A Full Guide to Student Life in Manchester | Nightlife, Things to Do & Accommodation Options

Manchester remains an incredibly popular destination for tourists to visit in the UK, with over 1.7M visitors each year. Known as the “birthplace of the Industrial Revolution,” the city is often referred to as the city of the North due to its popular landmarks, distinct architecture, and iconic music scene.

Popular landmarks include Manchester Cathedral, Old Trafford and Etihad Stadiums, and Salford Quays, home to MediaCityUK.

As a multicultural city, Manchester offers a diverse range of cuisines, including the famous "Curry Mile" in Rusholme, and a vibrant social scene. Look for areas such as the Northern Quarter, Printworks, and the Corn Exchange, which all host various eateries, activities, and places to drink – all with student-focused events and deals.

Read our guide on the best things to do as a student in Manchester here.

When finding student accommodation in Manchester, consider a location that is close to certain amenities, such as university resources and the best things to do. In Manchester, most attractions are easily accessible by bus and tram, so look for a property with good transport links.

Here are some of the most popular student areas in Manchester, and their amenities:

·       Manchester City Centre and Northern Quarter: offers numerous amenities and proximity to the University of Manchester and Metropolitan campuses. Amenities include strong transport links (Metrolink trams), train stations (Piccadilly and Victoria), Manchester Arndale Centre, and many supermarkets nearby.

·       Fallowfield: popular area due to strong community and lively atmosphere. Perfect for second and third-year students. Amenities include access to green spaces and student pubs down Wilmslow Road.

·       Rusholme: Home to the “Curry Mile” and known for its numerous affordable and diverse eateries. Close to both Manchester universities and a 20 minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly train station.

·       Oxford Road Corridor: known for its “knowledge quarter” and a popular place for students and visitors, with an abundance of things to do. Amenities include proximity to Piccadilly and Oxford Road train stations, as well as many supermarkets, things to do and music venues.

·       Ardwick: a quieter and more budget-focused area, Ardwick has many green spaces to enjoy and many travel links to the city centre and universities.

Compare the pros and cons of amenities in different Manchester student areas with our full guide here.

At Mansion Student, we refurbish and manage properties in some of the most popular student cities, including Leeds and Manchester. Our purpose-built student accommodations offer a range of amenities, including cinema rooms, gyms, modern study spaces, and laundry facilities.

Our City Edge accommodation, just a 10-minute walk from Manchester city centre – arrange a viewing today!

Browse all our student accommodation locations to find your perfect place to stay next university year!

The home of "Madchester" and 24-hour party people, Manchester is a cultural city with a vibrant music and nightlife scene. Celebrated for its diverse and inclusive atmosphere, the Northwest city is home to some of the best clubs and bars in the UK – with something on every night of the week.

Popular Manchester nightlife areas include:

·       Northern Quarter: known for independent and quirky bars, such as Crazy Pedros and NQ64 gaming bar.

·       Oxford Road: various live music venues, such as the Deaf Institute and Gorilla.

·       Deansgate: centrally located, perfect for indie music lovers.

·       Gay Village: one of the most popular LGBTQ+ areas with Canal Street at its core.

Manchester's nightlife consists of places aimed specifically at students, whether on a university campus or a recognised hotspot. At the University of Manchester , consider Big Hands, a friendly and lively pub and a favourite amongst students. Manchester Metropolitan students frequent Boundary, located in the heart of their union. Expect socials, student events, gigs, sports, and club nights at these student bars.

For more information, read our guide on the best bars, pubs and nightclubs in Manchester for students here.

Why not start the night with friends at student accommodation? Mansion Student looks for properties with socialising opportunities, including shared, modern spaces and communal facilities. Our City Edge and Moss Court properties are a short walk from the city centre.

Arrange a viewing at one of our Manchester properties for the next university year here!

Across the city, there are many purpose-built student accommodations that cater to various budgets, lifestyles, and study needs. Manchester offers a range of student accommodation options, including halls of residence, shared student housing, and private student accommodation.

When choosing where to live in Manchester as a student, consider the property’s proximity to campus, especially if you’re new to the city. Look at the local amenities, nightlife, and public transport links.

Read our guide on reasons to live in Manchester as a student and how to prepare for student life here.

At Mansion Student, we manage modern purpose-built student accommodation in some of the most popular cities in the UK, including Leeds, Durham, and Manchester.

Both our Manchester student accommodations are perfectly located near both the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan campuses. In the popular areas of Rusholme and Ardwick, Moss Court and City Edge (respectively) offer full furnished non-ensuite rooms with all-inclusive bills – close to all student amenities and the city centre.

If you have any questions regarding any of our student accommodation properties, contact the Mansion Student team today!

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