Manchester and Los Angeles prove that opposites really do attract

When you think of Manchester and Los Angeles, they don’t seem like an obvious match.

Ours is a northern powerhouse with a rich industrial history; the other is a sun-soaked metropolis known for Hollywood glitz and glamour. 

But beyond the surface, these two twinned-cities share a creative heartbeat, a passion for sport, and a global influence that transcends borders.

Manchester and Los Angeles – creative capitals

Creativity flows through the streets of both cities. Manchester, with its industrial past, became the birthplace of legendary music scenes, giving the world The Smiths, Joy Division, and the Madchester movement. It’s a city that thrives on independent spirit, from its grassroots gig venues to its thriving theatre and arts scene.

LA, on the other hand, is the epicentre of the world’s entertainment industry, shaping global pop culture with Hollywood blockbusters, world-famous music venues, and an ever-growing digital media scene. Where Manchester’s artists have often found beauty in the gritty and the melancholic, LA has mastered the art of spectacle and storytelling on a grand scale.

Yet the cities are more intertwined than they first appear—just ask Morrissey. The Smiths’ frontman has long called LA home, owning multiple properties in the city over the years, including a plot at the famous Hollywood Forever Cemetery. His influence runs so deep that die-hard fans have affectionately dubbed it “Moz Angeles.” 

But beneath the surface, both cities tell stories that matter—whether through lyrics, film, or the art of reinvention.

LA and Manchester’s sporting giants

If there’s one thing both cities live and breathe, it’s sports. Manchester is known for its football culture, but LA is a heavyweight across multiple disciplines. With the Lakers and Clippers both chasing playoff success and the Dodgers recently clinching another World Series title, LA’s sports legacy is as thrilling as its movie premieres.

Basketball is a way of life in LA, with the Lakers’ storied history of championships and the Clippers’ rise as a formidable contender. Meanwhile, baseball fans rally behind the Dodgers, whose dominance continues to solidify LA as a powerhouse in America’s pastime. The city’s sports scene extends beyond the stadiums, too—pickup basketball games on Venice Beach courts, buzzing sports bars packed with fans, and a deep-rooted culture of athleticism and competition.

Football (or soccer) has also become a defining feature of LA’s sports landscape, with LA Galaxy, Los Angeles FC and Angel City FC growing the game’s popularity in the U.S. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Olympics in 2028 approach, LA is further cementing itself as a top global sports capital. But beyond the professional leagues, both Manchester and LA thrive on grassroots sports, with communities coming together in local parks, stadiums, and courts to celebrate their love for the game—no matter what that game may be.

Weather world’s apart 

The biggest contrast between these two cities? The climate. Manchester embraces its ever-changing skies, while LA enjoys near-endless sunshine. Imagine a Mancunian stepping off the plane in LA, basking in the glow of the California sun—or an Angeleno arriving in Manchester, experiencing the thrill of a city that thrives whatever the weather. 

Yet, there’s something to be said for the atmospheres each climate creates. Manchester’s moody skies have inspired generations of musicians and artists, while LA’s golden sunsets and palm-lined boulevards set the stage for countless Hollywood dreams. Each city finds magic in its own way.

Two global cities, one shared vision 

Manchester has always been outward-looking, forging connections across the world. Its twinning with LA is more than just symbolic—it’s a bridge for business, culture, and tourism. Whether it’s Manchester artists finding inspiration in LA’s creative energy or Angelenos discovering the city’s music and heritage, these partnerships open doors for collaboration and exchange.

And for those planning a trip to LA? It’s a city that never fails to impress.

Why should you visit LA?

Los Angeles rightly rides high on lists celebrating the best of the best from around the world. It’s a sprawling, sun-drenched playground of endless possibilities. Whether you’re drawn to its legendary entertainment scene, world-famous beaches, or diverse cultural offerings, there’s something for everyone in the City of Angels.

LA is the beating heart of the global entertainment industry. A trip here means stepping into the world of movie magic—tour the iconic Warner Bros. or Universal Studios, visit the new Academy Museum of Motion pictures, take a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or catch a glimpse of an A-lister at a rooftop bar in Hollywood. 

Forget the stereotypes—LA’s food scene is far more than just green juices and avocado toast. It’s a city that thrives on diversity, offering everything from authentic taco trucks in East LA to Michelin-starred fine dining in Downtown’s Art District. 

For Mancunians used to dodging raindrops, LA’s climate is an irresistible draw. With miles of golden coastline, you can soak up the sun on Santa Monica Beach, watch surfers take on the waves in Malibu, or explore the iconic boardwalk at Venice Beach and strut your stuff. If you fancy something more adventurous, hiking up to the Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views over the city.

For all their differences, much like Manchester, LA is a city that thrives on creativity. From the contemporary art at The Broad, and the incredible Los Angeles County Museum of Art, to the street murals of the Arts District, inspiration is everywhere. Music lovers can catch a live show at the historic Troubadour or the Hollywood Bowl (like a bigger Castlefield Bowl?), where legends have performed under the stars.

Whether you come for the culture, the sunshine, or the chance to live out your Hollywood dreams, Los Angeles is a city that welcomes you with open arms—and once you’ve been, you’ll want to return again and again. But just remember, if you head over, don’t forget sunscreen and a cap! 

Two global cities

Manchester has never been a city that keeps to itself. From the Industrial Revolution to the rise of its global music scene, it has always been outward-looking, making connections across the world. 

Its sister cities program is a testament to that—forming friendships with places as far-flung as Kampur, Córdoba, and Chicago. And yes, even Los Angeles.

But these partnerships aren’t just symbolic. They’ve led to collaborations in education, business, and tourism, giving Mancunians the chance to work, learn, and share ideas with people across the globe. They’ve also helped attract investment, bringing fresh opportunities into the city and strengthening its international ties.

A worldwide network

Manchester’s sister city connections stretch across continents, linking the city to:

• Los Angeles, USA
• St. Petersburg, Russia
• Rehovot, Israel
• Córdoba, Spain
• Chemnitz, Germany
• Bilwi, Nicaragua
• Faisalabad, Pakistan
• Kanpur, India
• Bologna, Italy

While these places might seem worlds apart, they all share something in common with Manchester—whether it’s a love of sport, a passion for the arts, or a history of innovation. These connections are about much more than formal agreements; they’re about people, stories, and shared experiences.

More alike than you’d think?

On the surface, Manchester and Los Angeles couldn’t be more different. One is steeped in industrial history, the other in cinematic spectacle. One is known for rain, the other for relentless sunshine. But look closer, and you’ll find two cities built on reinvention, creativity, and an unshakable spirit.

City twinning isn’t about pairing identical places—it’s about celebrating differences, sharing cultures, and finding common ground. And if nothing else, at least it gives Mancunians an excuse to visit somewhere warm. Now, if only we could arrange a sunshine exchange…

Fancy a trip over the pond to LA? Find out more on Discover LA’s website here.