Castlefield Walk (Self Guided), Manchester

See where Manchester started, almost two thousand years ago when you explore the Castlefield area. This was the site of the Roman fort of Mamucium, from which Manchester gets its name. Although the original timber fort has long since disappeared the ruins of the later stone structure can be explored.

In front of the former defensive stronghold is the Roman garden. It includes plants that were grown in Britain during Roman times, such as roses and ivy. The fort’s remains are protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. This site is part of a conservation area alongside the Rochdale Canal, which contains reminders of Manchester's industrial past. It has been designated an Urban Heritage Park, and one can see canal systems, railway viaducts and old warehouses that have been repurposed as trendy apartments, bars and restaurants.

A stroll through its surrounds will also take you past restored Victorian houses. One of Castlefield district's biggest attractions is MOSI, the Museum of Science and industry. It is situated on the site of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station and spread across several listed buildings of historical significance. Study displays of cars, aircraft, and railway locomotives, take part in hands-on activities, see industrial machines and tour themed galleries.