Deansgate is a main road running through the city of Manchester, situated in the western part of the centre and stretching over one kilometre in length. It is the longest road in Manchester and acts as a popular and fashionable area of the city, with an abundance of trendy bars and designer shops, located close to key art and culture centres. The boundaries of Deansgate are Beetham Tower and the locks at one end, and Victoria Station at the other, making it a key transport location, as well as a centre of entertainment.
Dominating the road of Deansgate is the Beetham Tower, which looks down over the city at a great height of 169 metres, as an example of impressive contemporary architecture, with panoramic views from the top. Nearby, John Rylands Library is another architectural masterpiece, this time of Gothic style, with an impressive collection of historical, cultural and academic material, and dynamic exhibitions for visitors to enjoy. The key appeal of Deansgate is its buzzing nightlife and collection of urban bars, selling craft beers to fancy cocktails in addition to a uniquely cool and local atmosphere. The road is also home to the main shopping district, hosting a range of stores selling designer labels and high street brands, for fashion addicts to explore.
Well connected by public transport, Deansgate has two train and tram stations at either end of the street, Victoria and Deansgate stations. From throughout Manchester, visitors can also reach Deansgate via the Metroshuttle bus, although, as it is in the city centre, the road is also easily accessible by foot.
The straight and long elements of Deansgate link back to Roman times, when the road acted as a connecting thoroughfare between the Roman Fort and the River Medlock, making it one of the oldest streets in the city. It has always been an important location for local landmarks, including civilian buildings and mansions, and became even more built up following the creation of the quay in the 18th Century. The officials of Manchester named the road after the old River Dene, a lost river of the city.