Struggling for Father’s Day inspiration? Think outside the box with JLife’s round up of unique dad-appropriate expeditions across the Manchester area.
Tea for Two
Combining delicate savouries and inviting sweet treats, the popularity of afternoon tea is soaring. But the misconception tends to be that the dining experience is strictly female-oriented; men can partake in the little slice of luxury too.
Set in the Free Trade Hall at Radisson Blu Edwardian Manchester, foodie destination Opus One has launched the gentleman’s afternoon tea – a treat for any dad! Although served on a three-tiered cake stand, the contents have a definite masculine edge. Instead of intricate pastries, the servings include mini fish and chips, hot Yorkshire puddings, and a selection of rustic sandwiches and scones. And if the man of the moment wants to veer from the traditional pouring of tea, he can wash the food down with a pint of beer.
You can go along just the two of you, or extend the festivities with a ‘his ‘n’ hers’ blend of the delicious goods for a number of guests.
Visit Radissonblu-edwardian.com.
Up, Up and Away
With all the good deeds that your dad does, it’s easy to believe that he has been masquerading as ‘Super Dad’ all this time. And Father’s Day is the perfect chance for him to put his alias into action and make his dreams of flight a reality; with indoor skydiving!
At Airkix Manchester, your dad will be suspended into a column of air which reproduces the feeling of freefall in a secure environment. The instructor will help him get into a neutral flying position, before teaching basic moves. Being straightforward and easy to master, dad will soon be impressing with new tricks.
If you want to have celebratory food afterwards with a backdrop of awe-inspiring flyers taking to the air, the in-house eatery, Salvi’s, serves Italian delights like pizza and pasta.
When the day has drawn to a close, one thing is for sure – your old man won’t be forgetting the adrenaline-fuelled adventure anytime soon!
Visit Airkix.com.
Raise a Glass
Whether your dad considers himself a connoisseur of the finer things in life, or you’re seeking to broaden his spectrum of tastes, a whiskey sampling session has benefits galore.
Gift him with a belated Father’s Day visit to The Whiskey Jar – a beautifully restored textile mill which reigns as one of the Northern Quarter’s busiest spots.
The Seven Wonders Whiskey tasting evenings, on 28th June and 5th July at 4pm, will incorporate seven whiskies spanning five continents. The in-house whisky expert will take you on a journey through the distilleries that created these award-winning samples, as well as discussing detailed tasting notes for each. At the end of the evening you’ll receive a tasting certificate and then be invited to continue your evening among the range of over 250 whiskies.
Both novices and aficionados will return from the evening entertained and informed, and with a new-found appreciation for the tipple.
Visit Thewhiskeyjar.com or email info@thewhiskeyjar.com.
Cooking Up a Storm
This year, when garnering present-worthy ideas, look beyond the realm of just your dad and opt for one that the whole family will be grateful for. Get him to don a chef’s hat and tap into his inner Jamie Oliver courtesy of a cooking course!
The Cheshire Cookery School – set in comfortable, modern surroundings – was founded by Andrew and Lisa Warnes, with a host of expert chefs bringing fresh ideas.
The food preparation picked up will be easy to put to use on a regular basis, from the ground rules of a barbeque to different types of bread. And the more adventurous capabilities of the school encompass an introduction to Asian food and tapas.
Dad will be whipping up delicious dishes at home in no time. But be careful – you might have to do the clearing up!
Visit Thecheshirecookeryschool.com.