The ultimate student guide to exploring Manchester

Welcome to Manchester, the third biggest city in the UK and home to Manchester City and Manchester United, two of the biggest football clubs in England.

Renowned for its dynamic food scene, rich history, thriving mix of bars and gig venues, flourishing LGBT community and home to many prestigious universities, Manchester is one of the most popular student destinations in the country, with over 100,000 students flocking to the city in total (and 20,000 of them from overseas)!

Within Manchester, students have the choice of four universities, the largest of which is the University of Manchester, the third biggest university in the UK. Other well-known institutions are Manchester Metropolitan, the University of Salford and the University of Bolton. Each university provides a top-class education that’s been internationally recognised, offers students substantial opportunities in the working world and has been hailed for their academic excellence. 

The University of Manchester boasts 25 Nobel prizes (within the science and economics fields), is a member of the Russell Group (a group of select universities distinguished for their esteemed teaching and research) and has been ranked third best university in the UK after the prestigious Cambridge and Oxford universities. Manchester Metropolitan not only provides students with a wealth of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, but their Business School was awarded the reputable EQUIS accreditation, which is a renowned global benchmark of excellence for schools specialising in business. They also have a strong focus on sustainability and one of the UK’s most environmentally friendly universities. 

Students studying at the University of Salford can expect placement and opportunities on media courses undertaken, with Salford the only university to have a campus at MediaCityUK. The university is famed for its industry-led facilities within the broadcast, media, animation and journalism sector, as well as its acclaimed postgraduate courses in business and law whilst the University of Bolton benefits from being rated by The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 as best in the North West for overall teaching quality and student fulfilment. The establishment also boasts one of the most ethnically diverse student populations in the country, with approximately 60 different nationalities studying on campus. 

In their free time, students can enjoy a district that’s brimming with possibilities as they explore the world’s first industrial city as well as the myriad of attractions that the city has to offer.

From the diverse music scene, where students can enjoy a range of events at various venues, the plethora of museums where they can learn about the industrial revolution and the diversity in culture and religion that’s made the city the inclusive place it is today or even joining the Pride Parade in support of LGBTQIA+ rights in August, Manchester offers students the perfect balance of work, study and play all in one area.

Manchester’s history is rich and varied. It became the world’s first industrialised city, with the introduction of the Bridgewater Canal in 1761 and the opening of the first inter-city passenger railway station dating back to 1830.

Politics has also been prominent in the city over the years. Did you know that Manchester was the birthplace of the Women’s Social and Political Union in 1903? Founded by Emmeline Pankhurst in 1903, it was created in support of women receiving the right to vote in the UK. Or perhaps you’ve heard of the ol’ rumour that Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels first wrote the Communist Manifesto in Manchester’s oldest library Chetham’s? The library is still in use today and visitors can even sit at the same desk the pair made history at in 1845.

Fast forward to the present day, and the city has transformed exponentially; a thriving district, with an abundant food scene ranging from The Curry Mile to Chinatown, picturesque cobblestone streets to wander down on a summer’s day, an unrivalled nightlife and a variety of museums to visit for a more relaxed weekend.

How to get around Manchester

Despite being such a large city, Walking from one part of the city centre to the other only takes around 30 minutes on foot, and cycling lanes are extensive if you want to maintain an active lifestyle - but that’s not all. Manchester also provides students with an efficient transportation system that makes travelling within the city and even further afield quick and hassle-free. 

Buses 

Did you know that Manchester is the motherland of the UK’s first bus service? Well, you do now and coincidentally (or perhaps not at all, but we’ll roll with it), the most preferable mode of transport for students studying in Manchester is the bus, with the Magic 147 offering students at the University of Manchester students free travel from certain areas - check the Magic 147 bus schedule for further information. 

There’s also the renowned ‘free bus’ service which despite the uninspiring name, is useful for those wanting to jump on and off at a few specific destinations. For further information, click here.

Tram System

Manchester has a comprehensive tram network, which is split into four zones, Zone 1 being predominantly the city centre. Students have to use a separate Metrolink card for the tram, and the seven lines take you through the city and onwards to Eccles, East Didsbury and even Manchester Airport.

Trains

The city has three main train stations, Manchester Piccadilly, Victoria and Oxford Road, that allow students to travel comfortably to various neighbourhoods and suburbs outside of the city, as well as directly into London Euston in just over 2 hours if you don’t want to jump on a coach and up and down the majority of the country.

