The Gay Village in Manchester is without doubt one of the liveliest areas of the city and this is reflected by the number of pubs, bars and clubs dotted around Canal Street, or 'anal treet' as it's also affectionately known locally.

Whilst Canal Street is the name most widely associated with Manchester's Gay Village, the area is actually spread out on all the streets that fall between Princess Street and Minshull Street, close to Piccadilly Station and China Town.

Lined with gay bars, clubs, cafes, hotels and shops, it's packed at night time with gays, lesbians, transexuals and transvetites who have flocked to the area from all over the world, many attracted by the Queer As Folk television drama which was based here.

Whilst 'The Village' is full of gay bars, most of them are straight friendly and the popularity of the area with hetrosexuals underlines the welcoming open-minded attitude Mancunians are famed for.

A great time is guaranteed for anybody on Canal Street - gay, straight or bisexual.