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Manchester is the perfect student city, home to some of the UK’s top universities including the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Salford.
With a world-class music scene, lively nightlife, a buzzing sporting culture, as well as being a melting pot of art and culture, it’s no wonder that Manchester has one of the largest student populations in Europe.
Whether you’re coming to study in this vibrant North West city for the next academic year, or you’re considering applying to university here, our guide is a must-read and is filled with insights on student life in Manchester. We’ve also included some of our top accommodation options available for students!
Things To Do In Manchester As A Student
Whilst studying in Manchester you’ll never be short of things to do and see, with a range of options to suit everyone’s preferences and budget.
Whether it’s experiencing one of Manchester’s legendary nightclubs, heading to a football match at Old Trafford, taking a stroll around the quirky Northern Quarter, or enjoying the eclectic mix of food on offer from across the globe, there’s always something going on in this city.
We’ve put together a list of all of the things you can get up to whilst living in Manchester, ensuring you make unforgettable memories and friendships to last a lifetime!
1. Explore The Museums & Galleries
Manchester offers a brilliant backdrop for your student years, with an abundance of activities to keep you busy when you’re not studying. If you’re keen to experience the city’s arts and culture, you can head to the Manchester Museum, one of the biggest of its kind in the UK.
The Manchester Museum opened more than 120 years ago and is a must-visit attraction, home to a range of archaeology, anthropology and natural history works. The best part? The museum is free to visit, so you don’t need to spend a penny.
Situated in the heart of the city, the Manchester Art Gallery offers a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions which will excite and inspire you.
Another great place to visit is The Lowry, located on the stunning Salford Quays waterfront with a range of fantastic exhibitions to suit everyone.
2. Head To An Iconic Live Music Venue
It’s no surprise that Manchester is filled with iconic live music venues, having produced the likes of Oasis, The Stone Roses, The Smiths and more.
If you’re a music lover, the Albert Hall is the perfect venue for watching live music, with a jam packed venue throughout the year.
For something a little different, head to The Blues Kitchen, a late night bar and restaurant hosting live music and DJ sets 7 days a week.
Situated in the heart of Manchester City Centre, YES is another popular venue for students, with four floors to explore and a wide range of gigs and club nights to suit everyone’s music tastes.
3. Splash The Cash On The High Street
If you’re keen to shop until you drop whilst studying in Manchester, you’re in luck as there’s plenty of high-street shops and shopping centres to choose from.
A notable shopping destination in Manchester is The Arndale, which is one of the largest city centre shopping centres in Europe and is home to more than 200 stores.
The Northern Quarter is the place for quirky and independent shops, with countless shops selling everything from cool clothing to records to posters to bits and bobs for your student flat.
4. Experience The City of Sport
Like sports? Well, don’t we all. One of the best things about Manchester is it is home to two of the world’s most popular football clubs, Manchester City and Manchester United.
During your university years, you can head to a game at Old Trafford football ground, or the Etihad Stadium if you’re lucky enough to grab a ticket.
Manchester is also home to the National Football Museum, which displays important collections of football memorabilia, and even offers exclusive student discounts on tickets.
5. Make The Most Of The Greenery
Manchester may have climbed the rankings as the UK’s Second City, but in addition to its urban spaces, the city is also home to a wealth of greenery.
If you’re looking to take a break from your studies and unwind, there’s plenty of parks and green spaces to explore.
Whether it’s enjoying a picnic with your friends in Whitworth Park, or heading on a day trip to the Peak District National Park, which has more than 550 square miles of stunning scenery.
Manchester Student Accommodation
At X1 we have a range of Manchester student accommodation properties, which will keep you close to your university campus, and the city’s exciting activities.
Our apartments come fully equipped with everything you need for student life, including all-inclusive bills, ample storage space, designated study spaces and fantastic communal areas.
Looking for a student home for the next academic year? We’ve got you covered, find out more below about the different options available to you.
X1 The Campus
Situated just a short walk from the University of Salford’s Frederick Road Campus, our stunning property is the ultimate destination for students.
X1 The Campus offers a range of luxury studio apartments, which come fully furnished to a professional standard, and offer all-inclusive bills ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Keen to meet new people? X1 The Campus also has an on-site games room for showing off your competitive streak, and an on-site gym for staying fit.
X1 Atlas Court
Searching for an apartment in Manchester that doesn’t break the bank? X1 Atlas Court is a great option.
X1 Atlas Court is located in a prime university location in Rusholme and offers newly refurbished student flats with all bills included. Plus, if you’re a medical student, the property is conveniently situated close to a few hospitals.
There’s even a communal courtyard and terrace for spending time with friends when the sun is shining, and a range of loyalty card venues on your doorstep offering exclusive deals.
X1 Chapel Street
Searching for the perfect base in Manchester? Make sure to check out X1 Chapel Street.
Offering modern and spacious student apartments, Chapel Street offers great links to the University of Salford, so you only need to stroll out of bed to head to your lectures.
There’s even complimentary Netflix in all of our living areas so you can enjoy movie nights with your flatmates, or cook up a storm in our fully-furnished kitchens.
X1 Cheltenham Place
X1 Cheltenham Place is our newest student accommodation within Manchester, opening in January of 2025.
Located in the heart of Salford, X1 Cheltenham Place features 350 brand-new, fully-furnished apartments, and a range of fantastic amenities to keep you busy.
Whether it’s kicking back on the open-air rooftop garden, breaking a sweat in the onsite gym or exploring the X1 Loyalty Card venues on your doorstep.
So there we have it, a full breakdown of what you can expect during your student years in Manchester whilst living with X1.
If you’re yet to secure your student apartment, get in touch with us today via hello@X1management.com or book directly through our website!
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