Every city has its major attractions and entertainment hot spots. Manchester is city of great heritage and a mixture of modern and retro architecture. There are loads of places to visit along with some great shopping hot-spots and scenic parks. It boasts a large amount of entertainment all year round and is one of the many reasons why the city attracts so many students from across the world!
Northern Quarter - Just off Piccadilly Gardens, the Northern Quarter is centred around Oldham street. It's a fantastic quirky area to explore for shopping and just as good at night with plenty of live music and chilled bars. Perhaps the single biggest attraction is Affleck's Palace, a former department store which has been turned into a multi-storey bazaar for alternative clothing and off-the-wall knickknacks. There's an impressive fancy dress shop on the upper floor which is worth knowing about.
Manchester arena - This is the major gig venue in the city. You can get cheaper tickets in advance online. Other popular gig venues are the Manchester Academy and the Apollo
The Printworks - In the city centre this block is full of nighttime entertainment. With an Odeon cinema and an array of popular bars, restaurants and clubs.
Pangaea - Run twice a year by the UMSU, Pangaea is the largest post-exam student festival in the UK. Get your tickets well in advance from the UMSU box office. Big discounts for early birds.
Manchester Museum - For something a bit more educational, check out this free museum along Oxford road adjacent to Manchester university's Whitworth Hall.
The Comedy Store - For a well deserved laugh head down to Deansgate Locks and the Comedy Store. Sunday performances are when the comedians practice their new gags and the price is something crazy like 2.
Seasonal Attractions - Manchester boasts one of the best Christmas markets in the UK. Starting in late November, it's a great way to get in the Christmas spirit. Head over to Spinningfields for ice skating! Throughout the year there are lots of festivals in the parks. The student festival Park Life at Heaton park usually has a great line up and is always a sell out. For bonfire night, head over to Platt Fields for a free spectacular fireworks display.