Manchester is by far one of the most fun cities to live the student life in the UK. With a plethora of clubs, restaurants and bars, your experience will be unforgettable.
There are also plenty of museums and shops with something for everyone. The Lake District is a quick drive away for when you want to enjoy the beautiful British countryside. There’s a lot to keep you occupied here on one of your many study breaks!
Looking for things to do as a student in Manchester? Read on for some inspiration.
1. Grab a Coffee at Idle Hands
Coffee. Pie. Eats. That’s what this Northern Quarter cafe prides itself on, and boy do they get it right. It’s safe to say that all the baristas here know their stuff and make coffee into an art form.
Gaze out of their dreamy windows and watch the world go by with a delicious coffee to warm you up on those cold winter days. Make sure to grab one of their many sweet treats or savoury snacks on your lunch break, because you deserve something special.
2. Take a Trip to The Lowry
Along by the Salford Quays part of Greater Manchester, you’ll find the Lowry in all its’ glory. The name is of course inspired by the great Mancunian artist L.S. Lowry and you’ll find plenty of his original works along with other modern and contemporary arts pieces.
The gallery exhibits a mixture of visual and performance art as well and it features studio spaces and not one, but two main theatres. It’s a creative hub that thrives in Manchester and whether you come for a quick visit or a whole day out, you won’t regret coming along.
3. Grab a Bite to Eat at Volta
Volta is owned by two of Manchester’s most famous DJs-turned-restaurateurs, the Unabombers. They’ve swapped their clubbing ways to serve up a treat to the people of Manchester and boy, you won’t be disappointed.
Their venue has a laid back and stylish design which makes you feel at ease as soon as you step inside. They serve a range of delicious dishes but their small plates are ones you have to try, with bites such as Lebanese lamb chops and deep fried goats cheese that keep you coming back for more.
4. Explore the City by Bike
Manchester is a very big city but it also has excellent bike lanes and is super bike friendly for cyclists who want to get around on two wheels. If you plan on bringing your own bike or buying one here, cycling could save you money on train and bus fares in the long run.Online you can find plenty of cycle routes and information if you’re planning on cycling in Manchester. Luckily, a lot of our student accommodation in Manchester also has secure bike parking, so you don’t have to worry about finding a spot for it once you get home.
5. Get Some Drinks at Big Hands
Big Hands is a place you’ll walk pass and probably miss if you aren’t looking for it. Sandwiched between a kebab shop and a florist, follow the alleyway down and you’ll find what looks like a dive bar.
But Big Hands is so much more than that. Here, you’ll find a place which hosts some of the best gigs in Manchester and has a beautiful rooftop terrace perfect for summer evening hangs. Whether you’re into the rock scene or not, this is a hidden gem in the city you must be sure to visit.
6. Go to a Football Match
Manchester is most famous for its football teams and has huge followings of fans from all around the world. If you’re a fan, you’d be mad not to go see them in action at the Old Trafford.
If you really love your football, you can even take a tour of Manchester United and Manchester City to learn all about the rich history of the clubs and even take a trip to the Football Museum.
7. Go on a Tour
One of the best ways to learn all about the history and hidden stories of a city is to go on a guided tour. There are regular Blue Badge tours that run every day for less than a tenner and they make for a great way to spend a few hours.
Meet with your group and you’ll go on a walking tour of Manchester, learning all about the history and architecture along the way. It’s a great way to understand the city and how it became what it is today.
8. Hit Up the Markets
Manchester is known for having great markets all year round with everything you could possibly imagine for sale. From crafts to clothes to food, there’s something here to satisfy everyone.
Grub is one of the best street food markets and Altrincham Market has been revamped to be bigger and better. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and you could get some great bargains from them!
There is So Much to Do in Manchester
Manchester is an amazing city to live and if you’re coming to study in Manchester, you’re very lucky.
Need to find student accommodation in Manchester? Get in touch with us and we can help you.
