Written by Aled Hanson – Postgraduate Student 

1. Royal Exchange Theatre

The Royal Exchange is one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in the entire city. During the day, pop in for a coffee and a bite to eat at the café. As the evening draws in, be sure to check out one of the wide range of plays and musicals – Under 25s and students can get tickets for just £7.

2. Home 

Home is a wonderful multipurpose arts centre on Oxford Road, just a stone’s throw from the University. Whether you want to check out their art galleries, watch the latest film in their cinema, or see one of the theatre shows the building regularly puts on….you can combine a trip to one of HOME’s free art exhibitions with a cinema ticket for under £10.

3. People’s History Museum

The People’s History Museum is one of my favourite places in Manchester. This free entry museum tells the story of people’s resistance throughout history, with a specific focus on the UK. With a wide range of temporary exhibitions, what’s on offer is constantly changing, with a variety of exciting events also hosted at the building.

4. Manchester Art Gallery

Manchester Art Gallery is another fantastic free day out in the city centre. Whether you’re into modern or more traditional art, there will be something for you at this wonderful free to access gallery. Be sure to check out the café here too – the selection of sweet treats is out of this world! 

5. Vue Printworks

After almost a year living in Manchester, I have worked out this is officially the cheapest cinema in town. At just £5 for any film, any day, this is a great opportunity for a cheap but exciting night out. You can even afford some popcorn too at that price!

6. Manchester Central Library

A trip to the Manchester Central Library is essential, and even better, entry is free! Marvel at the beautiful architecture, browse through thousands of books, and learn about history and current affairs through a wide range of exhibits the library puts on. Be sure to check out the café for some of the best tray bakes in Manchester, and the shop for tasteful Manchester themed gifts. 

7. Manchester Christmas markets

This is an absolute festive must. The Manchester Christmas markets are known all over the country, for one of the best festive days out in the Northwest. Entry is completely free and there’s nothing better than wrapping up warm, wandering around with a hot chocolate and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

8. Contact Theatre

Another fantastic theatre right on the campus of the University, which has just re-opened after an exciting multi-million-pound re-development. With a wide range of shows on, with student tickets starting at just £5, that gives you a ticket and a drink during the interval for under a tenner – what more could you want! 

9. Imperial War Museum

Here’s one for the history buffs. The Imperial War Museum is a hugely important museum in Manchester that everyone should visit when in the city. Entry is free and there is a wide range of both permanent and temporary exhibitions to suit all ages.  

10. Manchester Cathedral

Looking for somewhere perfect to take your mum when she’s visiting for the weekend? Well look no further. Manchester Cathedral is the perfect place to go. Entry is free, and the opportunity to witness the beautiful architecture, take in the incredible history and learn more about this beautiful building is an absolute must see.

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