Jewellers. Tobacconists. Alterations.
In some ways, The Royal Exchange Arcade is like stepping back in time. Nestled underneath one of Manchester’s most well-known theatres, and connecting the hubbub of Cross Street to the relative tranquillity of St Ann’s Square, it boasts a range of outlets for every occasion.
That’s not to say there isn’t modernity, however. There’s a coffee shop, a gift shop — and perhaps most strikingly of all, a white-walled barber shop with a glowing neon pig.
That’s The Butcher’s Chop Shop, where Ollie Jackson works. He is a men’s hairdresser at the barbers, and is just at the start of his career, being 19-years-old.
A Stockport lad, Ollie is alone when the MEN visits the store, although there is soul music playing to welcome you in. What makes him tick?
Where’s your favourite hidden gem?
This place!
What’s your favourite view of the city or in the city?
I like the view from the multi-storey car park near Oldham Street. It shows you the view of all Oldham Street. It shows you the whole area, that’s a cool view.
Where’s best to go for your dinner in town?
The Pret, I’d say.
Veggie Pret or normal Pret?
Just the normal one.
Where would you take someone to show them the real Manchester?
Probably the Northern Quarter, around those ways.
What’s your favourite Mancunian neighbourhood?
I’ll go with Ancoats. I’m originally from Stockport, and one day I’d like to live in Ancoats. It’s nice.
What are the five words that best describe the city?
There’s a lot of culture, definitely, its size — it’s big but not too big — there’s a lot going on, so an adjective like that.
Are we alright with four?
Of course we are. City or United?
United.
Liam or Noel?
Liam.
Your favourite city pub is…?
I like Yes.
Which floor of Yes?
I like the ground floor — the balcony is nice but you can never get a seat. I do like Yes, it’s a good place.
Who is your favourite city ‘character’?
There’s a saxophone guy who is always on St Peter's Square. I don’t know his name.
What’s the one thing you’d add to Manchester if you could…
I’d let food places open later, and get better transport links at night. Everyone says it’s a 24-hour city, but only if you’re quite local. You can’t get a train past half eleven, so that’s what I’d improve.
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