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Back to city guide
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  • Student life
  • City guide

Things to do

Whether you’re looking to socialise, explore the arts or enjoy some downtime, Manchester offers a wide range of activities and experiences.  

On this page:

  • University life
  • Something for everyone
  • Low cost things to do

Imi's guide to

University life

Student Imi reflects on her four years at Manchester and some of the many adventures and opportunities the University and city has to offer.  

Watch Imi’s experience of being a student here. 

Something for everyone

A diverse and multicultural city, Manchester prides itself on having something for everyone.

  • A proud music heritage, the city offers artists every night at a range of quirky venues, while also playing host to the biggest artists in the world at its larger stadiums and arenas.
  • With culture and history bursting from its seams, Manchester has plenty of museums, theatres, galleries and performance spaces. From the Science and Industry Museum to the Royal Exchange Theatre, there's always a place to expand your mind.
  • Manchester is famous for its friendly and chatty people, so no wonder it has so many bars and restaurants. Whether you want a taste of home in Chinatown or a few cocktails in the Northern Quarter, you'll always find a welcoming smile. 

Discover some of our students favourite places to go in Manchester.

Favourite places to go

Low cost things to do

Manchester has plenty of budget-friendly activities to do and places to go so you can easily make yourself at home in this dynamic city. 

We challenged some students to see what they could discover in just two hours. With bars, museums, shopping and great food to enjoy, watch them team up and discover some of the things you could do as a student here too.

The city on a budget – top tips

  1. Manchester is full of cafes and restaurants offering discounts and meal deals. Follow your favourites on Instagram to keep up with the latest savings.
  2. Keep an eye out for free entry nights and student discounts at club and music venues.
  3. Some museums and galleries, like Manchester Art Gallery, offer free entry, making it easy to explore the city’s cultural heritage.
  4. There are student discounts available at many local sports centres across the city, including the Aquatics Centre for swimming.
  5. Remember to enjoy free activities such as jogging and cycling, or simply relax in nature by heading to one of the city’s parks.

You may also be interested in....

<p>Get your bearings beyond the campus with our guide to getting around the city. </p>

Getting around Manchester

Get your bearings beyond the campus with our guide to getting around the city. 

Find out more white arrow pointing NE

<p>Discover the best ways to travel and places to go when you want to have new adventures outside your studies. </p>

Beyond the city

Discover the best ways to travel and places to go when you want to have new adventures outside your studies. 

Find out morewhite arrow pointing NE

<p>Find out more about financial support and useful tips around managing money at university. </p>

Cost of living

Find out more about financial support and useful tips around managing money at university. 

Find out more white arrow pointing NE

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