Manchester has a large, lively and energetic Gay and Lesbian community, and their needs are catered for in an area which has come to be known as the Gay Village in Manchester. It's pavement cafés and bars have helped create in summertime a cosmopolitan and continental ambience, which attracts many people to its nightlife - Gay, Lesbian and Heteros! The Gay Village probably represents the the biggest concentration of gay interests, services and businesses in Europe.

The Gay Village, centred around Chorlton Street and Canal Street, just a few minutes walk from Piccadilly Gardens, as far as Dale Street, and includes Sackville Street, Whitworth Street and Princess Street, is home to numerous gay bars, shops, restaurants and clubs. Each year the area plays host to Manchester Pride, an annual gay and lesbian Mardi Gras.