For students looking to explore the UK for a fun-filled weekend away from studying, Manchester is a really convenient location to base yourself, with trains to the beautiful Edale, part of the hiking utopia of the Peak District taking only 40 minutes. For a trip to the seaside, students can take the train to the idyllic coastal town of Conwy in Wales, in only two hours.

Student Luxe Top Tip

Students are entitled to discounted travel if under 25 years old. Click here for more information.

Student Luxe Top Tip

If you’re looking for a holiday abroad, you can easily travel to Manchester airport using various modes of transport, be it the train, bus, coach or Metrolink.

Closest things nearby

Student Luxe offers student apartments in some of the most sought-after locations in Manchester, close to popular attractions as well as universities, libraries and coffee shops. We’ve compiled a quick list of essential places nearby, as well as hot spots that are ideal for relaxation on study breaks.

Top things to do in Manchester

Manchester, a thriving metropolis of the UK, is one of the most popular student cities in the country, thanks to a vibrant nightlife, an abundance of restaurants with international cuisine, a variety of attractions to enjoy on the weekend and a fantastic education that’s rated highly worldwide.

Although often disregarded in favour of its more famous sister city London, Manchester has actually been rated more positively than the capital, ranking 28 out of 173 cities that are most liveable throughout the world, ahead of London who ranked as 33. It’s not surprising when you delve into Manchester’s fascinating history, and take a moment to explore its epic music, culture and culinary scene.

We’ve compiled a list of our favourite things to do in Manchester to help students become acquainted with their new city.

Shop ‘til you drop in King Street

The pedestrianised King Street allows shoppers to browse a range of premium and high-end stores, as well as the opportunity to admire an array of historical buildings on the street. The combination of impressive architecture hailing from the late 19th century amidst the variety of modern, designer stores makes for a fascinating shopping experience like no other. 

Pop in and out of the Northern Quarter

An essential part of Manchester to visit, this hipster district is brimming with independent stores, vintage shops, unique record shops, lively bars and a broad selection of restaurants serving the best in international cuisine. Amidst the buzz of places to visit, is the sensational street art that surrounds you, with some of the very best artists taking to the walls creating phenomenal murals that really take your breath away. You can view some of the best street art in Stevenson Square, which constantly updates its beautiful artwork.

Student Luxe’s Top Tip

If you do happen to visit the Northern Quarter, pay a visit to the renowned Affleck’s Palace, which transformed from a department store to that of a bustling indoor market housing an eclectic array of cute boutiques, vintage stores and independent retailers as well as a stunning art gallery which promotes a selection of original and unique artwork from varying artists. For more information, click here.

Explore the glitzy side of Manchester nightlife 

With a variety of districts contained in one city, Manchester offers students a myriad of glamorous bars, cosy pubs and luxury restaurants depending on the style of night they’re looking for - the beauty of the city is that there is always something for everyone. 

Without a doubt, Peter Street/Deansgate and Spinningfields offer students a more sophisticated night out, with some of the finest champagne and cocktail bars opening their doors to the public. You can often spot a famous face amongst the crowd in some of these exclusive hotspots and it’s helpful to book a table in advance so you’re not left waiting for a while. Some of our favourites include 20 Stories, whose stunning outdoor terrace offers visitors unparalleled views over Manchester, Tattu whose Insta-famous indoor cherry blossom tree can be seen in many a post and Australasia, whose skillfully-crafted cocktails are second to none.

Unleash your fanatical football (soccer) side  

Manchester is home to two of the biggest Premier League football clubs in the world - Manchester City and Manchester United. The two opposing teams often have some unforgettable games that students can purchase tickets for directly on the website. We recommend you also pay a visit to Manchester’s National Football Museum, one of the world’s biggest football museums, paying homage to the legacy of football in the form of stimulating exhibitions, interactive games and fascinating memorabilia. 

Student Luxe’s Top Tip

Make sure you book onto a tour to explore the football grounds, locker rooms and museum at Old Trafford, home to Manchester United or book a tour at the Etihad Stadium where you can visit the football pitch, the players’ changing rooms and their very own interactive exhibition.

Go wild at a music gig

Along with music, Manchester is famous for its legendary music scene, due to the incredible artists that have emerged from the city and the extensive amount of venues that you can visit for gigs. The Bee Gees and Oasis are just a few of the acclaimed bands that rose to fame from Manchester, and many other musicians return to the city to perform at the AO Arena, the second-largest indoor area in the whole of Europe. For the latest in emerging talent, and a slightly more intimate atmosphere, head to Band on the Wall, which hosts an internationally-acclaimed programme of folk, blues and jazz music, which makes for one of the best nights out in Manchester.

