The Grafton, Manchester

Manchester has a variety of accommodation types to fit the budget and lifestyle of any student. There is something for everyone, ranging from communal areas that promote a feeling of community to individual studios for individuals who want independence. Here are some room types available in Manchester:

1. Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite rooms offer a private bedroom complete with an attached bathroom, giving students their own personal space for sleeping and hygiene. The kitchen and living areas are shared with other residents, making it a suitable choice for students who appreciate privacy in their bedroom but enjoy socialising in communal spaces.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms
Non-ensuite rooms are budget-friendly options that provide a private bedroom, while the bathroom, kitchen, and living areas are shared with others. This setup allows students to have their own personal sleeping and study area while making use of shared facilities.

3. Studio Apartments
Studio apartments are fully self-contained units, featuring a private bedroom, bathroom, and a compact kitchen area. With no need for shared spaces, they offer maximum privacy and independence, making them ideal for students who prefer a complete living area of their own.

4. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments
These apartments feature one or two separate bedrooms and include a shared kitchen, bathroom, and often a living room. Furnished with essential amenities, they’re ideal for students who prefer to live with one other person, offering a semi-private environment with dedicated bedroom space.

5. Shared Apartments
Shared apartments consist of multiple private bedrooms within the same unit, with common areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room shared among roommates. This layout is ideal for students who want a mix of personal space in their bedrooms and shared social areas.

6. Private Rooms
Private rooms provide a personal space equipped with a bed, study desk, and sometimes a private bathroom. They offer the privacy of an individual bedroom while often granting access to shared communal areas, making them a versatile choice for students seeking both independence and community.

Compared to other major UK cities like London, Manchester offers a more inexpensive lifestyle while yet offering a wealth of social and cultural experiences. On average, students can expect to spend close to £1800 - £2000 on a monthly basis. For better understanding, read about the cost of living in Manchester for students. To aid with your planning, the following is a summary of typical monthly expenses:

1. Food: £200 - £300 per month

2. Groceries: £100 - £150 per month

3. Transportation: £60 - £90 per month

4. Entertainment: £50 - £100 per month

5. Clothing: £30 - £70 per month

6. Sports & Fitness: £20 - £40 per month

Manchester's well-connected and reasonably priced public transportation system makes getting around the city simple. Students may commute easily and effectively because of the city's numerous transit alternatives, which include buses, trams, and trains. Students can control their travel expenses while seeing the city and visiting academic campuses thanks to a variety of travel card options as well. Some top options for students to travel include:

1. Bus

With lines that go all around the city and into the neighbouring areas, buses are among the most economical and practical modes of transportation in Manchester. The average cost of a single trip is about £1.50, and an adult day pass costs about £4. Additionally, students can take advantage of the Stagecoach UniRider card, which provides unlimited bus travel at a subsidised rate.

2. Metrolink Tram

Manchester's Metrolink tram system is a well-liked option since it connects important destinations such as university districts, the city centre, and surrounding communities from your Manchester accommodation. Adult day passes cost approximately £4.90, while a single journey costs approximately £1.80. For everyday commutes and weekend excursions, tram riding is now affordable and accessible for students thanks to the Get Me There card's discounted costs.

3. Train

For quick vacations outside of the city or for regional commuting from your Manchester accommodation, trains offer a speedy and effective means to get from Manchester to neighbouring cities. The cost varies with distance, with shorter trips typically costing £3 to £5. The 16-25 Railcard, which provides 1/3 off rail costs throughout the UK, is advantageous for students who regularly travel outside of Manchester since it lowers the cost of regional discovery.

4. Bikes and Cycles

With so many bike lanes and cycling routes spread out around the city, Manchester is becoming a more bike-friendly place. If you have your own bike, this eco-friendly, low-cost commute choice is free; if you use a bike-sharing program like Mobike, it costs about £1 every half hour. For students seeking outdoor exercise and flexibility, cycling is a great choice from their Manchester accommodation.

Manchester is a dynamic city that appeals to both tourists and students because it blends a lively student culture with a wealth of attractions. Manchester is well-known for its vibrant arts scene, which includes world-class exhibitions at the Manchester Art Gallery and street art in the Northern Quarter. Numerous cafes, bars, and music venues, including the storied O2 Apollo and Albert Hall, where famous performances are frequently held, provide a vibrant social environment for students. Food lovers will be thrilled by the city’s diverse dining scene, by visiting the best restaurants in Manchester, from budget-friendly bites to gourmet experiences. With Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium attracting supporters from all over the world to see Manchester United and Manchester City play, the city is also known for its world-class football culture.

Manchester is home to several visitor attractions outside of its nightlife and sports, such as the Science and Industry Museum, the historic John Rylands Library, and the picturesque Castlefield canals. There are several things to do in Manchester other than its nightlife. Manchester offers both tourists and students an amazing experience with its combination of study-friendly areas, historical sites, and a thriving social scene.

Manchester is home to some of the UK’s most prestigious and well-regarded universities, making it a top destination for students from around the world. The city’s rich academic heritage and vibrant campus life provide an ideal environment for students to thrive academically and socially. Here are the top universities:

1. University of Manchester

The University of Manchester, which is frequently named among the best universities in the world, is a major force in both research and education. The university, which is well-known for emphasising innovation, provides a broad range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, engineering, and other fields. Some of the nearest and most notable properties around this university include Ladybarn House and Canvas River Street Tower.

2. Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University is a vibrant university that focuses on employability and industry connections while providing a hands-on approach to higher education. Properties like Vita Student Circle Square are absolute student-favourites. The university is well-known for its robust business, art, design, and health programs and offers students practical study opportunities as well as access to a thriving urban culture.

3. University of Salford

The University of Salford provides a progressive approach to education, particularly in the fields of media, engineering, and healthcare. The institution has strong connections to MediaCityUK and is well-known for its work in digital media and television. Students can explore properties like Riverside House and Harry Lord House, which are some of the nearest ones to campus.