Shopping

Manchester offers one of the most exciting and varied shopping experiences in the country – boasting some of the largest and most visited shopping centres in the UK and a network of smaller shops and boutiques. Whatever your style, whatever your budget, you are sure to find something for you in a city waiting to be explored. 

There are a host of shops on campus and nearby Oxford Road for your essentials, too – including the Students’  Union’s own shop. 

Where to go

Northern Quarter

Manchester’s Northern Quarter is an urban hive for creativity and art. In addition to the many hidden bars, restaurants and gig venues, you’ll find plenty of vintage boutiques, second-hand shops and independent retailers.

Market Street

Manchester’s most popular retail street provides all the leading brand names. Starting from Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street will take you down to Exchange Square via your favourite high street shops.

Exchange Square

Intersecting the Arndale Shopping Centre, Selfridges and St Anne’s Square, and with excellent transport links, Exchange Square serves as the epicentre of shopping in Manchester. A fabulous outdoor space bustling with shops, restaurants and seasonal markets makes this ideal for a stroll. 

New Cathedral Street

This modern pedestrianised shopping street is known for its premium designer stores and boutiques. New Cathedral Street offers a glamorous high-end shopping experience, complemented by regular outdoor food and drink markets.

Deansgate

One of the city’s oldest thoroughfares, Deansgate is home to outdoor suppliers, book shops, and more. Look out for Barton Arcade, and all manner of boutiques hidden in-between.

Makers Markets

Makers Markets regularly pop up all over the wider Manchester area, hosting a selection of local independent makers, bakers, crafters and more. You can find out more on its website. 

Shopping centres

Arndale Centre

Located on Market Street in the heart of the city, the Arndale offers a massive range of high street brands under one roof. Make sure to check out the adjacent Arndale Market for a selection of independent boutiques and food vendors, too. 
 
Visit manchesterarndale.com for visitor information.

Trafford Centre

A little further out of town but well worth a visit, the Trafford Centre is one of the largest shopping malls in the UK. Complete with over 60 bars and restaurants, an ODEON IMAX theatre, Sea Life, laser quest and a LEGOLAND discovery centre for those who want to make a day of it.

You can get to the Trafford Centre direct by bus or tram. Visit the intu Trafford Centre website for directions.

Quayside MediaCity UK

Located in the vibrant Salford Quays, Quayside MediaCity UK is an outlet mall offering discounts on high streets brands. With plenty of food options, a cinema and regular outdoor markets, you’ll find plenty to explore.

Easily accessed via tram – get off at the MediaCity UK stop. Visit the Quayside MediaCity UK website for more information.