Find out more about our city

Throughout its history, Manchester has always been different.

It’s an energetic city, rich with history and bustling night and day, where you can satisfy all your food, drink and shopping needs. It’s a transport hub, a centre for culture and creativity, and a world-famous home for elite sport. And our campus is at the heart of it all — just a stone’s throw away from all the city has to offer.

Manchester not only offers an unparalleled student experience, but it also provides a wealth of opportunities after you graduate. Explore what makes Manchester unique, or come to an Open Day to see things for yourself.

Discover the city districts

Whether you fancy a coffee and an afternoon stroll around the many historical and cultural institutions, or boutique shopping in the trendy Northern Quarter — you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Take a couple of minutes to explore Manchester and get acquainted with the city’s districts.

Northern Quarter

Independent, creative and undeniably cool, the Northern Quarter is a popular destination for vintage stores or cafes and bars.

Picture of student shopping

Central Retail District

The ultimate shopping destination with everything from high street names to high-end boutiques.

King Street in Manchester

Castlefield

Less than a mile from campus is a dive into Manchester’s past, where there are picturesque cobbles, canals, old mills and even a Roman fort.

Castlefield in Manchester

Chinatown

The UK’s second-largest Chinatown, after London, is home to a wide range of restaurants and shops. When Lunar New Year comes around it hosts spectacular celebrations.

Chinese arch

Medieval Quarter

Discover the remains of Manchester from a time before the Industrial Revolution. Take a tour of the 17th-century John Rylands Library, the late medieval cathedral, and even two pubs from the 16th century.

The John Rylands Library

The Gay Village

Not too far from our University sits the non-stop party of one of Europe’s best-loved gay districts where you find a vibrant, welcoming LGBTQ+ community.

Students in the Gay Village

Salford Quays

A tram ride from the city centre, you’ll find the quays and MediaCityUK. It’s home to the BBC, The Lowry Theatre and the Imperial War Museum North.

MediaCityUK

Spinningfields

Combining business and leisure, this is a district of towering steel and glass, upmarket bars, restaurants and shops.

Picture of student on Deansgate
The Northern Quarter has a really cool vibe about it and there's loads of places to go.
Rio
BA Business and Marketing
The Northern Quarter has a really cool vibe about it and there's loads of places to go.
Rio
BA Business and Marketing

Travel

Manchester is a globally accessible city with great connections by air and rail. The rest of the country — and the world — is on your doorstep.

Once you’re on campus, it’s only a short walk to the city centre and all of the travel options available. Whether it’s on foot, or by bike, tram or train, getting to where you want to be is easy.