Heading to university is a huge step, exciting, nerve-wracking, and a little bit surreal all at once. And if you’re starting this new chapter in Manchester, you’ve picked one of the best cities in the UK to do it. Known for its legendary music scene, football culture, and buzzing student community, Manchester is more than just a place to study, it’s a city that quickly becomes home.
This guide will help you and your parents get clued up on what to expect, how to settle in, and where to make the most of your student years.
The first few weeks at university are a whirlwind, moving into halls, meeting flatmates, and learning to live by yourself. Don’t stress, though, because everyone is in the same boat. The best way to make the transition easier is to pack smart. There’s no need to haul half your bedroom across the country. Focus on the essentials, bedding, kitchen basics, storage solutions, and a couple of home comforts. Anything you forget can be easily picked up in Manchester. The city is full of budget-friendly shops like IKEA in Ashton, Wilko, and Primark, so you won’t be short of options.
Money is another big part of settling in. Learning how to budget is key to enjoying your time here without draining your bank account in the first month. A weekly plan for food, nights out, and travel will give you more freedom to enjoy what Manchester has to offer.
Your accommodation will shape a big part of your first-year experience, and Manchester has plenty of options. Many first year’s head to Fallowfield, the city’s most famous student area. It’s loud, lively, and full of pubs, takeaways, and buses that run straight into town. If you’re looking for a buzzing social life, this is the place to be.
Rusholme is another popular choice, best known for the Curry Mile. With rows of restaurants serving up delicious and affordable food. For those who want a calmer environment, areas like Victoria Park and Hulme offer a more residential feel while keeping you close to campus.
When you’re not in lectures, Manchester has an endless list of things to explore. The Northern Quarter is a student favourite, packed with independent cafés, vintage shops, record stores, and colourful street art. It’s the perfect place for a study session over coffee by day or live music and drinks by night.
Oxford Road is the beating heart of student life, running past both the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Along this stretch, you’ll find cultural hotspots like the Whitworth Art Gallery and HOME arts centre, not to mention plenty of pubs and restaurants. For a dose of history and discovery, the Manchester Museum is unmissable, with its dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian mummies, and fascinating exhibitions, all for free.
Football fans are spoilt for choice, with Manchester United and Manchester City offering stadium tours that are must-dos whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just curious. And when you need a break from city life, Heaton Park is right on your doorstep. One of the largest green spaces in Europe, it’s perfect for running, picnicking, or joining one of the many festivals and events held there.
Freshers’ Week is all about exploring your new home, and one of the best ways to see Manchester is by booking a Manchester Taxi Tour. Instead of wandering around aimlessly, you’ll be whisked around in a zero-emissions black cab, learning about the city’s history, football culture, music scene, and hidden gems.
The tours are completely customisable, so you can include stops at the Northern Quarter’s street art, Affleck’s indoor market, or anywhere else that takes your fancy. With onboard Wi-Fi and charging points, you can keep your mates updated on Instagram while soaking up the sights. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to explore the city, and it’s something your parents will love too if they come to visit.
Start Freshers’ Week with a Manchester Taxi Tour and see the city like a local.
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