The Ultimate Student Guide to Manchester for Students

Welcome to the hub of northwest England – Manchester! The city is renowned for its rich industrial heritage, vibrant cultural scene and significant contributions to music and sport. Whether you’re new to the city or just need inspiration for what to do, this guide will help you discover what you’ve been missing out on. Manchester offers a dazzling mix of old and new, home to two large universities: The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, making it an exciting place to live and study.

What to do in Manchester as a Student

Cultural Hotspots

Museums, Galleries and Art spaces

Manchester offers a plethora of cultural activities that won’t break the bank. If you enjoy museums, The Manchester Museum, the Whitworth Art Gallery and the Science and Industry Museum are excellent spots to explore. The Lowry is also well worth a visit – hosting a range of art exhibitions, music, comedy and theatre events.

Nightlife and social scene

Manchester’s nightlife caters to all tastes, with a variety of bars, pubs and clubs to discover.

• The Northern Quarter: The Northern Quarter is known for its alternative vibe, packed with quirky bars, vintage shops and unique eateries.
• Deansgate Locks: If you’re looking for a unique nightlife experience, this area features a selection of clubs and bars housed under the Victoria Station railway tracks. Popular venues include Revolution and the Comedy Store.
• Printworks: Located near the Arndale Centre, Printworks is an entertainment complex with a variety of bars, clubs and even a cinema.
• Canal Street: As the heart of Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community, Canal Street is lively and welcoming, with numerous bars and clubs along the street.
• Live Music Venues: With Manchester’s rich musical history there are a host of venues showcasing up and coming artists and established bands.
• Student Clubs and Events: Many clubs and bars host themed nights and student events, often with discounted entry and drinks deals. Keep an eye out for events at popular student venues like Factory251 and Fifth, where you can enjoy themed parties, guest DJs and special promotions.
• Cocktail Bars: For those who prefer a more sophisticated night out, Manchester boasts a number of stylish cocktail bars and eateries.

Shopping

The city boasts a selection of shopping centres and department stores, such as the Arndale Centre and the Trafford Centre. In addition to big brand shops, you can find independent boutiques and quirky shops in The Northern Quarter, Spinningfields and along Oldham Street.

Attractions

Manchester hosts one of the best Christmas markets in the UK. Starting in November, it’s a great way to celebrate the season with friends and family. As well as events in the winter months, there are numerous festivals held in the parks throughout the year, such as the student festival Park Life at Heaton Park.

Sports and Recreational Facilities

Manchester is known as a city of sport all across the world. It is home to the iconic football clubs Manchester United and Manchester City, with their impressive stadiums open for tours. If you’re a football fan and looking for a day out, Manchester is the perfect city.

Manchester United:

• Old Trafford: Known as "The Theatre of Dreams," Old Trafford is one of the largest and most famous football stadiums in the UK, with a capacity of over 74,000. The Manchester United Museum provides an in-depth look at the club’s history.

Manchester City:

• Etihad Stadium: Home to Manchester City, The Etihad Stadium has a capacity of over 53,000. Why not check out a stadium tour to showcase the club’s history and merchandise!

Additionally, the city has excellent recreational facilities, including gyms, swimming pools and sports complexes.

Living as a Student in Manchester

Getting around

Navigating Manchester and its surrounding areas is a breeze. There are a host of transport options to cater to all. Manchester has three major train stations – Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria and Manchester Oxford Road – connecting students to their hometowns and other major cities across the country.

Accommodation Options

Manchester offers a variety of student accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. From modern, purpose-built student halls featuring en-suites and communal areas to shared houses in student neighbourhoods, there is something for everyone. With the city’s well-developed transport links, you will never be far from your destination no matter where you live.

Check out our variety of student accommodation options in Manchester – you’re bound to find the right one for you!

Manchester offers a dynamic and enriching experience for students. Embrace what the city has to offer and enjoy your time in this vibrant, bustling metropolis. With its rich history, lively cultural scene and friendly community, Manchester is a fantastic place to live, learn, and grow as a student.