Manchester has always been a beautiful city filled with students, football fans and vibrant vibes. From stadiums to museums in Manchester, the list is never ending when it comes to exploring spots for students. Every city in the UK is famous for a variety of things for students. And, the best part about cities in the UK is their history and culture. 

If you are enjoying your life in student accommodation in Manchester, knowing a little about the city won’t hurt. That’s why we are here again with another interesting blog for students. In this particular blog, we have penned down a list of must-visit cultural spots and museums in Manchester. So, if you are not aware where to head out during weekends, Uninist has got your back. From student housing to finding you the best museums in Manchester, we got it all covered for you!

A Small Brief: History of Manchester

Before we tell you the must-visit spots, you must know how it all started: the history of Manchester. The city of Manchester rose to fame during the time of Industrial revolution in Britain, which made this city the heart of Britain’s textile industry.

This city was given the nickname of “cottonopolis” because of its smokey skies and mills. However, this city is more than just machines as it brings cultural powerhouse with music, football, and spirits woven into its streets. All in all, Manchester tells the story of grit, reinvention, and pride. 

Which Are the Best Museums in Manchester?

To understand a city’s history the best way is to visit its museums. And, Manchester is full of must-visit museums for students. Here is the list of top museums for students to visit:

• Science and Industry Museum 
• Manchester Museum
• Manchester Art Gallery
• The Pankhurst Centre
• National Football Museum 
• Imperial War Museum North

Well, wait for more as we never leave students hanging. Let’s dig into the important details such as location, entry cost, timings, and nearby colleges!

Science and Industry Museum 

If you are a science student studying in Manchester then Science and Industry Museum is a must-visit in your list. This museum is a beautiful place, filled with scientific wonders and innovations. 

• Location: This museum is located at Liverpool Road, Manchester. 
• Fees: The museum charges nothing from visitors.
• Timings: The museum opens every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, but some parts of it are closed right now for renovation. 
• Close by Universities: The Oxford Road campus of University of Manchester is within walking distance from the museum. 

Manchester Museum

Manchester Museum is a castle look alike museum that has been one of the largest museums in the United Kingdom. This 130 year old museum is the home of over 4,50,000 artifacts, fossils and other collections in human culture.

• Location: The museum spans across the location of Oxford Road, Manchester.
• Fees: The cost to enter the museum is nothing, but you have to pre-book for special exhibitions. 
• Timings: The timings of the museum is 10 AM to 5 PM from Tuesday to Sunday, on Wednesday it’s open till 9 PM and on Saturday the museum opens from 8 AM, but the museum is closed on Monday. 
• Close by Universities: The museum is a part of the University of Manchester. 

Manchester Art Gallery

Manchester Art Gallery is another classic Manchester museum that serves the purpose of both museum and art gallery. As one of top Instagram-worthy spots for students in Manchester, this place is home for art lovers. So, if you are one of them, then you should definitely visit this museum. 

• Location: The address of this is Mosley Street, Manchester, near St Peter’s Square.
• Fees: No money is charged from tourists or students or anyone to explore the museum. 
• Timings: The timings are 10 AM to 5 PM every day, but on Monday it’s closed. . 
• Nearby Universities: Colleges near to this museum are Manchester Metropolitan University and a short tram/bus ride from University of Manchester. 

The Pankhurst Centre

The Pankhurst Centre is a museum in Manchester that tells a story of the suffragette movement. It’s the UK’s only museum which tells about the story of women’s fight for voting rights. This museum was once the home of Emmeline Pankhurst and her family which was later restored by women in the 1970s and 80s. Interesting fact: it is still run by women. 

• Location: Situated at 60-62 Nelson Street, Manchester. 
• Fees: No charges, but you have to book the time-slot in advance. 
• Timings: The museum opens only two days in the week which is Thursday and Friday, from 11 AM to 4 PM. 
• Nearby Universities: The museum is within walking distance from the University of Manchester.

National Football Museum 

An architectural wonder, this museum in Manchester City Centre is a dream of every football fan. Even if you are not a fan of football but have an opportunity to visit this museum then you should definitely visit this museum, you will be starstruck. 

• Location: The location of the museum is  Urbis Building, Cathedral Garden, Todd Street.
• Fees: The cost of the ticket price is £14 for adults and £5.50 for children.
• Timings: The museum operates daily, from 10 AM to 5 PM( last entry 4 PM). 
• Close by Universities: The nearest college to this university is Manchester Metropolitan University. 

Imperial War Museum North

Imperial War Museum North is both an architectural wonder and a museum in Manchester. As for the design, the building looks so modern that it doesn’t even look like a museum. Further, the name suggests this museum contains military items and the memories of brave soldiers. Also, this beautiful museum has a river flowing on its front.

• Location: This wonderful museum is located at Trafford Wharf Road, Trafford Park, Salford Quays.
• Fees: Museums charge nothing from tourists or anyone.
• Timings: The museum operates daily, from 10 AM to 5 PM.
• Nearby Universities: Close to the University of Salford and Manchester universities via tram. 

This concludes the list of awesome museums in Manchester. So, keep on reading to know more about some most-loved cultural spots in Manchester. 

What are the Top Cultural Spots in Manchester that Students Should Visit?

Just like museums, the city also celebrates diverse cultures. As a result, some of the must-visit cultural spots in Manchester include: 

John Rylands Library

• Location: Deansgate, Manchester City.
• Entry Cost: The general entry is free. 
• Timings: Opens daily.

John Rylands Library is an enormous library that looks like a royal palace from inside. So, take out a day and be like Harry Potter wandering in the forbidden floors of this library!

Home Arts Centre

• Location: Todd Street, near Deansgate locks in the city centre.
• Entry cost: The tickets are not free and are charged varying on the theater, cinema, exhibition, and events, but the art gallery has free entry.
• Timings: the timings of the gallery is 10 AM to 6 PM , but the timings of the show varies. 

Home Arts Centre is a beautiful theater and gallery, offering contemporary interiors. So far, this place has hosted thousands of shows. 

Hope Mill Theater

• Location: 113 Pollard Street, Ancoats, Manchester.
• Entry Cost: The price of a ticket is generally between £10 to £25 but it also depends on the show.
• Timings:  The timings depend on the show, but generally takes place in the evening. 

Hope Mill Theater is a small yet gorgeous theater famous for its acts, shows and musicals. All in all, the compact size of the theater makes it feel like a home. 

Conclusion

Still figuring where to head out from your student housing in Manchester? Our blog has all the must-visits that a student must not miss when in Manchester. From exploring culture spots to museums in Manchester, we have got a comprehensive guide for your weekend exploring. 

And, if you are new here, don’t hesitate to head to Uninist & find everything under one roof for student life!

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