8 things to see and do in Manchester when you start uni
Manchester is home to great food, lush green spaces, and bags of culture. So, as you are starting university (or returning), you’ll want to explore everything that the city has to offer.
Whether you are new to the city, or getting to know it better, we’ve put together a list of the eight things students should see and do in Manchester.
1. Step back in time at John Rylands Library
Fancy yourself as a bit of a book worm? Then John Rylands Library on Deansgate is a must visit for you. The building is a stunning display of gothic architecture, and you may feel like you are walking into a real-life Hogwarts. Fun fact – the producers of Harry Potter did use John Rylands as inspiration for Hogwarts School and Dumbledore’s Office.
The library also holds some of the largest special collections in the UK. These include medieval illuminated manuscripts and one of the earliest surviving New Testament texts.
2. Explore restaurants and shops in China Town
Manchester’s China Town is the second largest in the UK. As you walk under the iconic Chinese arch on Faulkner Street, you will see a wide choice of Chinese restaurants, bakeries, bars, and shops. Hong Hong Bakery is a must visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. They have a tasty selection of baked goods including pandan cakes and coconut flower buns.
The annual Chinese New Year Festival takes place here every February. It’s a huge event in Manchester’s calendar and includes everything from the famous red lanterns, live performances, and dancing dragons on the famous parade.
3. Take a stroll through one of the largest parks in the UK
More than just your average green space, Manchester’s Heaton Park has more than 600 acres of grass and woodland. If you want more than just a walk in the park, you can enjoy a trip to the Tram Museum and Animal Centre or visit one of the many well-preserved historic buildings.
Heaton Park also plays host to a number of events each year, including outdoor concerts, plays and Parklife, a two-day annual music festival. You can, of course enjoy the simpler things including the boating lakes and a coffee and cake at one of their cafes.
4. See some art at Whitworth Art Gallery
Just a short walk from campus and you can immerse yourself in a world of art and culture. The Whitworth Art Gallery is home to more than 60,000 artworks. From contemporary art and fine art paintings to textiles and sculptures – there’s something for everyone.
You can also explore some of the beautiful outdoor spaces, which include the art garden, orchard and sculpture terrace.
5. Take a tram ride to Salford Quays and MediaCityUK
There’s lots to see and do near campus and in the city centre, but why not check Salford Quays waterfront for a different view of Greater Manchester?
Just a short tram ride will take you to the home of the BBC and ITV, The Lowry Theatre, The Quays Shopping Centre, and Imperial War Museum. It’s also an ideal place to catch the sunset and dine in one of the many restaurants and bars in the area.
6. Explore secret sights with a city treasure hunt
What better way to explore the city or get to know it better than through a fun-filled treasure hunt. Gather your flatmates or new course buddies and hit the streets of Manchester to solve clues and find secret locations. It’s like an escape room, but outdoors.
You will get to see different areas of Manchester, while also learning something new about them. It’s an ideal way to get to know new friends or build even better bonds with those you know well. Check out the CityDays website for more information.
7. Visit Victoria Baths
When it opened in 1906, Victoria Baths became one of the finest bathhouses and public pools in the country. It was famous for its mosaic floors, fine tiles, and stained-glass windows and became known as the water palace.
Today, you can no longer go for a quick dip, but you can still see some of the original stained glass and tiling (most of which is intact). There’s the option to tour the building or attend one of their regular events such as live music shows and vintage fairs.
8. See the most Instagrammable street art in the heart of the city
The Northern Quarter is known for its quirky shops and eclectic bars and cafes, but it’s also a hub for the city’s creative and artistic talent.
Check out the colourful side of Manchester with a street art tour in the Northern Quarter. A local guide will show all the best murals so you can grab a shot for your Insta account, while learning about their history. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and meet fellow street art lovers.
