotels and sustainable urban districts, the region is becoming one of the UK’s most exciting destinations for both tourism and investment. With billions of pounds committed to regeneration, the visitor economy is set to grow at pace, opening up new opportunities for property investors - particularly in the serviced accommodation sector.

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As the landscape evolves, short-term rentals and corporate stays will become even more vital to meet demand. For investors, this is a prime time to enter or expand in the Manchester market.

• Major cultural, leisure, and infrastructure developments are set to drive tourism growth in Greater Manchester through to 2030.
• Regeneration around Manchester Airport, the city centre, Salford Quays, and Old Trafford is making the region increasingly attractive for high-end stays and business travel.
• Luxury hotels and branded residences are elevating the city’s international profile and setting a new benchmark for hospitality.
• These developments are expected to boost demand for serviced accommodation, making it a strong investment vehicle.

Greater Manchester is no stranger to ambitious regeneration - but the next five years will be especially significant.

The grand reopening of Manchester Town Hall in 2026 will reintroduce one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. With Albert Square transformed into a pedestrian-friendly space for outdoor events, it will become a cultural and civic hub once again.

Over at the Etihad Campus, Manchester City is investing £300m into stadium upgrades, including a 401-bed hotel, rooftop experiences, and expanded hospitality venues. These additions are expected to further increase year-round footfall from both domestic and international visitors - many of whom will require short-term, well-located accommodation.

Meanwhile, Manchester Airport’s ongoing £1bn transformation continues to cement its role as the gateway to the North. With Terminal 2 reaching its next phase and the launch of Aether, an ultra-exclusive private terminal, the airport is positioning itself to welcome more high-spending travellers. This spells great news for investors in high-quality serviced apartments near key transport links.

The region is also gaining ground as a cultural and wellbeing destination. From Therme Manchester, the UK’s first city-based wellness resort with pools, saunas, and gardens, to the arrival of the English National Opera’s new home in Manchester, visitor demand is becoming more varied and long-term.

Other exciting projects include:

• The 180-bed floating Good Hotel at Salford Quays.
• A new £60m Dakota luxury hotel near Manchester Airport.
• The W Hotel and Marriott-branded residences at St Michael’s in the city centre.
• Wave Garden, a £50m surfing and leisure complex in Trafford.

Each of these signals a clear upward trend in experiential, destination-led tourism. As Greater Manchester’s brand evolves, demand for serviced accommodation and luxury short-term lets will grow in tandem.

From a property investment perspective, these developments are more than aesthetic upgrades - they’re key economic indicators.

The pipeline of new hotels, transport upgrades, and mixed-use districts such as Sister (formerly ID Manchester) is driving demand for flexible, stylish accommodation that appeals to both leisure and corporate travellers.

Whether it's a family visiting for a concert at Co-op Live, a delegate attending a conference, or a business traveller looking for comfort near the innovation district, the demand for serviced accommodation in Manchester is only going one way - up.

At CasaCity, we specialise in helping investors tap into this booming market. Whether you're new to short-term rentals in Manchester or scaling your portfolio, we provide expert property management and income-optimisation strategies tailored to serviced accommodation.

What truly sets us apart? Our luxury furniture packs, designed to elevate your apartment and deliver a five-star guest experience. With three curated styles - Silver, Gold, and Platinum - you can transform any property into a high-performing asset that stands out on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and for direct corporate bookings.

Our goal is simple: to help you maximise occupancy, boost nightly rates, and enjoy consistent returns - all while offering guests a seamless, elevated stay.

Manchester is not only undergoing a development boom - it’s becoming a premier destination on the global stage. From heritage restoration and stadium enhancements to wellness resorts and innovative cultural venues, the future is bright.

For property investors, these projects present an unrivalled opportunity. Demand for short-term and corporate accommodation is rising, and those who act early stand to gain the most.

Whether you're seeking to invest, expand, or optimise your serviced accommodation portfolio, CasaCity is here to help you succeed in Manchester’s evolving visitor economy.