One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about studying at the University of Manchester is how much there is to do. Whether it’s exploring the city centre, trying a new café with friends, or heading somewhere a bit quieter for the day, there’s always something to keep you busy. Before moving here, I knew Manchester was a big city, but I didn’t realise just how much it had to offer. What’s surprised me most is how easy it is to discover new places, both within the city and beyond, without having to travel very far.

A great place to start exploring is Piccadilly Gardens. Right in the middle of the city centre, it’s surrounded by shops, cafés, restaurants and transport links, so you’ll probably find yourself passing through it quite often. From there, it’s easy to wander around the city and discover different areas. One place I always recommend is Printworks. Built inside a former printing factory, it has a really unique atmosphere with its industrial design and bright lights. Whether you’re going to watch a film, grab some food with friends or enjoy a night out, there’s plenty to do.

It’s also impossible to talk about Manchester without mentioning football. The city is home to Manchester United and Manchester City, so even if you’re not a massive football fan, you’ll definitely notice how important the sport is here.

For shopping, the Arndale Centre is probably where most students end up at some point. It has pretty much every high-street shop you could need, along with plenty of food options. I’ve found it especially useful when I need to quickly pick up essentials between lectures. It’s also in a great location, making it easy to combine with a walk around Deansgate or the Northern Quarter, which is one of my favourite areas of the city thanks to its independent cafés, street art and unique shops.

The Peak District is one of my favourite places to visit when I want a break from city life. With its rolling hills, scenic walking routes and beautiful views, it feels completely different from Manchester despite being less than an hour away by train. Whether you enjoy hiking, taking photos or just spending some time outdoors, it’s an ideal place for a day trip. One thing I’ve really appreciated since moving here is how well-connected Manchester is, making places like the Peak District easy and affordable to visit, especially if you book train tickets in advance.

If you’re looking for something a bit more lively, Blackpool is always a fun day out with friends. Between the seafront, amusement attractions and the famous tower, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. York and Leeds are also great options. York is full of history and beautiful architecture, while Leeds offers excellent shopping, food and nightlife. The fact that all these places are so easy to reach is something I’ve really come to appreciate during my time here.

Overall, one of the things I’ve enjoyed most about studying in Manchester is the variety it offers. There’s always somewhere new to explore, whether that’s in the city itself or on a day trip elsewhere. From shopping and football to countryside walks and visits to nearby cities, there’s something for everyone. It’s one of the reasons Manchester has felt like such a great place to live and study, and why I’d recommend it to any prospective student considering the university.

Written by Ahmed, a current BSc Business Accounting student. 

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