Commuting can be a dull and arduous process, especially when you throw bad weather into the mix.

I commute from Wigan to Manchester six days a week, this includes a 30-minute walk and a 45-minute train journey (Northern Rail permitting).

The walk to and from Manchester Victoria is something I particularly enjoy as you see an amazing array of architecture and artwork in such a short distance.

As I had a half day on Friday I decided to snap my walk back to the station past some of my favourite sights.

So armed with my camera, and my vintage dress and cloche hat, I strutted my stuff around the Northern Quarter.

BLACK AND BLUE: Vintage knitted dress

Starting in Piccadilly Gardens I turn right onto Newton Street and walk past the eclectic treasure trove that is Empire Exchange.

If you want a match programme from a Manchester United game back in 1963, a Star Wars figurine or some vintage trinkets this is the place to go.

DECIDELY DIFFERENT: The treasure trove that is Empire Exchange

Carrying on down Newton Street on your right you see this stunning piece of artwork of a giant Blue Tit.

This Converse-sponsored piece of art was commissioned back in 2011 – I love the juxtaposition of nature and urban landscapes.

For more information about the piece, click here.

Urban jungle: Nature in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter

Hang a left and keep walking until you come onto Thomas Street.

This is the home of one of my favourite places to pass an hour chatting with a friend over a cuppa and a slab of cake.

FOODIE FOREPLAY: Love making and cake baking at Teacup

Not only are there a dazzling array of tea, coffee and cakes on offer but the staff are so friendly and helpful. Definitely worth a visit if you haven’t already.

At the far end of Thomas Street on the corner on your right is this delightful Tiki-inspired piece.

It really brightens-up the walk to and from work and reminds me that not everywhere is as cold and wet as Manchester…Somewhere there is a sun-drenched beach waiting for me!

TIKI-INSPIRED: Bringing sun, sea and sand to the Northern Quarter

At the end of Thomas Street take a right and head towards Shudehill Metro Interchange.

Carry on down Balloon Street and on your right is the Co-Operative Wholesale building.

I love the imposing nature of this red brick Neo Baroque building.

I’m also a fan of the typeface – note to self, must incorporate this into my website somehow!

keep going straight on and, as the sat nav man says, you have arrived at your destination.

As you walk through the entrance, if you turn back on yourself you’ll see this beaut of a sign.

Next to it is a poignant memorial to those who sacrificed their lives in the two World Wars.

I would have snapped a pic, but there were too many travellers loitering around… I’ll try and get one next time.

I can’t believe that up until this weekend I’d never noticed this tiled map.

I love how it’s stylish and practical and is paired up with this divine carved dark wood.

It’s at this point I usually wave my railcard at a train guard and run like the wind for my train.

What are your commutes like? Next time you’re heading on your usual route, take a proper look at what’s around you – it may just surprise you!