Whether you are currently a student in Salford or thinking of becoming one, you might want to know what life is like there. Maybe you enjoy going on days out but don’t know what’s around for you to do. Well don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. From budget-friendly areas and activities to nearby nightlife, I’ve made a list of what Salford is like for students.

1. Affordability

What Is Salford Like For Students?
Source: Andre Taissin – Unsplash

Salford is known for being one of the cheaper areas to live in, especially in regards to Manchester and the Greater Manchester area. And when you’re a student and living on a budget, the cheap things become your best friend. Students have a range of options to choose from when it comes to housing as well, from private rentals to student halls. Each area will have different options to offer you, so be sure to do some research into the different areas around Salford, especially since one of them may end up being your home for the duration of your study.

As well as having some of the cheaper areas to live in, Salford also has some of the cheapest public transport anywhere in the UK. Again this is a very useful thing for students to have access to. For students of the University of Salford they also have the chance to use the number 50 bus for free anywhere between Salford University and Media City so long as they show their student ID. This comes in handy for those of us who have their studies based at the Media City campus but live nearer the main campus.

2. Cultural attractions

What Is Salford Like For Students?
Source: Orry Verducci – Unsplash

Have a day off from lectures and wondering what’s to see around Salford? Especially stuff that’s free because as students who doesn’t love free things! Well fear not because Salford is actually full of many beautiful cultural attractions. And as a bonus, these are all very budget-friendly!

Ordsall Hall

Formerly a large manor house in the historic parish of Ordsall (Lancashire), it’s now part of the City of Salford. It can be dated back more than 750 years however the oldest parts of the present hall were discovered to have been built in 15th century. This historic landmark was famously passed into the hands of the Radclyffe family who took up residents here for around 300 years. It is also known for being the setting of the 1842 novel Guy Fawkes by William Harrison Ainsworth who chose Ordsall based off of the unverified story that the famed gunpowder plot of 1605 was actually planned within its walls.

With beautiful grounds and interior, Ordsall Hall makes for a rather insightful day out with each room holding information about a piece of history from both its residents and the land it sits upon. And on top of this the grounds are said to have a couple of resident spirits, and with the lead-up to the spooky season it seems like the perfect time to perhaps see some eerie sights.

Salford Museum and Art Gallery

Being located directly on the University of Salford’s Peel Park campus, this exhibit couldn’t be more perfect for students to go visit. Entering you are met with a small shop and cafe on the ground floor and in the centre of the room is a set of stairs leading you up to the actual museum and art gallery. With a number of rooms, each different from the last, you will most definitely not be lacking in historical information.

Also on the ground floor is a very popular attraction; the Victorian Street, an authentic recreation of a piece of British history. Travel back through time and walk the streets of an authentic Victorian street complete with original shop fronts, objects and even a carriage that was drawn by horses. While this exhibit might not be streets upon streets of features what is there gives visitors a first-hand look into what life was like during that time period. And again, these attractions are free of charge! There is a chance for people to donate some money to help with the upkeep of the museum, gallery and street so if you’re feeling generous I’m sure they would greatly appreciate it.

3. Short distance from Manchester City Centre

What Is Salford Like For Students?
Source: William McCue – Unsplash

Even though Salford in itself is a city, it lays at the doorstep of one of the UK’s largest and most culturally booming cities: Manchester. Notable for its media links, musical exports and architecture (as well as other things), it is one of the top reasons that students of the University of Salford choose to attend. Being a much larger city than Salford it offers students a wider selection of activities.

Giant shopping centres

Even with our student budgets I’m sure many will agree with me that we do like to treat ourselves once in a while. Whether that be to a new book we’ve had our eye on for a while, or a new pair of shoes, or even a game. And that’s okay. Luckily for students in Salford they live right next door to Manchester which is known for its massive shopping culture. But where are these places specifically? Lets find out!

Quayside Media City. I know we’re talking about Manchester at the moment but it would be wrong of me not to mention it as it is most definitely on the doorstep of students in Salford. Being a rather small shopping centre based in Media City, students have a more limited range of places to shop however the range that lies inside makes sure everyone’s needs are met. From clothing, to food, to stationary; Quayside is perfect for a little shopping excursion. There is even a cinema! So why not pop in and catch a quick showing of something while you’re there.

Moving back over to Manchester there is Arndale. One of Manchester’s biggest shopping centres it is only a short walk from Manchester Victoria Railway Station which is only a short train ride from Salford Crescent. Chock full of designer outlets, Arndale is every student’s dream shopping centre. Not only are there designer outlets but also supermarkets, 60 different places to grab a bite to eat and drink, and so much more. From my own personal experience this place is an amazing trip out. Especially when they do special student offer days where you are able to get things on discount! Sometimes it really does pay off to be a university student.

Another shopping centre that’s in Manchester, and probably the most famous of any located there, is the Trafford Centre. While it is not located directly in the Manchester city centre this one is definitely worth the mention seeing as it is the UK’s third largest shopping centre. To get there Salford students need only catch the number 100 bus from the university bus stop if they are unable to drive themselves or take an Uber. You should be warned though, where many trips to a shopping centre may only take up a couple of hours maximum this place is a full day trip; especially if you wish to go into every single store if just to browse. Your feet might be a bit sore afterwards but I guarantee you won’t leave there with your hands empty.

Amazing nightlife

Now as students we know how a good number of us enjoy a night out on the town. And the students of Salford are no different. No while there are places within Salford itself for students to indulge themselves in drinks such as the Atmosphere bar in the university’s student union and The Old Pint Pot, it goes without a doubt that Manchester will almost certainly offer a much wider range of drinking places. From bars, to pubs, to nightclubs. One of the most famous areas for a good night out in Manchester is none other than Gay Village.

Lined with cafes and lively gay bars, this area is renowned for its acceptance of everyone populating its streets no matter their gender or sexuality. The acceptance and celebratory atmosphere allow people visiting to walk around without fear of judgement and enjoy whatever the night brings them. So if you like a good drink coupled with a warm and welcoming atmosphere then this might be the place for you.

Still looking to get out and about in Manchester then check out this article on 10 great things to do in Manchester!

Author

  • I'm Amy, a student of the University of Salford who's studying Film Production, so films are definitely my quiz night category. In my free time I love to tap into my creative side by either drawing or writing my next project. When I'm not writing I enjoy going for a swim or (if I'm home) spending time with my family and dog.

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