Explore the city’s famous ‘Curry Mile’

Manchester provides students with an array of award-winning restaurants, from fine dining to casual eateries, with an emphasis on international cuisine. It goes without saying though, that the city’s ‘Curry Mile’ is crucial to its acclaimed food scene and a must-visit for those with a preference for Indian, Middle Eastern, Bangladeshi or Pakistani food.

The ‘Curry Mile’, is (hilariously) not actually a mile long, but certainly features an extensive selection of restaurants and takeaways along Wilmslow Road, close to the campuses at Manchester Metropolitan and the University of Manchester. With over 70 restaurants, it can be difficult to choose which one to visit, but we recommend booking yourself a delectable afternoon tea at Ziya Asian Grill, which adds a unique twist on modern, Indian classics. For a fine dining experience, you must visit Mussarat’s, where you can gorge on impeccably cooked street food in stylish surroundings.

Student Luxe’s Top Tip

Manchester is incredibly diverse with its international choice of food and is famous for its Chinatown, located around Faulkner Street which happens to be the second largest in the UK. Here you can find a wide variety of Asian restaurants, bakeries and supermarkets as well as stunning monuments, including the famous Paifang archway - an official gift from Beijing and a renowned tourist attraction.

Put your history hat on and find out about the life and times of Manchester

Manchester has a fascinating history that can be learnt about either on a professional tour or simply by walking around the city. Not only is it recognised as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, but it’s also famous for the many places of historical significance that locals hold close to their heart. Pay a visit to the Manchester Cathedral, whose history dates back more than 600 years. The cathedral is one of the oldest in the city, and sustained major damage during the Second World War. Nowadays, you can visit daily, to admire the beautiful glass windows, the phenomenal architecture or simply to pray. Another famous monument to visit is the memorial of Alan Turing, located in Sackville Park. Turing taught at Manchester University after his success as a codebreaker during the Second World War, his work crucial in helping the Allies win the war. The Alan Turing Building was built at the University of Manchester, in recognition of Turing, essentially the brains behind modern computer science.

Student Luxe’s Top Tip:

If you’re keen to wander around the city solo, but still want some knowledge of what it is you’re looking at, download this self-guided walking tour app. It provides a wealth of tours you can partake in, without the need for a professional guide. Download it here.

Spend a fun day at one of Manchester’s many museums 

Manchester is home to a huge collection of museums, providing visitors with fascinating artefacts, interactive displays and historical exhibitions to retell the history of the city in fun and exciting ways. Spend a day discovering the impact of the industrial revolution with the development of industry and technology at the Science and Industry Museum, the People’s History Museum which explores the story of revolutionaries and ordinary citizens who fought for individual rights and equality or the Manchester Jewish Museum, located in a Spanish-Portuguese Synagogue, recounting the narrative of Jewish migration and settlement in the city, with a series of over 20,000 photographs, personal anecdotes from Holocaust survivors and refugees as well as historical objects and documents.

Create your own beverage and sample the gins at The City of Manchester Distillery

Whether you’re a gin lover, or simply in the mood for a unique experience on the weekend, The City of Manchester Distillery provides an accurate and fascinating insight into the origins of Manchester’s very own Three Rivers Gin and the history of the original gin before you make your very own! Throughout the session, expect to sip and sample a variety of tasters whilst you learn about the process that made them in the first place. It's a multi-award-winning gin experience for a reason! Book your place here.

Sample exquisite cuisine at some of the finest restaurants in the city

It’s no secret that Manchester is probably one of the best cities in the UK for dining experiences that are unbeatable in service, unique in decor and welcoming in ambience - so much so, that you can often spot a celebrity or two in these very restaurants, so keep your eyes peeled. For those looking for award-winning tapas, we recommend El Gato Negro, whose dedication to their cuisine has earnt them a Michelin star and a huge fan base. If your preference is something a little more daring in decor, pay a visit to Sakku Samba, which provides a Brazilian and Japanese fusion for your tastebuds, whilst you sit underneath a canopy of beautiful flowers. If it’s Mediterranean you’re after, look no further than Rosso restaurant, which provides customers with an assortment of South Italian classic foods to savour, amidst luxurious, peaceful surroundings.

Happy exploring!

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