The world's most famous travel book and map shop, Stanfords, has opened a branch in Manchester. The new store will have the widest range of maps and travel books in the region and will host a series of lectures by well-known travel writers.

Travel guru Michael Palin said of the flagship Covent Garden store: 'I couldn't live without Stanfords. You can buy maps and books there that will change your life.'

· Stanfords, 39 Spring Gardens, Manchester (0161 831 0251; www.stanfords.co.uk).