TikTokers on how Manchester became an 'influencer heaven'

Manchester is emerging as an "influencer heaven," attracting content creators who praise its dynamic social scene and urban environment. Ruwaydah, a TikToker who began posting about Manchester six years ago, describes the city center as bustling with activity, especially during summer, making it an ideal location for her content.

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It's like influencer heaven.

Her videos, which review cafes, restaurants, and date spots, have gained popularity partly due to Manchester's appeal as a place to live. The city boasts a young and growing population, creating a receptive audience for recommendations on everything from dining to lifestyle advice. Ruwaydah, who moved from London, finds Manchester's compactness particularly advantageous. She notes that she can "walk everywhere in 30 minutes," allowing her to easily discover and share new places she encounters in her daily life.

This accessibility is a significant factor in her frequent posting habits, which she believes has contributed to her growing online following. The city's transformation is attributed to revitalization efforts that began in the 1990s under former mayor Sir Howard Bernstein. These initiatives focused on clearing old buildings, constructing new office spaces, and improving the tram network.

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I can walk everywhere in 30 minutes.

This influx of businesses and white-collar workers shifted Manchester's economy from manufacturing to a service-driven model, encompassing finance, law, and creative industries. The subsequent construction of luxury apartments and the proliferation of bars and restaurants cater to this growing population, creating the vibrant atmosphere that influencers like Ruwaydah showcase.

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There was a lot of investment that went into clearing out old buildings, converting them, and constructing new buildings for office space.